When Practice Turns to Magic: Dora’s Empowering Portrait Session

Sometimes, magic happens when you least expect it.

I originally invited my incredible makeup artist, Dora Vera, into my San Antonio studio simply so I could practice new posing and lighting techniques I picked up at a recent photography workshop. It wasn’t meant to be a full session—just a casual shoot to test new ideas. But then this happened…

As the shutter clicked, something shifted. The lighting, the energy, the connection—it all came together. We created portraits that were vulnerable, empowering, and yes, even a little sexy.

Dora reminded me afterward that she had modeled for me back in 2019 during a black and white portrait series I was experimenting with. It was when It felt like we’d come full circle—only now, with even more maturity, confidence, and intention.

These images weren’t just about testing poses; they captured emotion, softness, strength, and the beautiful complexity of being a woman.

During the photoshoot, Dora said something that stopped me in my tracks: she was excited to print some of these personal portraits for her son to treasure long after she’s gone. That hit me hard. In that moment, I realized we weren’t just creating beautiful photos—we were creating legacy portraits. Images that will carry her energy, her beauty, and her story for generations to come. These images weren’t just about practicing poses; they captured emotion, softness, strength, and the beautiful complexity of being a woman.

Imagine walking into your shoot feeling a little self-conscious about your body and leaving with the most breathtaking photos you’ve ever seen of yourself.
That’s exactly what Dora experienced when she came into the studio this week. You can have this moment too!

If you’ve been thinking about stepping in front of the camera—maybe for yourself, maybe because you’ve been putting it off—this is your sign. My limited-time Portrait Promo ends August 10, and I want to pour into you. This is the same elevated experience I offer my full portrait clients, but at a special rate—and just for a short time.

Let’s celebrate you, your beauty, and your evolution.

Ready to feel what Dora felt?

[Click here before August 10 →]  https://melissaraelynnphotography.com/portrait-special

Enjoy Dora’s empowering photoshoot highlights below,

-M