Sep 24

Marissa Talks Monday | Five Lessons I’ve Learned as a Boudoir Photographer

By boudoirdivasadmin | BI Writing Team Posts | No Comments

Five Lessons I’ve Learned Being a Boudoir Photographer

Meet Marissa! She is the owner of the The Boudoir Divas, and the amazing mind behind the Boudoir International site! Every Monday, Marissa is going to share with you a few tips for both photographers and clients of boudoir! Get ready for some amazing knowledge!

Marissa Talks Monday:

I have been in this industry for 15 years, and for better or worse, I absolutely love what I do! There are so many life lessons I’ve learned along the way, but today I just wanted to share five huge lessons I’ve learned as a boudoir photographer!

To be an extrovert. I was born an introvert. I wanted to be able to able to engage with other people easy. Despite my introversion, I am a natural leader. These things can be conflicting. Confusing even! When I was a highschool freshman moving into sophomore year, ALL of my friends made it to varsity cheer. I was the only person left on JV. I was shy, I lacked connection to my coaches and most importantly I lacked a standing back tuck ??‍♀️. But here’s what did happen – to my own confusion, I was made captain. Me? But I’m so shy!!! That’s what i thought.I was put in a position to lead people, teach them, encourage them, critique them. I learned that community and connection was wired in me through ENCOURAGEMENT. Fast forward decades later, it’s not surprising to me that my job is still to encourage and coach women. Whether coaching my clients in a boudoir pose, or coaching other photographers, I am incredibly grateful to them (and photography in general) for allowing me an opportunity to remain extroverted and engaged in this beautiful community.

Marissa Boucher of the Marissa Talks Monday & New Boudoir Divas in San Diego, California, talks about five lesson she's learned being a boudoir photographer!

2. Energy is everything. My energy can affect all the energy around me. Years ago I got a fortune in my cookie that I’ve carried in my wallet since. “Enthusiasm is infectious, stimulating, and healing to others.” It’s been one of the biggest blessings in my life to walk into a photo shoot and know that my energy can boost a brand new friend in a huge way.

3. Everyone has a story. Something they want to share. More behind the curtain. Whether they want to share it with us or not, it doesn’t matter. They do. You do. We do. Whether it’s a beautiful celebration, or painful event, or a thousand tiny twists and turns that lead them (or you) to you a boudoir shoot…. their story is important. And now I am a part of it.

4. It’s okay to be vulnerable. In fact — it’s good to be vulnerable. The more vulnerable I am with a client, the more they open up and feel comfortable. The more that I become a part of their story.

5. I love my body and being because of boudoir. Confidence is the wrong word. It’s peace. Acceptance. After doing this for 15 years, I have come across every type of woman. Two types have affected me the most: The first being the outrageous fit, perfect (in society’s standards) lean, tall supermodel-isa goddess that is incredibly hard on herself. Who like only the photos where she feels like she is flawless. From her, I have learned that perfection is mirage. It’s something we chase and as hard as we work never arrive at. And sometimes in the chase we lose appreciation for this body that has housed us. The other type of women is opposite of her. She is the full figured, (society calls her “plus size”) and I’ve seen her walk into our studio with total peace and appreciation for her body. I’ve seen her rock a tiny thong and feel so very sexy. And she is probably the sexiest I’ve seen in our studio, you can tell her inner dialogue is affirming and kind.

From these experiences I have learned that loving your body isn’t arriving at a fitness goal, it’s about acceptance and gratitude and giving myself re-affirming thoughts rather than destructive ones.

What important lessons has boudoir taught you? Photographer OR Boudoir Client — there’s something that all of us have learned!

#MarissaTalksMonday

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Sep 22

5

Real Boudoir | Bridal Boudoir| Raleigh Boudoir

By boudoirdivasadmin | boudoir-international, boudoir-international-blog, Bridal Boudoir, Featured Members, Inspiration | No Comments

Raleigh Bridal Boudoir

Caitlyn of Caitlyn Nicole in Raleigh, North Carolina shares an incredible bridal boudoir shoot!

Maggie found me on instagram and reached out about doing some bridal boudoir before her wedding in June. Because Maggie is a badass woman who works with all men at her job on the water pipeline, she wanted to do something that would reveal her feminine side and do a little gift for her then fiance.

We booked an Air BNB in Raleigh at the CUTEST remodeled 1920’s house, The Gray House. Sarahruth (@sr.artistry) worked absolute magic while Maggie sipped on some wine. She asked for sex hair and sultry. She brought a dress that her fiance had bought online (before he met her) because his “dream girl” was this model who wore it once.

The said dress not only fit her, IT WAS DAMN RIGHT SEXY. She knew he would love it if she took photos in it and I couldn’t agree more. She also shared how he loves her in a robe so we had the so much fun playing around with her and a fluffy robe. And when the straps and corset came out? HOLY COW.

Maggie was an absolute model, super confident and up for anything. She sent me a message on her honeymoon of how her hubby DIED when she gave him a mini photobook of her session.

Maggie absolutely loved the result:

“My boudoir experience with Caity was not just a simple experience, but an incredible one! MUA Sarahruth turned my blank canvas into my exact boudoir vision— sex-hair and sultry! Caity handed me a glass of white wine (my preferred choice) put on some tunes and made me feel like one million bucks! Who wouldn’t want some me-time just like this? Its empowering, RELAXING, and awakening at the same time. Come one, come all. You will leave a model– no matter your shape, height or size. Thanks for such an incredible time, Caity!”

Are you a bride? Bridal boudoir is not only a perfect way to treasure your engagement and relish in your moment of being a bride, but it’s a great gift for your spouse-to-be!

Find a photographer in your city today!

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Caitlyn, thank you so much sharing this gorgeous boudoir session!!

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Sep 08

7

Real Boudoir | The Magnolia House Studio | Virginia Beach, VA

By boudoirdivasadmin | Uncategorized | No Comments

“I fell in love with myself, and I can’t wait to do it again”

Shawn Sawyer of The Magnolia House Studio in Virginia Beach, Virginia Boudoir and Photography. Real Boudoir The Magnolia House Studio Virginia Beach Boudoir

Shawn of The Magnolia House Studio in Virginia Beach, Virginia shares a a magical outdoor boudoir session!

Shawn put this session together with a friend. It’s a real session but, Shawn styled it. Her wildflowers (that her husband planted for her in her yard outside the studio) were in full bloom. Shawn used the model/client, Fran as inspiration. She’s very natural and bohemian. She has a calming affect over you. I knew I wanted to portray that in her session.

It was photographed outside of Shawn’s studio in Virginia Beach, VA. Shawn had borrowed a VW van from a friend, pulled out the awesome homemade tutu from another friend and then they used items that Fran already owned, with a few items from a client closet. Fran’s fringed vest is handmade by her from an old pair of pants!

Shawn wanted to share this sessions as it was a dream come true & thrown together in moments with just a little planning on Shawn’s part.

Fran’s testimonial:
“This was my first “personal” photography session, and I couldn’t have imagined a more comfortable experience or a more stunning outcome. Shawn captured the sides of me that I knew were there but had never seen. I fell in love with myself, and I can’t wait to do it again.”

Shawn’s experience is summed up in one short sentence:
“I couldn’t be more proud of the end result.”

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Vendors:
Photographer: The Magnolia House Studio

Makeup and Hair : Makeup by Vega

Session Styling: Shawn Sawyer Photography

Shawn, thank you for sharing this magical boudoir session!

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Sep 03

5

Marissa Talks Monday | Finding The Perfect Lingerie Pieces

By boudoirdivasadmin | BI Writing Team Posts, Marissa Talks Monday | No Comments

Finding The Perfect Lingerie Pieces

Meet Marissa! She is the owner of the The Boudoir Divas, and the amazing mind behind the Boudoir International site! Every Monday, Marissa is going to share with you a few tips for both photographers and clients of boudoir! Get ready for some amazing knowledge!

Marissa Talks Monday:

As you prepare for your boudoir shoot, the idea of picking out lingerie pieces might overwhelm you! First and foremost, remember to have fun with this process. A boudoir shoot is meant to showcase you, and you want to be sure you’re picking out pieces that you love! Definitely get inspiration from your photographer’s past clients, Pinterest is a really great resource too — we even have a board of lingerie inspiration AND the pieces that we have in The Boudoir Divas’ dressing room so our clients can be prepared!

Here are five tips to help you find the perfect lingerie pieces for your boudoir shoot!

1. If you are only doing a few looks, I suggest three different looks. First, a classic look. Think – black lace. Second, a casual look, something along the lines of booty shorts and bralette with a sweater). And third, something that gives you a color pop! A more edgy, wild piece…we like bright fuchsia, yellow, or teal one piece bodysuits!

2. One piece bodysuits are so flattering and versatile, I absolutely love when our clients use them. There are some that emphasize the booty, the boobs, there are even some with gorgeous, intricate cutouts…but you have to get the right style for your body type! There are so many different types out there, so definitely explore your options and play up your favorite assets!

3. Robes are amazing! Don’t stress too much about your “trouble areas” – you know, that one body part that you don’t particular love? We all have them! You can definitely choose lingerie that will hide or minimize your trouble areas, but don’t overthink it! You can always layer a sheer robe like Aporei’s Black Lace Kimono over your lingerie and your photographer will use it as a posing tool to highlight your favorite areas or minimize your trouble areas!

4. Underwear….it’s all about the bootie! Every woman is shaped different, and every woman likes a different type of panty. If you are undecided about which lingerie panty to choose, always prioritize the bootie. Choose a fit that flatters your butt. It might be easy to want to go with a choice that is, say…more stylish or hip. Not every booty looks good in a super strappy or highwaisted panty! Just because you might see a particular type of panty all over Pinterest, doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for you! Go with what flatters your body type!

5. No matter what piece you decide to go with – it’s important to have fun and feel good with what your wearing! Does it make you feel sexy? Does it make you love your curves? Then go with it, and don’t forget the most important part of a boudoir shoot – have fun. This is about celebrating you! Regardless of your reason for getting a boudoir shoot – whether it’s a gift for your husband, or you celebrating turning 40 – you should make sure that you celebrate and love your body for what it’s given you!

#MarissaTalksMonday

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Sep 01

5

The Mind-Block | Crystal Beckwith | New York Boudoir

By boudoirdivasadmin | Featured Members, Inspiration, Real Boudoir | No Comments

The Mind-block That Keeps You from Doing Boudoir

Crystal of CRBoudoir in Vernon, New York walks us through the Mind-block that keeps you from doing Boudoir

I can’t do this

I don’t look like those girls

I don’t have enough confidence to do that

I could never do that

I wish I was brave enough

These are all things that women have said to me when they’ve seen my boudoir images. There is an underlying little monster hiding in each of those answers. That monster is fear. The biggest mind-block that I have seen in nearly every objection is the fear to step outside of you comfort zone.

It’s called a comfort zone for a reason, it feels good there; it’s warm, natural and safe. The problem is everything stays the same within that safe bubble, growth cannot happen within a comfort zone. If you want more, if you want better, if you want different, you HAVE to push yourself outside of your zone.

I tell women that you do not have to have confidence to book a boudoir session, it’s not a requirement. The one thing you need to have to book a boudoir session is a moment of bravery. Bravery is required to look your fear in the face and say I deserve MORE than this. Bravery is required to step outside of comfortable. Bravery is pushing fear out of the way and taking a leap into an incredible freefall of growth. It only takes one small moment of bravery.

I know that the thought of being vulnerable in front of someone you’ve just met scares the life out of you. I want to think about how you will feel walking out of your session feeling like a bombshell, feeling like you just looked fear in the face and saying I WON, feeling like you have found the person you thought you lost!

What would telling fear off do for you? What would happen if you finally believed your husband when he tells you that you’re gorgeous, because you have seen it with your own two eyes? How would being full of pride and confidence in yourself effect your parenting? What would it be like to walk in a dressing room and not be filled with DREAD over what you’re about to put on?

I’m here to tell you that every.single.woman that walks in my studio is worried about a part of themselves. When they walk out of my studio the last thing on their mind is their stretch marks or cellulite, or the number on their clothes. They are walking out of my studio thinking about how they still HAVE it! What would it mean to you to have all of that?

I can help you, love. You just need to be brave enough to let me!

Ready for your moment of bravery? Find a photographer in your city today!

Crystal, this is so powerful. So many women struggle with fear, self-doubt, insecurity – but they are not alone! Boudoir is life-changing, if you’re willing to take the moment of bravery! Thank you for sharing!

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Aug 16

4

Real Boudoir | Laura D. Weatherly | San Diego, CA

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The best motivation for a boudoir shoot? Self Love.

Laura of Laura D Weatherly Photography in San Diego, California shares a beach boudoir that is all about Self Love!

Amber reached out to Laura for a beach boudoir shoot, because she had been feeling a lot of self love.

Amber said, “Maybe it is because I am now in a healthy relationship, or maybe it’s the fact that I just turned 30. I am not sure. I am not the smallest size I have ever been, but I feel proud of my body and my strength. I even feel proud of my little tummy and the little something extra around my thighs. I wanted to document my happiness with myself.”

Laura’s take on the shoot:

“As you can see, Amber is gorgeous and what I loved about her session was watching her open into embracing own her beautiful self as the session went on. With all of my boudoir clients, it is my favorite thing to see clients take ownership of their beauty — that’s when I can capture their confidence in the pictures. This shoot was even more special because I have known Amber for a number of years. Yet, this was the first time I felt that I could see the real her. It was as if she was exactly who she was meant to be, and all of the other things that life has thrown at her, was stripped away. It was then that I was able to see the real, raw, and beautiful Amber.

When it comes to boudoir and self-love, I think that they go hand-in-hand. Once you are willing to take the steps to be so vulnerable with another person, this sense of empowerment comes over you. It is a feeling that sometimes may get lost in our day-to-day lives as a mom, a wife, or girlfriend, or whatever label we carry. There is a point during your boudoir shoot where you will get an “omg moment” where it finally sinks in, and you realize that you just did something for you. Yes, the pictures might be for another person but that day….those hours…where just for you.

And as a photographer, it’s an amazing thing to see and witness through the lens…
when a woman, no matter what size, feels that power, that confidence, and then lights it up in front of the camera.

There is a point during your boudoir shoot where you will get an “omg moment” where it finally sinks in, and you realize that you just did something for you. Yes, the pictures might be for another person but that day….those hours…where just for you.

Laura, thank you for sharing this and reminding us that self-love is enough of an occasion for a boudoir shoot!

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Aug 03

3

Kaemere Photography & Design | How to Prepare for Your Boudoir Shoot

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How to Prepare for Your Boudoir Shoot!

Cristina Nicole of Kaemere Photography & Design in Sedona, Arizona gives us the best way to prepare for your boudoir photoshoot!

Boudoir shoots are probably one of the most fun experiences you’ll ever have! You’re going to walk away feeling so beautiful and confident! But there can also be nerves leading up to the photoshoot – and if you’re wondering how to prepare, Cristina Nicole has all the details for you!

Three to Five Days Before Your Shoot…

● If you wax, do so 3-5 days before your shoot to avoid any bumpiness or redness on your skin.
This includes shaping or trimming your eyebrows.

● If you’re planning to visit the salon for a haircut or color, then give yourself a few days lead time to
make sure you are happy with it.

● Schedule a salon manicure and pedicure for a flawless finish in your photographs.

● Double your water intake to flush out any toxins and to create luminous skin.

● Lower your salt intake and avoid alcohol if you’re worried about retaining water. Add extra fruits
and veggies to your diet for the next couple days.

● Now is the time to get a Facial or do a DIY Deep Face Mask.

● Try to stay out of the sun – while a base tan will be nice in photos, red, blotchy skin will not be!

● Try on your outfits and lingerie to make sure they fit properly; remove all tags and labels. Steam
or iron your ensembles and hang them properly so they keep their shape as you travel to the
shoot location.

● PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE – DO NOT SPRAY TAN, OR USE TANNING LOTIONS/SPRAYS. The ONLY exception to this rule is if your tan lines do not match your lingerie or if you are looking for implied nude/nude portraits. Then do everything you can to achieve one even skin tone.

The Day Before Your Shoot…

● Bathe, shave and moisturize.

● Double-check everything is properly packed and ready for the shoot: heels, jewelry, accessories,
any props you might want.

● Allow yourself plenty of time to get to the photoshoot location without stressing. Check weather
and traffic reports to ensure you have allotted enough time for unexpected delays.

● Enjoy a relaxed, quiet evening.

● Plan for a good night’s sleep – eight hours is ideal.

The Day of Your Shoot…

● Use clear deodorant!

● Wear loose-fitting clothing to your session to avoid red marks on your skin. Most women forgo bra
and panties up until they are ready to be photographed.

● Eat something light but filling before you leave the house. Smoothies are a great idea.

● Most importantly: Take a deep breath and RELAX. It’s completely normal to be a wee bit nervous
before your shoot, but trust your photographer and enjoy yourself.

That’s it, ladies!

A few ways to prepare your body and skin,
while also giving yourself the confidence to get in front of that camera, and rock it!
The most important part of the boudoir shoot

is YOU having fun!

Cristina, thank you so much for taking the time to share this! Prepping for a boudoir shoot is so important and good knowlegde to have!

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Jul 13

3

Editorial Boudoir | The Babe Festival | Why we Boudoir!

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Why We Boudoir!

Amy Panucci of The Babe Festival in Hartford, CT (but also serving Rhode Island!) reminds us of Why We Boudoir!

As a boudoir photographer, I hear so many women say:

“I would love to do that, but I could NEVER!”.

And it kinda crushes my soul a lil bit, because I have to ask…

WHY?

Where are we getting this information from that what you are is not beautiful enough or deserving enough to be photographed? I believe without realizing it we have given the power to social media to tell us how we should look and how we should feel about ourselves. Before it was instagram, it was magazines, and so on. There has always been people in our lives that we think define what beauty is. And as a culture, we continue to pass down to our daughters and the next beautiful generation of women that they are not to be photographed unless they fit this very selective description of what beauty is in that moment.

Stop and think about how powerful that is- that by believing this notion of not being good enough to step in front of a camera and have our photographs taken we are literally giving the power or our own self esteem to other people!! Strangers that we will never meet and who will never know us!

There is a buzz phrase going around right now which I really love:

Present over Perfect.

I love this for it’s telling us just to show up in life, be there, be all there and care less about attaining perfection before you show up for your own life and the people who love you. Cuz guess what, life goes by so freaking fast! This translates to our photos as well. How present are we in our own photographs? What will we leave as our legacy? To be totally honest, as a photographer I’m kind of sick of seeing “perfect” everywhere I look. I get frustrated seeing accounts that post only the same looking “perfect” bride. It is contributing to notion that this is how we should look to be confident enough to post photos of ourselves. And what of the brides that don’t fit this mold, does their love not deserve to be shared by the photographer they hired? Does their joy not deserve to be shouted from the rooftops?! *Spoiler alert* a lot of times what we see flooding our social media are Styled Shoots- not actual brides, not actual couples, definitely not in love!

You know what I find beautiful? Love. TRUE LOVE. Confidence.

And any woman who steps in front of my camera. What if every woman who ever thought to themselves “I couldn’t do a boudoir shoot because I have 20 pounds to lose!” thought instead “I can’t wait to accept the compliments that will come from posting a gorgeous image of myself, for people to see me rocking my REAL style and not my everyday work/yoga/mom attire! What if they had something to look back on in 30 years and think, “I feel silly for every worrying about my weight, look how beautiful I was!” or for their daughter to find and show her friends and say “I told you my mom was a model!”. This thought always makes me think of Cher in Clueless when she calls her mom “such a Betty” but see, her mom had a huge portrait done of herself… same thing!

This hit me on a personal level recently. I got the opportunity to finally photograph my beautiful sister. She was nervous going into it, but I reassured her over and over again that it was going to be amazing. So A) she went shopping for sexy outfits- which she had never done. This began the “oh this is kinda fun!” mentality. B) had her hair and makeup done, which also is rare, but totally put her in the “I’m doing something to pamper myself and it feels amazing” mode. C) TOTALLY ROCKED HER SESSION! I mean girl looked GOOOOOOD!!! I HAD to show her the back of the camera and her reaction???

“Oh my god, that’s ME?!?!”

YAASSSS- that reaction was worth everything. And then I posted the photos and they received 476 likes and 40 (totally positive) comments! Imagine how going from feeling like you’re not good enough, to FIVE HUNDRED AND SIXTEEN interactions reaffirming just how gorgeous you are!!

So this is why we boudoir.

It’s fun, it’s confidence inducing, and people who love you are dyinggg to see you shine!!

Check out the original blog post on Amy’s website here.

Amy, we love this blog post so much. As boudoir photographers ourselves, we so often hear “once I get in shape” or “I just need to lose a few more pounds!” and it’s so important to us that our clients know that boudoir is about embracing themselves AS THEY ARE, and celebrating every curve and dimple on their body! There will never be a perfect time to do a boudoir shoot – just go for it, and remember, you will walk away feeling fabulous and your friends and family will LOVE the pictures!!!

Check them out here!

May 31

2

Editorial Boudoir | Modern Glamour | Under the Influence: Using Pinterest

By boudoirdivasadmin | Editorial Shoots, Featured Members, Inspiration, Real Boudoir | No Comments

Under the Influence:
Using Pinterest

Allana Taranto of Modern Glamour in Boston, MA
is sharing with us how you can use Pinterest to maximize your boudoir shoot!

With less time in my life, I find myself going down the Pinterest rabbit hole with less frequency than I used to. However, when I can, I like to scroll through my own boards, remembering what I pinned, and discovering new pins others have added to my arsenal of inspirational images.

Here’s an example of an image that I found and pinned to my Boudoir Inspiration: Glamazon board. A bridal boudoir client came in last weekend and brought in a pair of gorgeous high waisted black lace knickers. This image immediately came to mind.

I didn’t want to create a duplicate, or clone, of course. But it was the seed of an idea.

The original pin is a page from an old issue of Marie Claire.
Not sure how to hunt down the photographer for proper attribution as I can’t make out the year of the issue.

This was my take on the idea. Instead of layers of jewelry and pattern, we sent simple with just black lace and the one important piece of jewelry – the engagement ring. I’ve been finding it a fun challenge to incorporate the engagement ring in bridal boudoir in creative ways.

There are so many different ways to look and feel beautiful; to be outrageously sexy.

Pinterest is an elegant (and addictive) tool for visual organizing. When planning a boudoir session, you can use it to find and assemble images, wardrobe and quotes and women that inspire you. There are so many different ways to look and feel beautiful; to be outrageously sexy. Pinterest can help you edit all those ideas down to the right ones for you. When a client shares an inspiration board with me before the boudoir session, I can immediately understand what kind of boudoir shoot she is planning and hoping for. Then, using that board as a launch point, we can create her dream shoot together.

I’ve started a few boards – a few (of the many) archetypes of female beauty. You can use any of these Boudoir Style Inspiration boards as a beginning, or if you are inspired you create, name and build your own boudoir inspiration board.

Here are a few tips as your use Pinterest to plan your boudoir shoot:

1. DISCOVER THE STYLE OF BOUDOIR YOU LOVE

Pinterest, and the internet as a whole, is a great place to start doing research. There are many types of boudoir. Pinup, glamour, fitness, etc. What feels right for you? Then find a photographer whose work reflects that style. You might not initially have the right vocabulary for what you are looking for, but you will know it when you see it.

2. ORGANIZE WARDROBE FOR YOUR BOUDOIR SHOOT

Wardrobe for boudoir shoots goes way beyond bras and underwear. There’s shapewear, sleepwear, corsets, boy shorts, slips, robes, bodysuits, hosiery – the list can go on. Search for styles and options that reveal the parts you love about your body. My board Operation: Lingerie (the colon here is critical, it’s not lingerie for operations!) is the main Modern Glamour Pinterest board for beautiful things that you can wear for a boudoir photography shoot.

3. SHARE YOUR BOARD WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Pinterest, as a tool, is great for mapping out your inspirations. Often, when looking at a client’s board, I can see what style of shoot she wants. From there, I can choose what backgrounds, and props we need to make that dream shoot happen. As visual artists, photographers can read and translate in words and into the shoot itself what a client is looking for.

Most of my clients get an album with their boudoir session. An album, which by it’s nature is narrative, is the perfect place for a story to unfold. In a story there’s a beginning, middle and and end. That means we want to create a variety in wardrobe, lighting and backgrounds. Is there a story behind the images that can emerge when they are in a sequence?

Remember:

We won’t create an exact replica of another photographer’s image. And we don’t want to. Your shoot is about you. We will use your Pinterest board as a seed of inspiration to make our own amazing images.

The whole boudoir experience is a process of accepting and loving yourself.

You can read the original blog post on Allana’s website here.

Allana, thank you so much for sharing your insight into utilizing Pinterest, and also allowing use to see some of your work! We absolutely love using Pinterest as well, not only to showcase our current lingerie wardrobes to our client, but to also encourage them to gain inspiration for their shoots – you can check our our boards right here! It is so important to remember Pinterest is just a tool, not a standard! You are your own unique beauty, rock it!

Want to see other boudoir posts? Check them out here!

May 31

2

Editorial Boudoir | Caitlyn Nicole Photography | Say Yes to Boudoir

By boudoirdivasadmin | Featured Members, Inspiration | No Comments

Alright ladies. It’s time to throw out everything you think a Boudoir is or isn’t. It’s time to…
say YES to Boudoir !

Caitlyn Nicole shares why you should rethink Boudoir:

There is so much to write on this topic, but I’d like to take a moment to do a few things. First, I’d like to provide some background and insight into my vision for what a boudoir shoot should be and my ultimate goal for these sessions. And then I want to answer any questions you may about what to expect for session and tips on how to prepare for one! All of us struggle with body image at some point in our lives or deal with it on different occasions or stages in our life. It can be subtle, only rearing its ugly head in moments of doubt. For others, its a daily struggle and dictates their every decision.

“

...recently, Caitlyn helped me check off one of my bucket list items, but something I was nervous to do. We had a boudoir photoshoot. The entire process from initial contact to the end product was an unforgettable and beautiful experience ... Boudoir for me is an elegant photoshoot that captures the human body in an artistic way and the personality of the model. It is pivotal to be able trust your photographer to capture the essence of who you are in this intimate setting. I’ve never had so much fun during a photoshoot and the time flew by! Every photo captured was what I was looking for. If you’ve ever given even the slightest thought of a boudoir shoot, it is empowering and fun that captures the strength and beauty of your body and you.
Sabrina

Caitlyn goes on to say…

Personally, I find I struggle with loving my body in subtle ways. Whenever I go shopping in particular for dresses, I have a desire to look for something feminine and flattering and a tad sultry. While trying on multiple dresses and styles, I usually end up fighting back tears of frustration as nothing achieves my expectation. I look frumpy or uncomfortable. My chest is too small or my stomach not flat enough. Honestly, I have maybe 3 dresses I like in my closet.
And some days, I feel bloated and squishy and I scroll through my phone looking at women who seem to effortlessly have toned arms, abs, and an amazing butt.

One day, I set up my camera, put on my favorite strappy lingerie and did a few self-timed boudoir pictures. First off, its hella hard without a tripod and remote. Secondly, I want you to know… I get it. I saw all the squishiness in my stomach from having a baby last year. I struggle with the shape of my breasts. But I did discover through that shoot, how beautiful my body is. I felt confident in myself and how my personality shone through the poses I chose. I say all this because at that moment, I realized I knew what women needed and what they were trusting me to do in a boudoir shoot.

It's time to set aside all those reasons of why you could never do a boudoir shoot.

As a lifestyle boudoir photographers, we are not just giving you a service, we are creating an experience for you. When you hire someone to shoot your boudoir session, you’re investing in us to capture your beauty with stunning images of real emotion and genuine moments in an intimate and vulnerable setting. You’re trusting us to guide you into the perfect poses for you, your body, and personality. Boudoir is an art. And I believe the experience should be fun; a mini celebration of you. Many photographers, including myself, offer a MUA session beforehand and complimentary wine, beer or cider during your session.

When you are setting up your boudoir session, your photographer should ask them what the vision for the shoot is. And while I do have women express they want to do a little something for their hubby or significant other, I truly encourage you to do this for you. Love yourself, take these photos and decorate your bathroom, bedroom, heck – even your house – with these tasteful, artistic photos of yourself.

Laugh,
sip some wine,
wear your favorite flannel,
do some yoga,
play in the sheets!

The entire shoot should be designed around you and your personality.

Often, get questions about how to prepare for a session so I’ve gathered a few tips I’d like to share. I really do hope you throw out any expectations and come to your session willing to be yourself. Pinterest is wonderful, they have great poses but what works for one woman may not be what fits you best.
Because you and her are not the same.

If waxing is your thing, try to schedule one a couple days to a week before depending on how angry your skin gets after a wax. If you’re not a huge fan of waxing, take some time to plan a long bath or hot shower the night before to shave, exfoliate, and moisturize so your skin feels hydrated and pampered. Pluck those stray eyebrow hairs, remove any chipped nail polish. Apply your eye makeup a little heavier than normal if you don’t want a MUA. A heavier makeup application shows up cleaner and bolder in the photos.

As far as outfits, bring what’s in your closet! Maybe take this opportunity to go out with some girls and do a little shopping. Personally, I am in love with all things strappy. Add on a garter with stockings, yes please! I know women who love body suits, corsets, and all things lace. My recommendation is – if you feel confident in it, bring it. Avoid things that fit awkwardly or like they are forced on. Bring along some jewelry if you’d like some accents along your neckline or fingers. You can do a baseball cap, your Chonies briefs, and a croptop. Grab some lipstick along and do some “getting ready” shots. Maybe grab his sweater or tshirt and snuggle up in his smell.

Relax and enjoy your beverage with a smile.
Strip down and play with the sheets.
Do some nude yoga.
Whatever your style, have fun.

This is why I am so in love with my recent boudoir shoots, because my clients have different takes on the same ideal:
loving yourself.
In fact, when I read Danielle’s email response (below), I literally had a “hell yeah, girlfriend” cheer going on.

“

...I have a lot of muscle mass but I still have some fluff on top of all that. I used to feel that I was sexy in spite of my rolls (even though they are small), now I think that they are a part of my sexiness. They make me more unique and make the hour glass even stronger. I would like to be able to show case my confidence in them and be able to show that those little bumps and extra curves are sexy because they are a part of me.
Danielle

You can read the original blog post on Caitlyn’s website here. Caitlyn, thank you so much for sharing your insight and vision! We love seeing how the idea of a boudoir shoot is being changed, and how women are walking away empowered and with a renewed mindset of their beauty.

Want to see other boudoir posts? Check them out here!

boudoirdivasadmin

Five Lessons I’ve Learned Being a Boudoir Photographer

Meet Marissa! She is the owner of the The Boudoir Divas, and the amazing mind behind the Boudoir International site! Every Monday, Marissa is going to share with you a few tips for both photographers and clients of boudoir! Get ready for some amazing knowledge!

Raleigh Bridal Boudoir

Caitlyn of Caitlyn Nicole in Raleigh, North Carolina shares an incredible bridal boudoir shoot!

Are you a bride? Bridal boudoir is not only a perfect way to treasure your engagement and relish in your moment of being a bride, but it’s a great gift for your spouse-to-be!

“I fell in love with myself, and I can’t wait to do it again”

Shawn of The Magnolia House Studio in Virginia Beach, Virginia shares a a magical outdoor boudoir session!

Vendors: Photographer: The Magnolia House Studio

Makeup and Hair : Makeup by Vega

Session Styling: Shawn Sawyer Photography

Finding The Perfect Lingerie Pieces

Meet Marissa! She is the owner of the The Boudoir Divas, and the amazing mind behind the Boudoir International site! Every Monday, Marissa is going to share with you a few tips for both photographers and clients of boudoir! Get ready for some amazing knowledge!

Here are five tips to help you find the perfect lingerie pieces for your boudoir shoot!

The Mind-block That Keeps You from Doing Boudoir

Crystal of CRBoudoir in Vernon, New York walks us through the Mind-block that keeps you from doing Boudoir

I can help you, love. You just need to be brave enough to let me!

Ready for your moment of bravery? Find a photographer in your city today!

The best motivation for a boudoir shoot? Self Love.

Laura of Laura D Weatherly Photography in San Diego, California shares a beach boudoir that is all about Self Love!

There is a point during your boudoir shoot where you will get an “omg moment” where it finally sinks in, and you realize that you just did something for you. Yes, the pictures might be for another person but that day….those hours…where just for you.

How to Prepare for Your Boudoir Shoot!

Cristina Nicole of Kaemere Photography & Design in Sedona, Arizona gives us the best way to prepare for your boudoir photoshoot!

That’s it, ladies!

A few ways to prepare your body and skin, while also giving yourself the confidence to get in front of that camera, and rock it! The most important part of the boudoir shoot

is YOU having fun!

Why We Boudoir!

Amy Panucci of The Babe Festival in Hartford, CT (but also serving Rhode Island!) reminds us of Why We Boudoir!

You know what I find beautiful? Love. TRUE LOVE. Confidence.

“Oh my god, that’s ME?!?!”

So this is why we boudoir.

It’s fun, it’s confidence inducing, and people who love you are dyinggg to see you shine!!

Under the Influence: Using Pinterest

Allana Taranto of Modern Glamour in Boston, MA is sharing with us how you can use Pinterest to maximize your boudoir shoot!

There are so many different ways to look and feel beautiful; to be outrageously sexy.

1. DISCOVER THE STYLE OF BOUDOIR YOU LOVE

2. ORGANIZE WARDROBE FOR YOUR BOUDOIR SHOOT

3. SHARE YOUR BOARD WITH YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Alright ladies. It’s time to throw out everything you think a Boudoir is or isn’t. It’s time to… say YES to Boudoir !

It's time to set aside all those reasons of why you could never do a boudoir shoot.

Categories

COMING SOON

Vendors:
Photographer: The Magnolia House Studio

A few ways to prepare your body and skin,
while also giving yourself the confidence to get in front of that camera, and rock it!
The most important part of the boudoir shoot

Under the Influence:
Using Pinterest

Allana Taranto of Modern Glamour in Boston, MA
is sharing with us how you can use Pinterest to maximize your boudoir shoot!

Alright ladies. It’s time to throw out everything you think a Boudoir is or isn’t. It’s time to…
say YES to Boudoir !