Bold & Edgy Boudoir Photography | Ms. K

Boudoir photography can take be personalized to reflect any style or personality. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing the stunning Ms. K. Ms. K’s edgy boudoir session was truly one of a kind. I really enjoyed working with her to create this wild studio boudoir photography session!

Bold, Edgy Boudoir Photography

Ms. K wanted to create a boudoir session that reflected her personality. I love how she has such a strong, bad-ass energy and personality while still being so romantic and seductive. She brought her pet snake with her, a gorgeous python. It was amazing to be able to have her snake in her shoot. He added such a bold element to the entire photoshoot. Her short, stylish hairdo really set the stage for an edgy, bold look. She also had some amazing jewelry pieces that really were so unique. I loved showcasing the necklaces. They were truly one of a kind.

Boudoir on the Wild Side

The snake was not always cooperating, but he was always content. Mainly, when we wanted him to do something, he would just tuck himself away in the dark corner of her folded knee. He just wanted to go to sleep! Trust in knowing that this animal is very well cared for. Ms. K is a professional, very capable of owning and caring for this animal. Before I allow any exotic animals into a boudoir photoshoot, I must ensure for the animal’s safety and temperament. I need to know that the animal is well-cared for, and I also need to verify that being in the photo studio with the different lights and sounds won’t stress them out.

During the photo session, the well-being of the animal is just as important as my model! At any point, if the animal is exhausted or overwhelmed, then they can be done. I do have quite a bit of animal handling and care myself. I feel very comfortable with most all animals. If you are interested in incorporating an animal in your shoot, I am open to it. Contact me to tell me about how we can create a customized boudoir session to reflect your style and personality!

Hair & Makeup by Kat St John with Paper Dolls NW

Sensational Plus Boudoir Photography

In the years I’ve spent as a boudoir photographer, I have seen women totally confident in their body at every size. Women of all shapes and all sizes find their inner confidence to love the skin that they are in. But when it comes to plus-sized boudoir photography, sometimes people get nervous. Self-doubt and self-consciousness can creep in. So, let me say it loud for everyone in the back: everyone is beautiful enough for a sensational plus-sized boudoir session!

So many women struggle with their weight and their self-image. I’ve been there, too! Sometimes it’s hard to love yourself. We women hold ourselves to a high standard. We’re critical of things that other people may not even see. When it comes to scheduling a boudoir photography session, I hear so many different concerns and self-conscious comments. One of the amazing things about boudoir photography, especially boudoir for plus-sized women is that it can really help you to feel better about yourself.

Struggles with Self-Image

I have been happy with my size and extremely discouraged by my size at various points in my life. I have found that I am happiest when I fully accept myself, and when I take care of my body. The times I was most terrible to my body was when I didn't take care of it. It seemed like a vicious cycle: trying to improve myself while truly loving myself. I did have an ah-ha moment in my late 30's when I realized I was trapped in a terrible cycle of self-sabotage. Now that I take a concerted effort in loving myself, some parts of self-care come easier.

Not all is perfect. I have my days and even weeks where I self-critique beyond what is acceptable. But here are five things that I have learned about loving myself. These five ways to love the skin you are in will help you to prepare for your sensational plus boudoir session!

1. Love the Body You Have Today

Don't wait to drop 10, 20 or even 50 pounds for your boudoir session. Loving your body right now is the first step in taking care of yourself. Love your body just the way it is. Love all the curves, all the edges, and know that even your imperfections are beautiful.

2. Dress for Success

Boudoir photography is all about the pose, the light and the right outfit. I do not change you, I help you pick the right garments to flatter your body. News flash: it is not a babydoll. The right garment for plus boudoir is usually a bodysuit. It gives a long line and lets you flaunt your sexy curves.

Want more info? Book a call with me, and I will point you in the right direction. From your chin down to your toes, I'll point you in the right direction to elongate and accentuate your curves in the right places. I am happy to consult to make sure you know what to wear for your boudoir shoot.

3. Forgive Your Flaws

Stretch marks? We all have them. And it’s ok if you don't like them. I am on the journey too. I have them and truth be told, I hate them, but they are there. I have spent a ton of money on creams that claim they will help them fade. None of them worked. So, while I hate them, I accept them as part of me. I choose to embrace and highlight the features of myself that I love.

A wonderful habit to begin is to start complimenting yourself more. Every morning, compliment your body on a part of it you love. Say it out loud. You can start loving yourself more one piece at a time.

4. Unleash Your Sensational Self

It is a powerful experience to let go and shine as the goddess you are. It is my job as a boudoir photographer to show you your Sensational Self though the magic and art of light. You might not see her in the mirror, but I promise you that I can catch her in my camera.

5. Let go of fear

I see so many different women. We are all so unique and all need to be celebrated. You don’t need to drop any weight or drop a few hundred dollars on a skincare regimen. The only thing you need to drop is the blanket of fear that you are not worthy of feeling sensational.

You are worthy.

You are sexy.

You are amazing. Just the way you are.

Don’t let that voice inside your head tell you otherwise. In a sensational plus-sized boudoir session, you will get in touch with that sexy, sultry, sensuous inner goddess that is hiding inside. Don’t be afraid to unleash her. The most confident thing you can put on is self-confidence, and wear it with pride.

Are you ready to meet the sensational inner goddess that lives inside you? Let’s set up a call and talk more about your own plus-sized boudoir session!

And thank you to our sensational hair and makeup artists: Kat St John, Kelsey Hayes, Jessica Rockwell, Quincee Camille — you guys rock!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Couples’ Boudoir Photography

Valentine’s Day is synonymous with love and romance. But Valentine’s Day is also about passion, sensuality, and desire. What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than with a couple’s boudoir session? Couple’s Boudoir photography sessions are an amazing way for you to connect with each other and have a truly unique experience. Here are six reasons to schedule your own couple’s boudoir photography session to celebrate Valentine’s Day!

Six Reasons for a Couple’s Boudoir Session

I’ve talked in the past about the beauty in boudoir photography. In fact, I recently talked about what a great idea it is to give the gift of YOU as a Valentine’s Day gift! But a couple’s boudoir session is a steamy, exciting way for you and your partner to connect. Here are six reasons why you should consider scheduling a couple’s boudoir photo session.

Boudoir Sessions Celebrate Your Relationship

Each couple’s boudoir photography session is a custom-tailored, unique photography experience. What better way to celebrate your relationship than with a photography experience that is based on you, your likes, your desires, and your story as a couple?

Couple’s Boudoir Sessions Spark Passion

A couple’s session is sure to ignite your passions and desires for each other. It’s a fun way to spice things up with something new and saucy. This is not your everyday date for sure! The intimacy and sensuality that you get in touch with during your couple’s session is sometimes surprising and unexpected. When was the last time you two slowed down and really looked into each other’s eyes? A couple’s session can be an amazing way to slow down and truly reconnect. Let those sparks fly!

Photo Sessions Let You Become the Masterpiece.

I will pose you both and put you in the best light to showcase you and your partner in the best way. There’s no need to be shy or modest. Every photograph is tastefully, artistically posed.

Share a New Experience Together

Spend the day together in a way you never have before. Then, top off the day with a night out for dinner. Your couple’s boudoir session can transform into a whole day or even weekend away in downtown Seattle! Take a chance to do something new, different and exciting together as a couple.

Love Your Body and Theirs

Often, when people talk about boudoir photography, they worry about having the right kind of body for boudoir. Let me tell you right now: every body is beautiful. There’s no need to be self-conscious. Love your body for all the amazingness that you are as a person. Love your partner’s body for all the amazingness they are! Your boudoir session will help you appreciate how you two come together as a couple in a beautifully unique way.

Build Confidence

Confidence is the sexiest thing you can put on in the morning. Boudoir does this! Why not nurture that part of you and your partner!

About Couple’s Boudoir at Seattle Boudoir & CO.

I open my doors and welcome all couples who express love and gratitude toward one another. This studio is proudly LGBTQ+ friendly. Love is love and it is beautiful in all forms. If you would like to learn more, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

What to wear for a boudoir shoot

Are you asking yourself what to wear for a boudoir shoot?

 

To some lingerie is the obvious answer for what to wear for a boudoir shoot, but to many the struggle is real. Lingerie is not made to fit the average woman. Most lingerie comes in small, medium, large and extra large.  The problem with this is in the sizing. The sizing for lingerie really isn't based on your measurements but a generic standard. You are not generic, and women truly have very diverse shapes.

Shopping for lingerie can be a depressing experience if you walk in blindly. On the outside I look like like a size 8 and wear clothing from a size 6-8, but lingerie is a totally different story.

My Experience

My bra size is a 34DDD. If I shop according to my dress size I should buy a small or medium, but when it comes to lingerie I am in a large or extra large unless it is slip style. I often feel very lost searching for something that fits.  When I weighed 25 lbs more the frustration was epic!  My boobs were a 34G and  2x sort of fit the boobs, but I was swimming in the bottoms.

I know I am not the only one struggling with the issue. I photograph many women with more curves than me and I know they must feel so defeated in the dressing room.

For years I struggled finding the right bra size. I walked into an upscale lingerie boutique and they measured me.  In about 5 minutes, I went thinking I wore a 38DD to being supported and yes empowered by a 34G brassiere. My life changed. I know that sounds dramatic, but in that instant my shoulders were upright and it slimmed me. I felt the only places that catered to me were small pricy boutiques, which I do love to support because they are local.

Once or twice a year I would splurge and drop $200 tp buy 1 or 2 bras. I would wear these bras until they had worn out.  After spending over $96 on the most beautiful turquoise and silver bra my large puppy chewed it up in less than 30 seconds.  I cried over my chewed up lacy support system crafted in France and vowed to get that same bra again. Sadly that style was discontinued.

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A Road Map and A Plan

Never start a journey without a plan. With a plan you can follow a map on how to end up with the desired results you are looking for. The whole point to accentuate your assets and divert attention away from what you don't like. Think about what you love about your body. Are your boobs exploding with amazingness?  Do you love your long legs?  Not loving your arms but think your hands belong on an ad for lotion?

Below I have a few links to great spaces online picking out clothing pieces for a boudoir shoot.  When in doubt know that you can just wear sheets and robes. You can be basic, because a boudoir session is more about you than the clothes you wear.

Places to Start

The suggestions below are based purely on my experience with myself and previous clients. None of theses companies are endorsing me in anyway.

1. Adore me . www.adoreme.com -  They have a wide variety of pieces that fit all sizes and don't look like your grandmother will wear them. I am currently loving their October colors out. Every thing is very nice on your wallet so you can stock up on some super amazing deals..  I was able to find beautiful pieces when I was 34G and now also at a 34DDD.

2. Mentionables - While I have not actually purchased from them yet it is easy for me to tell that they have beautiful pieces.  The current colors are swoonable.

3. Amazon - As much as I hate to say it, you can find some great things on Amazon. Make sure to read the reviews because a lot of the stuff is made in China and you will have to buy a few sizes higher than what you would buy here in the US. Make sure you look for a review from someone who states their height and size.  Likewise when you purchase something, help the rest of us out and post a review with your details.

4. Their Closet - Look in your partners/spouses closet. Do they wear button downs or ties?  Do they have a bomber jacket, favorite sunglasses or hat that might work into part of a session.

5. Your Closet - Dig through your own closet. Have you ever purchased something because you felt bold only to chicken out at the last minute and throw on your safe outfit. You know you have one.

Still wondering what to wear for a boudoir shoot?  I have a few more ideas for you, so please reach out. All boudoir sessions come with a 30 minute consult about what specific pieces would be a good match for you. You can bring as many outfits as you want. While you are getting your hair and make up done I'll pick out the top three. My goal is to make you look ravishing. I am going to paint you with light and your are going to feel like a masterpiece.

Check out more of my boudoir tips by signing up below.  From preparing for to the day of the shoot to the actual day of the session I make sure that every step of the way you feel empowered and beautiful.

Bridal Boudoir, more for them or more for you?

Bridal Boudoir a Gift for You Too

Boudoir is a specialized gift that shows your confidence and is one of a kind

Bridal boudoir, also a gift for yourself.

You may have heard that boudoir is the perfect groom’s gift. It is. But you may not realize that this experience is truly a gift for the bride.

Boudoir photography was introduced as the “sexiest gift for the groom” not too long ago and the new trend really took off rapidly as more and more grooms received these gifts and were left speechless. As a photographer that was a part of this new movement, it was very fun to see momentum and words spreading as groomsmen watched the grooms’s eyes widen with amazement as they saw him open his secret album just minutes before seeing his bride walking down the aisle toward him.

A must-have item. Boudoir was once considered too risqué or taboo and it has now converted into what I love it to be… a private celebration of the beauty and confidence of intimacy within a couple. And not just for the couple as a unit, individually for the bride herself as well.

Boudoir is a way to celebrate and document what as old as time, has been one of the most special traditions in womanhood… the season of wedding preparation. It is much different than it was even 100 years ago. Now you have pinterest, wedding magazines, and trying to figure out your #wedding hashtag.

The overall anticipation and tradition remains. While our preps definitely look different, the sweet sentiment swirling in a bride’s heart is all the same as it ever was. She radiates with the hopes, wines, and dreams this memorable time inspires. And as a photographer, I love that I get to celebrate and document the bride, aglow with anticipation and rosy with the frantic pace that accompanies this season.

It’s wonderful seeing our brides experiences. She comes to the studio, feeling nervous, but eager for the pampering. She enjoys the confidence boosting experience more than she ever thinks she will, feeling better in her own skin when she leaves, and she romances her groom with this sweet gesture. It’s a win/win. As a boudoir photographer, I feel my job is to enter into that space with her, inspired to create something that represents her beautifully.

Again, I know exactly what you are going through… so much of the wedding prep is about tasks, to-do lists, deadlines. I love that a boudoir session is a time slow down, tune out the must do-dos, and to step into this season by being present. I highly encourage you to do this for your spouse-to-be, but even more so for yourself.

Give the Best Valentine's Day Gift of All: YOU!

Finding the perfect gift can feel like the hardest task of all. When you’re young, there are new trends, new hobbies, and new toys that always make great gifts. But there comes a point in our lives where it takes a lot of creativity to find the perfect gift—especially when it comes to Valentine’s Day. Maybe you feel like your partner has all the things they need and want. Or, maybe your partner is just the most difficult person to shop for… and you have run out of all your “go-to” gifts. But I have the solution for the best gift of all. What a better gift to unwrap than having them unwrap you!?

Give the Gift of YOU with a Boudoir Session

Be the gift that your partner unwraps. When they pull off the bow and tear off the wrapping paper, they open the package to reveal a saucy, confident beauty. This gift is so much more than an album, and so much more than a photo. A boudoir photography shoot can peel back the layers that you have wrapped yourself up in. The layers that you have put onto yourself that no one else sees.

As women, we can bury ourselves in insecurities and self-consciousness. Boudoir photography can help you to peel back those layers. You can begin shedding the less-than-wonderful comments and criticisms you have given yourself over the years. Leaving them behind can be a huge release! Seeing yourself as a beautiful and fierce woman can lift your perception of yourself to a higher level!

I myself have struggled like everyone with body image. Why is it we only see our flaws? Every morning as I get dressed, I look in the mirror at my body. I make sure to say positive things about how I love this and appreciate that. I have not always been like that towards myself. I have noticed, the more I tell myself that I love myself and my body, the better I actually treat it. The more you say it the more you believe it! So, start saying it. Would you be friends with someone who said the things you say to yourself? Be kinder to yourself. Love yourself.

Confidence is the most beautiful thing you put on in the morning.

A collection of tasteful boudoir photography images is a tangible reminder of who you are underneath all the outfits you own. A reminder of your core beauty. This is a truly unique gift that cannot be purchased online, and it shows effort and thought. You made a huge contribution to the making of the gift. Without your time, bravery and vulnerability it cannot be done.

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and there is still time! I have THREE SPACES left for boudoir sessions. That is just the perfect amount of time to have a gift placed in his/her/their hands for that weekend of gushy romantic gestures.

Ms. L

Back in September, the gorgeous Ms L joined me at Studio 1020 for a boudoir session. She wore this amazing sweatshirt that said “BEAUTIFUL BADASS” proudly across the front. After photographing this boudoir session, I can absolutely agree. Ms L is absolutely a beautiful badass.

A Sexy Boudoir Photography Session

Ms L came with her good friend, Ms C who also had a session with me. They made it a whole boudoir photography excursion. They spent the night before downtown, and were able to get in some shopping together before checking into their hotel.

Before her photography shoot, Ms L shared something I found inspirational. Here it is in her own words:

"I've been wanting to do a boudoir shoot for over a decade, but I've never been comfortable enough in my own skin and am not comfortable in lingerie. However, since all the deaths in my family over the last two years - I've realized tomorrow is not promised and I need to do the things I've been wanting to do now and not wait any longer." - Ms L

I was so impressed with Ms L’s mindset. It was wonderful how she put herself out there to meet up for this shoot. As I got to know her more, she also confessed that while she loves her eyes (and really, who can blame her? She is devastatingly beautiful), she didn’t feel comfortable in her own skin.

She didn’t think she looked sexy and she didn’t feel sexy. Being a boudoir photographer and living life with body positivity go hand in hand. Now let me be clear—I, in no way, want to downplay anyone’s hang-ups at all. But we all have them. Everyone has something that we don’t like about ourselves. Our thighs are too wide, our stretchmarks too dark, our birthmarks too obvious, our freckles too dark…

Body Positivity through Boudoir Photography

There are times when beautiful women confess to me that they don’t like something about themselves. But, here’s the truth: I legit do not see it.

We all have flaws.

We all have scars.

Every woman is beautiful. And that’s what I hope to show you in your boudoir session. You are beautiful. Flaws and all. I will always find the beauty in every single woman who walks through my door. And I encourage all of you: try to stop focusing on minute imperfections. First of all, we all have imperfections. All of us. Secondly, you are not defined by your imperfections. Most of the time, other people do not see them.

I am so happy that Ms L shared her beauty with me. These sexy boudoir photos are amazing, and so is she. She’s a beautiful badass, through and through. I’m so happy to have been her photographer.

Hair and Makeup by Kat St. John

Shot at Studio 1020 in Downtown Seattle

Better Immunity This Winter? Clearer Skin for your Session? Desire Restful Energy?

… Science behind the seemingly new trend of “Drinking Celery Juice!”

Today there are 33,000 #CeleryJuice posts on Instagram (and growing!), but this vegetable obviously isn't a new thing. Carlos Quiros, a plant geneticist from the University of California Davis, told NPR that arcology remains from Switzerland show that people have been transporting celery seeds since 4,000 B.C. In China, Egypt, and Rome, this stalky plant was used as a remedy for a range of issues but mainly to cure hangovers or even to use as an aphrodisiac.  

In 1868, Dr. Brown's Cel-Ray, or celery soda, made its debut, and it's been a deli staple, pairing perfectly with thick pastrami sandwiches, ever since. According to Marianne Santora, whose dad owned J&R Bottling, the company that brought Cel-Ray to California, the celery tonic was known to calm stomachs and heal bowel issues.

The concept of celery juice as a cure-all in the modern age came from medical medium Anthony William, who's been preaching this health hack for the past 20 years.

While William is not a licensed doctor or health care practitioner, he's garnered a large following in the wellness world. Since he was 4 years old, he had heard a voice perfectly clear in his right ear. He calls this voice "Spirit," and since then Spirit has been guiding him to read people to find out what's wrong with them. He calls himself medical medium because of this guiding spirit. When he was 4, he diagnosed his grandmother with lung cancer, which later her doctors confirmed. Since then he has gone on to write four New York Times best-selling books, has acquired a huge fan base of believers in his work including Gwyneth Paltrow, Pharell, and even Robert DeNiro.

There is research that says that the antioxidant compounds in celery can help remove free radicals, says functional medicine doctor Jill Baron, M.D., However, she adds that "we don't have the research in humans at this time to verify all the claims.”

"When it comes to our food choices, we tend to get fixated on a single food or beverage to resolve our health issues when in reality there is no one food that will cure disease... We need to be looking at our overall lifestyle and cultivate healthy behaviors for optimal health. If you enjoy celery juice, it can be part of a healthful eating pattern, but it should be part of the bigger picture and should not replace intake of all other vegetables and fruits.”   FOR MORE on Drinking the “Miracle Juice,” visit:  MBG Foods. 

Ms. C

There are times in our lives when we give so much of ourselves to others that we forget who we are. It is not as if we want to stop giving to those around us, but we need to take time to appreciate how far we have come. Life can be trying, and the heartache can wear on our souls. We can end up feeling like we lose ourselves in the everyday shuffle. The monotony of the day to day can slowly erode our self-confidence and our self-worth.

That’s why I love what I do as a boudoir photographer—I help remind women of their inner beauty. Boudoir shoots help us to remember who we are, and to remember the power we have inside. That was the case for the beautiful and empathic Ms. C, who met up with me here at the 1020 Studio in downtown Seattle.

Old Hollywood Curvy Boudoir Photography

Ms. C is a very nurturing human. Being empathetic is part of who she is. Clearly, in her occupation as a MA in Oncology, she experiences people going through the hardest time of their life. Cancer affects the lives of patients and the lives of their families so deeply. When you are an empath, you absorb that pain. You internalize part of that hardship. After a long day of work, she goes home and cares for her two beautiful children. Being a mom fills Ms. C’s heart to the brim and fuels her soul.

There are no days off when you are a parent—especially when they are little. When tragedy hits during this time of life, it really takes a toll. On you, on your family, on every part of your life. Ms. C is a gorgeous woman with a tender sweet soul.

I was so happy that Ms. C came to the studio for a boudoir session. She was the epitome of old Hollywood glamour. She channeled her inner Marilyn Monroe! Ms. C was simply gorgeous at every angle and with every curve. The outfits and the colors that she chose were so flattering to her stunning complexion.

“We are all of us stars, and we deserve to twinkle.” – Marilyn Monroe

Ms. C, thank you for sharing your light with others. You twinkle so brightly and for this boudoir session, you brought real, curvy Hollywood glamour. It was such a pleasure to be your photographer!

Hair and Makeup: Kat St. John

Photographer: Molly Blair

Ms. K

Back in August, I was lucky enough to photograph this gorgeous woman at the 1020 Studio. This boudoir session was amazing to capture, and I was so happy to be her photographer.

Empowering Boudoir Photography

Before her boudoir photography session with me, Ms. K had shared, “I want to feel beautiful in my own skin and let my light shine. Nothing is going to stop me from achieving my dreams and goals.”

Well, let me just say: Ms. K certainly let her light shine! She was an exuberant, bright light and was just SO much fun to photograph. This was not her first boudoir photography shoot, so she had a good idea of what the session would be like, but she didn’t have the full experience the way they are done in my studio. From picking out the best outfits for your shape, to making sure your makeup is how you want it, to highlighting your best assets—the experience you have during your boudoir session is just as important as the resulting images. Special thanks go out to the amazingly talented Kat St. John for the work she did making Ms. K’s hair and makeup look so amazing.

With my work as a boudoir photographer, I notice time and time again how we pick apart pieces of ourselves. That self-deprecation that prevents us from truly improving ourselves in the ways that are needed most. We focus on the parts of us that cannot really change… or parts of us that don’t need to. As a woman, I can relate. I empathize with the barriers you put up about yourself. I have them too. That’s why I feel so passionately that the boudoir photography experience should be something empowering. It should always be about embracing who you are and harnessing the beauty that you have. Flaws and all. All women are beautiful.

Sometimes, feeling good about yourself can be helped with some spectacular wardrobe choices. The lingerie Ms. K is wearing is easy to find and flattering on most body types. If you are curious about where to find the pieces featured in these images, make sure to grab the free boudoir planning guide or set up a time to chat about what you get when you book a studio boudoir session with me!

Enjoy these lovely photos of Ms. K!