Today we’d like to introduce you to Belinda Gaines.
Hi Belinda, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My story is a little different than most photographers, while I loved photography, it was not my dream. My dream was to be a pediatrician but instead, I got pregnant with twins when I was 19 years old which shifted everything. Even then, photography was not on my radar. I went through life enduring ample amounts of physical and emotional abuse which caused me to hate my body and have no confidence. One day, scrolling Facebook, I ran across a photographer giving away a free boudoir session. So, I showed up, anxious and afraid. There was absolutely no way I would look good in these photos and there was no way I would get anything out of it but it looked fun, so why not? I still remember the feelings I felt when I received those images, the jaw dropping, completely in awe, “this is not me? Is it? Are you sure” kind of feelings. For the first time in my life, I felt seen, worthy and even beautiful! Fast forward after 8 years of modeling and tons of personal growth. I knew I needed to make that a reality for every person that I came in contact within my life, so I started my photography brand. I specialize in boudoir, but I also love to capture seniors and sports portraits because this allows me to give that same feeling to children.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Trying to find my space in photography has been less than smooth. I am different than most photographers, I am completely self-taught and want to stand out in the crowd, so I photograph different than most. In addition to just being different, running a business solo, has brought up a new wave of struggles. I have run multiple restaurants, but it did not prepare me for running a business solo.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My specialty is less to do with my photos and more to do with the space I create for my clients. I strive to create a safe, empowering space for everyone who walks in my door, the gorgeous photo albums you take home is just a plus! I am one of a few photographers who use off camera flash for all of my portraits which allows me to create a more moody image, hard shadows and intense highlights which also sets me apart.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I am still fairly new to Lansing, only living here for 3 years now. Things I like about the city is the art and the community events. Things I dislike besides the condition of the roads, is the lack of great food. I am from the south and the food just does not comapre.
Contact Info:
- Website: elegantexposures.org or belindagainesphotography.mypixieset.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elegantexposuresbybelinda
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elegantexposuresboudoir or https://www.facebook.com/belindagainesphotography/
