For awhile now I've had this nagging knowing that I need to update my profile photo here and on Facebook.

Yesteryear's selfie, even if it was taken with my beloved George, just hasn't been cutting it for awhile now.

The length of my hair is also serving as a reminder that it is time to update.  My tresses have traversed a plethora of awkward stages in their quest to reach pre-wedding length.  (The hair has reached the shoulders, by the way.  This is epic news...and definitely something over which a bottle of bubbly should be popped.)

So the other evening as the hubster and I were heading out for dinner, I asked him to get a few shots for me.

You know what's amazing?

Five feet can be the difference between uncertainty and confidence.

All of the strength and  focus that I feel when I'm behind the camera dissipated when I was five feet away on the OTHER side of the camera.

I had forgotten.

I love photography.  I love MY perspective on photography.  From BEHIND the lens.

I had forgotten how uncertain and vulnerable it can feel to be standing in front of a giant lens and have zero idea if you're 'doing it right.'

It was good for me to be on the other side of the lens, specifically as a photographer.

I'm committed to capturing photos that are genuine.  The real you is what I want to see in my photos.

Because the real you is amazing.

It's who your family and friends know and love.

For me to capture that, I love helping you let down the 'am-I-getting-it-right guard' that we ALL have (myself included).

That's how I get magical photos...by helping people relax back into their own skin.

And then I just snap away. ;)

Here's to the bravery of being in front of the lens!