Mrs. H. Boudoir Session - Part 2
If you haven't seen the first part of Mrs. H's session, read it here.
Tell me about the experience you had during the session. Were the poses what you expected? Did you have fun?
The shock of seeing myself transformed - in a pleasant way - by Jannicke's skill at hair and makeup prepared me for the next shock of seeing the first image on Annika's camera. I say 'shocking' because there you are...but it's a version of yourself that you could only have imagined, hoped for, or had aspired to be. It was a little overwhelming at first, but intensely gratifying at the same time. Those first few images ultimately calmed my nerves and encouraged me to try my hardest at every pose.
To that point, it was invaluable to have Annika show the poses herself, allowing me to immediately mimic them before the camera turned on. I didn't focus as much on the shutter clicks or on the idea that I was being photographed, because honestly so much of my attention and effort initially when into trying to maintain a pose. The poses became more familiar and easy as the hour passed, and I think it finally clicked for me that I was having fun!
I always have to ask, were you sore the next day from the poses?
Absolutely! But with every twinge I was reminded of how fun it had been, how empowered I felt, and that the discomfort a day later was completely worth it.
What were your first thoughts when you saw your images? Have you noticed a mental shift in the way you view your body since doing the shoot?
My first thought: I look better than I think I do. This was especially true of the unedited photos, as there is nothing to which you can ascribe an excuse. My commentary out loud was simple and repetitive: "oh wow" and "thank you".
I carried a natural high from the shoot with me for quite a few days; I was more outgoing and appreciative of my body, more empowered not only in how I felt about my physicality or sexual prowess but in my decision making as well (I had made this choice, I had done it, and I had enjoyed it), and I had a very positive outlook on the near future.
Do you have any advice or tips for ladies who are thinking about doing a session?
The body positivity I felt after the shoot alone would have been enough to make the experience worth it, so - if you can - try to focus as much on the event itself as the end product.
Also, avoid forcing every outfit or piece of lingerie in to being "sexy" by convention, and instead to throw in the clothing that you know makes you feel great and that you'll enjoy seeing years down the road.
What was your absolute favorite part of this experience?
Where to start?! Ultimately, my absolute favorite part was walking out of the studio feeling truly beautiful and in control of my body, coupled with how I imagine that feeling will return in some degree every time I look at the photos in the years to come. I'm also sure I have yet to experience one of the best parts: my fiancé's reaction!
Clearly, Mrs. H. completely rocked her session! I'm so glad that she bit the bullet and decided to boudoir a shoot for her wedding gift. I know that this will be something that her and Mr. H will remember forever.