Advocating for Yourself During Your Session – Evansville Indiana Boudoir Photographer

A boudoir session isn’t just a photoshoot; it’s a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

As a client of mine, your comfort and agency are the highest priority to me. In my studio, I’m dedicated to holding space for you to be yourself and be an equal collaborator, so it's crucial to exercise your voice during the process. I encourage you to be your biggest advocate, especially during a session. With love, I’m not a mind reader! I want you to be as comfortable and confident as possible, and part of being a trauma-informed boudoir photographer includes honoring our humanity.

I don’t expect you to set all your needs aside during your time in the studio, and it’s important to me that you feel confident asking for what you need.

But I know that sometimes it can feel awkward to speak up when you’re already in a setting that’s outside your comfort zone, so I want to give you some examples of ways that you can (and should!) advocate for yourself during your session. It doesn’t have to be as intimidating as it may sound!

Here are some examples of things you can say during your session to let me know what you want or need:

"Can we take a 5-minute break?"

Your well-being is the priority, and if you find yourself needing a moment, don't hesitate to ask for a short break. This allows you to breathe and center yourself, take a minute away from posing, and ensure that the experience remains positive and enjoyable the entire time.

"Can we pause? I need to get a drink of water."

Hydration is key, and I totally understand the importance of staying refreshed during your session! You’ll see me taking sips throughout the session too. Taking a break for water not only contributes to your physical well-being but can also serve as a mindful pause, allowing you to be fully present in the moment.

"Before we start shooting in my next outfit, I need to use the restroom."

Clear communication is essential! If you need to attend to personal needs, whether that’s using the restroom or changing your menstrual products, expressing that to me during your session is never an issue. I’ll always appreciate your openness and allow you to take the time that you need!

"I saw this pic on your Instagram/Pinterest that I want to try, can I show it to you?"

Your active participation in the creative process is always encouraged! If you come across an idea or pose you'd like to try, sharing it with me before or during your session fosters the collaborative experience and ensures that the images we capture align with your vision for your session. Plus, I always love trying something new!

"I'm feeling uncomfortable in this outfit; can I go ahead and change into my next one?"

Your comfort is non-negotiable. Full stop! If a particular outfit is causing discomfort, whether physically or emotionally, please don't hesitate to express that to me. Changing into another outfit whenever you want allows you to maintain confidence and ensures that what we’re doing during the session aligns with your personal boundaries.

"I need to give my knees/hips/wrists a break for a sec."

Your boudoir session involves various poses that may put strain on certain parts of the body. My clients make it look easy, but it can be a workout! If at any time during your session you need a moment to stretch or rest, all you have to do is let me know. I’ll appreciate your honesty and will always prioritize your comfort.

"I'm feeling a little warm; can we turn the fan on?"

It’s something you may not think about beforehand, but temperature plays a significant role in your comfort during your session! I’ll check in with you throughout your session about your temperature, and if you find yourself feeling too warm or too cold, don't hesitate to ask for adjustments. I’ll be more than happy to turn on the fan or turn off the A/C!

"Can I check my hair/makeup in the mirror before we continue?"

Even though I can see what you look like, and will always do my best to make sure your hair is in place and makeup isn’t smudged, you know your face exponentially better than I do and maintaining your desired look throughout the session is important. If you need to check your hair or makeup, you can do so any time! Open communication ensures that you feel confident and ready for each moment captured; you never have to apologize for that.

Remember, your boudoir photography session is a collaboration, and I’m there to support you every step of the way!

Advocating for yourself with phrases like these ensures that your experience is not only visually stunning but also emotionally empowering. Your voice matters, and by expressing your needs, you’re contributing to the creation of a beautiful, respectful space in which we’re both honoring our wants and needs. And I want you to know that any time you speak up for yourself during your session, I’m so so proud of you.

Like what you read here?

I would love to have you in the studio so you can have an experience like this for yourself! Whether you’re all in and ready to go, need some more info before we get started, or are on the fence and want to talk things through before you commit – I’m here for ya! Click the button below to get in touch!