Experience Boudoir: Why Jessica Did a Session
Boudoir Photographer Caley Newberry
I had a friend text me recently, complimenting the photos shared and the mission of boudoir photography in my Facebook group. Then, as the mom of a beautiful almost-one-year-old, she had a list of questions. Since I'm not a mom myself, I thought I'd reach out to someone who is not only a new mom, but also recently decided to do a boudoir session for herself.
I thought her answers were so beautiful and I asked if I could share them here.
"I know that a lot of people who choose to do a boudoir shoot are brides to be, but I'd like to encourage the mamas out there to do it, too. Now is a great time to show your husband how much you care, and how important he is to you. It's so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of being a mom, and this is a great way to show him how much he means to you."
Why did you choose to do a boudoir session?
This past year, my husband and I celebrated our 10-year anniversary. Having just had a baby the year before with a stressful pregnancy and a stressful birth (pre-term labor, two months in the NICU, you get the picture), it had been a very hard 18 months. I really wanted to do something special for him to show him my gratitude for sticking by me through it all. A boudoir session felt like the perfect gift idea, and I knew he would be shocked! What really tipped me over the edge was reading another wife post "My husband said this was the best gift he'd ever received." I wanted that for my husband, too.
Had you heard of boudoir photography or considered it before?
Being in the wedding industry at one point of my career, I had heard of boudoir photography and had seen a few pictures from other photographers. I had always thought it was a neat idea, but wasn't sure I'd ever have the guts to do it myself.
What was the hardest part of your session?
The hardest part was getting up enough courage to actually do it. Once I thought about my husband's reaction, it made it so much easier. The whole session was very relaxed, and I never felt like I should feel self-conscious.
What was your favorite part of your session?
It was so fun! It was really exciting having my makeup and hair fixed, wearing things that made me feel great about myself, and knowing it was all for my husband made it even more thrilling. I just kept thinking about what he would say when he saw the photos. Plus, Caley made the whole time very comfortable and relaxed. She helped cheer me on when I thought something might not look very flattering, and was super supportive the entire time! It's not easy bearing it all in front of just anyone, but Caley made it so easy.
Was there anything that surprised you about your shoot?
Yes, that I loved it so much! I'm thinking about doing it again at some point in the future. I cannot recommend it enough! It is one of my most favorite things I've ever done!
What have you gained from doing a session?
I've gained a greater confidence in myself. While my husband loved all the photos, when I looked at them, I couldn't believe how great I actually looked! It helped boost my self-confidence, and it made me feel beautiful, especially since I'd just had a baby eight months before. While my body is not "perfect" by any means, it did help me see myself in a whole new light. (Caley's note: quotes were added by me because I don't support that kind of talk, but we all get where she's coming from. 😉)
Who would you recommend a shoot to?
I know that a lot of people who choose to do a boudoir shoot are brides to be, but I'd like to encourage the mamas out there to do it, too. Now is a great time to show your husband how much you care, and how important he is to you. It's so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of being a mom, and this is a great way to show him how much he means to you. I truly feel like this came at the perfect time in our marriage. I can see how exciting it would be for new husbands, but I think it is even better for couples who have been married for a while.
Did your photos represent how you see yourself?
They do now! :)
I would also like to add that Caley was amazing through the whole process. She helped guide me along in picking out the right kind of outfits that would photograph well, answered my thousands of questions, cheered me on during the session, and then edited my album several times until we got it just right. She went above and beyond, and for that I was truly grateful.
Thanks so, so much, Jess, for sharing your experience.
I think because I'm so immersed into the world of boudoir photography, I can forget how intimidating it can be and what a brave step it is to choose to do a session.