Embracing Motherhood:

This is me, Zoe, and here is my story. In a world where motherhood can be both a breathtaking journey and a formidable challenge, my story shines as a testament to the strength and resilience of women. My path, marked by postpartum depression, medical challenges, and personal growth, led me to embrace motherhood through the art of photography. Through my lens, I found not only comfort but a sense of purpose and the power of women supporting women. My story begins with the birth of my second child, an experience that left me grappling with postpartum depression. The weight of this emotional burden became even heavier as I faced a fast and abrupt birth, followed by a rare infection and retained placenta. Misdiagnosed and left untreated, my condition worsened. Seeking help from a private gynaecologist, I learned the gravity of my situation, realizing that if it weren't for modern medicine and this was me 100 years ago, I was told I might not have survived.

Amidst the challenges of my health, I found myself in an unfamiliar town, away from family and my support system. The transition from one child to two left me feeling isolated and lonely. My relationship became strained under the weight of it all. In this dark moment, hope glimmered as I discovered a doctor who believed in me and set me on the path to healing. It was during this process of recovery that I stumbled upon photography, and something magical happened. Capturing the essence of life through my lens, I felt a sense of liberation, reclaiming my identity as "Zoe." Photography became my refuge, a realm where I found success and fulfilment.

My hard work and talent led me to be published in multiple magazines, gaining recognition. Yet, in the midst of my triumph, a dear friend responded with envy rather than celebration. This painful experience highlighted the importance of women supporting women in their endeavours and successes. It reminded me that true friendship should celebrate one another's achievements, not tear them down.

Fuelled by this experience, I felt a calling to create a motherhood photography shoot that transcends physical appearances. My vision was clear - women supporting women, regardless of their body size, shape, colour, age, race, or success. I yearned to capture the raw beauty of motherhood and to foster a community of women empowering one another.

Through my photography, I aimed to inspire women to uplift and support each other, even among strangers. Motherhood, with all its joys and struggles, unites women in a shared experience. My work seeks to erase the barriers that divide us and instead, embrace the beauty of diversity and unity.

So, there it was, my journey of healing and empowerment symbolizes the strength that lies within every woman. Photography became my sanctuary, a medium through which I expressed my innermost self, and ultimately, it became my tool to encourage women to stand united. As we celebrate motherhood and all its facets, let us remember the importance of women uplifting women, supporting each other, and finding beauty in the strength of our collective spirit. Because in the end, when women support each other, incredible things happenhearts heal, dreams soar, and sisterhood is born.

Zoe

Soon to be an international author Miranda Murrays’ anthology book is due to launch in a few weeks. Keep an eye out for Ubuntu - On Whose Shoulders We Stand which she has collaborated with other beautiful female authors from around the world including Dr Tererai Trent who is quoted by Oprah as being her “Most favourite guest ever”.