A (Midsummer's) Boudoir Day SNEAK PEEK - 7/12/16

This past Sunday's A Midsummer's Boudoir Day was a huge success! Thanks to everyone who helped make it happen, and inspired confidence in some very amazing women. There's a lot of editing ahead of me, so while I catch up on things here is the first "sneak peek" from the event. Keep checking back, there are more photos coming your way.


Would you like to have a boudoir shoot? Our next event is August 28. Find out more information here.

MayDay Boudoir Day Session #3 - 5/1/16

Let's back track a bit and revisit Boudoir Day, since I never shared the third session. Why, you ask? Because this lovely lady was getting married, and we had to wait until her now-husband saw them first!

Now that this sexy rockstar of a Newlywed has returned from her adventures on her honeymoon in Las Vegas, check out how astoundingly gorgeous she is! She was so fun to work with, very laid back, edgy yet classy, and the right amount of sassy! Congratulations, beautiful lady on your new life with your amazing man and family. May these photographs always be a fond memory of this monumental time in your life, and a reminder of how sexy and beautiful you were this day and always will be.

 On a personal note, this woman was a very close friend of mine in college. She was then and always will be inspiring, powerful, empowering, beautiful, and amazing. You rocked this session, my friend.

MayDay Boudoir Session #4 - 5/1/16

This woman is one of the most confident and body-positive people I've ever met. She could teach me a thing or two (she really could, she's a personal trainer).

The energy of this awesome lady is astounding. She's incredibly spirited, knows what she wants, and knows how to have fun and keep laughing: I can only imagine her clients feel amazingly lucky to have this portrait of feminine strength as an instructor. She did these photos to help promote her services, but she owned this session and made it about her. She's powerful, strong (fit as hell--WOW), so sweet, and a leader.

Kudos to this woman for rocking at picture-taking and life in general. We need more people like her in this world.

MayDay Boudoir Day Session #1 - 5/1/16

I knew this client was going to be a blast right when she walked in the door carrying a kettle bell (you can't see those!) as well as veil netting sticking from her backpack.

This woman is an easygoing, relaxed soul with a badass edge: oozing with self-confidence. She was nothing short of a delight with an infectious laugh and possessed a smile that likely wins the heart of all her massage clients and the love of her life (who she is going to marry in June!).

This girl knew the definition of work it. Which she did, and it shows in the photos. She also stated that while she is getting married, these photos are for HER.

Signifigant Others React to their Partner's Boudoir Photos - 4/29/16

Yesterday we talked about why you should get boudoir photos done for yourself, and above everything else, you should consider that as your main reason.

However, boudoir photos are a common gift to a partner for an upcoming wedding, anniversary, birthday, or whatever occasion you both may celebrate. Like any woman, you might have considered this as an idea of an experience with whom you'd like to share your "results" aka prints, so to speak. You may know that your partner loves you very much and will still accept you and think you're beautiful no matter what. Despite what you know, it is still normal and perfectly alright to feel self conscious.

I recently asked a couple husbands of former Boudoir clients about what they thought of boudoir, especially when their awesome ladies brought these photos home to them. I have kept them anonymous, different answers from different guys are recognized by different colors.



1) Did you know what Boudoir Photos were prior to your lady bringing them home? If so, what were your thoughts on it back then?


No, I had no idea.  I was pleasantly surprised when I saw them. 

 I didn't know what Boudoir Photos were, but she explained what it was when she told me that she was getting them. I didn't really have any thoughts on it since I really had no idea it existed.

2) Did you ever expect that your lady would ever do this?

No, I was very surprised my wife would ever do this. 

 

No.

 

3) Did you receive these photographs as a gift for a particular occasion? If so, what was it?

Yes, my 30th birthday.

No particular occasion. 

 4) Before you even saw the photos, what were your initial thoughts once you figured out what your present was?

I did not know what the present was until after I saw the photos.  Once I saw them I was surprised she did this and amazed at how well they turned out. 

I was pretty excited to see how it went for her. I had no idea what to expect really.

 5) How did your significant other give these to you (ie: prints, flash drive, album)?

I received a fold out album, a wall print, an 8x10, and a flash drive. 

 

Prints and a little accordion book. 

6) What were your thoughts as you were looking through the photos?

I was very suprised she did this for me, and also impressed how well the pictures turned out. 

 

I was in awe at how beautiful my wife was. I mean I knew she was beautiful, but her pictures really showed it off.

7) Would you say your lady gained any self confidence or self esteem from the photos?


I would say she did, especially after my reaction to the photos.

I would say so.


 8) Do you still look at the photos?

Yes, I look at them often.

Yes.

 9) Do you think Boudoir Photos make a great gift? 

This was the best gift I ever received.  I would definitely recommend anyone considering doing thus for the significant other to do so.

 

Absolutely.

 

10) What are your thoughts on boudoir photography overall now that you've received this gift?

I was always a fan, so it hasn't really changed, but I was very happy to receive this gift.

 

I would say it's pretty awesome.

Now, I don't know a single person who is truly awesome, genuine, and kind who wouldn't love to receive photos of their partner looking amazingly gorgeous and sexy. In fact, the proud self-confidence that has a tendency to emit from the photographs is almost more meaningful to the partner receiving the photographs. In my opinion, self-confidence is one of the sexiest traits ever.

 

xx emily bee

Boudoir Unicorn: Boudoir Shoot Flight Plan - 4/25/16

Hello Lovely Unicorns!

So....you've booked a boudoir shoot. You've never done this before. What can you expect? What do you do besides show up and get your pictures taken? Well, I've designed a little guide here to help!
I've written this specific to my Boudoir shoots and the clients that have already booked, but I think that this post will be a great for any prospective clients who are interested in getting a boudoir shoot done with me or another artist. You can never be too prepared!

FAQ....

Here are a few repeat questions I've gotten from clients everytime I've done Boudoir shoots. I'm always happy to answer them, but naturally I'll list a few here for convenience, and as always...if YOU have any questions, just ask! :-)

Do you provide a wardrobe, or do you provide one for us?
Our unicorns dress themselves!
Other photographers may provide wardrobes if they've accumulated a collection, but personally I do not provide anything. Women come in all different shapes and sizes, and keeping your shoot personalized with your style right from your own wardrobe! Some ladies choose to go lingerie shopping for their shoot to treat themselves to something new and pretty, but if you have a budget to keep in mind, I am sure that you have more than enough clothing to work with. We will get into specifics later!

Do you provide digital files?
Usually not, but occasionally I do. As a photographer, I choose to not offer digital files with sessions. I always outline this in all my contracts and emails, but they are always available for purchase. If I include them, it is for a special reason such as a booking incentive, and that will be outlined.

How long does it take to edit a boudoir session?
If I'm editing a Boudoir Day, it can take a few weeks to a month. I always outline this on the individual session contracts. If you have a special request, let me know!

 How many files do you deliver?
Boudoir Day shoots are usually culled to an edit of 15-30 images. Quality over quantity!

How long will this take?
Boudoir sessions typically take 30 minutes to an hour. You'd be surprised with how many shots we get in such a short amount of time! Normal on-location portrait shoots typically take longer because you have to move around from location-to-location!

I bet you didn't know...

You don't need to worry about self-confidence for this shoot! IT IS OKAY TO BE NERVOUS!
You could be second-guessing yourself, shaking, or crying...WE'VE GOT YOU, GIRL! We're here to make you feel gorgeous and look amazing. Just be yourself, and let us do all the hard work! It's natural to feel a certain reluctance in bearing skin. Most of us don't walk around like this everyday, and it's okay to feel vulnerable. I've never had an experience where a client didn't eventually loosen up, relax, and have fun!

If you're doing this as a gift to a signifigant other, don't forget yourself!
This is SO IMPORTANT. This is why we try to pamper the living daylight out of you at these sessions! Besides, your loved one adores you and wants you to see yourself through the same lens. They see amazing things in you, and if you have the same mindset...it'll show even more in the photographs.

In the end, it doesn't matter how much skin you bear.
Boudoir is not just sexy photography. Boudoir is about the experience. If you are just interested in dancing around in a sundress, that's more thank okay! You do you, girlfriend.

Getting Ready & Prepared!

 Like everything, it's best to plan ahead and not leave things until the last minute, and for a boudoir shoot getting ready is REALLY easy! Procrastinate if you will, I know a lot of us are awesome at that, but in the long run this will go better for you if you take the time to get ready mentally and otherwise.

• Don't worry about your body! No crash diet or last minute hitting the gym will help! It does not matter to us, or ultimately you if you kill yourself over how you look physically. While this may be a weight-loss or fitness reward to yourself, it is important to love the skin you're in. We're here to make you look amazing no matter what. Above all, being okay with yourself is best for YOU!
• Don't worry about a lingerie shopping spree if it's not in your budget or you don't want to! We can work with what you've got! Seriously! I'll list some ideas below, but bring as many things as you wish! We may not use them all, but we are happy to help you with styling! If you have any ideas prior to the shoot, we're happy to discuss them with you.
• Drink lots of water before your shoot! Stay hydrated! Water is also great for your complexion, and occasionally clients will hold some difficult poses for lengthy periods of time (we'll never do anything outside of your comfort zone) and having enough H20 in you will prevent dizzy spells and so on
• Avoid foods that cause bloating! Avoid any excessively fatty, sugary, cheesy, or carbohydrate heavy foods before your shoot if you are concerned about your tummy in the photographs. Stick to fruits and veggies, granola bars, yogurt, cereal, and other healthy foods. We will even have some refreshments on hand that will cater to this. PLEASE DO EAT, before your shoot!
• Bring your foundation or cover up! This will help the makeup artist match her makeup to what you use and best match your complexion. If you have any allergies, please let us know

Wardrobe Ideas:

Below is a list of a few wardrobe ideas and props that are commonly used in the past and also some suggestions. No idea is a bad one, and there are many more possibilities on this list!

• A boyfriend's flannel, button down, jersey, blazer, or hoodie.
• Your favorite bra/panty set
• A slip or nightie
• High heels
• An oversized tshirt or sweater
• Garter belts and tights
• Lace, or textured fabric
• Pajamas
• Bridal jewelry
• Fashion jewelry
• Blanket
• Bridal Accessories/Veil
• Boots
• Hats
• Dress or gown
• Corset or other lingerie set (there are so many kinds!)
• Button down shirt, pencil skirt, "pinup" clothes--props: old rotary telephones, sassy glasses, headscarves, vintage suitcases, perfume bottles, etc!
• Long pearls
• Your favorite things: Books, makeup, your yoga mat, ball (if you play any ball), art, musical instrument, photos, whatever! Sky's the limit here!
• His tie!
• Wine glasses
• Handheld mirrors

Errands to run beforehand!

These aren't required by any means, but if you've got the budget you may want to consider:

1. A haircut, color, or trim! Freshen up those glorious locks! 
2. Brow waxing/threading or waxing in general ... if you do this. 
3. Paint/trim your nails or get a manicure/pedicure--just one of the details to take into account! Fingers and toes occasionally show up! Especially if you're showing off wedding jewelry!
4. Lingerie Shopping--Hit up Victoria's secret or another store that specializes in "pretty little sexy things"- You can find suggestions for online stores here. I am also a big fan of Fredrick's of Hollywood and Aerie!

The Day Of

 You're probably going to be the most nervous this morning or a couple of days before! Take a deep breath, and relax. Take this time for yourself and take care of yourself. Go to the spa, read a book, go for a nice walk, take a bubble bath! EAT SOME PIZZA! We'll do whatever it takes to give you an enyoyable, relaxing, empowering photoshoot (we usually have goodies for you) but you should take care of yourself to! You deserve it!

After The Shoot 

After the shoot is over, you'll anxiously be waiting for your images! We try to be as efficient as possible with editing, but we want to do a polished, good job too. We'll set up an appointment with you to view the images and talk about products and which ones to order! Coffee's on us! <3

Lastly, don't forget how beautiful you are whether you have seen your images or not. Even when those photos aren't hanging on your wall or in a little discrete book on the nightstand as a reminder, you are amazing, beautiful, and perfect just the way you are. We can only hope that the empowerment you received on this day will last a lifetime.

xx emily