Pastel Tropicale

by Tanaka - August 08, 2014

What have I gotten myself into? That was the question I found myself asking while looking through the photos of my recent shoot. It took me days and and a few nudges from my family to actually make this post - but here I am. Despite of my presence on social media, especially Instagram- I would be the first to tell you I hate having my picture taken. I know, you must be thinking, so why have a fashion blog?

Growing up I wanted to be a lot of things- well I really wanted to be a ballerina/ professional dancer but wasn't allowed the opportunity. Much later I wanted to be a studio engineer and music producer but was told the studio wasn't for women. I spent my childhood feeling defeated and grew up just doing what I was told I should do. I convinced myself for a while I wanted to be a lawyer or journalist because everyone around me told me that's what they saw me doing. Consequently I never knew what passion meant or felt like, I simply did whatever - because I had the ability. It has always been that way, until I discovered fashion (and painting).

So, that's why I started the blog -because it is MY outlet to express MYSELF. MY space. Unfortunately for me this expression mostly takes the form of photographs and when you're an awkward turtle like I am, being the subject of your own blog is a bit of a challenge. While my photographer is heaven sent, there is so much and no more he can do lol. I know it's barely been 3 months at best working at this (not really) posing for the camera business and I imagine it takes some practice, but mercy.

"look natural Tanaka" lol, then this happened.....

This shoot was to be very summery. With tropical print being the focus, I styled my button up with a highwaisted pastel blue pants and some white sandals. I liked the look the night before the shoot but for some reason it just didn't translate in the images. Have you ever looked at yourself in the mirror and had one of those "Damn, you looking fine today girl, you better take a picture" moment and then have your camera like: "mhm, I see you got ahead of yourself there" and ruin it all? Yeah, that's what happened lol. I've made up my mind to still share some of the images with you though, just because I know you can empathize lol......

There is a blogger, "UpcloseandStylish" who doesn't use images with her face at all....I may just consider this. It's really not a matter of being insecure, its more along the lines of "To thine own self be true". I realize now that these world class models deserve every penny they make! This taking perfect picture thing is a real TALENT, some people are really just born with it- & then you have me. LOL.