Discover You: Siobhan—The Journey Back to Your Self

How many times have you looked at a photo of yourself and felt that familiar inner critic rise up? Maybe you’ve whispered, “I’ll feel better about being seen when I lose a bit of weight… or after this busy season passes… or when I finally feel confident.” If that sounds familiar, you’re in good company. Most women I meet—brilliant, compassionate, accomplished women—share the same story: it’s hard to truly see ourselves, let alone celebrate who we are.

But what if you could press pause on all those old narratives? What if you could create a space where there’s no need to shrink, perform, or apologise for simply existing? That’s exactly the gift a soulful portrait experience can offer. And it’s what Siobhan discovered when she stepped in front of my lens.

Permission to Be Seen

For so long, women have been told to keep their ambitions and their beauty “in check,” to blend in and take up as little space as possible. We internalise the idea that being photographed is for special occasions or other people, or that we must be “ready” in some undefined way. But the truth is, you don’t have to wait for someone else to give you permission.

Choosing to be seen—really seen, not just for the camera but for yourself—is a radical act of self-acceptance. It’s a way to reclaim your own narrative, to say, “This is me, here and now. My story is worth honouring.”

Siobhan’s journey started with this kind of quiet bravery. She wasn’t waiting for an external reason; she wanted to rediscover herself, to reconnect with the vibrant, authentic woman within.

The Stories We Carry

If you’re anything like Siobhan, you know how easy it is to get caught up in the stories that have been handed to us—by family, by culture, by the world around us. “You’re too much.” “You’re not enough.” “Be smaller, quieter, different.” Over time, these messages blur our reflection, and we start to believe that our real selves aren’t worthy of celebration.

But when you choose to book a portrait session, you’re choosing to rewrite those stories. You’re making a declaration: I am enough as I am. I am allowed to exist, to shine, to be seen. It’s a chance to let go of expectations and simply show up, as yourself, in all your beautiful, complicated humanity.

The Power of Reflection

Portraiture isn’t just about getting a “good” photo. It’s about seeing yourself—maybe for the first time in years—with kindness and appreciation. When you step in front of the lens with an open heart, you might be surprised by what you find. That twinkle in your eye? The strength in your jaw? The softness in your smile? It’s all there, waiting to be witnessed.

So many women who walk into my studio are nervous or even resistant at first. But as the session unfolds, something shifts. There’s laughter, maybe even a few tears. There’s often a deep exhale—the kind that comes with realising you no longer have to hide.

Siobhan described this so well in her own words: she noticed her inner critic at first, but slowly began to let go and even have fun. The result? Portraits that radiate authenticity, warmth, and the essence of her true self.

A Session That Goes Beyond the Surface

A portrait experience like this isn’t about perfection. It’s about being seen in your fullness, flaws and all, and realising that you are worthy—without conditions. For Siobhan, this meant stepping into the session with curiosity, honesty, and a willingness to explore who she is beyond her roles, titles, and daily routines.

This is the power of being witnessed with compassion. When you allow yourself to be fully seen, you’re not just creating beautiful images—you’re building a bridge back to yourself. You’re claiming your right to exist in your own story.

Your Own Invitation

If Siobhan’s journey speaks to you, know that you’re not alone. Maybe you’re longing to reconnect with your self-worth. Maybe you’re in a season of change, or simply want to honour your story. Whatever your “why,” you deserve to be seen, celebrated, and cherished.

Portraiture can be a turning point—a quiet but profound reminder that you are enough, just as you are. You don’t have to wait for perfect circumstances, a milestone birthday, or anyone’s approval. This is your life. This is your moment.

Below, Siobhan shares her honest reflections on what it felt like to be truly seen…

Siobhan’s Story

I’ve spentI met my husband at 21, we had our 1st (of 4) child when I was 22. He was a preemie, at 10 days old he stopped breathing and did not wake up for 10 days (he developed hyperthermia) but he is now 15 and doing well. Our 2nd child came 17 months later (also a preemie who spent 3 weeks in nicu), when I was pregnant with him I knew something was different. It turns out he is autistic (diagnosed at 4) and also has chronic kidney disease (diagnosed at 10 after have a 2.5cm kidney stone and one kidney removed). We obviously had the next 2 children who both went to term (although number 3 tried to come at 32 weeks and I had lots of injections to ensure she would be healthy). On our 1st wedding anniversary we found out that 2 of our children had inherited a rare cancer gene that meant the had to have their thyroids removed before they were 10.