THE SESSION

Portrait photography as a record of strength and self-recognition

When you step into The Session with me there are no poses to perform and no expectations to be met. Together we build a safe space that allows you to be exactly as you are right in this moment.

My job is to see you and to make that visible through imagery. And like this, each photograph becomes part of a record you can hold onto: a reminder of what you’ve lived through and of what deserves to be seen. For many people in front of my camera these photos become a deposit of courage and presence over time, something to return to when their confidence fades or they need a reminder of who they are.

What is the session?

Think of a creative space. Think of something safe. Think of the freedom to be who you truly are. Think of liberation from shame. Dear reader, that is The Session.

You bring yourself, truly and unveiled, and I bring my skill set and aesthetics. Together, we create photos you’ve never seen before.

You get photos of your true self. You are met with kindness, respect, and compassion. You get to explore, discover, and celebrate yourself.

The session can be anything you need it to be. This is not a place for traditional photography, but a space for creativity, deep interaction, and discovery.


Our Process

Before

After your first message, we will schedule an initial meeting at the studio, in a café, or via video call. I will tell you more about The Session. If the vibe feels right, we will then schedule the photography session. After that, I will send you guiding materials, including a questionnaire, safer space guidelines, and practical instructions. Ideally, you will have a couple of weeks to go through them, as this process takes time. Once you return the materials, we will schedule another meeting to discuss The Session and exchange ideas.


During The Session

The session has no fixed time limit, but it usually takes around two to three hours. It’s collaborative and focused and we follow what feels right. I guide when needed, but never take over. My inspiration comes from you: your stories, your energy and your presence. You can bring anything that feels like you along. A book, a piece of clothing, an object or nothing at all. The location can be a studio, outdoors or somewhere personal. The session adapts to you, not the other way around.

Afterwards

In 48 hours, you will receive sneak peeks, a selection of images I have chosen for you, along with detailed instructions on how to view them. Within two weeks (during the high season 1 month), you will receive the full gallery. It will be large. After that, I will send instructions and suggest a close-up meeting. This meeting is a chance for you to view the photos with me, ask about my choices, and give overall feedback. The meeting is entirely optional, but if you have not experienced an extensive photography session before, I highly recommend it.

Portrait of a woman in their 70's. She is looking right and smiling gently. The light is soft and beautiful.

Investment 1270 € (incl. VAT 25,5%)

Interested in booking The Session? Reach out through my Contact page, and let’s start getting to know each other. Our first face-to-face meeting is simply a chance to see how we connect — a relaxed space where we can talk more about your needs and how I work. There’s no pressure or commitment to book me, and afterwards you can take your time deciding whether it feels right to move forward.

If finances are a concern, I offer interest-free instalments to help make the session more accessible. Once a year, I also open a small number of pay-what-you-can bookings for those who need them, and I’ll share more about that on my social media.

Taneli is looking straight at the camera and holding their hands on their face very softly. The vibe in this portrait is soft yet powerful

“The Session was an EXPERIENCE that will definitely stay with me. I feel like I’m looking at something amazing and important in those photos, and I’m trying to internalize that it’s actually me in there.”

TANELI

The session is always collaborative and planned entirely around you

Your emotional, mental, and physical safety is my highest priority. Everything we do is rooted in mutual consent, which is why this process can take time. We create these photos together — gently negotiating boundaries and building mutual understanding and respect along the way. The first no-strings discussion is a perfect way for you to check if I might be your photographer.

I do not manipulate your body into predetermined poses to create a certain image or mood. I am here to document your natural movement and the unique way you carry yourself.

You always have the power to say no to anything I suggest — before, during, or after the session. Whatever comes from this session belongs to you and you alone. These photos can become a source of strength in difficult times, or a way to celebrate yourself. My role is to support you in creating whatever you want this session to offer.

You’ll find the FAQ section below, and I warmly encourage you to take a moment to read through it. If there’s anything you’re still wondering about, or if your question isn’t answered there, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’m always happy to answer any questions you may have about The Session.

Welcome to this journey we take together.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No. I want to be very clear that I do not have therapeutic training and I do not provide therapy. The Session is a creative collaboration where you can explore whatever you wish. It is grounded in trust and confidentiality, and anything you bring to The Session remains between us. The photos we create can become a resource in your own therapy process, but that is entirely your choice.

  • You will likely know when the time feels right. If you are dealing with acute challenges in your life, it may not be the best moment for this kind of process. If The Session feels intriguing and sparks enthusiasm more than anxiety or doubt, that is usually a good sign. Feeling nervous before a photography session is completely normal. Nervousness can be moved through. For this to feel safe and fulfilling, it helps to have the emotional resources to engage with the process.

  • Not at all. We live in a society that constantly questions our value and surrounds us with messages telling us we are not enough. Reclaiming your space and your power is something we all need. Having your photo taken can be one way to do that. A photoshoot does not need a special occasion or a justified milestone. We deserve to be seen and documented in ordinary life, too, because that is where most of our lives actually happen.

  • That can happen. The process before, during, and after the session is designed to give you time and space to reflect on your needs, your self-image, and how you see yourself. The session is what you make of it, and I am here to help you navigate any obstacles that arise. You will receive a large gallery of photos. Some will feel immediately like favourites, while others may feel more challenging. Over time, your relationship to the images may change. What feels unfamiliar now may feel familiar, or even empowering, later.

  • You remain in control throughout the process. You decide what you share with me, and your consent is central at every stage. Photos can bring up unexpected emotions and sometimes open a new process within you. We will talk about ways to regulate emotions and move through difficult feelings, and I can offer resources to support you if needed.

  • We often spend money on things that matter less than we do. This session is a luxury service in the sense that it requires time, skill, care, and dedication. It is not a standard photoshoot but a longer, deeper journey we take together. I continue to develop my craft to meet clients' needs. If finances are a concern, I offer interest-free instalments to make the session more accessible.

  • Yes. Respect is the foundation of my work, and there is no judgment here. My priority is to see people as they wish to be seen. I work with marginalised groups and continue to educate myself in anti-racism and accessibility. I am also part of several marginalised communities, so I understand minority stress, stereotype threat, and microaggressions. If there are specific topics or materials you would like me to research beforehand, I am happy to do that. Knowledge is power, and I am committed to learning and doing better.

  • It can support that journey, though it may not be a quick fix. Images can help you see your body from new angles, in different light, and in ways you may not usually experience. Most importantly, what you feel during the session matters. Those feelings are captured in the images. If the session evokes empowerment, that sense of empowerment can be present when you return to the photos later, helping you connect with your body and reclaim your power

  • You will receive a large gallery, and your response may vary from image to image. Some may feel uncomfortable, some neutral, and some you will absolutely love. How we perceive images depends on context, including our mood, our day, and our state of mind. Over time, favourites can change, and new ones can emerge. It is also normal to feel a little off when seeing yourself from angles you are not used to. That is a natural part of the process.

  • Trust is built over time. I encourage you to schedule your session well in advance so we can get to know each other and talk through the process properly. I am transparent and happy to discuss any fears or concerns. You never have to share anything you do not want to. You hold the power because you hold your truth.

  • No. My Safer Space Guidelines apply to everyone involved, including me. I bring an open and non-judgmental worldview to this work. Human variety, passions, and interests genuinely inspire me. If you are worried about bringing a particular hobby or kink, please know that as long as it is legal and non-discriminatory, it is welcome in The Session.

  • No. We create something individual together. We talk through boundaries, comfort levels, and the degree of provocation you want to explore. You have full control over how your sexuality is represented. My work is centred on representation, light, shade, technique, and helping you reach your goals, not on sexualisation. Respect runs through everything I do.

  • Yes. Items such as latex or harnesses are not costumes, but expressions of identity. This is a study of you, for you. Your concerns about being misunderstood are valid, and I am very happy to talk through them beforehand. That is also why we have at least two conversations before The Session. You remain in full control of how you are represented.

  • Safety is essential for both of us. The process is designed to give you time to reflect on what feels comfortable to share. I will check in with you throughout the session, and you can always decide not to do something, even if we discussed it earlier. There is no obligation. The session exists entirely for you.

  • Yes, absolutely. If you know you would feel more comfortable with a spouse, a friend or a pet present, you are welcome to bring them to The Session.

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