Back in April 2024, I sat in front of my camera with no makeup, a messy bun, and my favorite comfy clothes—a t-shirt and pants. It wasn’t a glamorous moment, but it was a real one. Session 9 of my Self Portrait Marathon was raw and unedited, captured entirely in black and white.
At the time, I didn’t share these images. I was starting to gain weight again, and my mind wasn’t in the right place to put myself out there. Instead of celebrating the honesty of these portraits, I let self-doubt hold me back.
But now, looking back almost a year later, I see these images for what they are: an honest reflection of where I was at that time.
Why I Took These Portraits
Session 9 wasn’t about perfection—it was about allowing myself to show up, even when it felt hard. The messy bun, the comfy clothes, the bare face—they all told a story. My story. These portraits captured my vulnerability, my shifting emotions, and my strength to keep moving forward.
What This Session Taught Me
Looking at these black-and-white portraits now, I feel gratitude. They remind me that confidence doesn’t always come wrapped in a bow. Sometimes, it’s messy. Sometimes, it’s quiet. And sometimes, it’s simply about showing up for yourself, no matter how you feel.
This session taught me that it’s okay to pause and acknowledge where you are. Not every moment will be polished, and that’s what makes the journey so beautiful.
The Transition to Self Portrait Marathon: Session 10
As I prepare to release Session 10, I can’t help but reflect on how far I’ve come since these black-and-white portraits. Sharing these now feels like the right way to honor where I’ve been while embracing where I’m going.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this marathon, it’s this: Every stage of your journey matters. Every image, raw or polished, has a story to tell.
Closing
Here’s to embracing the raw moments, the unedited emotions, and the strength to show up as you are. Stay tuned for Session 10 tomorrow—it’s the perfect way to kick off 2025 with bold confidence and polished images that reflect my growth.
Would you like to schedule a portrait session to capture your story? Let’s create something meaningful together.
📅 Talk to Amanda: Contact me here
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