Battling Bare

Last night, I had the honor of shooting a very personal session for a client of mine, Amber.  For many reasons that I will keep private, I knew the moment Amber contacted me to do this type of shoot for her that I would love to.  For her … for her husband Devon who spent some time serving our country and who to this day, battles with the trauma and stress that goes along with fighting a war.  Most of us will never fully understand what these young men and women go through that so honorably serve our country so that we back at home can enjoy the freedom and liberty that they fight for us.  And as a woman, can’t even begin to imagine the strength that it takes to be a Military Wife.  But so many are, and for that I am humbled by their courage, loyalty and poise that it takes to stand by their husbands.  Many of these men and women return from war scarred both emotionally and physically.  May suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder when they return to their somewhat “normal” lives.

Amber came across the organization Battling Bare in her crusade to help Devon through his post-war struggles.  It is an organization that offers support in a very unique way, and I’m thrilled to be a part of it even if in only a small way.  Most of our shoot was too private to share, but here’s a peek at a few images that Amber is proud to share from her “Battling Bare” shoot.

Shortly after we shot, I got a touching e-mail from Amber.  Truly reminds me how much I love what I do and how good it feels to give back.

“Mishelle, I just want to thank you again for yesterday.  The picture is breathtaking and your work is truly like none other.  You have such a brilliant gift and you can see it in every single photo you take.  You are truly an inspiration to watch and it was an honor to have you take my pictures for something so near and dear to my heart.  You are truly one of a kind.  Love, Amber”