Mar 12

Mar 12 THE INTROVERT'S GUIDE TO A BOUDOIR PHOTO SHOOT

Cate Scaglione | Editor, Photographer, Business Owner

(C) 2018 LifeAsFineArt.com by Cate Scaglione

My profession as a New Jersey boudoir photographer sees me working with ladies on boudoir photo shoots day in and day out. However, no matter how long I've been doing this, I never lose sight of the fact that for many, this is an intimidating adventure to embark upon.

In fact, one of the most common phrases I hear from every single potential client is always the same:

"I've never done anything like this before."

You are not alone. In fact, most of us DON'T spend every day lingerie modeling and stripping down for a total stranger. And, even people who are accustomed to the idea, like ME, sometimes feel a bit shy getting in front of the camera. Some people are simply uncomfortable in the spotlight.

My one of my best friends, JT, is a professional photographer. Though JT and I grew up in the same neighborhood, we didn't meet until about seven years ago. Ever since, she is my pal, my "work wife", my travel partner, my confidante, and my daily dose of intelligent wit. In her former life, JT was a scientist; a real badass brainiac. She thinks logically and practically most of the time; And, as brainy and stunningly beautiful as she is, she doesn't necessarily describe herSELF as the prototypical sexpot. And, she is DEFINITELY not comfortable as the center of attention. We understand each other well.

But the thing is-- there really is no "prototypical sexpot." Is there? There is just YOU. And that is actually what interests me most as your boudoir photographer:

SEEING AND CONVEYING YOUR OWN DEFINITION OF SEXY.

JT was not only an underwater scientist, but her brainpower merges with incredible creativity as an underwater photographer. In fact, she is one of the best underwater photographers in the country, if not internationally too. She spends most of her time in Florida's lakes, natural springs and swimming pools in a wetsuit -- definitely not in delicate lacy lingerie.

JT feels most powerful and sexy in her element... and so we decided that the best way to capture this mother of two teenagers was exactly as she is... Natural, Athletic, Serious, Quiet, Playful, Confident, Casual, and Strong. JT's elegance comes not from her apparel -- but her natural beauty and quiet, an intelligent intensity that radiates from her every pore.

The truth is, I often find that the more quiet, shy types of clients have the best boudoir shoots. I think it is because they have less preoccupation about their poses and natural expressions --or how others may look at them. In essence, authentic beauty shines through. I think authenticity is the greatest kind of beauty. You don't know how to define it; it just feels right.

I promised JT I would give her a session that exactly fit her vision of herself, while we were teachoing at a workshop in South Beach, Florida. (JT photographed me underwater there too!)
JT, an acclaimed introvert, is my "poster girl" for the boudoir-shy. She generously shared a few words with us about her experience to help others who can relate:

"Even though I work with my own clients to be bold and proud t was difficult for me to do the same. I am not someone who wears lingerie so she knew just what to do. As I live in my bathing suit ( also an underwater shooter) she knew the perfect look would be that with sweats. The first one I saw made me feel incredible. I had I idea that look could be so incredibly sexy."

In addition to my prints, I have an app on my phone that Cate made me. Whenever I am feeling overworked or just plain "blah" I check out the images and feel renewed in my confidence."

"How could you not choose Cate as your boudoir photographer? She is fun, easy going and truly understands your fears. Honestly, had I known I'd feel this amazing, I think I would have brought more and shot more!!!

If anyone is wondering about a session but hesitant -- don't put it off. I am the kind of person who doesn't like to be in the spotlight. But after this experience, I am so confident in myself and hold my head up much higher. I cannot recommend cate enough especially for those of us introverts!" -J.T.

ARE YOU AN INTROVERT WONDERING IF THIS EXPERIENCE MIGHT BE RIGHT FOR YOU? We would love to hear from you. To inquire, You can also view more from JT's session in the slideshow below.