Ruby Wallace-Ewing, owner of Ruby Jean Photography, curating costumes and handmade crowns for her enchanting photoshoots at her home in Biddeford. Brianna Soukup/Portland Press Herald
What if you could transform into a goddess for just a day? This transformative idea fueled a **passionate project** by photographer Ruby Wallace-Ewing, turning ordinary women into ethereal beings through her lens.
A Magical Escape from Reality
The turning point for Wallace-Ewing came in an unexpected moment. After quitting her content creation job to dive into wedding photography, the onset of the pandemic derailed her plans and left her creativity yearning. Boredom quickly transformed into inspiration as she and her sister began spontaneous beach photoshoots using a dazzling, sheer gown rented from a local shop.
Serendipity at the Beach
The **divine timing** of a sunset paired with the sparkle of the dress created an **exquisite scene**, culminating in moments that would magnify Wallace-Ewing’s artistic vision. “We raced to Biddeford Pool and captured the light just as it painted the gown,” she recalls, crediting fate for guiding her path.
Birth of the Goddess Concept
The resulting photos posted online ignited a positive response, with her grandmother wearing similar flowing gowns going viral. Thus, the heartwarming, whimsical “**goddess photoshoots**” were born, providing women the chance to **celebrate femininity and confidence** like never before.
Wallace-Ewing’s shoots highlight women from diverse backgrounds—mothers, grandmothers, and career women who step into the spotlight, shedding insecurities and embracing their **inner magic**. “This experience allows them to momentarily escape their everyday lives and bask in self-love,” she explains.
Connie Troumbley, a participant in the sessions, shines as a goddess. Photo courtesy of Ruby Jean Photography
The Goddess Project: A Movement Begins
Wallace-Ewing has recently launched the **Goddess Project**, aiming to raise $20,000 to provide **12 free photoshoots** for women over 70 who might not afford the typical cost of $1,250. Through this initiative, she aims to amplify representation and showcase the beauty of women in their later years. Participate today!
“Every woman deserves to have her story told and celebrated,” Wallace-Ewing states, emphasizing her commitment to diversity and empowerment within her work.
Real Stories, Real Transformations
One remarkable story is that of **Connie Troumbley**, a 70-year-old who participated in a goddess photoshoot after winning an essay contest. Troumbley, who is also a reiki practitioner, expressed immense joy in how Wallace-Ewing made her feel vibrant and youthful, challenging the narrative that **older women often feel invisible**.
“Ruby has an incredible gift for bringing out the goddess energy in us,” Troumbley commented, hinting at the magic that unfolds in her sessions.
Capturing Lasting Memories
Some photoshoots resonate deeply beyond the surface. Caroline Fix Strauss, diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, traveled to Ogunquit for her goddess session, intent on creating beautiful photos to cherish forever. During the shoot, surrounded by family, Strauss felt a sense of **joy and normalcy**, escaping the weight of her diagnosis.
Caroline Fix Strauss embraces her goddess moment in Ogunquit. Photo courtesy of Ruby Jean Photography
For her family, the images from that photoshoot became a comforting reminder of their time together during a challenging period, demonstrating the profound power of memory and love.
Join the Movement
Through Wallace-Ewing’s lens, the Goddess Project continues to empower women, encouraging them to cast aside societal expectations and embrace their **true selves**. In a world where beauty standards often feel limiting, this project is a **celebration of uniqueness**, resilience, and strength.
If you want to experience this magical journey or support the initiative, visit buymeacoffee.com for donations and information. Join Wallace-Ewing in redefining beauty and honoring the fabulous energy of women from all walks of life!
