She thought boudoir photography wasn't for her
 

If there’s one thing I hear a lot about doing a boudoir session it’s that most women think they can’t do it. Like there’s no possible way they could look or feel sexy. And that right there is the fear just blasting in your ears. It’s outside of your comfort zone, though, I totally get it. And I think that’s exactly what it is. We build up a wall of reasons of why we aren’t good for something so much that it just prevents you for even taking a peek through the crack of said built wall.

After every session in the DC boudoir studio, is “holy cow, I had no idea I’d be so comfortable!” And that’s exactly what I want your session to be like, so comfortable, you forget you’re in lingerie with a camera pointed at you :)

Read more about her experience and how she not only did this for herself, but created an amazing gift for her boo.

What inspired you to do a boudoir session?: Several years ago, a friend shared her boudoir photographs with me. She is a beautiful person and it was of no surprise that her photographs were amazing, but it was her empowering experience that kept me intrigued. Although I doubted I would ever find the courage to do this for myself, it never left my mind.

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What made you decide to schedule your session with Julie?: After moving to Virginia to take a new job, I felt I had a new and positive direction in my life. It was time to step out in faith and do something for myself that I never dreamed I would have the confidence to do. I began to do my research and stumbled across Julie Socher Boudoir. Her photographs were beautiful, tasteful, and professional, and the reviews from her clients were encouraging. It became clear that Julie was a one of a kind and the boudoir experience was so much more than simply taking photographs. Within days of finding her, I booked an appointment.

What was your biggest fear in doing a boudoir session? Did it come true? What happened instead?: I have suffered from low self-esteem/body image nearly all of my life. If there was something negative to focus my attention on, you can be sure that I did and I was certain everyone else did as well. As a little girl and even into adulthood, I would look through magazines at all the beautiful women and wish that I could be as perfect as they were. When I made the decision to book my boudoir session I was terrified to bare all in front of a stranger! Surely, I wouldn't be able to find anything flattering to wear, I would look gross, and I would be disappointed in myself once again. Then the miracle happened! None, and I mean none of this came true! When my photographs came in and I had my reveal, I literally cried. I couldn't believe that the person I was looking at was truly me. No more looking through those magazines; I am that beautiful woman!

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What was your favorite part of your boudoir session?: The entire boudoir session was an amazing experience; from the hair, makeup, help with outfits, music, and little goodies, it was every bit as wonderful as my friend described it to be. The best part of this entire experience was being given the ability to let go and embrace myself for who I truly am. Julie has such a way of helping you feel calm, confident, and beautiful. The empowerment is real! The boudoir session has changed my life; it has helped me see past all of the "so called" flaws and know that I am a strong and beautiful woman.

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If you were to recommend us to your best friend, what would you say?: Julie Socher Boudoir Portraiture is simply the best! She is truly a professional and a one of a kind person. Julie has a passion for photography and more importantly, a love for people. From the first meeting, it was evident she cared about each of her clients and wanted them to have the most wonderful experience. Julie made herself available throughout the entire process and made it easy and fun! Her studio is beautiful and her photographs are stunning and professional. If you are searching for an amazingly empowering experience, look no further!

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Boudoir is FOR YOU. Trust me.

 
In constant comparison since childhood, she finally saw herself as beautiful
 

I can totally relate to her. I remember looking through magazines when I was younger and comparing myself and just wishing I could be just like those girls.

That’s why boudoir photography is so amazing. It’s not only a transformation physically with putting on the outfits and getting glammed up with pro hair and makeup, but it’s a transformation in how you perceive yourself. And how now you can move forward with a bit more confidence. And that confidence trickles down into every aspect of your life. Why wouldn’t you want that?!

Read on to see how she overcame and how her boudoir session has changed the way she perceives herself.


What inspired you to do a boudoir session?: Several years ago, a friend shared her boudoir photographs with me. She is a beautiful person and it was of no surprise that her photographs were amazing, but it was her empowering experience that kept me intrigued. Although I doubted I would ever find the courage to do this for myself, it never left my mind.

What made you decide to schedule your session with Julie?: After moving to Virginia to take a new job, I felt I had a new and positive direction in my life. It was time to step out in faith and do something for myself that I never dreamed I would have the confidence to do. I began to do my research and stumbled across Julie Socher Boudoir. Her photographs were beautiful, tasteful, and professional, and the reviews from her clients were encouraging. It became clear that Julie was a one of a kind and the boudoir experience was so much more than simply taking photographs. Within days of finding her, I booked an appointment.

virginia-boudoir_0436.jpg

What was your biggest fear in doing a boudoir session? Did it come true? What happened instead?: I have suffered from low self-esteem/body image nearly all of my life. If there was something negative to focus my attention on, you can be sure that I did and I was certain everyone else did as well. As a little girl and even into adulthood, I would look through magazines at all the beautiful women and wish that I could be as perfect as they were. When I made the decision to book my boudoir session I was terrified to bare all in front of a stranger! Surely, I wouldn't be able to find anything flattering to wear, I would look gross, and I would be disappointed in myself once again. Then the miracle happened! None, and I mean none of this came true! When my photographs came in and I had my reveal, I literally cried. I couldn't believe that the person I was looking at was truly me. No more looking through those magazines; I am that beautiful woman!

What was your favorite part of your boudoir session?: The entire boudoir session was an amazing experience; from the hair, makeup, help with outfits, music, and little goodies, it was every bit as wonderful as my friend described it to be. The best part of this entire experience was being given the ability to let go and embrace myself for who I truly am. Julie has such a way of helping you feel calm, confident, and beautiful. The empowerment is real! The boudoir session has changed my life; it has helped me see past all of the "so called" flaws and know that I am a strong and beautiful woman.

virginia-boudoir_0437.jpg

If you were to recommend us to your best friend, what would you say?: Julie Socher Boudoir Portraiture is simply the best! She is truly a professional and a one of a kind person. Julie has a passion for photography and more importantly, a love for people. From the first meeting, it was evident she cared about each of her clients and wanted them to have the most wonderful experience. Julie made herself available throughout the entire process and made it easy and fun! Her studio is beautiful and her photographs are stunning and professional. If you are searching for an amazingly empowering experience, look no further!

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Ready for a transformation? I can’t wait to hear from you!

 
Get to know your Artist | Renata Kelly-Rippy
 

It’s time for another introduction of one of our Northern Virginia boudoir makeup artists who will most likely be scheduled to get you camera ready for your boudoir session.

Renata has also experienced a boudoir session with Julie Socher Boudoir so while you’re in her chair feeling all the nerves, she knows exactly how you feel and she will tell you all about it!

Here’s a little more about Renata and why she’s the pro when it comes to makeup and hair!


Are you in full glam mode everyday?
Heck no!  I'm just like any other girl on the go (Ha!) Over the last few years, I've mastered my go to everyday look that makes me feel "together".  I am a huge fan of having a Lippie Wardrobe (5 awesome lipsticks you feel great in) to switch things up.

What is your "go to" look for your own hair and makeup routine? 
My go to look is foundation, brows, blush and a great lip.  For my hair, I recently did a big chop and added color.  

What is your favorite boudoir makeup look?
Right now, I'm into fleshy/peachy looks.  I think its so sexy and fresh 

Working with a wide variety of clients, how do you manage different skin tones and hair textures?
Being a woman of color, when I first started doing makeup, it was really important for my clients to feel included.  I never want anyone to feel as if they can be beautiful or get the same experience different there skin tone or hair type.  This topic is coming up more and more in the industry and I love it.

What are your top 3 favorite products? 
Products are so overwhelming, even for makeup artists.  Everyday there is some amazing new product to try.  But right now, my favorites are LanoLips lip balm, Makeup Forever HD liquid foundation and NARS soft matte concealer

If you could tell your clients anything before their boudoir session, what would it be? 
You deserve this.  Enjoy this moment of freedom.  For me, it was finally learning to accept myself as I was.  Its the first step in learning about unconditional love.  Often we put stipulations on when we can love ourselves and that has to stop.  With each client, I learn something new about myself, the world and how important it is to connect with who we are on the inside.

Where can someone find you for services other than boudoir?

Website: www.renatalynettemakeup.com

FB page: https://www.facebook.com/renatalynettemua/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renatalynettebridalboudoir/

Email: renata@renatalynettemakeup.com

 
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Renata’s makeup by Melyssa Chisley IG:@makeup_lyssa