A Milestone Boudoir Session

In the journey of life, milestones often beckon us to pause, reflect, and celebrate. For one courageous woman, turning 40 wasn’t just about embracing a new decade but embracing herself entirely. Meet Samantha, a vibrant soul with a story of self-discovery and empowerment that she decided to tell through the lens of boudoir photography. Join us as we chat about her experience, exploring the nuances of self-love, body positivity, and the transformative power of embracing vulnerability for her milestone boudoir session.

The Role of Boudoir in Samantha’s Self-Love Journey

Samantha’s journey with boudoir photography with Le Boudoir Studio began nearly a decade ago, a wedding gift for her husband. But this time, the spotlight was on her. “This time the shoot was more for me! I chose outfits and themes that showed off more personality I think.” Samantha’s path to self-love hasn’t been without its challenges. Battling Polycystic Kidney Disease, she grappled with insecurities stemming from societal norms and personal struggles. Yet, boudoir photography became a tool for reclaiming her narrative. “I don’t know that I will ever feel great about my middle section, but I do have areas I love like my long, lean legs, my hair and my face,” Samantha shares. “We were able to find outfits and poses that helped hide my belly but show off those other things!” If you resonate with having certain physical insecurities (and let’s be real, who honestly doesn’t?!) know that you are in excellent hands with our team! We work one-on-one with every single client to create a session that is completely tailored to you to hide anything you don’t want to show off, and feature all the parts you absolutely love!

I have something called Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) which causes my kidneys and liver to develop hundreds of cysts and those organs are massive as a result. In time I will likely need a kidney transplant, but in the present the impact to my self-esteem is the biggest challenge. I get constant questions from strangers about who assume I am pregnant, and while fashion is embracing more body types these days, my own body type isn’t one anyone is likely to see often unless it’s for things like maternity clothing. When I got back the photos I was thrilled to not feel like my giant organs were on display and just get to see beauty without the distraction.

 

Embracing a New Decade: Turning 40 with Grace

Age, often perceived as a barrier to beauty, took on a new meaning for Samantha. Embracing her 40s meant embracing life’s journey—a journey marked by love, family, and personal growth. “Age is so weird,” Samantha muses. “At 25 I felt so upset about aging, but turning 40 feels welcome! I think doing boudoir beyond your 20’s, those years society tells you you’re most valuable and worthy, just helps cement that there is beauty in life at all ages. Being 40 is awesome! I’ve had a great life full of love and adventure and I can only hope that will continue to grow with time. ” Through boudoir photography, she discovered that beauty knows no age, and every phase of life deserves its moment in the spotlight. Samantha’s perception of beauty underwent a profound transformation over the years since her first boudoir experience. From societal rigid definitions to boundless new possibilities, she learned that beauty lies not in conformity but in authenticity. “The first time, I think I felt more like ‘sexy’ was more rigid in its definition,” Samantha reflects. “This time though, it seems like there is an understanding that sexy can be anything and anything can be sexy with the right enthusiasm and attitude.” We fully believe that your boudoir session is what YOU make it. If jeans are what makes you feel good, bring them! If you want a more conservative and cozy style photos, we can do that too! Boudoir is whatever makes you feel good and showcasing your individual style.

Navigating Vulnerability: Overcoming Apprehensions

As an introvert, the prospect of baring her soul in front of the camera was daunting for Samantha. Boudoir is a vulnerable experience, and stepping into the studio can come with a bundle of nerves. This is totally normal! Samantha provides some excellent insider tips on how to overcome it and ensure a positive experience. Armed with determination and the support of loved ones, she decided to embrace vulnerability with grace. “I am a firm ‘fake it ’til you make it!’ practitioner,” she admits. “Once I got to the studio I just tried to think about how things might go if I was super confident and tried to act that part.” Having the right mindset plays an important role during your boudoir session. Leaving your problems and every day thoughts at the door is key. The studio space and pampering time allows you to step into a new version of yourself, placing you on the pedestal for the day, and just enjoying this “me” time. Think of the situations and experience that gave you a huge boost of confidence and tap into that as you pose. I will also show you photos on the back of my camera throughout your session to fuel that confidence even more!

The Impact Beyond the Lens: A Journey of Self-Discovery

Beyond the just the images, the boudoir experience left an indelible mark on Samantha’s sense of self. “While the pictures are beautiful, I actually think the experience is the most impactful part!” she shares. “It’s hard not to walk away from that without feeling more confident, especially when you consider that other than makeup, there isn’t much added in—no retouching yet, no fancy clothes, just you!” I can’t tell you how many times we hear ladies say, “Wow, that’s me?!” when we show those first couple of images from the back of the camera. We don’t use any fancy smoke or mirrors…just expert posing, lighting, and styling to highlight all the amazing features you already have. Yes, it is YOU and we are here to show you that you are already so beautiful and now you can truly see that through our lens.

It’s a very vulnerable position to be in and you have to trust Miranda to put you in your best light. Seeing the results in her camera is a bit like hearing your own voice, but instead of thinking “eww I hate that,” I very much felt like “wow, look at me!”

Amidst the poses and camera clicks, it was the moments of laughter that resonated most with Samantha. In embracing the awkwardness and her true self, she found a way to let the nerves subside and her personality shine through. “Some of the posing can feel silly, and being mostly naked with someone you don’t really know can be uncomfortable,” Samantha admits. “When I opted to just accept the awkwardness and laugh about it, I think my personality came through.”

Advice for the Hesitant: Embrace the Journey

To those considering a boudoir session, Samantha offers a resounding call to action. Reflecting on her experiences with Le Boudoir, she emphasizes the professionalism, respect, and empowerment woven into every session. “Do it!” she urges. “I’ve been lucky enough to shoot with both the original owner, Jodi, and now with Miranda. My experiences were both so memorable and positive. Le Boudoir is so professional and I love that it is a woman-owned, woman celebrating company. Miranda is an excellent cheerleader and was so respectful about my insecurities. I truly couldn’t have asked for a better experience.”

Throughout our lives, moments of self-celebration shine brightest. Through Samantha’s story, we’re reminded that beauty transcends age, shape, and circumstance. It’s not about conforming to societal standards but embracing our unique beauty with pride. So, to all the Samantha’s out there, may your journey be filled with moments of laughter, empowerment, and unbridled self-love.

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