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Both images by and courtesy of Shae Acopian Detar.

I met Shae back in 2010, when we were both in the Coach Holiday Campaign. We sat next to each other while we had our hair and makeup done, and I remember how she spent most of her time asking the production team about their lighting and photo equipment, while most of us fawned over the clothes or fidgeted nervously as we watched Kelly look flawless in front of the camera right before we had to take our turn (hi, that was me). Shae’s inquisitive nature stood out to me, so I made it a point to check out her portfolio and blog as soon as I got home. I was blown away. Shortly after our shoot and one trip to the flea market and a brunch later, we became fast friends. But it wasn’t until recently that I had the extreme pleasure of being one of her subjects, both in photographed and painted photograph form.

What makes her photography special is that it is so recognizably Shae’s world; I suppose you would have to meet her to fully understand it, or perhaps you could peek through her portfolio and feel that dream world for yourself. I’m incredibly honored that I had a chance to be a part of that world for the day; I left newly inspired and wanting to learn more, do more, and explore more.

I urge you to check out both Shae’s portfolio and her blog to see more of her stunning photography and painted portraits. You can also buy prints of her work AND shop her amazing vintage clothing at Lullie Vintage.