Five Shoots, A Decade of Trust: How We Change the Way Women See Themselves in Our Studio
The Initial Hesitation: An Unwilling Muse
When I first approached Rebecca Hall, the Principal Flute at the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, about my first solo exhibition, Women in Malta (2015), she was honest: she hated being photographed. This is a sentiment I hear often, especially from high-achieving women—they are powerful in their careers but feel vulnerable and unseen in front of a lens.
Rebecca agreed, but it wasn’t easy. Our first portrait in 2015 captured a beautiful, almost mysterious expression—a look that evoked curiosity and made people wonder what she was thinking. I loved it. But more than the final image, I treasured the first small step of trust she gave me. It was the beginning of a working relationship that has now spanned five separate photoshoots.
From Curiosity to Confidence: The Evolution of a Relationship
Over the years, our sessions together have evolved with her journey. From the focused, initial portrait, we moved to high-energy group shoots with her fellow musicians, capturing genuine laughter and the camaraderie that professional life often brings. We took stunning shots outdoors for Pink Magazine, blending the precision of her career with the beauty of the Maltese narrow street background.
Each session was a progression. With a straightforward, no-nonsense attitude and great sense of humour, Rebecca would walk into the Cranberry Studio and allow herself to be vulnerable to the unknown. That’s the real bravery: sitting in front of the camera, trusting completely that I will find the light and the angle that captures the truth of her spirit.
My portrait Book
As one of the incredible women featured in my portrait book, Rebecca offered fascinating insights. I’m sharing a glimpse of our interview questions and her compelling answers here. For her full story will be in the book. Stay tuned!
As a Principal Flutist, you are a leader within the orchestra. What is it like to be a woman in a position of musical authority? Do you feel the dynamics of the orchestra have changed over your career?
Rebecca: Defining that authority as a woman has changed over the years. In the beginning, it was complicated to negotiate not only being young and obviously foreign, but also female in a much more patriarchal era.
Now, it is much more about the work and the respect earned, as opposed to gender or nationality.
• Can you recall a single performance—perhaps one where you felt most vulnerable or most transcendent—that fundamentally changed how you viewed your own musical gift or career?
Rebecca: The first time I performed on stage at Vienna’s famous “Musikverein” concert hall is my single favourite memory. Not for the performance as much as the venue! Looking down on the well worn pitted floor of the wooden stage reminded me of the generations of great performers who have been there before me. It was a humbling and exhilarating experience.
More Than a Photo: The Power of Seeing Yourself Differently
In our most recent session, we experimented with a variety of dresses and lighting setups. The difference between the first shoot and the fifth is palpable. Rebecca showed me a portrait she loves of Queen Elizabeth, I got inspired from her idea and created an image that we both love! It’s not just the variety of stunning images—it’s the unreserved joy in her eyes. I’ve had the opportunity to capture her infectious laughs and gentle smiles through the years. It’s an honour to not just capture a stunning portrait, but to capture a woman who is increasingly comfortable and expressive in her own skin.
Rebecca’s journey—from hating the camera to repeatedly returning to the studio—is a testament to what we do here in Mosta. It’s not about transforming you into someone else; it’s about creating an experience where you can finally see the exceptional woman you already are.
What True Trust Looks Like (A Message to You)
Rebecca is an exceptional lady, and I already look forward to our next shoot. Her story is the story of every woman who thinks, “I’m just not photogenic.” You are. You simply haven’t had the right experience yet.
Photography is a collaborative act of trust. If a Principal Flutist who initially hated the camera can find the confidence and fun in the process, so can you.
Are you ready to see your own strength, passion, and beauty reflected back at you?
Book a complimentary consultation today and let’s discuss how we can begin your own transformative photography journey in the Cranberry Studio. Contact us by our website contact form:https://amandahsu.com/contact/