Why I shoot Boudoir

I’m often asked, why I shoot boudoir? Those of you who know me, know that well, I am a sentimental person (thanks to my father).

Until recently, I couldn’t really articulate why. I was even asked by Lemonade and Lenses Magazine to write an article for their August Issue on this subject. I brainstormed for hours, weeks and really had trouble putting the emotion I feel about my job into words. Why couldn’t the words come to me…why do I shoot boudoir??

After over-thinking it for weeks, it came to me and was simple. I love to make people feel good.I often receive emails and text messages from clients about how much they love their pictures. With modern technology, it’s not very often one receives a good old’ fashion letter in the mail. Well on July 25th, 2012 I did…..and it stopped me dead in my tracks….

“Jessica,

Where do I begin? Awesome doesn’t even begin to explain you…amazing, fun, talented, beautiful, gifted, generous, thoughtful, selfless, driven, loveable, comforting, admirable, and the list could continue on and on!!!

I just got the photos tonight and you well surpassed my expectations! I can finally see what other people tell me when they say, “I’m beautiful”! I struggle with major self confidence issues and every man I’ve had in my life has told me I’m nuts. For some reason, I always focus on the negative parts of my body, my skin, anything that I should be working on to make it perfect. As I look at these pictures I realize it’s time to start appreciating and loving me and start focusing on all the great qualities I have inside and out. Thank you for that!

I would recommend this to anyone and especially those who are most afraid because they have the most to gain from your talent! Whenever people look at me, I’m worried they will find all the bad things I see. Cameras are the scariest because then it’s captured forever, but with you it was so different! I’ve never felt judged (rather loved) and it was like an out-of-body experience. I couldn’t believe it was me letting you take my picture, especially with nothing to hide behind.

One thing that stood out to me was how much you’re sacrificing for this dream. It’s taken over you home and all your spare time, which must be so hard but will be worth it in the end. I thought I’d help by forcing a date with your husband. I hope you guys like PF Chang’s {she included a gift card to PF Chang’s for dinner}. Take a night off an enjoy each other! You deserve it!

Thank you again for everything!!!”