Alisha’s Endo-Empowerment Shoot Experience
Alisha stands in a patch of light in a dark forest with her mobility aid at her side during her endometrisos empowerment photo shoot.
Last month I organised a special endometriosis empowerment photo shoot to kick off my new package. I put a shout out online looking for models who may want to be part of the project, and after receiving an overwhelming response of beautiful, powerful wahine and people with endo decided to make it a group photo shoot experience.
The day was truly powerful, it felt like we were instant best friends, deep bonds forged by our experiences of medical trauma, painful periods, failed medication trials, bloating, scars and gossiping about doctors and specialists. It was so refreshing to be with a group of people who just instantly ‘get it’, no need for explaining, excuses or apologies. These incredible, strong, resilient women, stripped down to their knickers and it was almost like you could see the healing happening right in front of the lens.
I asked a couple of them for feedback on their experience. Here was Alisha’s x
“Admittedly, I was hesitant when I was chosen to do an endometriosis empowerment photoshoot. It meant I would have to face my physical insecurities head-on. Multiple disabilities, surgeries, five pregnancies, two births, and life itself have taken their toll on my young body.
I put my name forward because I needed to find a way to celebrate all that my body has done for me and my family, despite dealing with endometriosis. I was honestly surprised someone would look at my photos and choose me. Ainsley clearly saw my beauty before I could—and she captured it in the most empowering way through her lens.
I felt surrounded by encouragement and support before, during, and after the photoshoot—including when I used my mobility aids, which at times feel like an extension of my disabled body.
Alisha with her funky pink wheelchair during her endo empowerment shoot.
Alisha stands with her mobility aid, embracing those goddess vibes.
I still remember how the shoot progressed: from uncertainty to confidence, from scared to fearless. Metaphorically and physically, I was revealing all—surrounded by nature and the uplifting words of other strong wahine. I felt like I was embodying a powerful, feminine goddess. In those moments, I felt so grateful to have this opportunity.
I wasn’t sure if the feelings I experienced during the shoot would translate into the images—but when I saw the photos, I had no doubt they did.
“I burst into happy tears flicking through the photos Ainsley sent me.”
Alisha shot on 35mm film during her endo empowerment shoot.
Beautiful details showing Alisha’s story and strength.
I burst into happy tears flicking through the photos Ainsley sent me. Seeing myself evolve through each frame was emotional in the best way. I did it! I can see the emotions I felt during the shoot so clearly in each and every image. Those who know my struggles have been so proud of me—for giving it my all, not just for myself, but to empower others, whether they have endometriosis or not.
Thank you again, Ainsley. It means so much to have been gifted this empowering experience.”
Alisha with the incredible women from the endometriosis empowerment shoot experience. x
If you are reading to embrace your endo body head with open arms, get in touch with me about booking your own private shoot. X