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.
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.
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!
