Eliza told me that she likes to be in nature. She didn’t want her hair and makeup to be done since she wanted me to photograph her the way she is everyday. Although I usually shoot all of my portrait photography work in the studio, it seemed appropriate to take a couple of photos of her outside… When Eliza came back to the studio to see her reveal, the photograph that stood out to her was the first one that I took of her when we went outside. I was so moved to hear her say “Wow! These pictures are beautiful, but they’re not pictures, they’re me, so I am beautiful”
Eliza Oakley
What does beauty mean to you?
Beauty sparkles with vitality ~ nature, a person, an animal.
Beauty offers vulnerability and truth.
Simplicity.
What makes you feel most beautiful?
Laughing, on my own and sharing laughter with others.
Looking in the mirror and liking the person I see.
My heart shining with gratitude.
What do you love about yourself?
I love my ability to be frivolous and to laugh.
Finding my edge and dancing there.
I treat people with respect.
Tell me your story
Mmmm … that is still being written. Get back to you on that one!
What do you think was the biggest turning point in your life?
There’s no one big turning point, just lots of ‘aha’ moments along the way.
What are you most grateful for?
The beautiful sunshine.
Living in a place where opportunities abound.
Fresh, organic food.
Running water.
What is the greatest accomplishment of your life?
Being Me.
What is your most treasured memory?
Many moments of reading a book with the sunshine warming my back.
An unexpected ‘flying fish’ moment 20 years ago. I was walking along the beach in Tahiti looking at the ocean. I noticed a single drop of water spraying from a wave and momentarily realised that I am the drop of water; there was no separation. It was magnificent!
What advice would you give to yourself when you were a teenager?
You are magnificent exactly as you are.
Be courageous … walk your own path … it will provide much adventure.
What do you value most in a friendship?
Loyalty. Laughter. Honestly.
Please finish the statement “I am a person who…” will give things a go.
4 Comments
Beautiful work of a beautiful woman, Michael. Inspiring.
Thank you Pam. Eliza was a joy to photograph.
Amazing photos! I love the question and answer – Great accomplishment? “Being Me”. Well done!
Thank you Susan! I love the simple clarity of her answer too.