Likes: New York pizza, happy tears, giving goosebumps, sun rays & light refractions, people’s life stories, the underdogs of society, being with family/friends, stumbling on the little blessings that remind us why it’s great to be here

Dislikes: hotdog burps, putting on tight pants after the shower, closed mindedness, mean people

 “Why do you do this job?” I’m a natural giver and see the good in people, so I love to connect people with that inner light I see, that they may not see everyday.  After many other careers, I’ve seen that it’s a rare thing to have your purpose and passion line up, so I pinch myself daily, completely overwhelmed knowing how treasured and appreciated these collections are for my clients. 
 
“Who/What  influences you?” Each and every person I get to work with and their unique background & life position brings out a different spark of inspiration or grit one way or another. Other things that inspire me are people who have gone through the hard times and seeing that fight shining back, love – the real, tough kind of love, people that stay together through the storms, and people with timeless & genuine personalities.

When I stare into into my camera at you, I’m looking for the best way to  showcase a remarkable spark I see in you. Often times, however, I see tragedy and insecurities staring back. I get it – it’s a vulnerable place to be, especially if life’s brought you through some rough times. What inspires me so much is that without fail, there’s always an energy switch somewhere through my our process. Slowly, that spark starts to revel itself, uninhibited. My goal is for that spark to be spoken back into you, and somehow it always happens through my process and especially when you see the final collection. That’s no  pretty filter I’m splashing on you, either; You’ve always had it – I simply bring it back and put it right in your face.
 
“What elements inspire you?” Historic architecture with ivy & cracks that tell stories, nostalgia, sun beams, silk blowing in the wind, misty forests, wedding dresses that have gone through some things, windy wisps of hair, florals that speak life into a moment, grainy film
 
“What do you want your work to be known for?” For the creation that was made through our connection. You and I are equal ingredients into the work we make together so just as much as you want to say “wow you made magic”, I remind you that was largely thanks to you as well. My goal is to pull out every ounce of spark within you and the space you deserve so I can showcase that beauty in an honest way. You don’t need to worry about the camera or if your hair is messed up, or where your left pinky is placed. I’m not going to put you into uncomfortable molds. Instead, I make our time together about the experience and let your story lead the day. You’ll get lost in the moment while we connect & create the pieces together, & you’ll feel found again once you see these phenomenal photos and footage of you at the end of the day.

Q&A WITH MEGAN RAI