Why I Took My Clothes Off For the Camera: And Why You Should, Too

Boudoir

Last year, I stepped way out of my comfort zone and did a boudoir photo shoot as a gift for my husband. If you’re not familiar with it, boudoir photography celebrates the feminine form with a photo shoot in lingerie or other revealing attire.

My husband had mentioned in passing how it would be awesome if I ever did something like that, but I could tell by the way he said, he never thought I actually would. And neither did I.

I’m comfortable in my own skin. I generally like the way I look, and I don’t mind having my picture taken or posted on social media. But I have never thought of myself as model material or especially sexy. After having kids and spending the last few years in yoga pants and ponytails hanging out at the park or Chick-Fil-A, the idea of wearing something lacy and draping myself on a velvet couch seemed laughable.

Then one day I was looking for something in the bottom drawer of a dresser I rarely use, and under a pair of old ski pants, I found some of the beautiful lingerie I received at a wedding shower almost a decade ago. As I unfolded each piece, I began to remember the girl that used to wear it. And while I may not have worn it all that often, even as a newlywed, I at least knew where it was back then. I realized that I kind of missed that girl, and I was sure that my husband missed her, too. My husband is amazing. He always makes me feel loved; he still makes me laugh, and I truly feel like we are partners in both our marriage and in raising our kids. But I also know that he would be happier with more sex, more flirting, more lace and less sports bras.

I started researching boudoir photography in Jacksonville, and I was surprised! I had no idea there were so many local photographers that specialize in boudoir. I still wasn’t certain if I wanted to go through it, and then during my research, I stumbled upon a Living Social package for one of the photographers I was interested in. What can I say? I’m a sucker for a sale. Please don’t tell my husband that my grand romantic gesture was settled upon because I found a great deal.

I emailed a few times with the photographer, and we arranged a time to meet in person to go over all of the details. I was a bit nervous, and also a bit more excited than I had anticipated. I couldn’t believe I was really going through with this. It seemed like the best idea ever when I was telling my girlfriends about it over wine, but in the light of day, having to lie to my husband about what I was up to, I felt a little crazy and in over my head.

But the initial consultation was great, a photo shoot date was set, and I was really going to pay someone to take pictures of me in my underwear! And I am so happy that I did. Even though it pushed me way out of my comfort zone, and it felt completely out of character, it was, and still is, awesome. Here’s why I think everyone woman should have a boudoir photo session.

The Shopping

I realized during the consultation that even though I wouldn’t be wearing clothes for these pictures, I had some shopping to do. The remaining honeymoon lingerie wasn’t going to cut it, and my current wardrobe of activewear didn’t involve the right kind of accessories needed for a boudoir photo shoot. I recruited a few girlfriends for a strategy and shopping session, and this ended up being one of the most fun parts of the process. In addition to sexy bras and garter belts, which yes, I did purchase, getting personal made for the best pictures. I snagged one of my husband’s button down shirts from our closet, borrowed one of his golf clubs to use as a prop, and picked up a jersey from his favorite football team. I also got to buy a new pair of high heeled shoes and a few new pieces of jewelry–all in the name of love for my husband, of course.

It Was Fun!

On the day of the photo shoot, I was very anxious and feeling really insecure. What if I was terrible at this and the pictures were awful? But once I arrived, and started getting my hair and makeup done, I started to really enjoy myself. A little bit of pampering makes everyone feel better. And when we started taking pictures and wearing all of the different outfits and accessories, I got into the groove and had way more fun that I imagined. There was also champagne involved, so how could it not be fun?

The Gift That Keeps On Giving

The look on my husband’s face when he saw the first picture was priceless. He was shocked and ridiculously happy. I had just one picture printed, and then we were able to go together to view all of the images, which was a really fun experience filled with giggles from both us. Because a giant portrait of me wearing nothing but pearls doesn’t look right hanging next to our family beach pictures, we ended up purchasing a cd with the digital images so we can look at the them whenever we want. I haven’t stressed at all about what to get him as a gift since this one–he still loves them, and I’ll never top it. A year later, and he still gets a sly smile on his face when he mentions the pics.

Truly A Gift For Yourself

I didn’t really think about the benefit to myself when I decided to do this, but it has been the best part. Having gorgeous pictures of myself that my husband adores makes me feel pretty awesome. My boudoir photo shoot gave me back some of the confidence I didn’t even realize I was missing. While I spend most of the time with tangled hair and no make-up, I love knowing that I captured a moment in time when I felt completely beautiful, and every woman deserves to have that.

3 COMMENTS

  1. Can you give recommendations on photographers? I only found one and they were difficult to work with. Thanks!

    • Logan Rose Photography does Boudoir sessions. His wife Brittney is the one who does them. She has them coming up for Valentines Day. Contact them on their FB page

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