The Essence Campaign is a special photography project by Cory Powell Photography. Our mission is to empower women through creating beautiful portraits showcasing their true essence of strength and beauty while reminding them how extraordinary they are. There is nothing more beautiful and powerful than celebrating your true, authentic self. More than ever, right now the world needs us all to allow our light to shine through – that’s why I’m so passionate about this project – the Essence Campaign.

This is an invitation to YOU to celebrate who you are and be a part of the Essence Campaign. Real transformation comes from investing in yourself, from filling yourself up first and allowing it to overflow. The true power of this and success of this project is that it invites women to value themselves.

If you’re ready to shine and want to experience transformation for yourself, visit my website and fill out a contact form. I can't wait to photograph you!

INQUIRE ABOUT A PHOTOSHOOT

Each woman selected for the project gets to experience her very own luxury portrait session and share her story and perspective on beauty and strength. This is Jennifer's feature:

Tell us more about you!

I’m a 48 year old mom of 4. About 5 years ago I started showing symptoms of a mystery autoimmune disease that was attacking my cranial nerves. The best treatment was steroids to decrease inflammation and hopefully stop the progression while the other medications were introduced. So I almost doubled the person I used to be and have bilateral partial facial paralysis. Needless to say my self confidence suffered.

Why did you want to book a boudoir shoot?

I had always wanted to do a boudoir shoot but never made the time for myself. It was time when I came across Cory’s feature on FB. I mean why not?

Were you nervous about anything before your session? How was your experience?

I wasn’t nervous at all! Cory and Shemika answered all my questions. The virtual consultation and sharing my Pinterest board allowed us to get a good idea of what I liked and what was possible in their studio. The actual photo shoot-It took a little bit to “warm up” and learn how to pose. After I did, it was so fun!

What is your definition of beauty?

I think beauty is resilience, strength, and determination. Real beauty allows the inside to show on the outside through a smile, a walk or even an action.

Before your session did you feel beautiful? What about this experience helped you challenge that view and/or embrace your beauty?

I do feel beautiful just the way I am, but this photo session made me feel glamorous! I’ve always been described as a bit extra, and I love shiny things and things that make me stand out. That can be my clothes or my attitude. This photo session allowed me to embrace both. All of it was in my control. From my clothes to my poses. I did what I felt comfortable doing.

What makes you uniquely powerful?

I am a chronic pain sufferer. I am also disabled. You don’t know from looking on the outside, what I go through on the inside. Anything I choose to do is a challenge both physically and mentally. You don’t always know what a person is up against. Choose to be kind.

If you’re ready to shine and want to experience transformation for yourself, visit my website and fill out a contact form. I can't wait to photograph you!

INQUIRE ABOUT A PHOTOSHOOT