Every year I take on a project that inspires me, and I usually work on it tirelessly until I accomplish my vision. A couple of months ago, I was contacted by Australian author Amanda Foxon-Hill to be the main photographer on a book she's passionately writing about Beauty. Immediately, I knew this was not another assignment, but a personal project that I would dive into with complete abandon. And I did. The decision to move to Australia to work with Ms. Foxon-Hill was almost instant, right after she described her intent for the book. I knew this would be a life-changing experience for me, only I didn't know how. So, on June 15, I packed my gear, a few belongings and left Denver for Sydney. My usual assignments bring me to hotels and quick day shoots, so I really have to thank my lucky star that Amanda opened up her home to me and made me a part of her family before I even arrived to the airport. I was received with such warmth and care, and I feel truly blessed to be able to immerse myself in my work while living with her and collaborating side by side with someone who shares my vision. The book has expanded its scope, and I'm ready for the challenge, as I believe in it 100% and any sacrifice will be well worth it.
And yes, I miss Denver, all my friends, Summer of music and BBQ's, long nights in the courtyard and days by the pool, but this is worth it. I am discovering a part of myself that I struggle daily to acknowledge. I record Beauty in everything, yet it is hard to see it in my own person - the concept of the book will be revealed in time, suffice it to say that it is forcing me to be completely authentic, and to see my own Beauty. From wild, unruly hair that I no longer straighten, to a non-fashion sense that I completely embrace, I am being me, 100% Lucia. And I am only beginning to accept what I look like, there is beauty in everything, including me.
Photography allows me to express myself in ways I could never even dream of, so I hope you will see what I see through my lens, what I experience with such passion every day I'm in Australia... My intent is to document this Journey with authenticity and grace, grow from it and come back to Denver with even more love in my heart.
Let the Journey to full acceptance begin.
Katoomba - Winter Magic Festival
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