Welcome to the Couture Boudoir® blog, where we celebrate the beauty, strength, and resilience of women through the art of boudoir photography. Today, I am beyond excited to share with you a heartfelt testimonial from one of the incredible women that I photographed. Join us as we delve into her personal journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and unapologetic self-love, all captured through the lens of boudoir photography. Get ready to be inspired, uplifted, and reminded of the incredible power that lies within each and every one of us. So grab a cup of your favorite beverage, cozy up, and let’s dive in!
Thank You again for the most wonderful, courage filled photo session. I have wanted to be part of one for so long now and I truly believe the opportunity would appear and well, there you were! I had the opportunity to look at the photos again and I am once again left speechless. You are seriously one talented lady.
How has your perception of your body changed throughout your life journey, and what role has boudoir photography played in this transformation?
Going through infertility issues, 2 pregnancies, divorce, cancer, and many areas of grief my body transformed through it all. Weight settled in places it didn’t before. The definition of a certain body part lost its firmness. My confidence was truly reflected in my body and how I perceived it. However in 2017 after my divorce, I began to witness more courage in my overall person. Having known of boudoir photography for years I decided to try my hand at myself. I had a blast trying to take photos of my body. The eyes I was seeing through this time were one of strength, bravery, some timidness, and above all Joy.
Can you describe any specific challenges or insecurities you faced regarding your body in this season of your life, and how participating in a boudoir photoshoot helped you overcome them?
You know that feeling when you get out of the shower and the cold rush of air hits your body…yeah that was how it felt initially when I began to embrace my body. It was a rush of excitement and acknowledgment. Knowing I carried 2 humans in this vessel, the scar on my arm reflected the unimaginable of cancer. I didn’t want to shy away from it. Participating in the shoot confirmed that I wanted to hide nothing. It is “me” and my journey.
In what ways do you believe boudoir photography can empower women as they age to embrace their bodies and celebrate their journey?
That is such a good question. I believe when we share with women that once we shift the perspective of how we “view” a body and release the conditioned ideals of what a woman should look like, compassion begins to unfold. Having a woman view their body with the mindset of the journey of their life. All of the experiences are held within each magnificent fold. Their spirit is reflected in the position of their neck and arms. Boudoir photography begins to tell a story of that woman’s life, through images.
Were there any concerns or hesitations you had before participating in a boudoir photoshoot, and how did you address or overcome them?
As with anything brand new that requires me to be vulnerable definitely gave me an initial feeling of hesitation. For a brief moment all of the triggers of self-doubt, body dysmorphia, worthiness…all of it floods in. Then I took a moment to breathe, recentered my thoughts, and the reminder that none of these anxieties are present anymore. Having worked on self-awareness for a very long time, the trigger is a reminder of a life lived and how much I have grown, and have come out on the other side.
What advice would you give to other women who may be considering boudoir photography as a means of embracing and celebrating their bodies?
Take the leap! Embrace the beauty that lives within you. Take pride and strength in the journey of your life thus far. It is the golden thread that binds you to your authentic self. This acknowledgment shines through the images. To know that you are fully taken care of by your photographer. They are there to support and bring out the radiant being you are. Trust in yourself then sit back and have fun!
Besides boudoir photos what are some things you think women can do to empower themselves and live their best life?
I have personally dedicated my life to empowering, educating, and advocating for women and their mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical wellness. My overall message is to give yourself permission to shift perspective, observe life objectively, and be more discerning in what you allow. To participate in your life. Life is going to go on whether or not you step in so go “do” life. Overall, have patience with yourself and seek purpose in the here and now. Life, your life is in the present moment. Here is where your peace lives. Ultimately, you are the bravest person you will ever meet. Leave room to collaborate with others for we all need each other. Keep shining your light and always, always Brave On!
