Honey, let me tell you something, stepping into a boudoir photography session for the first time can feel like you're climbing a mountain in high heels! It's daunting, really. You're there, showing more skin and soul than you might ever have dared before. Lying there, stretched out, back arched, heart wide open – it's like laying your insecurities on a silver platter for someone, a stranger no less, armed with nothing but a camera. It's no small feat, and it's absolutely understandable why so many fabulous women hesitate to take this empowering leap.
Time and again, I've heard women express their longing to do it, but something inside holds them back. More often than not, they're tangled up in concerns about their physical appearance. "I need to lose a few pounds," or "My body just isn't the same after having my beautiful children." But let me tell you, it goes deeper than that. The issue isn't with the women themselves – oh no – it's with how we've been conditioned to see our worth, to measure our value by what's on the outside. That's the furthest thing from the truth, my dear friends.
We, as women, have been so bogged down by these patriarchal notions that we often fail to see our own beauty and claim our magnificent feminine power. And here's something that might sound a little wild – I believe we're often more afraid of our light than our darkness. Imagine, just imagine, if you truly tapped into your inner self, your true power as a woman, embracing that divine right to exist boldly, to occupy space, and to share your unique gifts with the world! How would you feel about all those moments you spent playing small, suppressing the real YOU? That's the real barrier we face.
I remember, back in my late 20s, facing my own dark times. I grappled with alcoholism for about 8 years. There were fun times, sure, but also moments of poor decisions, dangerous situations, and actions I wouldn't dream of if I were sober. It took a mountain of soul-searching and introspection. I had to ask myself the tough questions and face the hard truths. I knew I wanted a different life, and I was ready to do whatever it took. Although I can't recall every step of that mental shift, three decisions stood out: saying goodbye to alcohol, loving myself regardless of the past, and committing to a life of value and purpose.
In the 13 years since, I've remained sober and crafted a life that's truly spectacular. Yes, there have been highs and lows, moments of self-doubt, and times when I let that unconditional self-love slip a little. But what's kept me going is knowing that there are women out there who are suffering more than me, and that I hold some of the tools to help them heal. I cannot, I will not give up. No matter my weight, my wrinkles, or past habits, I am still worthy, valuable, and loved.
As I continue my journey as a boudoir photographer, my passion for helping other women dive deep into their own empowerment has only intensified. I want to show you your beauty, yes, but more than that, I want you to reclaim your power as a woman. To realize that you're capable of incredible things. I don't want to see you give up on your dreams, or hold yourself back from living the life you're meant to live.
You might think a photoshoot is just about snapping pretty pictures, but it's so much more. When a woman embraces her beauty, steps out of her comfort zone, she becomes unstoppable. She walks into rooms with a new aura, speaks her mind, and stops letting others overstep her boundaries. She uplifts the women around her. We grow and blossom in ways we never thought possible. Sometimes, all it takes is a shift in perspective to see the beauty in what we thought was imperfect. And when you find that spark of self-love, oh, it can grow into a roaring fire.
Oh, let me tell you about the joy I felt working with Miss C. She walked into that studio with a purpose, and let me tell you, it was all about self-celebration. Miss C has been on a journey, doing the deep work of self-love and healing from the challenges life has thrown her way. This photoshoot was her moment, a beautiful testament to herself, her body, and every single accomplishment she's achieved along the way. I truly believe that this experience served as a mirror for her, reflecting back just how radiant and stunning she truly is. And in that reflection, her confidence soared, and her empowerment shone through. It was a beautiful, transformative experience for us both.
“Sarina is amazing. This was my first boudoir shoot and it genuinely felt as if I was at a friends house taking pictures. You do not feel rushed whatsoever, she takes her time to get the pictures you and her both want. I was quite nervous but she talks it out as you go, if she likes it she lets you know and hypes you up. She embraces you as a person and makes you feel so so comfortable within you own skin. I went to my preview and I was IN LOVE. I will definitely be booking future shoots.”
If you are feeling inspired by this blog and you want to get started on your Boudoir journey, remember you can always start with a consultation to make sure I am the right photographer for you. There is no charge for a consultation and there is no obligation to book a session if it isn’t feeling like the right fit for you.