A Self-Love Session in the Virginia Woods by Portrait Photographer Enlighten by Hannah

This stunning self-love portrait session invites the power of softness and sunlight meet the cleansing renewal of water in the beautiful Virginia woods- shot by Enlighten by Hannah Photography.

This self-love session is full of magic and connection. I’ve known Vanessa for awhile and have shot with her before, but when I edited this gallery I was in awe of her and the moments we captured. She’s a Taurus and loves that part of herself, and you can see that energy manifest itself in these pictures. She is grounded and gentle, but stands strong in who she is in each frame.

Preparing for the session

To prepare for our time together, Vanessa and I created a Pinterest board to make sure we really nailed the vision! Soft whites and sheer fabrics, wavy hair, and flower crowns make it feel so natural and soft. And the white dress in the water looks absolutely AAAMAZING. Before we started shooting, Vanessa’s hair was done by our incredible HMUA Kristy, and she absolutely nailed it with the vibes we were going for!

During the session

She was nervous about being out in the open and naked, but we let the session flow naturally from woods to water and after that it felt comfortable for her and we ended the session naked under moonlight. As a portrait photographer, I never start with nude photos unless the client brings that energy and desire to the session. I want it to feel natural, comfortable, and empowering!!

As the session evolves, the lines between nature and human dissolve like Vanessa is part of the earth beneath her bare feet. It’s a truly grounding and inspiring experience to capture these “return to roots” portait sessions and to witness how perfect our own bodies are. We’re as beautiful and neccesary as the water the nourishes us and the sun that warms us.

Book with me!

I’ve been doing Virginia-based portrait photography for years, but I will never get over showing people how beautiful and perfect they are through my lens. If you want to collaborate on something beautiful, you can reach out to me here!

Client Q: What was your favorite part of the session?

I really enjoyed being in nature. It was super relaxing and comforting. Also being in the water was so nice. It isn’t very often that I get into the river with a dress on and it was freeing to say the least!

Client Q: Do you have any advice for people looking to book their own session?

Do it! It is so worth it and you will love the outcome! If you are worried about it being awkward, it isn’t at all like that. Hannah is super chill and makes you feel comfortable in your own skin.