Embrace Your Authentic Self with As I Am Sessions Photography

You don’t need to become someone else; you just need the space to be your authentic self. The As I Am Sessions are designed precisely for that: to help you embrace who you are right now, in all your beauty and completeness. Rather than aiming for a transformation into a new version of yourself, these sessions focus on transforming your perception of yourself.

The essence of these sessions lies in recognizing and accepting who you are today. There’s no need to wait until you lose weight or wear the perfect outfit. You don't have to wait for a moment when everything aligns for you to step into your full self. Instead, you can take that step now.

Introducing As I Am Sessions

As I Am Sessions cater to women ready to elevate their self-acceptance. They are not about creating a performance or meeting someone else's idea of beauty; rather, they invite you to be whole and define yourself on your own terms. Here, you are enough just as you are, embodying your next level self.

What Are As I Am Sessions?

These sessions are specialized photoshoots held at my studio in New Braunfels, crafted to enable you to experience being seen for who you are. The focus isn't on looking perfect or performing for the camera; instead, it's about creating a safe environment for you to express all parts of yourself—the parts you cherish, those you're reconciling with, and even the ones yearning for validation.

You control the narrative: what you want to wear, the energy you bring, how you wish to feel, and how you wish to be expressed. My role is to guide you through this experience, fostering an environment where the real you can not only be present but flourish. You don’t need to be an expert in posing or start with a high level of confidence; the only requirement is to arrive for yourself.

You've Been Showing Up for Everyone Else

Many women take on roles where they are routinely the ones who provide support—whether for kids, partners, teams, or clients—often pushing their own needs aside. They carry the mental load for everyone, a habit that can leave them feeling invisible on their own lists of priorities.

When the concept of doing something solely for yourself appears daunting or even laughable, it might be time to reconsider. After over a decade of photographing women, I’ve noticed a common journey: those who ultimately stop waiting for the perfect moment to prioritize themselves often transform in the process.

When women step into their sessions, they might still carry the burdens of their roles and societal standards. However, something remarkable unfolds once they see the images captured during the session. Photography provides a unique opportunity: it allows them to view themselves outside the context of their many responsibilities. The photographs don’t change who they are; they unveil the stunning you, independent of the roles you fulfill.

My Studio Has Always Been This Kind of Place

My studio is designed as a judgment-free zone. With no predefined standards of beauty, you are free to exist authentically. Here, you set your own standards, and over the years, I’ve seen countless individuals sparkle with extraordinary beauty when viewed in isolation, detached from comparison.

The aim of the As I Am Sessions is to create an environment where you can simply be without the pressure to perform, explain, or conform. The resulting images capture not just a moment in time, but a genuine representation of who you are, reflecting back the beauty I see in each individual.

What the Session Looks Like

Prior to the session, I take time to connect with you. We will discuss your feelings, the burdens you're carrying, your aspirations for these images, and what you truly want to feel. This dialogue informs every aspect of your experience—lighting, environment, and the manner in which I guide you through the session.

The session transforms into something more like an engaging conversation than a formal photo shoot, designed to coax out moments of authenticity—where you might forget the camera and simply be yourself. The atmosphere is intentionally relaxed and nurturing.

What You’ll Walk Away With

Participants often leave with images that genuinely resonate with their sense of self. It may sound simplistic, but many women reflect on their past photos and find them to be unrecognizable or unsatisfactory—awkward poses, poor lighting, or lack of direction. What I strive to capture are candid glimpses of the real you, where the viewers might think, "Yes, that's who I truly am."

Your photographs will bridge the gap between how you perceive yourself and how the camera sees you. The intent isn’t to alter your essence but to enhance your awareness: the change occurs in recognizing the you that has always existed, beautifully and authentically.

You Don’t Need a New Version of Yourself

What you really need is someone to see the you that is present today. The you of this moment is sufficient. This reflection is fundamental to the As I Am Sessions, which aim to support women tired of waiting for an idealized version of themselves to emerge. You’re encouraged to arrive as you are, without pretense. That’s the heart of this experience.

If you’ve been anticipating this moment, I have open spots available for new sessions. Let’s talk about it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have a specific reason or milestone to book?

No. Some women might choose to book for anniversaries, career changes, or new life stages, while others may simply feel ready—both are valid.

What if I’m not photogenic?

Many of my clients, who are often camera-shy, share this sentiment. My sessions are tailored specifically for those individuals. The environment I create is conducive to facilitating comfort and genuine expression.

What should I wear?

This will be part of our pre-session discussion. I’ll assist you in selecting outfits that feel authentic to you rather than contrived costumes.

Where are sessions held?

Sessions take place in my studio located in New Braunfels, Texas, serving clients from San Antonio, Austin, and the greater Hill Country.

How do I book?

Start by reaching out through my contact form. I want to ensure these sessions align with your personal needs.

Erin Valkner Photography operates out of New Braunfels, Texas, providing transformative As I Am Sessions aimed at empowering women to be seen as their true selves.