We were lucky to catch up with Gracie Hagen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Gracie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you come up with the idea for your business?

The inception of Bodyssey stemmed from a deeply personal journey intertwined with a professional vision. Reflecting on my experiences and observations as a photographer, I noticed a significant gap in the industry’s approach to portraying individuals. I felt a calling to redefine the norms and empower individuals through my lens.

It was during a contemplative moment, in a museum, that the idea struck me. Surrounded by timeless masterpieces, I envisioned a space where every individual could be celebrated as such – where art and empowerment intersected. This epiphany was fueled by my passion for storytelling and my desire to challenge conventional beauty standards.

The logic behind Bodyssey’s inception was grounded in the recognition of a critical need – the need for authentic representation and empowerment in portraiture. I realized that many individuals, like myself, felt unseen or misrepresented in traditional photography settings. Bodyssey became the vessel through which I could address this gap, offering a unique blend of classical aesthetics and modern vibrancy to capture them as the masterpieces they truly are.

What excited me most about Bodyssey was the prospect of fostering meaningful connections with my clients, guiding them on a transformative journey of self-discovery and empowerment. I knew that by offering a safe and inclusive space, coupled with a distinct photographic style, Bodyssey could resonate deeply with individuals seeking to reclaim their narratives and celebrate their unique beauty.

In essence, Bodyssey was born from a convergence of passion, purpose, and a profound belief in the transformative power of photography. It’s not just a business venture; it’s a testament to the innate beauty and resilience of the human spirit, captured one masterpiece at a time.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My journey into the world of photography and entrepreneurship has been a deeply enriching and purposeful one. As the founder of Bodyssey, I discovered my passion for photography in my early twenties, I was captivated by the exploration of human experiences and the interconnectedness of our stories. Over time, I refined my skills across various genres and techniques, but it was the fusion of art and empowerment that truly fueled my creativity.

Bodyssey was born from a desire to challenge conventional beauty standards and empower individuals through portraiture. We specialize in offering a unique photographic experience that celebrates classical aesthetics with a contemporary twist, capturing the essence of each subject in a way that honors their authenticity. Our services focus on offering a photograph experience that is boudoir adjacent, providing clients with an opportunity to reclaim their narratives, embrace their bodies, and celebrate their journey of self-discovery.

What sets Bodyssey apart is our unwavering commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space for our clients. We understand that every individual has their own story, insecurities, and triumphs, and we approach each photoshoot with empathy, sensitivity, and respect. Our goal is not just to capture stunning images but to facilitate a transformative experience that leaves our clients feeling empowered, confident, and seen.

I am incredibly proud of the impact Bodyssey has had on the lives of our clients. Seeing the confidence, and self-love that blossoms during and after a photoshoot is truly rewarding. It’s a testament to the power of photography as a tool for empowerment and self-expression.

Ultimately, I want potential clients, followers, and supporters to know that Bodyssey is more than just a photography studio; it’s a movement. It’s a celebration of resilience and the inherent beauty that resides within each of us. Whether you’re looking to commemorate a milestone, embrace your body, or simply celebrate yourself, Bodyssey is here to guide you on your journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One lesson I had to unlearn was the notion that perfection is attainable or necessary in creative endeavors. Growing up, I was often conditioned to believe that success was synonymous with flawlessness, leading me to constantly strive for unattainable standards. However, as I delved deeper into my creative pursuits, particularly in photography, I came to realize that imperfections are not only inevitable but also integral to the artistic process.

The backstory to this realization stems from my early experiences in photography, where I would meticulously plan every aspect of a photoshoot, striving for a perfect execution. However, I soon discovered that some of the most captivating and meaningful moments emerged spontaneously, unplanned and unscripted. These imperfections, whether they be a stray hair or an unexpected expression, often added depth and authenticity to the final image, capturing the raw essence of the subject in a way that perfection never could.

As I embraced the beauty of imperfection in my work, I also learned to extend that same grace to myself. I began to let go of the unrealistic expectations I had placed on myself and my creative endeavors, allowing room for experimentation, vulnerability, and growth. This shift in perspective not only liberated me as an artist but also enriched my work, allowing me to create images that resonate on a deeper, more authentic level.

In essence, unlearning the pursuit of perfection has been a transformative experience that has taught me the value of embracing imperfection as an essential aspect of creativity and self-expression. It has allowed me to approach my craft with greater authenticity, vulnerability, and joy, ultimately leading to more meaningful connections with both my art and myself.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

The most successful method for expanding my clientele has been through word-of-mouth referrals and leveraging social media platforms. By consistently providing exceptional service and engaging with potential clients online, I’ve cultivated a strong reputation and attracted new clients who resonate with Bodyssey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bodyssey.studio/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialbodyssey
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialBodyssey
• Other: P. ‪(773) 614-5323‬ E. info@bodyssey.studio

Image Credits
Photo credit: Bodyssey 2024