Story Shoot: Stephanie

The way we choose to photograph people is collaborative. We want to get to know you, learn little things about you and your loved ones in order for us to photograph you well and authentically. The beautiful thing about story photoshoots is that I get to go deeper with you about who you are and how you want to express that in your photos. I met Stephanie at a wedding that I was photographing and we connected on Facebook. I loved seeing the photoshoots she would do where she would set up her camera in a park and create whimsical images in these beautiful dresses.

When Stephanie reached out and asked to do a shoot with me, I was so honored. I knew that establishing trust would be important, since this was a way that Stephanie usually expresses herself alone. Ahead of time we talked about her vision, the outfits she had chosen, what she was looking for in a location. During the shoot we collaborated about poses, different spots, etc. It was just such a lovely afternoon capturing this important part of Stephanie’s self expression. Stephanie has been kind enough to share about the shoot and her love for fancy formal dresses in her own words…

“As a transgender woman, I have long had an attraction for formal dresses, especially big ballgowns. It began watching my grandparents doing ballroom dancing. As a ten year old, I am wearing the ugly ruffly 70's era tuxedo. Then I watched the women come out in their beautiful long flowing dresses, and I knew that was me. I also knew I had to keep it to myself.

Fast forward to my adult years, and I began discovering myself as Stephanie. Of course, being TG is much more than the clothing. Still the attraction to formal dresses never went away. Like anyone, it took awhile to find my style. I had a small collection and took a few pics here and there. I even had a few events to go out to. It was all part of the coming out process.

In 2019 following a job separation, I found myself with a camera, a wardrobe, and a bit more time. I went to a couple of secluded parks, packed a couple of dresses, and started doing photo shoots of myself. It was very relaxing, creative, and even instructive. I became better with my look, poses, and the equipment. As a videographer, I enjoyed growing my technical side, even bringing some lights along. My social media friends seemed to enjoy the results.

I asked Ashley about collaborating on a professional shoot. I met Ashley at a friend's wedding and knew she would be supportive of my vision. It's wonderful to share an idea that is admittedly different and for someone to embrace it wholeheartedly. We had a great time on a beautiful weekend afternoon at JC Raulston Arboretum and Pullen Park in Raleigh. We were both on board with this being a true collaboration, i.e. each one of us contributing to the project. I couldn't have asked for a better partner on that day.

The pictures of me wearing big beautiful dresses has become a bit of a symbol of what is possible. It's not just about being feminine. It is a dream, even a goal, realized. I am doing things that I previously considered impossible. Even better, there are those who will embrace and love you for it. I am thankful to realize those milestones and continue to grow into the best version of myself.”

Stephanie we are so proud of you and we are always cheering you on!!