HER : Sophie

“Being both soft and strong is a combination very few have mastered.”

Picking this project back up in November of 2015 was definitely a milestone for me. I am always putting personal things off, for the simple fact that I convince myself ahead of time that it will either flop or that it is not good enough. But I decided to be brave for a second and post on Facebook and Instagram a couple of months ago to the public with a brief description, looking for volunteers for the project. I could not believe how many people stepped up in just 3 hours time. I promised to try to photograph one girl a month, and with the amount of volunteers, I literally could fill my calendar for the next 2-3 years. So unbelievably grateful for the support.

One who immediately stood out to me was Sophie, a sweet soul. I had met her a handful of times prior to this, and she is and has been nothing short of genuine. We matched up our schedules and found a location, and within a week, the session would be taking place.

Once we started the shoot, we immediately connected. That same genuine quality was at the fore of everything that day. We had a lot more in common than I thought as well. I keep to myself sometimes because of shyness and a bit of independence, and it was refreshing to see that in another person as well. I learned how amazing of a mother she was. Her world revolves around her sweet boy and husband, as it should. I found qualities in her that I wanted to work on. Her positivity is inspiring, and her strength is something to strive for. Life can be hectic and crazy, but how we view it can change what we do and where we go later in life.

After posting one of the photos from the session, I received a text from her saying how I had “captured her” in a way she rarely lets people see herself. She told me, “Make sure you always make time for what you want to do and what you believe in.” I cried. I had done it. I found something from within, and shed some light on a beautiful quality. I am so happy with the outcome.

I hope that as this project grows, that it can speak volumes to others, as each girl speaks volumes to me.