Why I Specialize in Women's Photography

Why I Specialize in Women's Photography

By: Darby Davenport at Allison Studios

Today, my studio is my playground, my creative outlet and simply a very special place where I share my life with the women I am lucky enough to photograph. It's thoughtfully set up for boudoir and portrait photography, keeping each of my guests in mind.

For much of my life, I struggled with self-love and acceptance. It wasn’t until later in life that I truly began to understand the beauty of embracing myself exactly as I am. That realization became the spark that led me into the world of photography—not just as a profession, but as a calling.

Learning to See Myself, So I Could See Others

Like many women, I spent years looking in the mirror and focusing on what I thought was “wrong.” It took time, growth, and many life experiences to shift my perspective. When I finally began to appreciate my own strength and beauty, I realized I wanted to help other women see themselves with that same compassion and admiration. Photography became my way of giving back—to hold up a mirror that reflects not flaws, but power, grace, and individuality.

My Journey with Women’s Stories

My photography has been deeply shaped by the women I’ve had the honor of working with. I’ve photographed many breast cancer survivors who stood in front of my lens with courage, resilience, and vulnerability. These women taught me that scars can tell stories of survival, that beauty isn’t erased by hardship, and that confidence comes from within.

I also had the privilege of shooting for The Center for the Arts in Grass Valley, California. Being surrounded by creativity, performance, and expression expanded my appreciation for the diverse ways women share their voices. That time reinforced my belief that art—whether on stage, on canvas, or through the camera lens—has the power to transform lives.

Admiration for Women and Women’s Causes

I have always admired women: their ability to rise, to nurture, to fight, and to love. Supporting women’s causes, whether through advocacy, community involvement, or simply honoring their journeys through photography, feels like a natural extension of who I am. My work is more than just images—it’s about celebrating strength, individuality, and the beauty that comes from within.

Sharing My Gift

Photography allows me to freeze a moment in time, but what matters most is the way that moment makes a woman feel. My greatest joy is when a client looks at her images and sees herself not just as she “should” be, but as she truly is—powerful, beautiful, and enough.

I became a photographer of women because I believe every woman deserves to feel seen, valued, and celebrated. My own journey toward self-acceptance has given me empathy, and my camera has given me a tool. Together, they allow me to give other women the gift of self-recognition and love—something I know, firsthand, can change everything.

This blog is dedicated to my dear friend, Deb. One day, many years ago, I confided in her that I wanted to be a professional photographer. She simply smiled and waived an invisible magic wand over my head and told me I WAS a professional photographer. And POOF, just like that, I sure was. 

The rest is history. I think we all are more powerful than we know.

Darby Davenport/Owner, Photographer

Darby Allison Studios, LLC

Email: info@darbyallison.com

Phone: (530) 277-4478

Website: www.darbyallison.com