a cool gig

swirly reflection, canon digital rebel xt

I got a photo gig taking pictures of my acupuncturists new spa, as well as her staff for her upcoming website. Last night Boho Boy and I had the pleasure of going into this zen retreat after hours, with only one person there. We became intimate with the room quite quickly. In the dim light, we gathered all the candles and lit each one of them, moved furniture around from room to room, crouched on the floor, climbed ladders...you name it. They had pictures taken before but they were bright and it wasn't at all the vibe one feels when walking in. This place is very dark and candle lit. The ambiance is moody and puts you in a trance. I am hoping we captured this. I will show you some when they're ready. The picture above is the last picture taken...just for you because I thought this mirror behind the reception desk was pretty cool. Although, it's hard to look cute and cozy with a tripod.

The one staff member that was still lingering around in her office was a therapist. She counsels couples that are struggling with fertility. I think it is absolutely wonderful that my acupuncturist has created a place where one can walk in to make an appointment for not only acupuncture but massage, as well as therapy. Each room is full of cushy couches with lush silk pillows, orchids, funky dark furniture from all around the world and of course...candles.

I took a few portraits of the therapist for their website. She doesn't like having her picture taken so it was fun seeing her laugh and relax and transition into confidence. I thought she was gorgeous and has such a welcoming spirit about her. A spirit that said..."talk to me, I am here, I understand". My acupuncturist had told me a bit of her story a while back. This woman had struggled with fertility for years. Her and her husband tried everything and they came to the point where they both accepted this journey. I believe they adopted. Her heart went out to all the couples that have gone through what they have, so she decided to dedicate her life to creating a safe place for couples to be *real* in her office and then guide them to a place of peace. I thought about how difficult it would be to see a therapist that had struggled with fertility but then got pregnant. I think it would shift things. There is something about sharing this journey that is different when talking to someone still struggling compared to someone who no longer is. This woman has a gift and she seems so very at peace that her struggles and acceptance will help thousands of others move through their pain.

She very gently asked me a bit about my story once she realized I wasn't just a hired photographer but also a client. It was interesting because I quickly said "we're in such a good place" and then she got this twinkle in her eye. A twinkle that told me she knew there were so many more layers than I was willing to share in that moment. I laughed and told her I needed to hold myself together for this photo shoot and she put up her hand with a huge smile on her face and said..."I totally get it."

I might make an appointment to see her even though it scares the living hell out of me. Although giggling about girly stuff while taking her portrait might have moved us into a different level of relationship than therapist and client. ; )