Stop saying you are an ordinary woman, you are extraordinary.

I do not photograph everyday women, I photograph extraordinary women like you. I have yet to meet a single woman who is just an everyday woman. Every woman has a story that is worth telling and I am sure you have one too. How can you be extraordinary?

You are not ordinary!

I'm not going to say that you're an ordinary woman, because you're extraordinary.  I'm not going to tell you that you're just like other women, because you're not.  I'm not going to say you're like other women my age, because that would be a lie. The truth is, you're unlike anyone I've ever met, and I have not even met you yet. 

I know this because every woman I meet is totally different and unique from the last woman I met. While the knowledge I possess to create and craft an image of you in the best light carries over and grows with each person, not one of my sessions are the same. Not one of my sessions are the same because each of you speak to me differently. While I keep the core elements, the flavor of the recipe changes from person to person. 

Seriously like each snowflake is unique, each woman, each session is totally unique and special. 

I hate seeing people use the term that they are the boudoir photographer for the ordinary woman.  That really rubs me the wrong way. Ordinary refers to blank white copy paper, not a human being. Human beings are complex, vibrant and colorful. Stop thinking of yourself as a carbon copy of just an ordinary woman, because I truly believe there is no such thing as an ordinary woman. 

The boudoir genre is truly an art from within that takes a lot of thought and talent to pull off. It is not for the faint of heart and pulls in a lot of emotion and experience. It goes beyond what you see in the photos into the real life of the subjects. The individuals are strong and beautiful. They are every woman. Every woman has shared their story, and no two stories are the same.  There is nothing ordinary about about that. 

There is nothing ordinary about a single soul I meet. We are faceted in the most brilliant ways. Not one single person leads an everyday life and we all have a story.

What is your story?

The Perfect Role Model to Follow - Ms A

So many women that walk through my door come in with a slice of apprehension. That is totally normal and 100% okay. You are probably meeting me for the first time and I am asking you to be vulnerable. You have chosen to walk through the doors and share a side of you that rarely gets seen. If you are struggling with self image ideals of yourself that makes it even harder. While our perception is that plus size women struggle the most, I am here to tell you that all women struggle. This story is more about it being a state of mind than anything.

The tub is a fun set and addition to your session

So much of our worth has been tied to body image. While women are mostly impacted, I do want to recognize men go through it too. So if you are man reading this, know I hear you and I see you. The majority of individuals I work with are women and I can empathize with my gender. As a woman myself, I understand all of the things in life you are asked to do and maintain. I feel like a superhero on some days and then on others I feel like a complete failure. When it comes to my body that is a constant love and hate. I will admit that lately it is mostly love.

So on with the story of Ms A. When she contacted me she told me that she had done another session a few years ago. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t curious. I wanted to know about her previous experience. She told me she loved it and wanted to do it again. She wanted a different look. There was a dark and moody sultry vixen waiting to be unleashed in my studio.

When Ms A came to the studio I was blown away by her excitement. She was ready to go and she was the most prepared of anyone I have ever had come in. This was not her first rodeo and to top it off she is a total lingerie connoisseur. Plus size lingerie is not as readily available or easy to find. Thankfully in the past 5 years we have had a really amazing influx of great brands emerge. I will cover that later on, back to our story.

Ms A, opened up her suitcase and it felt like a steam trunk of glamour gasped for a breath of fresh air. If I asked “Do you have fishnet thigh highs?” She said YES! “do you have a black garter to match? “ She said YES!

This chic had everything. She was ready to flaunt her assets and 100% trusting in my ability to mold her into the light.

Right at that moment I knew this session was going to be an explosion of fireworks and she was a masterpiece in the making.

The most important thing you can do for your session is relax and learn to love an appreciate your body as it is today. It is through truly loving your skin, truly appreciating your shape and loving this vessel that carries you through this life. We cannot exchange it for a different model so learn love yourself.

Many women will ask how I pose them if they are plus size. I will pose you just as I pose anyone else. If you can do the pose I will put you in it. The most important thing in this case is bringing the right size lingerie for you. Don’t bring in a baby doll that is going to look like a tent, get a form fitting bodysuit, bustier or anything that shapes your body. Ms A wears a piece that forms to her body and I posed her in my favorite floor pose.

All Bodies are beautiful

And no matter what angle or pose I wanted her in she was game. Communication is key and I want to know if I put you in a pose if it is uncomfortable. The other really important thing you being on the day of your session is your voice. Let me know what you are thinking. I am not a mind reader and when you tell me what you are thinking or feeling I can serve you better.

Bring in something fun that you might have thought of! Want to feel like a Queen? Bring in your crown!

Not everything you bring in needs to be lingerie either. It was a last minute decision that Ms A made to throw in this fun tulle skirt. We ended up totally getting this Betsy Johnson moment! If there is something you think might be fun, bring it. You have your chance to shine and express your personality in a safe open environment. If you knew the childhood I had you would know it is pretty difficult to shock me.

Ms A is free in the moment and feels like diva and lets it all out. Her express is of total power and comfort. This is why this image is so successful. She believed in herself then and continues to do so today.

We all have insecurities we want to overcome. Some things may sound trivial to one person but are everything to another person. You are free to share those blocks with me.

My goal at the end of the day is that you feel like a Pretty Woman! While I know that looks are not who we actually are, if you feel happy about your outside it does help your inside.

If you look closely at her shoulder you will see her daily affirmation “Pretty Woman”

The Perfect Gift - Seattle Bridal Boudoir Session

Wow your Love on your Wedding Day with Bridal Boudoir!

Bridal Boudoir in Seattle

Let me make this easy on you, a bridal boudoir session is hands down the best gift you can give your soon to be and it is also the best mood booster for you.

The white studio is the perfect backdrop to show off your beautiful lingerie that you have picked out. If you have not picked anything out I can help you. I also have this great guide that helps you find the perfect piece. If you still cannot find that primo piece let me help you.

I have been a part of the wedding community for many years. While I rarely shoot weddings anymore, I am still deeply connected to many of the individuals that plan, cater and orchestrate amazing heart felt wedding day celebrations. I have continued to participate in many of our community events, as I feel boudoir is still part of the process. I understand every step of the way as I was present in hundreds of weddings for nearly two decades. If you have any questions about your up and coming wedding I am happy to help and point to in the direction of some amazing DJ’s, florists, bakers, planners, and venue coordinators.

3 Best Tips for your Boudoir Session

When you come in for a boudoir session with us, we will help guide you so you feel prepared. I also know we all have super busy lives and sometimes we just cannot accomplish every task we set out to do. If you find that life takes over and you show up with nothing, these three tips are are going to be your savior and hopefully only a day or two of preparation.

You might be surprised to find out, but none of these tips require lingerie to be purchased or really any money to be spent. All of these tips are self care that can be done at home.

1. REST - get a good nights sleep, stay away from alcohol the night before your session. A solid 7-8 hours sleep will provide you with a fresh well rested face.

2. Hydrate - Drink lots. of water in the days leading up to your session. Take a bath, moisturize your skin. Especially if you are prone to dry skin make sure you do these simple things to help you skin look supple and fresh.

3. Manicure - This doesn’t have to be fancy at all. You don’t even have to do polish. Of course I recommend that you treat yourself to the salon, but not required. You can do a simple home manicure. Make sure your nails are clean and even. I incorporate your hands a lot and you don’t want to have jagged ripped nails. If you are curious about nail colors check out my blog article on manicure ideas.

Boudoir Builds Self-Esteem, for real!

 Confidence is Intoxicating

What do you think of when you hear the words boudoir photography? Maybe you think of sexy women in lingerie, strutting their stuff for the camera. Or maybe you think of models with the “perfect” figure, makeup, and hair. Maybe you think I could never do that or I wish that were me.

Boudoir photography is so much more than sensual, intimate photos. It’s about you—learning to love yourself and your body, feeling empowered in your beauty and femininity. No matter what you may think when you look in the mirror, you are strong, sexy, and unique, and your beauty deserves to be celebrated. I talk with so many women of seriously all shapes, sizes, heights and backgrounds. I know how one comment from someone can stick with you for life. I carry a few of those with me for life. No matter how hard I try to push them out and say they don’t mean anything, they linger in the corners of my existence. It’s funny how you can brush off one comment but the other just digs under your skin.

It wasn’t until I went through a few really life changing events that I learned how to live with my insecurities and how to make my confidence build into something brighter than my fears.

Still nervous about getting in front of the camera? Here’s how a boudoir session can help build your self-esteem and confidence.

See yourself in a completely new light.

Boudoir photography allows you to see yourself and your body from a different perspective. Instead of noticing your perceived flaws and disliking your body, boudoir can help you see just how incredible and beautiful you are. Spending a day getting pampered and strutting your stuff is more than just a good time—it can completely change your self-image. When you stop to see how gorgeous you truly are, you begin to appreciate yourself and your body a little bit more. Plus, you’ll have those stunning images to look back at on days when you’re just not feeling yourself to remind you of how sexy you are.

Show yourself a little more love.

I think we could all admit that we’re a little better at loving others than loving ourselves. But every single one of us deserves love, and you definitely deserve to love yourself. A boudoir shoot can help you feel more confident about the way you look and more comfortable in the skin you’re in. That’s a big deal! As women, we see so many negative images from the media and people around us about what we should and shouldn’t look like. Boudoir can help you push away all that talk and learn to better love yourself!

Step outside your comfort zone.

If you’ve considered doing a boudoir session, chances are you’ve thought that you could never look as sexy or confident as the women in those images. But guess what? Those women have things about their bodies they don’t like to, but they took a leap of faith and reminded themselves that they are beautiful. You can do the same! A boudoir session takes you out of your normal, day-to-day life and shows you the sexiness and beauty that you often just don’t see.

Celebrate you—and have fun doing it!

One of the most intimidating things about a boudoir session for many women is getting nearly or completely nude in front of a photographer. Trust me, I get it! But it’s my job to help you feel completely at ease. After all, I’m here to capture your beauty and make you feel like the gorgeous woman you are. Boudoir is a fun opportunity to celebrate who you are and to bring your sexy self out of hiding! You are allowed to start at whichever level you want. You just need to tell me your comfort zone.

Feel a sense of empowerment.

Let’s face it, we all have insecurities. But getting treated like a celebrity for a few hours can certainly help you fully embrace your natural beauty and sexiness. And once you see your images, you’ll be blown away by how incredibly gorgeous you really are. Those photos will always be around to remind you of your beauty and help you rediscover that self-confidence anytime you need it.

No matter your age or where you are in your life, you deserve to love and celebrate your beauty. A professional boudoir shoot can help you do that and allow you to see yourself as the gorgeous and incredible woman you truly are.

The Importance of Using a Makeup Artist During Your Boudoir Session

The Importance of Using a Makeup Artist During Your Boudoir Session, and how to get the exact look YOU want:

Communication is Imperative

 This article was written with the Makeup Artist in mind - communicating to the Photographer, how to make sessions a positive experience, but we find that the client can also help make their end-vision, a masterpiece, but knowing the back-end-behind-the-scenes-goings-on, of how YOUR final images, HAPPEN!

 Communicating your creative vision to the makeup artist before the shoot is vital. You think this one would be a no brainer, but you’d be surprised. Let’s start out with the obvious thing here first: no one is a mind reader. Keeping a chain of communication between the entire creative team working on a shoot is essential. This includes mood boards, pinterest and wardrobe. Please keep in mind hair styles are dependent on what they have to start with. This allows the makeup artist to come prepared with everything they need for the shoot. We have to lug around a lot of stuff, and if we can lighten our load, it helps us tremendously. It also keeps us organized. If we have a solid idea of what each look will be on each model, we’ll be more prepared and will move more quickly through each look.

 Harmony is everything. Sometimes a shoot is just a photographer, a model, and a makeup artist. Sometimes a shoot is a photographer, photographer’s assistant, makeup artist, hair stylist, makeup artist’s assistant, art director, editor, stylist, and an army of models. Shoots can range from anything in between these two and more depending on the shoot, the client, the purpose of the shoot, and the budget. It’s important to have all the moving parts working towards one goal. If everyone is confused, things won’t run smoothly and the shoot will be stressful, forced, and limited in time. Communication is the key to keep everything fun, friendly, and productive.

Be Patient:

Don’t rush the Makeup Artist. Yes, we’re used to working under pressure, but I’ve worked on shoots where I haven’t even taken out my brushes yet and the photographer is asking me if I’m done. This is another case where communication is key. If we know how many looks we need to get done in one day of shooting, we’ll have a better idea of what looks we can realistically complete in the time frame given and whether or not we need to bring an assistant. Also, plan to have the MUA and styling team come very early to set up their stations and get ready. If you’re rushing and putting major pressure on the MUA, you might make things take longer since we’ll be stressed or scrambling.

Healing Fresh Wounds and Breaking Self Doubt

My friend Eldika is one such brave woman. She has fought the world all these years and come out stronger after every struggle. The day of our shoot was a hard day for her, no sugar coating it.

I had the great opportunity of photographing Eldika at Seattle Boudoir & Company. I loved her attitude and the results came out fabulous.

Eldika’s Story

Here’s Eldika’s story. She wanted to share it in her own words. You can read what she wrote below!

“Self-confidence has never come easy to me. Let me rephrase that: ACTUAL self-confidence has never come easy to me. I’ve been good at standing proud, sticking up for myself, and being in command. But, until recently, it had not been very honest.

I grew up on the border in El Paso, Texas. As a child, I was considered too black to laugh at jokes spoken in Spanish and too Hispanic for cornrows. As a teen, I was mocked for playing bass in a punk rock band while also maintaining good grades in school. I participated and excelled in swimming. I was a part of a band, theatre, which wasn’t considered very “punk rock.” Later, I put myself through college. And nursing school full-time with some help from my mother and while still working two jobs. I spent years in my late twenties in an abusive, controlling, manipulative relationship. As a result of this toxic relationship, I still struggle with PTSD, depression, and anxiety.

In 2014, when I left my hometown to start fresh, I was exposed to a different type of adversity. I worked in the NICU units. The color of my skin than my nursing ability was the reason parents refused me to care for their children. Feeling rejected for being too black, or not being black enough, or Mexican enough was one part. Not being punk enough, or enough of a girlfriend was another part of the story. My struggles with my weight were also a barrier others used against me.

In spite of it all, I’ve tried to live a genuine life, which now, at 38, I can finally reflect on. Every hardship, strife, and setback.

I can look at myself in the mirror and, for the first time, speak my truth. These things happened, but they don’t define you. Don’t let them consume you. You came out on top. I can now tell myself and actually believe it. I have worked hard on myself and worked hard to achieve my goals. I grow by the day; I am a beautiful work in progress.

Now I embrace everything about me that others were quick to criticize. I speak my broken Spanish, with pride. I wear my crowns (what I like to call my headwraps), with pride. I blast the dopest jams as loud as my stereo allows, with pride. I advocate for my mental health and the mental health of others with no shame- with pride! I strut my stuff both mentally and literally when I walk into work. Because I am confident in my ability to give outstanding care. I spend my free time shaking all this glorious flab in belly dance classes because it feels good. I refuse to allow anyone to take any of this away from me now. I AM ME AND I AM PROUD! And my confidence, genuine and true, builds daily.

However, posing for a boudoir shoot was not something I ever thought I would have the confidence to do. Yet, somehow, I was drawn to it. To say the experience was cathartic is an understatement.

Molly really knew how to spark my confidence. She drew it out which translated into the most beautiful photos. The first time I saw them, I couldn’t believe these photos were of me. I can’t thank her enough for conveying what I feel within me to something others can see.

Before, it was as though the perceptions of others were what defined me. Now that is no longer the case and this shoot really cemented that inner part of me. I share this because I know most of you struggle with pieces of what I’m saying, too. But, know I am here. I am your ally. My mouth is open to share with you. My ears are open to hear from you. My arms are open to embrace you. You are a boss, babe. OWN IT!”

Be Your Own Woman

Thank you so much, Eldika for giving me a chance to photograph the sassy you. I loved our boudoir session as much as you did. I am sure your story will inspire many. It will help them to be proud of themselves and never give up.

I wish all my readers and clients lots of love and confidence. Those who truly see you will love you. Those who don’t, are not worth investing time in. I want everyone to know I see you for the love you have in you. Love one another, stand by your sister with conviction and pride. Embrace the human next to you. Love is infinite and it does not cost you anything. Moreover, the rewards are amazing!

Featured Vendors

Quincee Camille Artistry - Hair and Makeup Instagram @quinceecamilleartistry

THE ULTIMATE BREAK UP CURE: BODY LOVE PROJECT Ms. O

You’ve just had a BREAKUP and everything seems so bitter. Finally it’s over, but something inside you is writhing in pain. You don’t even remember who you were before your EX. Maybe you had been too long into this relationship but things did not work out between you two, or maybe it’s not been so long. Regardless, you are left feeling dazed and confused about who you are now, after this relationship.

Maybe you walked away because there was nothing left for you in this relationship and you needed more purpose in life. Maybe toxicity festered between the two of you and every night you tried to mend your broken soul. Whatever the reason be, your ex is now gone, you need your identity back — and in a bold way. A boudoir shoot gives you just that!

Heal Yourself With Boudoir Like Ms. O

Several years ago, I myself emerged out of a really long marriage that was riddled with toxic behavior. I slept on my stomach with one hand covering my breasts and the other hand between my thighs. I slept like that for several years before the end. I slept like that because I didn’t trust the person I shared a bed with at night. It took a good 3 months after we split and I had my own place for me to relax that behavior.

Fast forward 3 years. I went on a weekend retreat with one of my dearest friends — Ms. O, who had very recently emerged out of a toxic long relationship. She kept her secrets to herself and denied the reality of what was really going on as well. I told Ms. O, she needed to shed it all and own it. We walked in the woods, me with the camera and her with just a blanket and pair of boots all in the middle of November. No makeup, no fancy lingerie, just a woman with her rose-printed amazing boots, a blanket, her body, and the perseverance to move forward. It was vulnerable and empowering at the same time.

Ms. O did this shoot and felt the cold winter breeze between her legs and it kissed her all over. She walked away feeling the power and love that she always had, but now she was centered and grounded with that. ALLOW YOURSELF THE CHANCE AND YOU CAN FEEL THE LOVE TOO.

Shed Your Inhibitions And Rock It

You’ve sobbed and cried to every BFF you’ve had since the 5th grade and now you want to claim your power back. A Boudoir Shoot empowers you. It gives your ego a much-needed confidence to slay the day. You are much more than your ex. You will walk with your head held high and feel like the million-dollar fighter you are!

Book us here and put your crown back on with Seattle Boudoir & Co. Give yourself the self-care you deserve. That is the ultimate revenge for the relationship that left you in the dust. To see more of our work you can look up our Facebook and Instagram. We are also available on Pinterest.

5 BEST NAIL COLORS FOR BOUDOIR SESSIONS

When you book a boudoir shoot with us at the Seattle Boudoir & Co., we are sure you would want to look your best from head to toe. You have your designer lingerie ready and your sassy attitude on point, but what about your nails?

Though I want this session to be about you and not your nails, manicured nails will only add to the beauty to your boudoir photos. Dark nail polish can look dirty and be distracting in photographs. So, choose the best one to look your best. Here are my top five choices for your nails.

My Top Five Choices For Nails

French Manicure

This is such a classic look. You can’t go wrong with a classic french manicure. It goes with everything! It can be finished with a clear polish to add a hint of shine under the lights. Nude nail polish is also a neutral and subtle choice that is ideal for boudoir shoots.

Any Soft Pink

If your goal is a soft and dreamy photoshoot, shades of light pink will be your go-to choice. Light pink won’t jump out in contrast and remains neutral in all light. My personal favorite soft pink is Bubble Bath by OPI

Golds and Silvers

Gold and Silvers are a great way to bring bling without being overstated. Glittery nails are perfect for a more playful or glamorous photoshoot. I love gold sparkles around the holidays.

Red

Red is a classic bold color that is a great choice for a retro or edgy look. Red tends to pop quite vividly in photos. So, if you are wearing white or pastels, it will act as an eye-catching contrast and will definitely suit your inner wild.

Natural Look

Maybe you are not into manicures at all and you want a natural look, which is totally fine. You can still get a manicure with clear gel. Your nails will be shaped, buffed, edges filed and cuticles removed.

Nails Do Matter

I would suggest you to stay away from black, almost black, and electric or fluorescent colors. While they are fun, they are the least versatile. I want you to have two or three cohesive looks, so pick something that will look good with all your outfits. Consider the colors that you normally wear, the outfits you have chosen, and then think of a color that will be cohesive with all of them.

Let’s say you have a white lacy teddy, a purple velvet bodysuit and a black leather jacket with black bra and black boots. If you pick something dark it might go well with the black and even the purple, but might throw off the soft and elegant vibe of white. Pick any of the options above and it would flow well throughout all sets.

If you are not used to getting your nails done this will be a nice treat. Be sure to get them done about 2-3 days before your session. You want the redness around your cuticles to subside but you don't want any wear on the polish to occur so 2-3 days is a good time. Personally, I rarely get a manicure. Instead, I opt for the shellac or gel and I know it will hold the longest. You too can try this.

Once you are done beautifying your nails, just sit back and relax. Stay calm and reserve that energy for an exciting boudoir session. To be ready with some poses, you can look up our Instagram and Facebook.

DESIGNER LINGERIE— IS IT WORTH IT?

When booking us for a boudoir photography session at Seattle Boudoir & Co., you might want to shop some of your own lingerie. But many of us have never felt the need to buy designer lingerie or undergarments before this, so it is quite likely that you might get confused about the brands and the fits. Moreover, you might be unsure if designer lingerie is worth spending your money on.

As a boudoir photographer, who has bought lots of designer lingerie for her Clients Wardrobe at Seattle Boudoir & Co. and seen them adorning it in hundreds of her sessions, I can say without any hesitation that DESIGNER LINGERIE IS TOTALLY WORTH IT.

GET FITTED AT A BOUTIQUE

If you have never invested in designer lingerie, I would suggest starting small. If you have never had a good quality bra, I suggest going to a boutique and being fitted. From personal experience — being fitted into the right size after being in the wrong size my whole life really changed my perspective and my posture. You will learn a lot about your body and feel much more confident about yourself. All of a sudden you would realize that good lingerie would fit better.

I learned that many designer lingerie is offered according to bra sizes as opposed to XS-XL. Designer lingerie is made differently keeping all body shapes in mind. It can be custom-made and would justify all the money you spend on it.

Have a look at some of my favorite designer lingerie brands!

MY FAVORITE 5 DESIGNER LINGERIE BRANDS

1. BORDELLE

My favorite and most amazing line of designer lingerie is Bordelle. I drool a little and fantasize about it. You can try a few pieces of this line.

This is an expensive option so sometimes I prefer indulging in my other favorites which are a little more economic.

2. ADINA REAY

Adina Reay has a wonderful selection for the busty topped women. One day I saw the most beautiful teddy by her and it was my mission to have it. It was still a bit on the indulgent side. After a great hunt I found one on sale. It was worth the wait.

3. FLEUR DU MAL

Fleur du Mal is my other favorite line. I love the colors they offer in their designer pieces.

4. HONEY BIRDETTE

Another amazing site with high-quality lingerie, accessories, and toys is Honey Birdette. They also offer some daring accessories... Wink Wink.

5. PLAYFUL PROMISES

If you are looking for a variety of high-end lingerie lines with a vintage feel hop over to Playful promises. Playful promises offers luxury lingerie in plus sizes. Gabi Fresh in collaboration with playful promises, is another fantastic designer line for all the curvy gals.

BUY IN ADVANCE

Once you have decided to buy designer lingerie for yourself before your boudoir shoot with us, make sure to plan in advance, leaving you with enough time for shipping. You are not going to get a 2 day delivery on these, so plan for up to six weeks.

If you don’t have that time then hop over to my other blog — Last-Minute Boudoir Solutions. Also, if you are in Seattle and would like to stop by a boutique that offers some of the lines mentioned above I highly recommend stopping by Bellefleur Lingerie Boutique.

Featured Vendors

Bordelle

Adina Reay

Fleur Du Mal

Honey Birdette

Playful Promises

Bellefleur Lingerie Boutique