Alyssa's Story
I recently discharged from the Navy, unfortunately on medical terms out of my control. And that lack of control then spread to other areas of my life.
I hit a severe low patch and lost sight of who I really was.
I have spent the past few years building myself back up and have gotten to a point where I am proud and grateful of who I am again.
When given the opportunity to have a Zest Photography experience, I couldn't say no to being able to document this milestone.
Knowing I had taken this step, I felt excited and curious. But I'm sure, like 90% of people, I felt nervous.
I questioned why I was even wanted to do a photoshoot and talked myself out of it daily but then talked myself back in.
I was worried I would feel uncomfortable, that I wouldn't click with the photographer.
I was worried I wouldn't like any photos and all the general anxiety you could think of which was out of my comfort zone!
What had such a reassuring feeling was chatting to the lovely ladies of Zest.
Tayla's positivity and enthusiasm was so welcoming. She answered all my questions and had all the time in the world for me.
She never made me feel silly even with all my quirks and angst and helped me realise that I was allowed to do something for myself for a change.
I started realising that this was not just a photoshoot, but something empowering that I could always relate back too.
It was about having a reminder of my strong positive self for moments when that side of me was feeling lost or hidden.
During my photoshoot, I had nerves of course and excitement and so much gratitude. I was privileged to have Jess as my photographer and she put me at ease from the first moment.
She taught me how to work with my body, how to love it in the moment and talked me through situations when emotions did come up.
One of the most poignant points were the photos we took in my old navy uniform. It was the first time I had put it on since my discharge (and all the negativity attached to that).
I will forever be grateful for the shoot as together we took back my pride in that uniform.
It is something I have been working on for years. And it's not that the shoot specifically gave me confidence rather that it helped me recognise it was already there.
It was a very validating and affirming process.
Again I can't thank the Zest team enough.
I feel privileged to have met them all and felt so honoured that each genuinely took the time to sit and talk with me and share their own stories. That in itself was a huge part of the whole experience for me.
The viewing of the photos was more emotional and impactful then I expected.
A few times it was hard to connect the happy peaceful person in the photos with the journey I have been through in the last few years.
But that's what made it so special because there are no tricks.
The camera just reflected what was truly there. For someone who was worried before the shoot I wouldn't like anything. I had a hard job narrowing down (thanks for the patience Adriana!!)
From this shoot these photos are just for me.
They are for me to look at and be proud of myself, my achievements in life and specifically the journey I have been on in recent years.
I have already spoken to the ladies however about going back with a big group of friends as I would love some amazing artwork for my new house!
If you are looking to do your own glamour photography experience, I have a simple short answer - do it.
… and I have a long answer,
Give yourself permission to do it!
Chat to the ladies as much as you need. Ask questions, ask advice, bounce ideas. I did all those things. Don't worry about the nerves because once you enter the building they take care of you every step and truly, you won't even remember you were nervous and even if you prove me wrong and still are, what you get from the experience is worth all the nerves in the world.
- Alyssa
If you are interested in booking a Zest Photography family, couple, modern glamour, boudoir or nude portrait photography experience, call 0862453150 , email us at info@zestphotography.com.au or click on the button below and complete an enquiry form.