About Me.
If you've found yourself here, it's no coincidence—something has sparked your interest, and I'm grateful for your visit. I'm Mercedes, and I'd like to share a bit about my journey with you.
Throughout my life, I've worn many hats: single mom, business analyst, realtor, and photographer. For 17 years, "single mom" was the title I identified with most. However, in 2016, when I married and changed my name, I found myself grappling with a shifting identity. Who was I beyond the label I'd carried for so long?
This period of transition led me to confront underlying challenges, including Complex PTSD that had accompanied me into this new chapter. Through dedicated therapy and introspection, I embarked on a path toward self-love and prioritizing my well-being.
As the saying goes, "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear." In early 2023, this adage rang true for me. I applied to a thriving photography studio, unaware that the position was for boudoir photography. This serendipitous opportunity opened my eyes to the transformative power of boudoir—a profound act of self-love that we undertake for ourselves.
My own self-love journey has taught me the importance of embracing ourselves as we are, practicing self-compassion, and recognizing that everyone benefits from support.
Through the lens, we can explore themes of self-acceptance and empowerment.
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I'm an INFJ, which means I’m an introvert. This is good for you because when I’m in the studio, I’m at my 100% best. I’m creative, detail-oriented, and have a strong desire to make a difference.
When I was in high school, I took a photography course. It was my absolute favorite class—we shot in black and white, developed the film, and printed our own images. I have a vivid memory of taking a specific photo and thinking, This is something I could do for the rest of my life. Then life took over—I had a baby, then another baby, then twins... and then divorce.
Before photography, I worked as a business analyst for 10 years, then spent 17 years as a residential Realtor with RE/MAX. When my kids were in high school, I went back to school to fulfill a dream of earning a degree. My Bachelors degree ended up being in multimedia and web design. That’s where I learned Photoshop, including high-end editing and creating compositions.
I worked at Sylk Marti Studio in Chicago, where I was lucky enough to photograph over 500 women—including couples, a few trans, a few cross-dressers, and even some male intimate portraiture sessions.
In my spare time, I enjoy yoga, walking my dog and taking even more pictures—but of nature. I also love rewatching my favorite shows. Give me Queen Charlotte, Bridgerton, and Game of Thrones, but also all things Marvel, Star Trek, and Star Wars. Can you tell I like sci-fi and romance? Then again, I’ll binge Schitt’s Creek, Gossip Girl, Big Bang and Ugly Betty, too.
I have celiac disease, so gluten is off-limits, but I love a good burger and fries, tacos, and pizza. Since I’m watching my cholesterol, I’ve been eating more Mediterranean-style—so now I have to pick just one of those as my weekly treat.
And lastly, I cannot forget—music! I have a very eclectic taste and love listening to all kinds of music. In the studio, I’ll play whatever you want, which has introduced me to so much more music than I would have found on my own. But I have to warn you—if I’m really feeling the music, I’ll start humming, singing, and if it’s Salsa or Bachata? Well, let’s just say photographing you will feel like being in heaven!
Thank you for allowing me to share my story. I look forward to the possibility of capturing yours.
Are you ready to book a session? Have some questions? Contact me so we can start the process!