Showing Up For Yourself — Evansville Indiana Boudoir Photographer

This beautiful friend of mine scheduled this boudoir session for herself — her first ever — after getting out of a relationship that wasn’t good for her. She made the choice to do something for herself to make her feel good for the first time in a long time, and I’m so glad that she did. I think it’s so powerful when a woman does something purely for herself. These photos were taken a while ago, and since this season of her life ended, I’ve noticed that the confidence and happiness that she radiates now is so big and bright. She’s a force for good in this world, and I don’t think she knows it, but she constantly inspires me to be my best self.

I think it’s really important to note the “why” behind her session — she showed up for herself that day. She showed up for herself when she reached out, when she booked the session, and when we got to the studio. SHE SHOWED UP. I obviously don’t want to downplay this, and it’s because I know firsthand what a challenge it can be to show up for yourself. Not only can it be a challenge to show up, but it can also be so easy to make excuses and stay in your comfort zone. But we don’t play small around here. We show up for ourselves every day, which means we cultivate trust in ourselves and strength in knowing we can do hard things.

I can’t tell you how honored I am to be with my clients on their journeys with self-confidence, self-acceptance, and self-love.

I’ll let her tell you about her experience, because I know she can do it a million times better than I can. Keep reading to find out all about why she booked a session with me, and how it made her feel! And of course, to see more of her stunning photos!!

Why did you choose to invest in a boudoir session?

I decided to do a boudoir session after some time of debating. I was super afraid because of what people would think/say and because of my self image issues. But I decided to do it for myself because I was tired of believing the lie that I’m not beautiful because I don’t look like “most” women. I think it was also a milestone marker for me and a way for me to break free from my past relationship - where I was made to feel worthless and never felt good enough. I wanted to invest in something that I KNEW would make me feel confident and connected to myself, and this body that I call home. I knew that doing this was going to get me one step closer in this journey of reclaiming my body and this life as MINE.

Why did you choose Eleanor Elaine Photography for your session?

I chose to use Ellie because I have seen her work and am ALWAYS blown away by her work. Also because I knew she would encourage me and allow me to feel beautiful and comfortable. I knew she would be willing to do any style and that she would guide me when I didn’t know what to do with my hands! Haha! Ellie is the sweetest, most caring soul I’ve met. She is a good friend and better sister. Also, she made me feel like Beyoncé - I knew I would feel empowered and more myself.

How did you feel before your session, and what did you do to prepare?

I was SUPER NERVOUS. But I was also excited as heck. I just told myself that I was doing this for ME. I looked at Ellie’s Pinterest page for inspiration and took Kate shopping with me to pick out some things to wear.

What were you most nervous about before your session?

That I would be uncomfortable in my skin in front of the camera.

How did you feel during your session?

I felt SO comfortable in front of Ellie because of the way she made the environment feel and her positive talk. At first I felt awkward but as the session went on I started to become more comfortable and sexy.

What was your favorite outfit, and why?

My favorite was my light pink top. I have never worn anything like that and I felt so damn good in my skin. I LOVE that you can see my tattoos, and I felt free. It made me feel lighter and sexy and bold.

How did you feel after your session?

After leaving, I couldn’t wait to see the photos! I also felt a sense of  liberation and self confidence I hadn’t felt in a very long time. It was the first time in six years I felt beautiful and sexy. After getting out of a toxic relationship I was having a hard time believing I was valuable and beautiful and worthy - after this shoot I felt so  empowered and free to be myself. I felt beautiful and realized that I deserve the best of the best. It’s incredible what a little bit of positive talk and encouragement can do for the soul.

Would you do it again?

Yes. 10,000x yes.

How did you feel when you received your gallery and saw your images?

I thought to myself, “Wow. Who is she?! There’s no way that’s me!” I actually cried and immediately called my best friend. I was excited and felt better about myself that I had in a long damn time.

Which photo from your session was your favorite, and why?

I think the one of me on the bed in the white button down where I’m kind of looking down at the bed. It’s a side of me not a lot of people get to see and I feel absolutely powerful when I look at it. I know I deserve more than what I allow myself to have. I see a woman that has been through the mud and still continues to give love and grace despite it all, and one that decided to keep going when she wanted to give up. I see a body that I am thankful for and that continues to go on even after I neglected it. I love her. I love it.

What would you say to someone who's unsure about doing a session?

That it’s okay to be nervous and it’s okay to ask questions! And also that if they choose Ellie, to not feel like it is only “sexy” photos, and that she will help you pick the vibe you want for your shoot. That it’s fun and it gives you the chance to be free and yourself.

Did you enjoy this post?

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 here to get in touch!