Ask yourself why NOT!!! BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY

First off I want to take this moment to explain to you that I too am a woman!  I currently have one 4 year old and am expecting my second child this May.  I am the first to understand those self conscious thoughts we all have.  Some of my clients have actually had boudoir sessions with other photographers and absolutely say their session with myself is totally different and they felt extremely comfortable.  Might have had something to do with the fact that I too am a woman and I understand what we have issues with.  Also I'm usually the one who's getting into the poses I am asking these woman to do.  So that usually makes them more comfortable.  Many of you have every excuse not to do a boudoir session.  "Once I get my body back" or "I'm not sexy or confident"

I regularly have conversations with women who absolutely LOVE the photos I do however don't think they could possibly do a boudoir session and be happy with the photos.  I have experienced everything under the sun while shooting boudoir sessions.  I have photographed women who have previously had boudoir photos taken and they are thrilled after our session at how comfortable I am able to make them and how absolutely incredible they feel.  I have also experienced women nearly in tears they are so uncomfortable and by the end they want to book another session because they can't beleive what they have seen just on the back of the camera (let alone before editing)

Here is my reasons I think BOUDOIR PHOTOS are absolute must.

There are many myth's surrounded by boudoir photography.  If you have considered doing boudoir photos before but have yet to book a session this post will answer some of your questions.

First, boudoir photography isn't about women who think they have perfect bodies.  It's about focusing on your assets.  Beginning to be comfortable in your own skin.  My client's don't think they are flawless, but they're confident in spite of that.  Most women who book sessions are just regular women.  They are BEAUTIFUL, not perfect model bodies.  Whether they are doing a session for a partner or are doing photos to feel confident, these sessions are definately some of my favorite.

Secondly,  women think they need to be overtly sexy and these sessions are only for women who can act sexy in front of a lens.  My clients choose me because I am able to make them comfortable and the images I take are tasteful and authentically them.  Acting sexy isn't what I aim for,  I shoot for confidence.  Its my job to pose and shape the body to accentuate your figure.  The best is when a woman laughs during a session and I am able to capture a flirty fun side.  I help you realize which aspects of you are going to best be photographed. 

I begin each session with attention to details.  We become comfortable with one another and I discuss any part of you which isn't your favorite asset.  I ensure straps are in place and tags are cut out.  These little details make photo's wonderful.  Editing is another huge part of boudoir photography ensuring that when you see that image you are absolutely astonished.  I understand my clients are usually nervous on shoot day and I do take that seriously.  Usually those nerves don't last long and once I flip my camera over so you can see an image, the smiles shine and women become even more confident.  The final product is what I strive for.  In the end it's all about the women and bringing their inner beauty out.

Thirdly,  many think Boudoir photography is all about sex.  This is however not the case at all.  It's more about self confidence and empowerment.  Honestly many brides I photograph enjoy putting together these images for their groom to surprise him with the day of their wedding.  It adds to the excitement.  I also do mini session's for stagette nights which is always an absolutely blast.  Women get together and do hair and makeup followed by mini sessions and a night out on the town.  

Lastly, boudoir photography is only for women with a signifigant other.  This is absolutely not the case.  Many women think if you are single there is no point.  More than anything I think boudoir photography is a gift to yourself.  It's about celebrating who you are in the exact moment of your life and owning it.  It's about loving yourself and seeing yourself in a new way.  I personally know the benefits of this and it is one of the most empowering things I have done.  

If you have any questions or are interested in booking a session please CONTACT me.

Headshots.....putting a face to a name is HUGE in business.

Some of you may not know that this is a service I offer many of my clients.  Whether you are an actor, realtor, or a business professional there is many uses for having professional headshots done.

These can be used on your website, Linkedin profile, or marketing material.  They can make a statement and even if you think you aren't photogenic I can help to pose and select photos that appeal to your audience.

Also depending on what you are using them for they don't always have to be your typical headshot either.  They can be comfortable and relaxed.  Whether you are a makeup artist that wants some images of you working or a photo for your blog that allows people to see what a fantastic mom you are.....the ideas are endless.  Allowing people to put a face to a name is HUGE in business.

Whether you are building a website for your business or have questions CONTACT me today.

   

Gift Certificates on SALE!!!

I, like many of you, have begun my Christmas shopping already.  Now sometimes people are more challenging to buy for.  Especially those who seem to have everything they could possibly want.

I've had many of my regular clients contact me for gift certificates recently which I think is such a fabulous gift.

Do you know someone expecting a newborn in the new year?  Why not get them a newborn session.  With the expense of new baby items this is such a fabulous gift.

Is your mom very difficult to buy for yet simple homemade things would make her happy?  I'm pretty sure she would really like an updated family photo.

Men, an amazing gift to get your special lady would be a BOUDOIR session.....yes this is slightly selfish.  However building her confidence and allowing her a session to feel empowered and beautiful......is the perfect Christmas gift!

FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER!!!
I will be giving a special gift for each gift certificate purchased.  Gift certificates can be for any denomination.  They can also be emailed as gifts as well.  Even just purchasing the session fee is a great start.

If you purchase a full session with 20 edited images $325.00 I will upgrade the gift certificate to ALL edited images.  ($50 value)

Also, for every $100 gift certificate you will also receive and 8x10 print

CONTACT me to purchase your gift certificate while they are on sale!

Blended families....isn't such a bad thing.

I consider myself one of the luckiest individuals around.  I get to do a job that doesn't feel like work to me.  I have an amazing support system.  My friends and family are seriously incredible.

I seem to regularly meet such inspiring individuals who make my life better.  It never ceases to amaze me how when you project a positive attitude good things happen.

I have been blessed with such wonderful family.  I know we all think that.  I never thought I would come from a blended family.  I always thought I would have a family who was in my terms normal.  However, realizing now.....blended families are amazing!  You now have so many more people in your life to love and support you.

I regularly get to witness such different family dynamics.  I appreciate all of my clients bringing me into their life to capture their memories.  When doing family photography I get to meet such amazing people and hear such fun stories about family dynamics.  Sometimes I'm not always sure how to react and always need to be careful with my words.  For example when photographing a family sometimes I may not always be sure on who exactly are the parents.  It's quite easy to slip up and say to a child "go sit by mommy" when sometimes that isn't their mommy as they know it.

 Also when photographing weddings sometimes the dynamics are even more difficult.  Sometimes divorced parents add to the challenge.  These instances require a little more thinking.  I usually reassure the bride that this is their day and I will help in any way possible in ensuring everyone is comfortable.

I have struggled over the years trying to make sense of my blended family however finally now have come to realize how incredible it really is.  Honestly.....I used to think it was a negative however now it's entirely a positive.  I have an even bigger support system now.

My dad recently got remarried and I have gained a stepmom and some new siblings which is AWESOME!

My mom got married and now I have a Step dad and Step brother.....how lucky am I!

Many of you are unsure as to how to make a family session work.  I have also had situations where families split up right before their sessions.  Life happens.  It doesn't mean we have to stop capturing it.  We just roll with it.  I even photograph families that have split up sometimes.....I start with dad and the kids and then mom and the kids.  Ideas are endless.  Don't stop capturing life, embrace it.  

Christmas Mini Sessions - BOOK NOW!

Are you struggling to think of that perfect gift for the grandparents who have everything. Trust me....they would love a new family photo of you guys.

The ideas are endless.....comfy pj session, tobogganing, or a studio session.  Regardless which you choose it's the perfect time to capture your family.  

Why not send out custom Christmas cards?  Everyone love's receiving these in the mail at the holiday season.

Book now so you have time to get your Christmas cards printed.  CONTACT me to secure your session.

How I balance being a successful photographer and a mother.

Recently I got an email from a super inspiring photographer who I cannot seem to get enough of.  He also mentors and helps other photographers be as successful as they can possibly be.  His work is incredible and the way he balances a family is absolutely inspirational.

In this email he made such great points that totally made me want to share with you so you understand a little bit more about what it takes for me to be a photographer while still being the best mom I can be.

First off.....scheduling.  Super important!  Whether I am booking a time to shoot or just time to edit from home it all requires organization and planning.  When working for myself I have noticed balancing time is a bit more of a challenge.  Usually I plan my time as best I can however there are times I notice balancing work time and family time can be a challenge.  The reason I chose to become a photographer however was so I was able to be the most involved mom I could be.  I didn't want to drop off my son at 7 am at dayhome and then rush to pick him up after work and be exhausted and struggling through dinner, bath, and bed.  I feel blessed to have a wonderful support system with friends and family that I can be the most involved mom possible.  Usually my days consist of spending quality time with my son and editing once he is in bed.

Also mentioned was DRESS up and CLEAN up.  This thankfully is something I take pride in.  I remember there was a point in my life where things didn't feel right.  It was a struggle for me to get ready in the mornings and an unhappy life made this all even harder.  I made huge life changes and now, as many of you know if you have come to my home it's usually organized and clean.  Yes, it is a priviledge to be able to work from home and I guess for some of it I really could be in my PJ's.  However, taking pride in yourself and your looks makes you much more productive.  Something so simple as our day to day routine is definately helpful.   Also a lot of mom's ask me how I do it.  First things first.....I do expect a lot from my son.  Yes he just turned 4 years old, but if I didn't expect a lot from him our home would be total chaos.  I see a lot of parents struggling but honestly the more you expect from your children the more help you have.

Finally, stay healthy and energized.  This is absolutely important.  Getting good sleep allows you to be alert and productive.  In our home we usually begin our days with a protein smoothie and a work out.  (Let's slightly rephrase that....I get on the elliptical and my son pulls out his yoga mat....or sometimes his toys)  We then spend some time getting ready for the day together.  We make games out of it and it's usually our time to crank some music and dance.  Now if I have booked sessions he goes to either a friends or dayhome.  This allows him to be busy while I work.  I do have a studio in my home but having him here isn't always fun for him or I.  He's extremely interested in what I do and a great helper.  Even today he asked if the next wedding I photograph he can be my assistant and hold an umbrella for me.  Hehe.

Balance is difficult in all aspects of life but these are some of the things I do in order to be a successful photographer and mother.

Thank you to Ashley Sykes Photography for capturing these images of my son and I. Much appreciated!