What lens do you see through?

I've been photographing boudoir sessions for years and I have learned many things, but there’s a few that stand out. 

One thing is how much body image affects us all. I knew ALL about my own issues I was carrying and of course, I didn't think I was alone in that sentiment!-But I didn't realize just how much we all share the same negative messages about ourselves. 

And this is not limited to a certain size, shape or age! I’ve literally photographed them all. It impacts EVERYBODY. Body image and negative messaging affects men too but that's still a taboo topic in most places.

I really started to realize this when I would have clients come in, who in my mind were as close to real life SUPER MODELS as you could imagine. How could they possibly have body image issues when they were what society (at this moment) deemed ideal?! I would find myself literally in awe of how beautiful they were. Then they would bring up their insecurities. Sometimes they would share a laundry list of things that were "wrong" as I stood shocked because I could see none of that. And the things I could see–those unique qualities that make people interesting- only made them even more beautiful. 

I see that so clearly now. And I love showing my clients how to see past that negative filter they are carrying when they look at themselves. I give them a NEW LENS to view themselves through. 

Hands down, the most surprising thing I've learned as a boudoir photographer is that I need to look at myself the way I look at my clients-use that same new lens to see myself. I knew very well that boudoir sessions with me could help women see themselves differently-I just didn't realize that I’d start to see myself DIFFERENTLY as well.