"Beloved" sessions: the movement- what it means and what to expect

So, you want to get your pictures taken?  You are ready to make some memories for you and your loved ones?  You wake up, get ready and head to your destination.  What's is the first thing you think of when the photographer points the camera in your direction?  "CHEESE!!"

Now, that's not to say that many a beautiful image hasn't been created with these types of smiles.  But, I am here to tell you that there is so much more!!

I recently had a workshop with Elizabeth Halford of  Gracie Mae Photography.  The workshop was titled "Sales in Plain English."  We spent the majority of the day discussing in person sales and how to take your business to the next level.  At the end of the day, she began discussing this photography technique called 'Beloved.'  I had never heard of this and from the get go I was intrigued.  She presented multiple images she had captured that were simply gorgeous and stirred such emotion in me that I  had to know more.  I found myself scouring the internet for information.  The images that I found always displayed profound emotion.  Emotion that was over and above anything that I had ever seen during a "normal" photo session.  

What is 'Beloved?'

'Beloved' is the brain child of Jesh de Rox.  It is a technique growing in popularity within the photography community. 'Beloved' uses games/invites to create pure and genuine emotion for the camera.  It's important to note that 'Beloved' is not a photography session.  Jesh de Rox describes it as "Life as an Art form."  'Beloved,' invites the couple to engage in moments that I (as the photographer) just happen to be around to capture. It is about reconnecting, rediscovering and exuding that genuine smile! The images created are ones you won't soon forget!

I recently put all of my new found knowledge to the test.  I was giddy with excitement to see what would transpire with these "games" we were about to play.  I enlisted the help of some beautiful friends of mine. Chiara and Mark have known each other for years and were more than happy to lend a hand.

The session went off without a hitch.  There was a natural progression of emotions all coinciding with the various invites that we used.  The smiles, the laughs, and the tears were all genuine.  

When it was all said and done Chiara and Mark told me that it was one of the best experiences they had ever had as a couple.  They also let me know that the rest of that day they wore  "Cheshire cat" smiles remembering the events that transpired that morning!  

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I have to admit in all of the years I have been creating images, this was the most gratifying experience I have ever had.  It has left me with the desire to do so much more!

If you have any additional questions about 'Beloved', or would like to create your own experience send me a message today!  You will fall in love again and again...

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