20/06/2025
Authenticity (noun):
According to Webster’s Dictionary, authenticity is “the quality of being genuine or real.”
Let’s break that down a little more:
Genuine means “truly what something is said to be; sincere.”
Real means “not artificial, fraudulent, or illusory; existing as a fact.”
Whew—what a combo, right?!
To me, authenticity means showing up as you are, not just when it’s easy, but when it’s uncomfortable, uncertain, or deeply vulnerable. It’s about staying sincere. It’s about being grounded in truth, even when the world wants polish and perfection.
As a photographer, I witness authenticity every single day. It’s in the way a mom belly-laughs with her kids, barefoot. It’s in the quiet moment someone takes a breath, lets go of the pose, and lets me see their truth through my lens. That’s the good stuff. That’s where the soul lives.
In my own life, I’ve had to redefine what being real looks like. I’ve walked away from jobs, cities, and situations that looked “successful” but didn’t feel right in my gut. I traded L.A. skyscrapers for salt air and soul work. I started Nikki Y’all Photography as a way to celebrate people in their natural light—messy hair, big energy, nervous butterflies and all.
It’s in the way I honor my clients’ stories.
It’s in the way I show up tattooed, camera in hand, hugging people I just met like they’re family.
It’s in the way I say, “Y’all, this moment right here? It matters.”
Authenticity is dancing barefoot at sunset.
It’s crying behind the camera when a shoot feels that meaningful. It’s choosing heart over hustle. Every time.
If you’ve ever worked with me, you’ve probably felt that vibe. I’ll be your biggest hype woman and hold space when you need it. I believe your realest self is your most beautiful self, and I’m just here to help you see that.
So tell me—
✨**What does authenticity mean to YOU?**✨
Let’s talk about it in the comments 💬
And if you’re ready for photos that celebrate who you really are, I’d love to work with you.
Visit www.nikkiyallphoto.com 💚📸