One of the most rewarding things about being a boudoir photographer is the opportunity to make a positive impact on how women see themselves. I get to encourage women to feel more comfortable in their own skin, celebrate their bodies, and learn to love themselves unconditionally.

Whether these women come into their boudoir photo shoot a little nervous and unsure, or they walk right in feeling confident, ready to stand fully in their body and unleash their sexy — I am honored to be a part of their experience and create something beautiful together.

Not surprisingly though, there is a less spoken part of boudoir and its one that might make boudoir photographers a little bit uncomfortable themselves. But for me, I think it has a place here to be addressed. In fact, you might be asking it for yourself …

What if I see my boudoir photos and don’t love them?

Since so many women have struggled with body image or self worth at some point in their lives I NEVER want to dismiss this question. If you are someone that is currently dealing with negative body image or discouraging thoughts about how you look or might look in your photos, this question is valid.

Not every experience is going to be the same.

Why? Because self love is a journey not a destination and we’re all moving through it at a different pace.

Do I think you are going to come in and hate your boudoir photos? Well, no of course not.

I stand confidently behind my work, our studios approach to boudoir photography, and the belief that boudoir can be truly empowering. I MEAN THAT and want you to know that you are in good hands here at Bella Jade Boudoir.

But I also believe …

that it is equally as important to acknowledge — boudoir is not a one size fits all “happy pill” that is going to instantly undo years of internalized thoughts, or erase every bad thing that you’ve ever said or thought about your body.

What it CAN do is ease the pressure to be perfect before you can be present.

It can give you room to show up, be yourself, and figure out how to feel ok about your body regardless of any insecurities, imperfections, or limiting beliefs.

It creates a safe space for you to express yourself, and furthermore explore the relationship you have with body.

A space that is cared for by other women who want nothing more than to see you recognize your beauty and feel more confident in your own skin!

If there is anything that I want you to take away from this its that …

You don’t have to embrace every single flaw in order to love yourself more.

Accept that they are there,

and realize that you are incredibly powerful, beautiful,

& equally deserving of self love with or without them.

If you happen to be one of those women & are asking yourself …

“What If I hate my photos”

here are Here are 5 things you can do (leading up to your shoot/Viewing) to help Get Out of Your Own Head:

1. Challenge yourself to focus on the GOOD.

   Like, your courage to try something new. Your ability to stand fully in your truth despite your fears. (example given — the mere fact that you care enough about yourself to have clicked on this blog, booked the shoot, hired the therapist, wrote the journal, picked up the book, whatever it is etc.)

2. Recognize that you are human.

   
   You will never be completely void of your inner critic. Hear her, but don’t let her paralyze you. your value is not determined by your weakest thought.

3. Be mindful of how you internalize what other people think/say of you.

   When you receive criticism from others, take the time to evaluate whether it is constructive or destructive and file it accordingly! Hold space only for things that fuel you, help you grow, and serve you and others in positive ways.

4. Release yourself from unrealistic expectations.

   Whether it be your weight, your confidence level before or after your shoot, the way you fit or don’t fit into the latest beauty trends/ideals … Remember, These things are constantly evolving and so are you! Set realistic goals, and be flexible in your approach. Again, we are all different and interpret or experience things in different ways.

5. Be gentle with yourself and cultivate kindness.

   Reclaim your power by giving yourself permission to fail, treating yourself with compassion, trusting the process, and speaking to yourself in ways that motivate and inspire rather than shame and diminish.

If you liked this post you might also like …

>>> THIS IS YOUR BOUDOIR SHOOT. STOP COMPARING YOURSELF TO OTHERS <<<

Have you been putting off booking your very own Phoenix Boudoir Photo Shoot?

Want to learn more on how to get started? Click below for details and more information on how to begin planning your very own boudoir photoshoot at Bella Jade Boudoir located in Scottsdale Arizona.