Delane (rhymes with Melanie) is an amazing woman. Her outlook on life is one of gratitude and appreciation, even though she’s been through some shit. You cannot help but smile when you speak to her—she radiates joy.
Would you believe she’s in her early 50s (Very little post-production was needed! She really is in amazing shape.), a mother of one, and a grandmother of three?
Boudoir | Shannon Hemauer Photography
She is a self-proclaimed workaholic, often working 60-70 hours a week at the restaurant she manages, and when she’s working she is often found in her signature pink heels. (Yes. She wears heels while working that 60-70 hour week!)
What makes Delane’s positive attitude so amazing is she donated her kidney two years ago to her then-husband of almost 20 years, who then in turn cheated on her with the nurse who took care of him after the surgery. You read that correctly: Delane donated her kidney to her then-husband, who then cheated on her with the nurse. To keep things professional I won’t tell you what I think about that…
Her divorce became official two days before her session with me.
When I asked Delane why she was doing this boudoir session, she told me:
I am doing this for me. A while back I was going to do this for a gift for the husband… My new single life made me want to do this for me! I see me differently! I see my smile now—not the wrinkles! Some of my friends think I’m crazy… some think it’s awesome! I really don’t care because it’s strictly for me!
I have become a very strong, independent woman who finally really loves herself. I don’t have a man in my life but I feel more loved than I ever have! When my husband left me for a 32 year old… I was devastated. I’m 51! I’m starting over… I’m scared as hell!! I never felt good enough, pretty enough, or thin enough… My [now-ex] told me I would never be anything without him, so I do struggle some days believing in me… but I’m getting there!!
Boudoir | Shannon Hemauer Photography
I donated my kidney to my [now-ex] husband one month before he left me… I did it out of pure love for the man I thought was my soulmate… I would not change my being a donor! I am proud of myself. I was terrified to donate but it changed me, made me see life in a beautiful way. Made me want to be better, made me stronger in a way I can never explain. I have scars on my body and at first I thought, ‘I’m single… what man will ever want me now?” I have finally seen my inner beauty and feel blessed—I hope someday to meet someone who sees my heart.
I have lost friends this past year… they don’t understand the confident, single me… maybe they were never real friends, but I have gained so much more than I’ve lost.
Boudoir | Shannon Hemauer Photography
I’m a runner …. it definitely keeps me sane! Finished a full marathon once… and lots of half marathons!! Doing these runs have definitely made me realize I am strong and capable!!! It was definitely mind over matter to finish some of these races… and I’m taking that view into my everyday life.
Boudoir | Shannon Hemauer Photography
I’m embracing my new life, my age, my wrinkles and my scars! I’m stepping out of my box and just letting go a bit! I am hoping the pure joy and love I feel in my heart shows in the pictures. I feel ready to love again… I hope to meet an amazing man in my near future. I’m ready to face this next chapter in my life… I’m ready to live life and just be me!
So, do you think shooting a boudoir session looks like fun? Do you think a boudoir session would be empowering? Contact me today to discuss how you want to be photographed.
A big thank you to lead stylist, Nath, for doing a great job on Delane’s hair and makeup, and to Dianna for assisting me during the session.
Pennsylvania Boudoir Photography Near
Carlisle PA • Dillsburg PA • Gettysburg PA • Harrisburg PA • Hershey PA • Lancaster PA • Mechanicsburg PA • New Cumberland PA • York PA
