Body Positive

February 25, 2022

I have seen ads for it before, but I never followed up

admin Body Positive, Boudoir, Helpful Hints, Photography, Self-Empowerment Boudoir, Boudoir photography, Central Illinois boudoir photographer, Chicago boudoir photography, Kankakee boudoir photography, Lingerie, Perception, Studio E Boudoir

● Have you ever done a boudoir shoot before? If so, how does your shoot with Studio E compare to your prior experience?

I had never done a boudoir shoot before. I have seen ads for it before, but I never followed up.

● Why did you do your boudoir shoot?

I have always been a “big girl” and since I was young I remember people telling me that I needed to lose weight. I have always wondered why I needed to change to fit others perception of what I should look like. I love who I am. I love what I look like. I know that sounds crazy to many people, but I believe that I am gorgeous. I wanted to show off a little. I wanted to have fun showing off my body in a way that I normally don’t do. I don’t make a habit walking down the street with my ass showing and my nipples peeking through the lace… I wanted a fun way to show off how beautiful I feel. So I did a boudoir shoot.

● What was your favorite part of the session?

I really enjoyed being put into these very sexy positions. When Eric and Julie were telling me where to stand or put my hand I had an idea of what I looked like and I knew these would look amazing.

● What did doing this shoot do for your self confidence, self worth, and self image? Tell us your story.

I actually told a lot of my friends that I was doing a boudoir shoot and they all responded with “No! Don’t do it!” So I had to ask them why I shouldn’t and they all said something along the lines of “You are already too confident. Please don’t. It will go to your head.” I had to do the shoot after that. I wanted something so that on those days when I do not feel very confident or sexy, I can look at myself and remember that I am gorgeous. I am brave for walking into a room with close to nothing on. And I am a badass.

● Was your experience what you were expecting? If not, how was it different?

I honestly had no idea what to expect. But I loved the experience.

● What was the best part of your experience? Would you change anything?

All of it! But I loved looking at the backdrops and the sets. They were all so fun and I love the flower wall!!!!

● Can we tell your story as you wrote above?

I will be sad if you don’t.

January 18, 2022

I thought it would be a good experience to gain some confidence in myself, and I definitely did.

admin Body Positive, Boudoir, Helpful Hints, Photography, Self-Empowerment

Ms E shares her answers to a survey we sent her following her session and allowed us to share her responses. Let us know if this sounds like something that would make a positive impact in your life as well… it is such a powerful experience.

Have you ever done a boudoir shoot before? If so, how does your shoot with Studio E compare to your prior experience?

I’ve never done a boudoir shoot before, but it’s always been on my bucket list. I’m so glad I had Studio E for this first experience!!

Why did you do your boudoir shoot?

After ending my engagement, my whole life was sort of upside down for a little while. I decided that there was no better time to start living my life for me, and wanted to start checking things off of my bucket list. I thought it would be a good experience to gain some confidence in myself, and I definitely did.

What was your favorite part of the session?

That for once it was all about me (lol)! After the initial jitters went away, it was so much fun to have all of the lights and camera on me and truly made me feel like a star. From beginning to end, it really was all about making me feel beautiful and I’ve never had that feeling before.

What did doing this shoot do for your self confidence, self worth, and self image? Tell us your story.

The boudoir shoot made me feel like a brand new person. After the breakup, I felt like I was being judged by people who didn’t understand my choice and started to become closed off. The shoot helped me open back up, and truly made me feel so good about myself again! I would like to make it a continuous thing (every few years or so) to keep up the confidence in myself and see my progress.

Was your experience what you were expecting? If not, how was it different?

My experience was nothing like what I expected – but in the best way possible! It was so much more relaxed and fun, and truly went above and beyond anything I could have expected. Eric and Julie made me feel welcome and comfortable from the second I walked in, throughout the entire day, and even during my reveal. I couldn’t recommend them more for your boudoir shoot!

What was the best part of your experience? Would you change anything?

There isn’t anything I would change honestly! The experience was fantastic and the photos came out great. I can’t wait to do more in the future!

Can we tell your story as you wrote above?

Absolutely! I am open to my story being shared.

Is there anything extra you would like to tell us?

Thank you both so much for this amazing experience and for helping me gain my confidence back. I truly appreciate what you are doing and for helping women feel empowered!!!

Here are a few images from her shoot. Click to view them larger.

There are other images in our All Women’s VIP Private Facebook Page. Follow this link to join:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/657972971431614

October 30, 2021

I wanted to see myself as a sexy, strong and confident WOMAN…

admin Body Positive, Boudoir, Photography, Self-Empowerment

● Have you ever done a boudoir shoot before? If so, how does your shoot with Studio E compare to your prior experience?

No, it was something I had always had some interest in, but never pulled the trigger so to speak.

● Why did you do your boudoir shoot?

I am 4’9” and have been told my entire life how cute, small, and adorable I am for being so tiny. I wanted to do this to see myself as a sexy, strong and confident WOMAN, not as a cute little thing. I know that is how my husband sees me, and I wanted to see that for myself.

● What was your favorite part of the session?

My favorite part was the posing. I was kind of intimidated when looking online, but Julie and Eric make it easy, fun, and you definitely get into a place where you are just feeling the whole vibe.

● What did doing this shoot do for your self confidence, self worth, and self image? Tell us your story.

I always say I am not a photogenic person. While my husband is super supportive and always building me up, I didn’t always feel like I deserved it. When we went to my reveal I was blown away. I left the session and my reveal feeling like a completely confident and beautiful woman who my husband sees all of the time. I don’t even know how to explain it, but you will walk a little taller (hehehe) and feel…powerful.

● Was your experience what you were expecting? If not, how was it different?

I didn’t know what to expect, but it was so much more than I ever could have imagined.

● What was the best part of your experience? Would you change anything?

The reveal! Eric gives sneak peeks the whole time he is doing the shoot, but to see what the result is….wow.

● Is there anything extra you would like to tell us?

THANK YOU!!!!!!!! You guys really are amazing, awesome, and super cool. I enjoyed everything and am so excited to have these pictures to look back on…until I decide to do another session in the future 😉

Your story is an email or phone call away… let us know when you’re ready.

June 25, 2021

I Thought I Would Be Nervous In Front Of The Camera

admin Body Positive, Boudoir, Photography, Self-Empowerment

Ms M shares some thoughts after her session about the experience and her reasons for doing it.

-Have you ever done a boudoir shoot before? If so, how does your shoot with Studio E compare to your prior experience?

I have not, it’s something I always wanted to do and felt like I couldn’t for a variety of reasons (wasn’t happy with my body, my ex-spouse wouldn’t have liked it, money, etc).

-Why did you do your boudoir shoot?

I wanted to celebrate FINALLY feeling free to do what I want, when I want. In my teens, my Dad’s alcoholism had him saying very hurtful things that ultimately I allowed to damage my self-worth/self-confidence. I later married someone who was a narcissist who used gaslighting as a way to manipulate me into changing the way I viewed myself. My Dad died in 2017, I asked for a divorce that same year, and it was finally finalized in February of 2020. This experience was a celebration of breaking the chains that I felt was weighing me down.

-What was your favorite part of the session?

It’s hard to pick a favorite part, just like it was hard to pick which pictures I wanted to keep. I think the reveal shocked me the most. I wasn’t expecting to like the pictures so much!

-What did doing this shoot do for your self confidence, self worth, and self image? Tell us your story.

My lovely boyfriend is constantly complimenting me and building me up. It is hard to accept compliments, or see myself the way he sees me. These images made me see myself in a different light. I actually felt “sexy” for the FIRST time in my life! I finally feel like I truly love myself inside & out.

-Was your experience what you were expecting? If not, how was it different?

Not at all. I thought I would be nervous in front of the camera, and I wasn’t at all. Julie was excellent in guiding me with what to do. Even if I wasn’t great at taking direction, she would literally demonstrate if need be.

-What was the best part of your experience? Would you change anything?

It’s hard to pick a best part. I loved it all!

-Is there anything extra you would like to tell us?

I just really loved this experience. I’m grateful I came across your ad!

This experience is what we provide to every client and is life-changing in so many ways. Let us know when you are ready for yours.

May 15, 2021

It Made Me See Myself Through My Husband’s Eyes

admin Body Positive, Boudoir, Photography, Self-Empowerment

Ms B shares some thoughts after her session about the experience and her reasons for doing it.

-Have you ever done a boudoir shoot before? If so, how does your shoot with Studio E compare to your prior experience?

No, this was my first time

-Why did you do your boudoir shoot?

I’ve had a few friends do them and they had great experiences. Since we’ve had to experience Covid 19 limitations, I wanted to do something completely unexpected for me. Something that my husband will cherish for many years to come.

-What was your favorite part of the session?

Playing dress up. The attention from the makeup and hair artist , to having looks created for you. It’s like a pampered day for yourself. The affirmations from the Studio E staff helped me feel completely comfortable and relaxed.

-What did doing this shoot do for your self confidence, self worth, and self image? Tell us your story.

It made me see myself through my husband’s eyes. You feel beautiful, sexy. Once you see the beautiful photos that Eric creates you will have those feelings all over again. I’ve been told, “You were glowing after your shoot, like on Cloud 9.” Then again after the photo consult, I had that Cloud 9 glow again. I can’t wait for the finished products.

-Was your experience what you were expecting? If not, how was it different?

I had no expectations, I didn’t know what to think. I don’t consider myself a sexual being or Girly , and usually don’t like selfies. This experience changed all that. You truly see yourself differently, in such a beautiful, tasteful, alluring way.

-What was the best part of your experience? Would you change anything?

For me there were several; Each time Eric would show you a glimpse of what he sees behind the camera lens was a confidence boost. You can do this, yes that’s you!!

I’ve never had professional outdoor pics before, let alone outside in a thong bodysuit.👀 Eric and Julie challenge you. They’re like: next we are over here, posed like this, and your mind and body just say, “OKAY , give me more, what’s next. I can do this! “

This experience is what we provide to every client and is life-changing in so many ways. Let us know when you are ready for yours.

March 24, 2021

A Session With Ms. E

admin Body Positive, Boudoir, Photography, Self-Empowerment Boudoir, Boudoir photography, Boudoir Session, Central Illinois boudoir photographer, Chicago boudoir photography, Kankakee boudoir photography, Luxury Boudoir, Studio E Boudoir

After you schedule your session, you may have doubts about your decision. “I’m too old for this”, “I need to lose a few pounds”, “They won’t be able to get any good images of me” and whatever your mind may come up with.

We hate to discount your thoughts, but none of these are valid reasons for not experiencing you own Luxury Boudoir Session. You will see amazing images of the woman you see in the mirror every day. You may even start to believe in your beauty (like others do already).

Don’t put it off too long. We’d love to talk with you and answer any of your questions and help you understand the process.

This mother of six scheduled hers for many reasons and was thrilled with the results. You will be thrilled with yours as well… we guarantee it.

May 21, 2020

How To Pose Like A Pro!

admin Body Positive, Boudoir, Helpful Hints, Photography

The #1 question everyone is dying to know the answer to: How do you pose so many different types of women?!

When it comes down to it, there are a few easy rules anyone can follow, to make their body type look its best. No matter your weight, height or body type, try these tips to pose like a pro next time a camera is pointed your way!

1. Picture a Clock

Think of your space as a clock. If the person holding the camera is at 12:00, you’re going to want to angle your hips so one is 1:00 and the other is at 7:00. Easy, right? But it makes all the difference!

2. Place Your Weight

No matter what body shape you’re rocking, put your weight on your back leg is an easy way to master the camera angle. Bend your front knee, for even more of a pop!

3. Place Your Arms

Wondering where your arms go? Try this tip: place your arm that’s closest to the camera on your hip, then go up 2 inches.

4. Position Your Face

A great smile is worth a million words, right? What most people don’t think of is how your face position can make or break that million. Move your face towards the camera, pull your chin forward like a turtle, and then down slightly.

5. Relax your Shoulders

Lastly, relax your shoulders down. Most of us women hold tension in our shoulders, and believe me, you can tell. Take a load off, and let those shoulders down.

Here’s a simple selfie of me with my cell phone. See the difference? These photos were taken only minutes apart! In the first image (left) you can see that I’m square to the camera, with my arms directly beside my body. In the second image (right) I separated my arm from my body, and shifted my weight back. Remember: When your arms are directly beside your body, you increase your body by a FULL ARM. No one wants that. So, hands on hips ladies! Hands on hips!

I hope this little tutorial helped!

May 19, 2020

What To Wear For Your Boudoir Session

admin Body Positive, Boudoir Boudoir, Boudoir photography, Lingerie, Studio E Boudoir, What to wear

Do you need help with what to wear for your Boudoir Session? A lot of our clients want to book a shoot but they are overwhelmed by what to wear and where to shop.

The best thing about booking a shoot with us is that we walk you through your wardrobe selection. Here are some quick tips:

-CHOOSE muted/matte/primary/pastel colors. A great idea is to pick some lingerie that will be the colors of your wedding.
-Bring at least one killer bra (with good support) and panty set.

(Both sets from Victoria’s Secret)

– If you are self-conscious about your middle, bring at least one corset or bodysuit. Shapewear is PERFECT also. Fitted things will actually be more flattering! We want to show your curves!
Here are some examples of bodysuits:

(Left image Victoria’s Secret, Right image Torrid)

– When choosing corsets, stick with corsets with a sweetheart neckline. When corsets are straight in the bust area it will flatten your girls instead of flattering them!

(Corset from Yandy)

-Shapewear is often over looked, but it is a GREAT option! It is SUPER flattering and looks incredible in images!

(Image from Spanx)

– Lace and layers look great. Intricate lingerie photographs beautifully!

(Image from Love Honey)

– Remember thigh highs and a garter belt.

(Left from Bed Time Flirt, Right from Fredericks of Hollywood)

– Bring SKIN TONE and BLACK heels. The higher/skinnier the heels the better. The right heel can lengthen and slim your legs! Here are some examples:

(Both from Nine West)

If you would like to find out more information about booking your boudoir shoot, you can contact us!

May 10, 2020

5 Lingerie Options That Will Drop Them In Their Tracks

admin Body Positive, Boudoir, Helpful Hints

When you’re starting out in the world of lingerie, knowing what to wear can be more than a little intimidating. But, that’s okay. You’re not alone!

Whether you’re getting ready for a photoshoot, or just planning on having some fun, knowing the best lingerie options for your body type is the first step to rocking them.

The best part is you might actually be surprised by how many unique and beautiful ways you can wear these fun and fabulous lingerie styles.

(Both sets from Victoria’s Secret)

Bras and Panty Sets

Let’s start things off with a more traditional option, but flavored with a little zest. Try finding some bra and panty sets in pastel, muted, matte or primary colors to bring out your natural glow. Still not sure? You can never go wrong with black! Black is classic and timeless. If your midsection is an area you feel a little self-conscious about, try to avoid low-rise panties, and reach for the mid-rise, instead.

(Corset from Yandy)

Corsets

Corsets might be one of the best-known lingerie options, but the key is to keep them classy. Try finding one with a sweetheart neckline, to accentuate your curves. Corsets that have a straight bust area can actually flatten your girls, and nobody wants that!

(Left image Victoria’s Secret, Right image Torrid)

Body Suits/Shapewear

If you’re a little self-conscious about your midsection, try a sexy body suit. Not only is this style of lingerie perfect for showing off your curves, but shapewear can actually be more flattering, while leaving a bit more to the imagination.

(Image from Love Honey)

Lace and Layers

When you’re choosing lingerie don’t be afraid to go for those creative pieces. Lingerie should be anything but boring. Don’t be afraid to try more adventurous pieces that are intricately made, or use lace to bring in a bit of texture.

(Left from Bed Time Flirt, Right from Fredericks of Hollywood)

Accessories

Like every great outfit, your lingerie should be paired with the right accessories. And the great thing about these accessories is that they don’t have to be expensive! Try a pair of thigh highs and a garter belt (only about $8-$10 on Amazon) and watch your outfit jump to a whole new level.

*Pro Tip: When you’re looking for the perfect lingerie, stay away from g-strings. They tend to be unflattering on pretty much everyone.

April 25, 2020

Is There A Good Reason For A Boudoir Session?

admin Body Positive, Photography, Self-Empowerment Boudoir, Boudoir photography, Central Illinois boudoir photographer, Chicago boudoir photography, Kankakee boudoir photography

When looking at the reasons to do a Boudoir Session, you might think that there are only two reasons to do it: for yourself or for someone else. I think these qualify for the two main categories but the list of reasons covers more than you might think. Here are a few ideas that could help you understand why you might do a session.

You’re getting married and have heard of boudoir so you search it online and find that it is often used as a gift from the bride to the groom. This is an amazing gift, but not just for the groom. Our bridal clients say that it is just as much for themselves to document this time in their life.

Some clients book their session just as a day of self-love, celebrating who they are at that point in their life. Holidays and birthdays are often times when this is done but you don’t really need a reason to treat yourself.

Milestone birthdays are a great reason. We have clients celebrating their 30^th, 40^th, 50^th and 60^th birthday and looking great doing it. Some women do it a few years after getting married, before starting a family.

Once you are a parent there is often little time to pamper yourself. Mom-mode tends to put others first and leave you as the last thought. This is a great way to step away from that role for a day and remember what it feels like to be the center of attention and taken care of by others.

Some women come to us after a divorce, weight loss or other life changing event. It is so self-empowering to document the new-you. Others will use this as a holiday or anniversary gift.

There are even more reasons that will be covered in future posts. You may be thinking that your reason isn’t listed here. Great! Let us know what it is and we’ll share it with others.

Capturing the beauty of all women through amazing photography is our total focus and we welcome you to work with us at our studio. For even more information, join our private/women only Studio E Boudoir VIP Facebook group HERE.