A Journey of Self-Love and Strength

The Power of Celebrating Transformation

There are moments in life that deserve to be celebrated in a way that shouts, “Look at me, I did this!” Laurie’s journey is one of those moments. Portrait sessions can be that celebration—a powerful reminder of the courage, love, and strength it takes to transform not just your body, but your entire life. And let me tell you, Laurie’s story is not just about losing weight; it’s about finding herself again.

Laurie's Journey: A Story of Strength and Self-Love*

Laurie’s weight loss story is more than a physical transformation—it’s a deep, emotional journey. After struggling with depression that led to a suicide attempt in 2021, and navigating the pain of a separation and impending divorce, Laurie was determined to take back her life. Through sheer willpower and an unshakeable belief in herself, she lost 140 pounds. But more than that, she found strength, confidence, and a sense of self-love that radiates far beyond the mirror.

The Decision to Celebrate Herself

Laurie came to me through a friend who had booked a bridal boudoir session. Her friend had been by her side throughout her journey and knew, even though Laurie hadn’t yet reached her goal weight, that it was time. Time for Laurie to see herself as the beautiful, powerful woman she already was. This shoot wasn’t just about her physical transformation; it was about honoring the woman she had become. Laurie was ready to celebrate herself—not just her body, but her resilience, her courage, and the self-love she had fought so hard to regain.

Pushing Through the Doubt

Like many of us, Laurie had her doubts. Booking the shoot didn’t come easy. She had to battle some serious self-doubt along the way, and there was even a moment when she almost canceled. I’ll never forget the conversation we had just days before the shoot—I could feel her hesitation, but I knew how much this moment meant. And thank goodness that doubt passed quickly because the images we captured are some of the most powerful portraits I’ve ever taken. They tell the story of a woman who is stepping fully into her power, ready to take back her life and inspire others along the way.

Embracing Every Part of Herself

On the day of the shoot, something magical happened. We spent the day like girlfriends, laughing, and playing dress-up. But Laurie was the center of attention, and rightfully so. There was one moment that stands out in my mind—when she hesitated, holding her robe close, trying to cover her midsection. But then she let go, both of the robe and the fear. She stood there, exposed and vulnerable, and I captured a raw and real moment.

Laurie made one request during her session: no retouching. She wanted to see her body exactly as it was—strong, beautiful, and a true reflection of her journey. This was more than a photo shoot for Laurie. It was a statement. She wasn’t interested in hiding or perfecting her body. Instead, she chose to embrace every part of herself, flaws included because that’s where true beauty lies. Her courage to show up as her authentic self, with no filters or edits, brought tears to her eyes when she saw the images.

The Moment of Transformation 

When I showed her the photo of that vulnerable moment, tears immediately filled her eyes. At first, I worried—what kind of tears were these? But when she smiled and told me they were tears of pride, my heart swelled. In that moment, Laurie didn’t just see her physical transformation; she saw the woman she had become—strong, brave, and full of self-love. It was an extraordinary moment that I will never forget and one that Laurie will carry with her for the rest of her life.

Laurie’s Words: A Reflection on Her Journey

Where do I start...

My entire life I've struggled with my weight. Over the last 4 years, I have overcome a battle with depression that led to a suicide attempt in early 2021. Once I overcame that I went through a separation/divorce which all the mental toll this took on my body caused me to lose 140 lbs and for the last 1.5 years, I have maintained this weight loss. Up until this shoot, I still saw the bigger girl when I looked in the mirror. This time with Shira helped me to see the new me! The woman I have become after overcoming depression, being heavy my entire life. In 2015 I had gastric sleeve surgery to lose weight. By 2022 I gained everything I lost plus more back. It was June of 2022 when I took my life back and made the decision I wanted to be healthy again. 

I asked when editing was being done to keep my flaws as is because at the end of the day ladies we are just as beautiful with flaws as we are without flaws! Embrace yourselves the true you!!!!

Love your true selves, Queens!!!

Laurie Anderson

Embracing Your True Self

Laurie’s story is a reminder that transformation isn’t just about weight loss; it’s about reclaiming your power, loving yourself through every phase, and finding confidence in who you are. To anyone considering their own journey—whether it’s weight loss, self-discovery, or anything in between—Laurie’s message is clear: You are worthy of celebration, flaws and all. Embrace the true you, because there is nothing more beautiful than loving yourself as you are.

Images Celebrating Laurie

. It was hard to narrow down the selection to showcase in this blog.... but here we go!! Just wait to be in awe of this Queen of inspiration.