1) What prompted you to start considering a boudoir session?

Boudoir sessions were something I knew existed but had truly never thought about until about two months ago. I got Bariatric surgery in May and have been really struggling to come to terms with how my body looked with six scars spread out over my stomach. Additionally, as a plus-size woman, I had already been struggling with body issues and finding it hard to love myself, so the scars made that even harder. I knew I just needed some sort of push to get me to see the beauty I knew was somewhere in me. I started looking online for body-positive photo shoots and eventually found myself in the boudoir world, which felt right to me because as much as I struggle to look at my new scars, they are a part of me now and I wanted a photoshoot where they would be on display to help me fall in love with myself again. 

2) What were you looking for on your search for finding the right photographer?

First off, I was looking for someone I felt safe with. That was the most important thing to me. I was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to look like all the beautiful models I see on boudoir websites so I was also looking for someone who mentioned or focused on coaching, and really walking clients through the process. I knew I wanted to do boudoir, but besides that I was clueless so I paid more attention to what their photos looked like and reviews that people had written about them. I wanted someone that had a studio included in the fee as well as hair and makeup but those were pretty much the only two technical necessities for me. I also wanted a place that was not absurdly expensive and someone who understood the importance of the shoot besides just making money.

 3) What was it about me and the studio that made you feel like you found the right match?

As soon as I had my consult call I knew I wanted to work with Nomi (I already knew but the call really cemented it). One thing that stuck out to me was her true passion for helping the people she works with. I’ve seen a lot of people who preach body positivity and “loving yourself” but who clearly don’t actually understand the meaning of that, or are just doing it because it feels like the right thing to do. Nomi 100% understands why her work is so important and I loved that atmosphere. From the first time I spoke to Nomi, I just felt taken care of and that is such an incredible asset to have as a person. Just the way she talks about her work is inspiring and made me so excited to have my shoot with her. She is genuinely excited to work with anyone and everyone who comes through her door and I commend her on that. Besides all of that, she’s fun, energetic, kind, beautiful, empowering, and my birthday twin! How could I not love her!  

4)How did it feel to say YES to yourself and book your shoot?

I have to be honest, as excited as I was to do the shoot, I was super nervous about actually getting the photos taken. But besides those anxieties, my only thought is that it felt like a true “treat yourself” moment. I felt like I had this little secret project that no one else knew about and that made me feel badass. 

5) What were the vibes of the session? 

Well first off, the studio is stunning so that set the mood immediately. They played some of my favorite songs, we had amazing conversations, and drank prosecco. All the while, I was getting my hair and makeup done which I always love, so it was a spectacular time. Truly a magical moment. But beyond the fun and welcoming environment, it also felt really professional. There is a fine line between getting too casual with your clients to the point where it’s unprofessional, but Nomi skated that line perfectly. She felt like a real friend but also it was clear she knew what she was doing and had a job to do in the moment. The session does go really fast and I could’ve stayed all day so that in itself speaks volumes about the session!  

6) How do you feel post-session?

I was quite literally smiling ear to ear all day. Nomi let me take a couple of pictures of her originals and I just could not stop looking at them. It sounds silly but I felt like I was looking at a whole new person. I even looked at them right before I went to bed because I was so happy. I felt truly incredible.  

7) What would you say to others who are considering a boudoir experience?

Truly the only thing I would say is — just do it. Whatever fears, insecurities, doubts, etc you have about it, they fall away as soon as you step foot into an environment like that. I genuinely believe every person, but especially women, should have an experience like this. Besides feeling sexy and empowered, it’s also just so much fun. Additionally, if money is an issue, Nomi is very aware of those concerns and has payment plan options that make this possible for many more people and that’s incredible. 

8) Any other thoughts/anecdotes/whatever you would like to share?

Just another post-session tidbit – I wore a shirt that showed my stomach out with friends for the first time maybe forever and that I owe to this session. And the fact that a photoshoot can do that… is so fucking powerful. 

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