“Your energy introduces you before you even speak.” ~Unknown
Let me begin this post by stating, "I am who I am and your approval is not needed." That being said, let’s get started.
It took me a while to reach this point in my life. Once upon a time it really mattered to me what others thought, and I am still upset with myself that I allowed ANYONE to have that much power over the things I did to make me happy. But I came to my senses and readjusted my mindset and now, who gives a damn what anybody else thinks? I could not care less and I am living in peace. What I have learned is that some of the most opinionated people are usually spiritually and emotionally broken and their lives are in secret turmoil. Therefore, I am careful who I allow to impart in my life. If you are damaged, you don't have anything to offer anyone else, so healer heal thyself. Getting yourself all the way together should be your first order of business, before you try to contribute your two cents toward the value of someone else. As for me, I am a woman of fair intelligence, so I prefer to rely on my own intuition and intellect as much as possible. I accept wisdom and influence from those who have blazed the trail before me and can show evidence of successful passage. Until then, I've got this (wink).
Someone once told me that I was, "effortlessly me." I never forgot those words. As simple as the statement may sound, it triggered something deep within my soul. I had to take a few steps back and evaluate myself. I had a lot of questions. What had they seen in me that was so special that led them to say such a thing? It was a turning point for me and certainly something I needed to hear. It stirred up a lot of reflection. I’ll tell you, you just never know who is watching you do you. You never know who will be resentful and who will be inspired. You just pray for the latter, prepare for the former and continue to live life on your terms. Well after considering that comment, the conclusion I came to was that I am more than enough "as is" baby, and I rest in that confidence. Regardless of how many people work to try to tear me down, my resilience and self-respect is absolutely undeniable and I draw strength from it. I am fierceness personified! You really have to make up in your mind that NO ONE has the right to tell you about you. Refuse to hand out permission slips for people to dictate what you feel, what you believe or what you put on display. That is a whole lot of power and once you hand over control of it, you're trapped and it's hard to get back. Yes, making a positive impact on the world is an awesome endeavor, but living in your truth is loving yourself and you must love yourself first or risk loss. Self-preservation is a basic instinct and necessary for YOUR survival. Remember that.
When I finally made the decision that I needed to F.L.Y. (First Love Yourself), I elevated high into the universe and my transformation began. Now I no longer give energy to the judgement of others. I consider their lives and confirm that they are in no position to weigh in and speak to my circumstances, and you should do the same. So I say to you, know without a shadow of doubt that you are awesome and gifted, and uncovering it is long overdue. Self-actualization will help you realize your fullest potential and set you in motion and project you into the next dimension. Don't let anyone deter you from your efforts or minimize your significance. Support those who support you, ignore the naysayers, press and persevere. I promise that if you continue to grow greater, you will definitely see them all later. Live your life fearlessly and unapologetically, tossing regret to the wind. This is your only chance.
This "Unapologetic" concept features the beautiful, Amber. This is Amber's first time working with us and it was so much fun meeting her. She was sexy and confident with every single shot. She definitely bodied this concept, and without apology. Please enjoy the images that follow.
Someone once told me that I was, "effortlessly me." I never forgot those words. As simple as the statement may sound, it triggered something deep within my soul. I had to take a few steps back and evaluate myself. I had a lot of questions. What had they seen in me that was so special that led them to say such a thing? It was a turning point for me and certainly something I needed to hear. It stirred up a lot of reflection. I’ll tell you, you just never know who is watching you do you. You never know who will be resentful and who will be inspired. You just pray for the latter, prepare for the former and continue to live life on your terms. Well after considering that comment, the conclusion I came to was that I am more than enough "as is" baby, and I rest in that confidence. Regardless of how many people work to try to tear me down, my resilience and self-respect is absolutely undeniable and I draw strength from it. I am fierceness personified! You really have to make up in your mind that NO ONE has the right to tell you about you. Refuse to hand out permission slips for people to dictate what you feel, what you believe or what you put on display. That is a whole lot of power and once you hand over control of it, you're trapped and it's hard to get back. Yes, making a positive impact on the world is an awesome endeavor, but living in your truth is loving yourself and you must love yourself first or risk loss. Self-preservation is a basic instinct and necessary for YOUR survival. Remember that.
When I finally made the decision that I needed to F.L.Y. (First Love Yourself), I elevated high into the universe and my transformation began. Now I no longer give energy to the judgement of others. I consider their lives and confirm that they are in no position to weigh in and speak to my circumstances, and you should do the same. So I say to you, know without a shadow of doubt that you are awesome and gifted, and uncovering it is long overdue. Self-actualization will help you realize your fullest potential and set you in motion and project you into the next dimension. Don't let anyone deter you from your efforts or minimize your significance. Support those who support you, ignore the naysayers, press and persevere. I promise that if you continue to grow greater, you will definitely see them all later. Live your life fearlessly and unapologetically, tossing regret to the wind. This is your only chance.
This "Unapologetic" concept features the beautiful, Amber. This is Amber's first time working with us and it was so much fun meeting her. She was sexy and confident with every single shot. She definitely bodied this concept, and without apology. Please enjoy the images that follow.
“Discover who you are with intention." ~ Joi Donnell
Behind The Scenes Prep for the
"Unapologetic" Concept Shoot
Cigar Courtesy of:
Louis V Cigars
Instagram: @louis_v_cigars
MUA:
Tynita Lee
Booking Info:
Instagram: @makeup_by_tynita
As always, thank you SO much for visiting our blog. Keep up with the Team at Photography by Sean Ponder by visiting our website at PhotographybySeanPonder.com or on FaceBook at Facebook.com/PhotographybySeanPonder (Like our page!). You can also follow us on InstaGram at Instagram.com/PhotographybySeanPonder.
Until next time, Peace, Love and Light!
Angela
The Creative Director