Boudoir photography

March 22, 2024

WOW, this really is me!

admin Body Positive, Boudoir, Photography, Self-Empowerment Boudoir, Boudoir photography, Central Illinois boudoir photographer, Chicago boudoir photography, fitness, Kankakee boudoir photography, Lingerie, Outdoor Boudoir, Perception, Studio E Boudoir 0

Ms S is the mother of five. If you have kids, you know that one is a lot of work, but five is a serious commitment. She has a job that keeps her pretty active and is a runner on top of that which has her in pretty good shape… but, like many women, she couldn’t see that in the mirror.

This experience changed her perspective on the “woman in the mirror” and I think you’ll agree that, together, we created some amazing images to verify that.

Here are her answers to our questions about her session:

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

No.

Why did you do your boudoir shoot?

To gain confidence in myself again.

What was your favorite part of the session?

Seeing myself in a new light.

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

This made me think of myself as beautiful just as I am and see myself differently. I love looking at my pictures and saying , WOW this really is me!

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

Yes, it was what I expected.

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

Seeing my pictures, both during the photo shoot and later. No, I wouldn’t change anything.

March 16, 2024

The Pictures Came Out Pretty Hot!

Ms E made a big change in her life when it came to taking care of herself and her body. It started with joining a gym and lead to fitness competitions around the United States. This really changed her look… but she still didn’t see herself the way she would after her session with Studio E Boudoir.

She has a degree in engineering, which is a traditionally male dominated field. When you talk with her, you know that she has the confidence to hold her own in that world.

Here are her answers to our questions about her session:

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

No.

Why did you do your boudoir shoot?

Just wanted to do something outside of my comfort zone.

What was your favorite part of the session?

Changing into all the outfits.

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

I just wanted to do something that showed the other side of me. The non-competition-body me and what it would look like – The pictures came out pretty hot.

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

The experience was better than expected. The whole shoot was about me – I NEVER had that type of treatment. It was special.

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

I liked it all.

March 7, 2023

“Because I Was Insecure With My Body”

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

Ms M answers a few questions about her experience from her point of view. I believe we exceeded her expectations in every way.

● 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.

● Why did you do your boudoir shoot?

I did the photo shoot because I was insecure with my body and wanted to see what others saw, for the first time.

● What was your favorite part of the session?

Favorite part of the session was the laughs and the first couple of pics I saw of myself… I was happy. I also loved the encouragement I was getting from both of you guys.

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

The photo shoot did a lot! I did something that was out my comfort zone and took a leap of faith in doing something by myself. The pictures are for me to look back on when I’m feeling bad about myself. I’ll see those and be like, ” Damn, I was hot!”

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

I was expecting no guidance on what to do… thinking the worst . (It was totally the opposite.)

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

The best part was when I came out of the dressing room the first time and everyone was like, ” WOW! I love the color.”… Major confidence boost.

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

You guys are amazing in every sense of the word. Your kind words made me come out my shell and love how I look and I thank you.

February 17, 2023

His initial response was “What?! Whoaaaa!”

Ms T brought one of her husband’s guitars to the session for us to incorporate it her images. When he saw the images, he knew that she had him in mind. Here are her words about the experience.

I couldn’t be more pleased with my Studio E Boudoir experience.

I’d heard about them through a friend’s recommendation and made an appointment for two reasons:

To give my husband a special gift for our first married Christmas.
To step outside of my comfort zone and challenge myself to feel sexy.

From my first call with Eric, throughout the whole process with him and Julie, I felt so comfortable and informed each step of the way. They’re very talented at what they do and they have an amazing set up. They gave amazing direction for each shot and made me feel like a model. They also have great products to choose from.

Any question you have, they’ll be able to answer. I felt sexy and confident. And, my husband was thrilled with the gift. His initial response was “what?! Whoaaaa!”

June 13, 2022

I Would Like To Bring A Harley

Ms J came to her session after a snowy day and was still able to convince her boyfriend to bring his Harley Davidson motorcycle on a trailer for her to use during the session. We had an amazing time working with her. She shares her experience below in her own words.

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

I have done a boudoir shoot before, which is why I sought out a second option… one that focuses more on boudoir and the overall experience. The first was not all about me and did not give the special feeling of the focus being in making me comfortable and to ensure I enjoyed the experience. I was there with others and we overlapped; one was getting photos, one was getting hair and makeup done, one was waiting, etc… This also did not allow for overall privacy.

The attention to detail that Eric and Julie focus on was so much more than my previous experience (where I was photographed in clothing with wrinkles and hair in places it shouldn’t have been.) Also, the review of outfits and assistance in pairing with shoes and accessories that Eric and Julie do was not even a part of my previous session.

I also felt important prior to the session with Eric and Julie. They got to know me and “my why” with a questionnaire prior to the session. It was reassuring that they care and want this experience to be the best it can be. When I arrived it was obvious that they took my answers to heart and truly prepared to make the entire session about me and what I was wanting from the experience… and the reveal proved just that. I had such a hard time narrowing down my photos (and in my previous session I had a more difficult time picking the photos that I wanted to keep.)

Why did you do your boudoir session?

I did my session for a variety of reasons. I’m getting older and luckily (even though I am not fully satisfied with my body) I am becoming more confident with my body. I have gone through some recent life changes, was in the midst of a divorce, and have finally begun to put some focus on myself and finding true enjoyment in life’s adventures. I wanted to celebrate changes and overall love of myself as a sexy strong woman.

What was your favorite part of the session?

The outfits and also that I got to bring a rather large prop (Motorcycle). I had so much fun preparing for the session and finding fun, sexy and strong outfits. I worked with Eric in order to bring a large prop of my own to the studio and his willingness to accommodate to make my vision come true was fantastic AND I was pleasantly surprised by the research Eric and Julie did to find the right poses! And, the sneak peeks during the shoot are wonderful! It gives you a glimpse of what is to come and encourages you to be more comfortable and confident in front of the camera.

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

I feel I answered a lot of this in the previous questions. I did this, partially, because I have come to love myself as a woman. Many around me have always seen me as confident and I have even been called intimidating more times than I would like because of the way I carry myself. But, I have parts of my body that I have NEVER been truly happy with, but as I have aged I am owning my body and having more pride in what it has gotten me through. I’m nearly 50 and have carried three children all while working towards and maintaining a career, family outings and friendships. So, I was happy to take this time to celebrate me and the body that has carried me to this point in my life.

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

Even though I had a “failed” boudoir previously with a different photographer, this experience was still more than I was expecting. I was pleasantly surprised with the preparation of my outfits and the attention to detail. The way Eric and Julie work together for posing and positioning is fabulous and made the experience better than I expected.

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

Being able to bring my own prop and the reveal!!! Wow, I was blown away. I wanted to keep almost every single picture. So even though it was difficult to get rid of photos and was also my favorite part to choose the photos and items to order.

Is there anything extra you would like to tell us?

Just to thank you for making this a wonderful experience.

February 25, 2022

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

● 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.

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 0

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.

June 24, 2020

3 Makeup Styles To Rock Your Boudoir Photos!

admin Boudoir, Helpful Hints, Photography Boudoir photography, Central Illinois boudoir photographer, Kankakee boudoir photography, makeup styles 0

No two women are the same, so why should their makeup be?

Don’t let mountains of makeup options stop you from having the time of your life at your boudoir shoot. Whether you’re foxy glam, natural vixen, or looking for that pinup style, a boudoir photo shoot is the perfect time to rock what makes you spectacularly you. And the best part is that you aren’t alone! Our in-house makeup artist will help you create whichever fun and flirty style you decide.

GLAM!

Bring on the contour! This look is all about awakening your inner vixen. For glam, think: lining, smudging and accentuating to bring out that smokey eye. Your lips are another great asset, so we’ll be lining and shining those beauties, as well. Lashes are a must for this look, but don’t be intimidated by the idea of wearing false ones. A little lash-inspiration is easy to come by with the help of our makeup artist.

Remember, you’ll want to choose one main focal point for your glam boudoir look, whether it’s eyes or lips. A good rule-of-thumb is to pair dark eyes with a nude or lighter lip, and a bright lip with a lighter or more neutral eye. Don’t worry our expert makeup artists have it totally under control!

NATURAL BEAUTY!

If you’re more a natural beauty type of girl, you can still rep your style while wearing some great makeup. You’ll start off by moisturizing (the secret to all around great makeup sessions), and then use a concealer to lighten up under your eyes.

For a natural glow you can add a light powder foundation and a little cheek color, if you’re feeling it. And for your eyes? Think a muted shadow over your eyelid, with a touch of mascara, or a more natural style of false eyelashes. Think about trying a matte natural or nude color tone for your lip!

PIN UP!

For the retro girl who has everything, a boudoir shoot is the perfect platform to show off her style. If you’re looking for more of a vintage vibe keep things classy with your makeup while emphasizing some glamorous points. The key to pinup boudoir style is not to overdo it!

For brows, which are the foundation of the pinup look, your stylist will keep them well shaped, and filled with a brow pencil just a shade or two darker than your natural hair color. Your eyelids will stay neutral, emphasized with either a beige or taupe color variation. Ready to get that perfect cat-eye? None of us truly are, but with the help of our makeup artist you can keep the retro vibe alive. Top it off with a red lip, and you’re ready to roll!

No matter what type of look you want our expert stylists have it under control!

May 19, 2020

What To Wear For Your Boudoir Session

admin Body Positive, Boudoir Boudoir, Boudoir photography, Lingerie, Studio E Boudoir, What to wear 0

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!

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 0

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.