The Evolution of Beauty: Beyond Time, Culture, and Convention
Is beauty something universal, or is it shaped by the time and culture we live in? It’s clear that cultural influences shape some of what we consider beautiful. Just look back to the 1500 - 1800s—what was once celebrated then might seem outdated, even unhealthy, by today’s standards. Compare the figures in Renoir and Rubens’ paintings to the models featured in Vogue or Bazaar, even with today’s more inclusive ideals. Beauty, it seems, is constantly evolving.
But shouldn’t our personal view of beauty hold more meaning than the ideals we’ve been conditioned to accept? When we find something or someone beautiful, we often desire it. But why? What’s at the heart of that desire? Does wanting something make it beautiful, or does beauty lie somewhere deeper?
Some days, I look in the mirror and feel beautiful; other days, a restless night makes me see flaws. If our view of ourselves can change so easily, is beauty as fleeting as our moods? Beauty is complex, evolving, and deeply personal—perhaps that’s what makes it so endlessly captivating.
I often talk about capturing authentic and emotional photographs, focusing on the unique, extraordinary qualities in each person. What I see as beautiful, I hope you can see as beautiful too.
At the heart of this process is our shared sense of beauty. It’s not enough for me to see you as beautiful; if you don’t feel that way about yourself, then the image isn’t complete. Whether you’re a young model, a mother, or enjoying your golden years, how you see yourself shapes the final vision and the art we create together. That’s why I emphasize the experience in the studio. The most powerful images come when we’re connected, when you feel truly seen, and when you feel as beautiful as you do on your very best day.
This perspective is also why I call my Boudoir sessions “Beauty Sessions.” I’m not drawn to the traditional boudoir style—posing in provocative lingerie doesn’t always capture the essence of a person or reflect what truly makes them beautiful. Instead, my goal is to create images that celebrate authenticity. If I include nudity, it’s subtle, meant to enhance an honest expression of emotion—something we both see as beautiful.
Beauty doesn’t need to conform to any notion of sexualization or fit into a specific pose. At any age, beauty can be powerful, intimate, and free from stereotypes or expectations. In a true Beauty Session, we focus on capturing you as you are, in a way that feels meaningful, genuine, and empowering.
For more about how attention shapes beauty and connection, explore The Power of Attention. If you are 40 years old or beyond, you may be interested in the Beyond the Gaze session project, check it out!
