The first weekend of the new year brings mixed feeling for many. It’s usually a time to create new goals as we suffer the after effects of overindulgence and too much time around family members. As women we’ve often taken on so much responsibility for those around us at Christmas making sure everyone is cared for. For some it’s a time of loneliness or grief as we watch others celebrating with their picture perfect family selfies and busy social events. The beginning of January can feel like an uphill climb as we pressure ourselves into things being different this year, sometimes without the much needed rest after the festive season.
So at The Ethical Cam Community we decided that this is the time of year our members might really need a boost and a bit of connection. Despite the extra Christmas lbs we booked a photographer, rented a large house (with a hot tub of course!) and opened up an invite for 7 of our members to join us for a weekend of wellbeing and mischief – and oh what a weekend it was!
We arrived 1 by 1 on the Friday, slowly unwinding after a train journey or long drive and getting to know one another. Our community is close and many of us speak daily, but with our ever expanding group many of our members haven’t met yet and its always heart warming to see a diverse group come together and begin to bond straight away. We cooked a meal and sat to eat together, sharing stories and connecting. After food Elle directed a self expression exercise where each member could choose to share a little about their past, present and hopes for the future using visual prompts. What followed was an hour or two of deeply vulnerable and powerful expression. We shared our trauma, our most vivid memories and our fears. We unloaded secrets, shared many tears and unlocked new levels of compassion for these strong women around us, but also for ourselves. We freed ourselves of judgements, shame and rejection and the result was almost magical – this is what happens when women are given a space just to BE. Unapologetically, uniquely and honestly be themselves. We rise.
Saturday began with a group breakfast of eggs, avocado, bacon, toast etc overlooking the beautiful view. Gone are the days of the starved model – at The ECC we encourage real women! Sufficiently nourished physically and mentally, divinely feminine and powerful. Some of the members shared their nerves and body hang ups. This would be their first photoshoot and they weren’t used to being centre of attention. We were in this together.
Our photographer Paul O’Connell arrived, arms full of the essentials – cameras, lighting equipment, prosecco and some sweet treats he had baked for us (not to mention the extra toilet roll we roped him into picking up – Airbnb problems). It was time to step into our power! As Paul set up we gathered together to prep ourselves for the day. We got comfortable, closed our eyes and were led on a beautiful relaxation and empowerment hypnosis with hypnotherapist and inner child healer Rebecca Dakin. 45 minutes of connecting to our bodies and the present moment, taking time again to release shame and set the tone for what would be a day charged with empowerment and togetherness. We were ready to beautify!
1 by 1 we emerged from our rooms, having shared makeup tips, lingerie advice or stripper shoes, each woman inhabiting their own style. Our therapist Elle on stand by to help direct and reassure our members as they took it in turns to have photos taken in various parts of the house. Photographer Paul being sensitive and patient, asking each person about themselves – what would they like to come across in these pictures and what areas of their body do they feel insecure about? Each woman finished her set with a round of cheers and the appreciation of her fellow community members – sometimes even tears as a long standing insecurity is overcome or she’s overwhelmed with the gratitude for seeing herself in a new light. Paul takes time to show each person how the raw images look as we shoot, prompting more tears and disbelief at the goddesses on that little camera screen.
After a long day of shooting theres no denying the life shifting moments that have taken place. We head out for dinner and reflect on the day over food, drinks and a few games of pool. We sure make an impression on the locals who haven’t seen so much action in a while and the manager decides to stay open just that bit longer to enjoy the pleasure of our company! As the evening comes to an end we head back to the house and those of us that want to, jump into the warm soothing hot tub with a glass of fizz and toast to us.
We hope to see you at the next event!
