I had my pin up session with April as a Christmas gift for my husband, whom I have been with for 16 years. After a long history of teenaged eating disorders, and continued struggles with body image, allowing someone to see me with my clothing off, let alone take photos of me, was something anyone who knows me would NEVER imagine me doing. Heck, my husband is lucky to see me once in a while with the lights on, if you catch my drift.

 

Two kids, a few more pounds, and even more lumps and bumps had given me a complex. About what was sexy. About what a real woman was supposed to be. It had taken away my power and allowed me to wallow in self pity and hatred.

 

It took all my courage to drive the three hours to Louisville. I almost talked myself out of walking into April's studio that day. But am I thankful I did. Her friendly and welcoming attitude immediately comforted me. Within ten minutes, we were rifling through costumes, picking out the best of what I'd brought (some of which hadn't seen the outside of my dresser drawer in more than five years), and laughing like old friends.  Shooting my session was the most comfortable I've felt in my own skin in a long, long time.

 

It isn't enough to say my photos turned out beautifully. I can't stop looking at them...can't believe that the confident, sexy woman in them is actually ME.  April assured me she wouldn't print anything I wouldn't be proud of...and she wasn't kidding. Yes, she can airbrush and smooth a lump or two...but it's no doubt ME in those photos. The me I'd thought lost too long ago.

What began as a funny little project to share only with my husband has become an epiphany. A transformation of spirit and self. I have shared my photos with my coworkers,  friends, even my MOTHER.  I want to shout from the rooftops: this is a woman!  This is a size 14! This is what a Hot Mama looks like!  April has uncovered more than my decollete...she has revealed my long lost sense of pride and self worth.

 

Thank you, April. There aren't enough words to do your art justice.

 

Love,

Angela