Well since then my whole life's flipped upside down. It sparked a fire in my belly. A hunger inside me. To take ownership for who I am, what I've got to give. At the end of the day, it's all me, on my own, fighting fires and rising from the flames.
Alex took my photo's that day and since then I've found a friend - a really, really good friend. She's pushed me forward in life, be-it taking kick-ass photo's for my outfit posts, road trips with sad music, watching films and eating cake or pushing me toward my next challenge - she's been a rock. She believes...in me. And I'll be forever grateful for all that she's done and continues to do. The Universe pushed us together at a time where we were both searching for something more. So thanks for that, world.
A few weekends ago, I was headed down to Cambridge to help Alex out with a shoot. She's been working on a GIANT series, which you can and I couldn't wait to get stuck in on set. Turns out her model was a no-show and Alex looked to me, with those bloody puppy dog eyes and asked if I'd do it instead.
I know I pose for my outfit photos on a weekly basis - but it's not the same as modelling. I was scared and nervous but I didn't want to ruin Alex's day, all the hard work she, her boyfriend, his friends and Claire (an incredible florist) had put in. So I said yes, reluctantly.
It was one of the most incredible afternoons - filled with sunshine and laughter, effort and sweaty bodies. It was amazing to stand back and realise how much all these people cared for Alex, how much they wanted to make it work for her. Her boyfriend Will had built her a 7ft swing, Matthew and Ed (his best friends) helped him put it up high in the trees and Claire, created an incredible floral crown and flower arrangements to climb up the swings ropes. It was totally magical.
Here are the final images...
When we'd finished Alex asked, with a muffled voice and squinting cautious eyes if I'd consider getting naked for a shot or two as well. I think I shocked her and I both by blurting out 'YES! Of course I will!'
To some, getting naked and sharing it on the internet might come across as attention seeking. For me, us, it's about showing the world that we're not afraid of our imperfections. In fact we're going to celebrate the shit out of them. I realised then, at that moment, just how far I've come since July 3rd 2014 when I got naked in-front of another woman for the first time. In the here and now, I didn't care. I felt comfortable, confident even and do you know what? There's no shame in that.
Loving the skin we're in. It's a journey worth taking. A battle worth fighting.
And it's not just about the images at the end, it's about the journey you go on. And there's no photographer in this world that can take away from how special it is completing that experience with Alex.
I know so many of you out there are dabbling with the idea and aren't sure if you're brave enough. Let me tell you that you are. Because if I and all these other amazing women can, so can you.
Shoots with Alex start from less than £100, and boy is worth spending that dollar with her instead of on those new shoes you're eyeing up.
Click for her contact details. Because then? You're one step closer to a happier you. And what more could you ask for?
ALEX'S SOCIAL:
Beautiful photos, gorgeous gal! Lovely post as always!
Replyhttp://loveonthewallblog.blogspot.co.uk/
oh my goodness, what incredible photos! that sounds like such a valuable experience and you look beautiful xxx
ReplyThese photos are stunning, she is so talented!! And girl you are so awesome, don't let negative thoughts get you down!!
Replyhttp://exploresmore.com
www.bloglovin.com/exploresmore
Absolutely stunning photography and so lovely to see some good happy and positive body image.
ReplyRachel x
Illustrated-teacup.blogspot.co.uk
I'm so proud to know you both x
ReplySo beautiful and what an absolutely inspiring post <3
Replyallygong.com
-Ally Gong
Stunning Photos!!
ReplyLeonie ♥ IkonikBeauty
Lovely photos! Gorgeous colours.
Replyhttp://www.sweetwordsprettypictures.com
These are stunning! You look like a red-haired Galadriel just hangin' out in Lothlorien!
ReplyAbsolutely gorgeous, beautiful photos xo
ReplyWow great photos and you are so brave!
Replyyou look beautiful.
Yas
www.yasbeyou.com
wow, stunning photos! You look beautiful!
Replyhttp://laurenslittleblogs.blogspot.co.uk/
xx
These pictures are so gorgeous ! You are looking incredible on the two first pictures. The hair, the crown, the makeup. She is talented for sure ! Beautiful pictures !
ReplyI think it's great that you came so far and share your body with us. I know I wouldn't do it, no that I'm not confident enough but it's a lot of intimacy shared.
Anyway, gorgeous girl, freaking amazing pictures ! I'm loving them ! Great work !
Sara,
http://thecrimeofashion.blogspot.fr
Absolutely fantastic, you should both be so proud!
ReplyRhiannon xxx
rhiannontalksfashion.blogspot.co.uk
Well aren't these the most incredible photos!! Alex really does have talent! And of course you look incredible and very brave!!
ReplyDarlingSophie
These are beautiful photos! You're so brave for doing this!
ReplyBeauty and Lifestyle Blog
xx
You look gorgeous, Megan! Hopefully I'll have your confidence someday! xx
ReplyChrissyLilly x
What beautiful photos!
ReplyLizzie's Daily Blog
I wish I could do photography like this, I've been looking through her portfolio and all of her work is stunning. You fit in so well with everything, you would never know you weren't the original model!
ReplyCat xx | Lilac Ghosts
it's amazing how peaceful it could looks, pure nature
ReplyWow! Your photos are freaking amazing, congrats!!
ReplyTwo Hearts One Roof
I've followed your journey with this and it's been truly inspirational. You go, girl.
ReplyGeorgina x
foxonthehunt.com
I think, for artistic matters like this one, getting naked is about bravery and nothing else. Well I mean, and it's inspiring, too. :) These shots came out so good, Alex is a talented human bean, and you're both beautiful!
ReplySuch an inspirational post - tastefully done, too :) You are a beaute, Meg!
Replythese photos are stunning and your hair and makeup looks amazing!
Replylove katy @ THE RAWRDROBE ♡