This Is Me - Jen

This blog is part of a series based on my This Is Me campaign. It’s a campaign that celebrates you, what has shaped you, and who you are NOW. I’ve spent the last year photographing the courageous women that signed up to be part of it.

Honestly? It’s the most important work I have ever done.

I was absolutely blown away by how much these amazing women opened up to me. I’m going to share their incredible stories and photographs here in the hope that they can inspire you as much as they inspired me!

Coming in I had no assumptions and did not know what to expect, but the reality was amazing! Victoria provides a safe space so I was able to let my guard down and be 100% me.

 I was very nervous to start with, but Victoria was patient with me. Her directions and suggestions, laughter and banter made me feel 100% comfortable and at ease to be myself. It allowed me to discover a part of myself that has been dormant for a very long time.

 I’m able to see myself in a different way now. I am not just a mum or daughter or sister, I am a whole person - I am me.

My son is 17 and I’ve raised him by myself with the support of my fantastic family after surviving a very unhealthy relationship. After seven years of focusing on myself and my son I have found a new partner that adores me. I’ve also surrounded myself with a small group of friends that I consider my family, it’s important to fill your life with people that love you no matter what.

When I saw the campaign I wanted to sign up because I am at a stage where I need to really see myself in order to continue my self-growth.  I am just starting to let myself realize that I have just been surviving and am now beginning to live again.

My definition of beauty is the soul that looks back at you when you look in the mirror. I’m learning to believe that I am beautiful, and that all women are uniquely powerful.

When I saw my photos for the first time it was WOW - just wow! I felt an overwhelming pride in myself and extreme gratitude to Victoria and Poppy. There was a huge sense of accomplishment and self-love. I want all my friends to do this! It was an amazing experience, and so important to do something that’s just for yourself.

It’s something that you will never regret or forget. Vic has an amazing soul and personality that instantly puts you at ease, her directions and suggestions make you feel comfortable and relaxed and also make you laugh. Plus, the images are just WOW. 

I challenge anyone to contact Vic and have a boudoir experience. I promise you will leave the shoot feeling fantastic about yourself and discover a whole new version of who you are.

You have an amazing soul Vic, you connect to your clients and are able to draw out their innermost self and then capture it on camera.

Jen was just a pure joy to photograph, she came in with an open heart and soaked up the experience. Although I know she was quite nervous, she didn’t let that hold her back. Seeing a woman that has overcome some huge hits to her self-esteem over the years take a pause and really honour herself and her story is truly powerful. Those are the women who get the most out of an experience like this. They are the reason I get out of bed in the morning.  

- Victoria V x

P.s - Thank you to the wonderful Poppy for your magic and beautiful hair and makeup.

Do you have the courage to take part in my This Is Me campaign? I currently have a small number of spots available so if you would like to be part of this campaign, I’d LOVE to hear from you! Get in touch and let’s chat.