Stop Letting Just Anyone Photograph Your Body

Not all who claim to be boudoir photographers are boudoir photographers.

I know that’s a bold statement, but it’s one I feel deeply. Because boudoir isn’t about a pretty outfit and a hotel room or a creek. It’s not about sexy for the sake of sexy. It’s about self-worth. And self-worth is delicate.

In fact, I believe that boudoir photography is just as sensitive as newborn photography. Hear me out. When you're photographing a newborn, you're aware of how fragile they are. You handle them gently. You move slow. You understand that everything matters…how warm the room is, the way they’re held, every single detail.

Why wouldn’t we treat a woman’s self-image with the same tenderness?

I’ve had women walk into my studio with photos from other photographers—some of whom are incredibly talented in their own right. Photographers I admire. But let me be clear: not every great photographer is meant to do this kind of work. It breaks my heart when a woman comes to me and says “I did this once before and I cried I felt so awful about myself..” or “I did this before and I didn’t like any of the photos..” then they show me images where they haven’t been posed properly, their images aren’t even retouched (I’m saying removing bra strap lines and fixing outfit mishaps..)..

They may create stunning family photos in a golden field. They may capture beautiful memories of you with your children or partner. And that’s a gift. And trust me, I’ll refer a good photographer ANY day for something that is in their wheelhouse. But boudoir photography? It’s sacred, specialized, and meant for professionals only.

But that’s not this work.

I don’t shoot family sessions anymore. It’s not that I can’t—I’ve done them for years. It’s just that I’ve chosen to focus on something more vulnerable. Something that sits closer to the bone. I work with women who want to feel good in their skin. Women who are stepping into the discomfort of being seen, really seen. Women who want to reclaim something. Women who are on their wedding day. Women who want to feel beautiful even at 38 weeks pregnant.

That’s why I do in-person sales. That’s why I sit with you in a reveal session, candles lit, warm tea in hand, and we look at your images together.

And I ask you: How does this image make you feel? And we talk about it. Because boudoir is emotional work.

You are not just booking a photoshoot with me. You are entering a space that’s designed to honor your story, your body, and your beauty in a way that’s rooted in care.

And that deserves the same respect, gentleness, and skill as photographing a newborn baby.

Because sometimes the most fragile thing in the room is not a baby…sometimes, it’s the woman finally allowing herself to be seen.

I moved back to Appalachia to be close to family when I lost my mother. I stayed here because I realized how much our community aches for the ability to feel empowered and good in their skin.