Real Boudoir client Sarah poignantly expresses, “beauty is impossible to define because it can be found in all things.” Sarah was photographed by Brittany Lynn Jacobs Du’Monceaux of Render Photography in Minneapolis. Today she gives us an in-depth look at her boudoir experience. We are glad to share her story and Brittany’s photographs of such a beauty with you. Read her interview below!
Why did you want to do a boudoir shoot?
Honestly, I’ve always been very self-conscious about my body and the idea of doing a boudoir shoot pretty much terrified me. I wanted to face my fear and prove to myself that I could be comfortable in my own skin. I was still getting over a recent breakup and wanted to do something that would make me feel beautiful. I knew that if I just let go of my preconceived notions and left my insecurities at the door, my photographer would be able to capture my true beauty so that I could see it in the photos. It wasn’t until I got the pictures back that I really saw the magic that took place during the photo shoot. At the time the pictures were being taken, once I got over my nerves with a glass of wine or two and a few laughs with my photographer, I was too busy having fun to know or care what was going on. It was such a liberating experience!
How did you choose your photographer?
It was easy for me to choose because I knew Britt. I’ve known her for many years and she happens to be a dear friend of mine! Even though I was already comfortable with her it’s still nerve-racking to get in front of a camera no matter who the photographer is. Britt is unique though in that she gives off such a down-to-earth, nonjudgmental attitude. She is so good at what she does – giving clear and precise directions – but also just creating that comfortable, fun atmosphere that you need in order to relax and be yourself in front of the camera.
How did you feel as you were preparing for the shoot?
It’s funny that you ask this question because I booked the shoot about a month in advance and figured that I would have all this time to prepare by watching what I ate and working out hardcore beforehand so I could look my best. It turns out that fate stepped in and I developed a pretty significant ankle/foot injury that prevented me from even walking without crutches, let alone working out! It was humbling because I realized that I had to just accept myself for what I was and how I looked in that moment. It was the kick in the butt that I needed from the universe to just let go and be myself.
Any advice for ladies thinking about doing a boudoir shoot?
My advice is to DO IT! You seriously will not regret it. The hardest part is just getting the courage to schedule the photo shoot. Once you get in front of the camera, (especially if Britt is working the magic on the other side) you will have so much fun and be amazed with the end result. Your perspective on beauty and on yourself will be forever changed in a positive way.
Your favorite moment of the whole experience?
Hmmm….. so hard to pick just one! I had a blast the whole time, but I think right after the very last picture was taken and Britt said “that’s a wrap!” – I only say that because the sense of accomplishment I felt was so awesome in that moment. I just wanted to yell out to the world “I DID IT!” I had the courage to do a boudoir shoot and it feels so good!!
Any thing you want to share about what you wore, where you shopped, links etc?
I got some super cute things from Frederick’s of Hollywood but I also just used a men’s dress shirt and boyshort panties. Word of advice – high heels!! DEFINITELY wear high heels because you’ll feel sexy in them and your legs will look amazing!
Just for fun: Define what SEXINESS &/OR BEAUTY means to you.
Sexiness isn’t about letting it all hang out – and I’m not just talking about your body. The mystery behind what makes a woman tick and what lies underneath is what makes us sexy. Beauty is impossible to define because it can be found in all things, but in this context, I can say only one thing – EYES. I believe that the eyes are the windows to the soul, and that is where your REAL beauty comes from.
Just for fun favorites: share your favorite lyrics from a song, or a favorite quote.
I love this quote from Rumi: “The wound is the place where the Light enters you.”
Did this experience change the way you see yourself, or the way you think of beauty? Anything else you want to share about your experience?
It completely changed the way I see myself, but also the way I see other women- we are all struggling with the same insecurities. Once I was given that opportunity to let go, even if for only the span of a few hours for a photo shoot, I felt inspired to create that environment for all of my sisters out there in the world. We each have the power to provide that feeling of complete acceptance for the people who cross our path. By doing that we allow true beauty to flow outwards where it deserves to be recognized and appreciated.
If you’re looking for a boudoir photographer in the Minneapolis area, please visit Render Photography on Boudoir International. You can also view Brittany’s photography website.
Thank you so much to both Sarah and Brittany for taking the time to share your photos and experience with us!
