Originally I was going to call this Behind the Lens, Tips and Tricks, FAQ, or something corny like that. But then I thought, this should be like we’re sitting in a beautiful little shop that provides the most delicious teas that pour endlessly from white ceramic tea pots into the cutest little tea cups where we attempt to sip from our cups with our pinky’s raised. We have tasty finger sandwiches filled with egg salad and cucumber, and then we’ll top it off with sweet desserts that fill our tummies with glee. Where you and I enjoy the afternoon together getting to know each other! So, welcome to a High Tea Session with…ME!

I asked what you wanted to know, and I was delightfully surprised at your questions. Some made me think real hard, some need their own post, and some well, made me realize perhaps I don’t share enough personal stuff. Which really surprised me since the past 6 months has been filled with personal posts…or so it feels.

So thank you to all who commented, facebooked, wrote an email or privately messaged me! I loved all your questions!

So, while we sip our tea on our plush chairs…

1) how do I find inspiration:

I find inspiration in so many places. From a couple walking down the street, children playing with one another, window displays in stores, fashion and decor magazines, the way the light sets in summer and then the way it sets in winter. I also find inspiration from music lyrics and music videos, and movie sets/costumes/frames/scripts. Inspirational moments happen when I’m quite and also when I’m surrounded by the endless drowning noise of a busy city. I’m inspired by traveling and cultures, especially how each city has it’s own vibe and own culinary specialty. I’m inspired by colours, tastes, sounds, touch, smells. But most importantly, I’m inspired by the heart of people, growing passion and dreams and helping them achieve them. When I’m talking with someone about their passions and dreams I get very excited to the point where I’m bouncing in my seat. (Can’t you tell, I’m shaking as I sip my tea!)

A movie that inspires me every time I watch it, even though there is hardly any dialog, the costumes and the frames, it oozes with inspiration for me! (anyone want to do a Marie Antoinette inspired boudoir shoot?!!)

2) What has made you fall in the past and how have you’ve picked yourself up again?

This one made me stop in my tracks, cause who really likes airing out their dirty laundry?! But, you asked and I will answer. What has made me fall (flat on my face) time and time again has been jealousy and comparing myself to others. Whether it was thinking they were cooler than me, had more fashionable clothing, had more emails in their inbox, photographed at an awesome location, knows so-and-so, was invited to such-and-such, visited exotic locations, has the most romantic relationship, etc. etc. etc. I’ve thought it and wanted it, professionally and personally. And each time I fell, into more disappointment, unmet expectations, and let in self-doubt wondering what I did wrong. And how I picked myself back up, getting back to who I am. What the desires of my heart are, not what everyone else has. And I slowly climb back up, holding on to me as much as I can. This is a constant battle, every day I have to make sure I stay true to myself and I’m not running after something just because someone says it’s cool or because it worked for someone else. We each have to find our own way in life!

Staying true to myself and knowing my heart is for photographing women!