This shoot was really meaningful to me. I have struggled with self-confidence as long as I can remember, but it's something I've really been working on. I think that is part of what's drawn me to portrait photography. I love hearing people's reactions when they are shocked at a) how comfortable they got in front of a camera and b) how looking at the photos makes them feel like a model. I think photography is one of the best ways to boost your self-image and as a photographer myself, there is nothing more empowering than self-portraits.
I came up this concept while I was walking my dog one summer evening. The sun was setting and I was listening to the song "Fine Line" by Harry Styles (of course) and I was really paying attention to the lyrics and thinking about what he meant by the words fine line. I have a running list of ideas for a series of photoshoots inspired by his album already, so thinking about this song I first liked the idea of drawing fine lines on a body. But then I was thinking about what fine line means to me. It always brings to mind the phrase "there's a fine line between love and hate" and recently, I've felt that really embodies my relationship with myself. Not in a bad way, but in that walking that fine line can be tricky and balancing these two emotions is difficult. I knew then, what I wanted this shoot to capture. fine line represents my own insecurities. I got up early on a Sunday morning and took these photos in my bathroom as the morning light filtered through the window. I tried to push aside all the thoughts I usually have when photographing myself, like making sure every potential roll and embarrassment was hidden and posed. Instead, I let myself be vulnerable in front of my camera. They pushed me to appreciate myself and my body in a new way and despite the fact that some of the things I struggle with the most are on display, I think these are some of the most beautiful photos of me ever.
