It’s been over two years of me being my biggest size ever. With it, a hard journey of jumping between self-acceptance and self hatred. I’ve never felt so torn, so undecided about how I feel about myself. Some days I look in the mirror and I’m content with what I see. Then there are those others when I strip naked, about to take a shower and I see all the imperfections I’ve been carrying since my pregnancy. This usually leads to stepping on the scale, and finally, complete dejection.

The worst feeling is not being happy with who you are. I refuse to let my current weight affect how much I enjoy life. In fact, I refuse to let society dictate how I feel about myself. My goal is to take the best care of my body that I can, and yet, there is always doubt that creeps in. But recently I was blessed with an opportunity to appreciate all that I am today. It is something anyone can do, and I highly recommend you do it, especially if you’ve had a drastic body change lately. It can be an investment but it is one you must allow yourself to make to get your confidence back. So what is this magic solution? A full on fashion photo shoot!

Step 1: Hire an Amazing Photographer

There’s no doubt that there are many photographers where you live. I encourage you to do your research and find one you feel is the very best. I actually found a very talented woman named Crystal of Nerdie Birdie Photography who specializes in fashion photo shoots with plus size models. She was able to guide me on how to pose to make me look my best. If I stood in an unflattering way, she was the first to tell me. Nobody likes to invest in a photo shoot only for it to end up with a gallery of double chin shots. Find a photographer that will do you a favor and make you look your best. Obviously, I highly recommend mine.

Step 2: Get a Flattering Outfit

Go shopping and truly shop. Try on everything and don’t look at the size, just find something to flows over your curves in a flattering way. Buy something that makes you feel drop dead gorgeous. Wearing this on the day of your photo shoot will help you exude confidence. Plus, you’ll always have a go to outfit whenever you need extra oomph in your day!

Step 3: Share Your Photos

Once you get your photos back from your photo shoot, pick your favorites and share them on social media. The comments you’ll get back will be just what you need to put an extra spring in your step. Everybody needs a compliment or two now and then. This is your chance!

Trust me on this, a day with a talented photographer in an outfit you love is just the thing you need to channel your inner Beyonce’. Cheers to you beautiful!