True Beauty

part one//

I came up with an idea for a personal project a couple of months ago. I dreamt of it, planned it in my mind, jotted down notes on paper and eventually sought out some individuals to help me finalize this project. Initially, I wanted to do a friendship/fall themed photoshoot, but I started thinking of potential candidates and another idea came to mind: beauty. I wanted to photograph true beauty. Now, I believe that everyone has something beautiful about themselves, but I wanted more than just a pretty face. Juliane, Michelle D., Jessica, and Michelle P. came to mind. The JJ's and Michelle's. They are just four of the many people that I find truly beautiful---but not just on the outside. Their beauty starts from within. Juliane is one of the most extraordinary people I have ever met in my entire life. She is passionate, talented, outgoing, funny, charming, excited, courageous, adventurous and honest, among other things. I haven't known her for very long, but she just makes you want to be friends with her--she's that awesome. Michelle D. is so sweet. I haven't known her for that long either, but from what I have observed, she is extremely caring, gentle, funny, kind, helpful, and peaceful. She has one of the most amazing laughters I have ever heard--it is extremely contagious and welcoming. I've learned that she keeps most things to herself and doesn't really share what she's feeling to everyone and I can relate to her in that aspect. She exudes tranquility. I don't know if she knows, or if I'm right about this, but when I think of Michelle D., I think of strength. Jessica. Oh, Jessica. She is one of my truest friends. I've known her since I was in the first grade. Jess is a leader. She is strong, passionate, determined, caring, devoted, faithful, and loving. Her heart is huge--no one is left behind. She always looks out for others. Michelle P. has a heart of gold. She is hilarious, caring, honest, friendly, motivated, and genuine. She's herself no matter what. She's a giver, a lover, a true friend.

These four ladies all inspire, challenge, and encourage me in different, and similar, ways.

When I was thinking about this shoot, I decided I wanted to incorporate flowers. So, I made some flower crowns---& had a blast doing so. Ralph Waldo Emerson once said that the "Earth laughs in flowers." Is there anything more beautiful than flowers and laughter? It was the perfect thing to adorn the hair of these beautiful women.

I hope you all enjoy the following images. Beauty does start from within and it is so apparent in the lives of these ladies.

Ju, Michelle, Jess, and Michelle--- Thank you for sharing this dream with me and allowing me to capture your true beauty.