Why I love being a boudoir photographer | Richmond Fine Art Boudoir Photographer
Boudoir is such an intimate genre of photography. Understanding why I photograph the vulnerable, and intimate side of people, especially women, is so important. It reminds me of why I fell in love with what I do. It keeps me motivated and inspired when things may feel a bit comfortable. It’s why I am so passionate about giving each and every client an experience of empowerment, support and encouragement.
So, What is my ‘Why’?
First - Let me introduce myself! I am Rebecca, the artist behind Sessions for the Soul. I’m a Richmond based photographer, specializing in fine art boudoir. I have been a boudoir photographer for five years. I run my small business out of my studio located in Richmond, Virginia. What was a humble beginning, has blossomed into a business that allows me to reach and work with women all over the country.
I always struggled with embracing my femininity. Growing up with low self-esteem can do a number on how you look at and think of yourself. One day, five years ago, I photographed a friend outdoors in a sheer gown. We didn’t have a specific vision in mind. We just wanted to have fun and create something beautiful. Walking away from the session, I felt so empowered. I couldn’t stop smiling. I was in the best mood driving home. How did I feel empowered when I wasn’t the person in front of the camera? Watching someone else feel empowered and unapologetically welcome their femininity into the session was powerful. I loved being able to tell a story with the human body and the essence of one’s soul. This was the moment that it clicked for me. THIS is what I am meant to do.
As a boudoir photographer and woman, I am passionate about creating images that honor and transport you to a place and feeling of love, freedom, and empowerment. Boudoir is so special to me because I love being a part of a woman’s journey to unconditional self-love and body neutrality. Seeing women celebrate their bodies is inspiring and lights my soul on fire. It’s through working with my clients, that I began to heal that inner-voice that told me I wasn’t feminine enough. The voice that told me that owning my power and divine femininity was too loud. I absolutely love revealing images to my client and having them say “That’s me?!” “I look like I’m a work of art!” “I’ve never felt so beautiful!” We see ourselves every single day. It’s unfortunately easy to take for granted the things we see everyday; ourselves included. The opportunity to see ourselves through another lens or perspective can refresh our eyes to what we see when looking at ourselves. When we realize that we are beautiful, right now, just as we are it can be the catalyst to a journey of reclamation of our bodies, sexuality and femininity. Why is this important? When we are the best versions of ourselves we create a life that is aligned with who we are. We raise our standards. We begin to prioritize ourselves.
I believe and know from my own experience that boudoir can be a life changing experience. The feeling of confidence after doing something that feels intimidating or vulnerable only encourages us to challenge ourselves more. The connection with your body and femininity you felt through the posing, styling and music is one that you get to take home and nurture. The images are a beautiful visual reminder of the person you want to be and why you are worthy of being celebrated. When you all of these together, you have the push that is often needed to continue a journey to living your best life. I couldn’t be happier to do what I do and see the confidence of my clients grow.
