In truth, I didn’t know what to expect from this intimate session with Candice…it was just one of those sessions I knew I wanted to photograph. Candice contacted me about shooting an intimate session in celebration of her 30th birthday. As she later told me, this past year was a real tough one for her and she wanted to celebrate a new year and a new beginning with some beautiful photos of herself.

In April, her 18 year old cousin and godson passed away suddenly from an undiagnosed heart issue. In May, she left a 4 year relationship. And in June, she finally had foot surgery after a full year of pretty serious foot pain. Candice was on her way to recovery in more ways than one.

We met on a beautiful Friday evening at Petrie Island for our photo shoot. I saw her get out of the car in this beautiful flowy dress and my heart skipped a beat. The sun was setting…it was perfection.

I asked Candice if she would walk through the water and just let her dress get wet. A big YUP like it was no biggie. LOVE it. Also, please note that Candice was heading straight to her birthday dinner following this shoot. Trooper.

Not everyone has the guts to strip down to their undies on the beach at sunset – already there were lots of eyes on us, wondering what we were up to, camera in hand. But Candice was totally fearless. And I’m so grateful for these amazing photos of her. What a beauty.

I will gladly photograph you all day, Candice. 40th birthday, same time, same place? Haha.

Happy Wednesday, friends!