On Being Authentic

Your photos should represent you exactly as you are as you complete your journey at USNA. Cami’s session reminded me of that because we began in her Navy choker whites doing some standard feminine posing, but I can always feel when something isn’t landing for someone in front of my camera. I can tell when I am having someone do something that isn’t “them”. And I don’t want that. In this session, I didn’t feel like I got to REALLY meet Cami until she was in her MARPATS. She wore them like she was born in them. I know this woman was made to be a Marine after spending one hour with her! Once she swapped uniforms, everything about the rest of the session felt more authentic and easy. I felt I was able to honor WHO she is. Then by the time we put her gloves on, I knew I was getting to see who she really was; easygoing and kind, intelligent, quick to smile and laugh… but a tiny undertone of “try me”.

Having someone let thier gaurd down, show me who they are, and trust me with their image is a privilege. And these are experiences I live for as a photographer. I’m very grateful. Thanks for letting play and do something different, Cami! You’re the best.

 

Black and white photo of female soldier in camouflage wearing Everlast boxing gloves in gym.
Female US Marine in camouflage uniform extends red boxing gloves toward camera.
Female Marine in camouflage leans on boxing ring ropes wearing red gloves.
Red boxing gloves on gym floor with blurred military soldier standing in boxing ring background.
Female soldier in camouflage uniform wearing red boxing gloves inside historic boxing arena.
Female military soldier in camouflage uniform standing at attention outside stone building entrance.
Female Marine in digital camouflage adjusting cap in front of American flag and bokeh lights.
Smiling female Marine in camouflage uniform leaning on post with American flag and bokeh lights.
Female Marine in camouflage kneeling on red carpet in ceremonial hall with flags and pillars.
Naval officer in white dress uniform ascending grand stone steps of historic building entrance.
Female naval officer in white dress uniform smiling between ornate wooden doors in grand hall.
Female naval officer in white dress uniform standing in elegant gold-lit marble corridor.
Naval officer stands before 'Don't Give Up The Ship' memorial plaque in formal white uniform.
Female naval officer in white dress uniform kneeling among colorful tulips outdoors.
Smiling female naval officer in white uniform holds cap while wind blows her hair.
Laughing female naval officer in white dress uniform holds cap outdoors on sunny day.