Therapeutic Portraiture
What is Therapeutic Portraiture?
Therapeutic Portraiture is an approach to portraiture that I have been exploring for the past three years. It is designed to meet the individual wherever they are in their process of understanding and resolving a given emotion(s). It began with my own use of photography to encapsulate emotions I hadn't been able express in any simpler way.
Why I Was Drawn To This Work
I realized that the process I was using for my own emotional exploration and development worked so well for me that I could share this process and help others do the same. This charge resonated so strongly within me that I believe doing this work is very closely tied to my purpose in this life. I had always thought my capacity as an empath, feeling emotions in a different way than most, had been a flaw in my personality, but the moment I realized my rich knowledge of emotions could actually be my greatest strength, I was instantly overwhelmed with gratitude and a new sense of life-clarity.
The Process
Therapeutic Portraiture is more than just a photoshoot. It is a collaboration and a process that is meant to stay with the individual throughout the rest of their lives. The process utilizes guided meditation, image association and brainstorming to create together an image that can best serve the individual in that moment. The preparation/collaboration is a separate session than the photoshoot itself.
The Photoshoot
After a mindful, and sometimes intense, meditation we together come up with a purpose for the photoshoot and the appropriate symbolic imagery to include in it. Every bit of the photoshoot planning is open for collaboration. I have a great deal of experience composing these types of images and I absorb the burden of dealing with any logistic issues that may arise, so the individual can focus on the therapeutic aspects of the shoot. They can choose to be in the image or utilize a model. After the photoshoot, I present the individual with images to either proof or approve. They give a title to the final piece, which is credited to both of us.
The Impact
"Testimonials coming soon"
Giving Back
The potential of this work to impact individuals and communities that are historically underserved is a reality that I feel very strongly about. I have made sure to include the act of "giving back" in my pricing structure. For every shoot I book at its full price, I will give a shoot to someone in need, on a sliding scale basis, down to $0 if necessary. I am also seeking grants and accepting donations to be able to bring this work to those who cannot afford it but desperately need methods for understanding and expressing their emotional experiences. Know that if you work with me you will also be helping others.
