In the last decade of being in business, we have learned so much from our amazing clients. They’ve shared their stories, their fears, their concerns, their proud achievements, their victories, their vulnerabilities, their pain, and so much more. Through these countless conversations, we’ve seen some common themes emerge, some similar reasons behind why they waited so long to take the leap and book their boudoir session. However, after they took the leap, it all became clear that those reasons were nothing more than false beliefs - LIES - that were dissolved by the powerful truths that became evident as they went through the experience with us.
So we’ve compiled a list of these seven lies that women often believe, that are holding them back from booking their own boudoir experience.
This supports our message: “Find your confidence.” While it starts with boudoir photography for us, it goes far beyond, and can be implemented in other areas of your life as well.
Lie #1. “I don’t look like the models on your website.”
Every single gorgeous woman on our website is a regular gal - NOT a hired model - who gave us permission to show off her stunning images. And every single one has the same thought at first.
My mission at A. Dannette Boudoir is that this experience is for EVERY woman! Every woman deserves to feel confident and sexy. You DO have what it takes, no matter what shape, size, or age you are! You’ve done much scarier things in life - you got this.
Lie # 2. “It’s too much money.”
Yes, good boudoir photography IS a significant investment of your time and money. But it is totally worth it. Here’s why:
Boudoir photography is a very delicate process. When done right, a boudoir session can positively impact you for the rest of your life, but if not, it can negatively impact you just as much. Think about hiring a tattoo artist. Would you hire them based on who is the cheapest? Or would you look at their work, their personality, and cleanliness and decide which one meets your needs the most?
When you choose to have this experience, it’s scary because, not only are you baring your skin, but you are baring your soul. You become vulnerable. A good boudoir photographer understands and respects it at all costs. My team and I have a big responsibility to be trusted by you. We’ve worked over the years to create a process that ensures that you are well-informed and well-cared for throughout the experience.
Time, effort, experience, skill, attention to detail and great customer service all cost money. And while it’s true that it’s an investment of your time and money, it’s also an investment of our heart and soul into you. When all is said and done, our clients spend around 6.5 hours with us! By the time you pick up your album, we’ve gotten to know each other so well, we’ve become friends. We all have different spending priorities but once you understand it’s so much more than taking a few naked pics - the value is apparent.
At no point in your experience will you feel rushed or pressured. The real question isn’t whether you believe that boudoir photography is worth it or not. The real question is: do you believe that YOU are worth it?? We wholeheartedly believe that you are!!
Lie # 3: “I’ll have to get naked or wear skimpy lingerie.”
Couldn’t be farther from the truth! In fact, most of my clients wear no less than what they would wear to the beach. While we offer helpful guidance for your outfit choices, (including a wardrobe guide) we don’t force you to wear a certain type of outfit or not wear an outfit at all.
Your reason for the session determines your wardrobe or the lack thereof. Once we discuss your reason, we offer suggestions for outfits that would work well for your desired outcome. We completely understand the anxiety of, “What should I wear?!” and provide well thought-out guides, consult calls, in-person meetings and video chats to help you decide which direction you’d like your session to go and what outfits are the best choices for your goals.
And whether you choose to be fitted in your favorite lingerie, bodysuit, your partner’s t-shirt, etc. or wear your birthday suit, we want you to know that what you’re comfortable with is totally cool with us! We offer a safe, judgement-free space where you are encouraged to express who you are and want to be. Sometimes, the sexiest looks are achieved when you are wearing what you feel comfortable and confident in!
Lie #4:“I can’t do a boudoir session because I don’t know how to be sexy.”
FACT: We have got sexiness down to a science, seriously! One of the main responsibilities of your photographer is to coach and guide you through every pose. In reality, looking sexy in front of the camera does not always feel sexy. It is hard work!
April works with your body type, your outfits, as well as studio lighting to get the perfect image. All you have to do is show up and follow directions.
Lie #5: “I’m uncomfortable in front of a camera.”
Many women are used to being behind the camera, capturing memories for their kids, family, friends, etc. and feel completely opposed to being photographed. They tell themselves, “I belong behind the camera, not in front of it.” This tells me that you have been in the caretaker role for so long, you have forgotten that you deserve to document YOUR precious moments in life, too.
The reality is you extend yourself so much for others. You deserve to feel seen and appreciated. You are worthy and deserving of being photographed so that you can see the light and beauty you currently possess within you!
Trying something new is scary. Our team knows exactly how you feel and are pros at bringing out the best you. Book the session. Let yourself be treated like royalty and have your turn in the spotlight.
Lie #6: “My images will end up on the internet.”
NO photos you see on our website and socials is posted without the client’s signed permission. We nurture an environment of trust with our clients. We seriously respect you and your privacy, not to mention that our entire goal is to earn and keep your trust!
Here’s how we do it: your preview party is when you will view your images and make your selections. After you select your favorite images, we will ask you if you want to keep your images private or if you want to sign a model release form that states what you’re willing to let us use your images for our online platforms, advertising, etc. If you want us to keep them private, end of discussion, done deal.
And you can be certain that if you give us permission to use your images, they will be used! Your gorgeous images will show up on our website, blog, social media, etc.
The takeaway is, you have full control of whether or not your images will be on the internet. No catches.
Lie #7: “I don’t have anyone to do this for.”
So many ladies see my work and say, “I have always wanted to do a session, but I don’t have anyone to do it for.” Babe, look in the mirror! The most important person to do a boudoir session for is YOU!!
That’s right, you deserve a boudoir session for your journey of radical self-love. More often than not, clients will schedule a boudoir session for the purpose of gifting it to a partner or spouse. However, they almost ALWAYS end up leaving their session with the realization that this experience was a gift to themselves first. While boudoir images are a fabulous gift, the most impactful and satisfying takeaway you walk away with is boosted confidence and a new perspective of yourself.
So for those of you who say you have no one to do it for, we would love the chance to show you how truly transformative a boudoir session can be.