Linda Beks from ME Photography partnered with Jeannine Kastelyn, the owner of Fresh Salon in Nelson Bay, for the 30 Days of Gorgeous project which transformed the appearance of 30 women for a portrait photo shoot that would "change the way they looked at themselves".

"Every woman I photographed was really open and shared her personal story in order to motivate and empower others," Ms Beks said.

"Some started the glamour experience really shy or hesitant towards the outcome... but everyone just absolutely shined during the whole process of getting the glamour makeover by Fresh Salon and then the photo shoot by me.

"Beauty is really from within - how people look at themselves. By creating stunning portraits for them with different coloured gel lighting techniques in the studio I was able to show them how beautiful they are, even with some of the women that often struggle with their self esteem."

Each woman answered a series of questions put to them by Ms Beks, which was shared on a blog on her website. Behind the scenes images and video from the project is also available on the blog.

Money raised through the project, through each participant's fee, and Ms Beks and Fresh Salon donating their time and services, has now been donated to the Nelson Bay-based Yacaaba Centre, a counselling and service hub.

"I am very proud that ME Photography and Fresh Salon raised $2500 and not only that but we also raised awareness for the Yacaaba Centre," Ms Beks said.

"We hope that other businesses will follow in our footsteps to set up projects in some sort of way to help them or other good causes. It is so important as a business to also do something back for the community and it can be a win win for everyone involved."

EARLIER STORY: Creating confidence from behind the lens