Artist Statement

This couple came to me somewhat early in their relationship, eager to capture this moment in their lives. They practice acro-yoga, which requires them to have a deep awareness of each other’s physicality as they create incredible moments of balance together. We began the day in the studio with this series and others; we ended it on the beach, capturing acro-yoga poses at sunset.

Boudoir photography invites people to appreciate themselves, celebrate themselves, and love themselves. When it comes to sensuality, sexuality, identity, our society constantly tells us no. It tells us to hide who we are, especially if it doesn’t conform to puritanical norms.

In my work as a boudoir photographer, I provide a safe space where we can break those barriers, where someone can be completely and unapologetically themselves, creating beautiful, natural images that represent and celebrate who they are. My clients span an entire spectrum of color, age, body type, gender identity, and sexuality. They come to me because they’re getting married, getting divorced, starting something new, keeping the spark going, reclaiming themselves, celebrating a special day, creating images for their sex work career, making a personal statement — everyone has their own reason. I create an environment where each one of my clients can give themselves permission to fully be themselves.

With deep gratitude to these wonderful clients who allowed me to share their image in this exhibition.

Resume

I have lived in Emeryville since 1992, working as a graphic designer for Bay Area nonprofit arts organizations. In 2013, after building my skills in photography, I left my job as the in-house art director for Berkeley Repertory Theatre to pursue full-

time freelance work as both a photographer and art director. In 2015 I started creating boudoir images, which quickly became the most emotionally rewarding part of my practice. I have a studio near Lake Merritt that is designed for boudoir as well as other types of photography.