Maxine: I want to be happy by just being ME
Maxine was the very first woman to respond when I launched my Discover You campaign. Like so many of us, she’d struggled to accept herself in photos before, and with her wedding on the horizon, she was looking for a real confidence boost. Honestly, the idea of a portrait session felt totally out of her comfort zone—but she was willing to try.
What neither of us expected was just how powerful this experience would be for her. Through the session, Maxine got to see herself in a completely new light—and discovered that she could, in fact, love how she looked in her portraits. Watching her reaction to the final images was genuinely moving, and I felt so grateful to help her see her own beauty. These are the moments that remind me why I do what I do.
Maxine’s Story
I was bullied as a child due to having severe eczema. As an adult I’ve been in several relationships, most of which have led to either physical, sexual or emotional abuse. I suffered for a long time from depression, anxiety and very low self-esteem. So at the age of 39, I decided that if I couldn’t meet a decent partner who would treat me right, then I would stay single. Then at least I would have my self respect! I was single for 13 years, had various jobs, been made redundant, out of work – which was extremely tough. I then joined the ambulance service at the age of 42 & trained to be a front line emergency medic. Little did I know that I would meet the love of my life, although it took 10 years of knowing him, and for me to ask him on a date. We have been together now for 2 very happy years and should have been married last year. As we know, the world is in a crazy place at the moment, but I’m determined to wear my dress this year and marry my wonderful man! However, I’ve always hated photographs of myself and have indeed been in tears many times over the years when I’ve seen pictures of myself. I still lack confidence in myself, even though I do portray just the opposite to the outside world. So I am looking forward to my wedding day, but dreading the photos, as I am so self conscious.
What do you want most out of life?
My goal is just to be happy and if I can make just one other person in the world happy too, by just being me, then that is more than enough for me. There is too much unhappiness in this modern world, which makes me sad.
Who do you want to be and what experiences do you want to create?
I want to be just a happy me! I would love to take my fiance to some of the wonderful places that I have visited in the world, so that I can experience them with him.
What do you want to do more each day?
Try to spread some happiness around me.
How would you describe your future in 3 words?
Positive, loving, wonderful.
When was the last time you did something for the very first time? And how did it make you feel?
My photoshoot with you! I felt very self conscious.
What is your definition of beauty?
Beauty really does come from within.
What is your advice to other women who struggle to see their own beauty?
To see themselves as others around them do.
Why were the photographs important to you now?
I wanted to build my confidence in front of a camera for my wedding day
How did you feel seeing your finished portraits?
I was truly stunned, very emotional & euphoric! My confidence really has had a massive boost.
Are You Ready to Be Seen for Who You Truly Are?
If this speaks to something in you—it’s not by accident. Whether you’re stepping into a new season, refining your presence, or simply ready to honour the person you’ve become, this experience is designed to reflect your truth.
Together, we’ll create something that feels powerful, personal, and deeply aligned.
