Are Boudoir Sessions Worth It? We talked to Beth to find out…
So let’s get down to it, what is the point of a Boudoir session? And, more than that, is there any point behind multiple Boudoir sessions? Why do our Divas keep returning for more?
We talked to Beth, a Diva who has been to us not just once but twice to ask why she came for her Boudoir photoshoot in the first place… and what kept her coming back.
Beth, as you reflect on how you have grown between your two Boudoir shoots with us, what comes to mind?
I was looking at my new photo album recently - and it’s incredible. I look at the contrast in my two shoots, alongside my feelings, and it is amazing.
As I sat on the sofa again this morning, it was astounding to feel not only so much more confident but to feel like I belong in myself. Which is something I did not feel two years ago when I first came to see you. Some of that is just life, and growing into myself, but I think I can attribute a huge portion to Divine Diva’s influence as a community. Two years ago, I had little to no belief in myself - whether that be abilities, looks, personality, and was most likely in a meeting to walk out without uttering more than 'hello' and 'goodbye'. Now, I will speak up and I am beginning to believe that I have something worth saying, but, more than that, I feel like I am starting to believe that I am not just taking up space in a room but that I can stand tall with my shoulders back, claiming the space as my own.
There have been some personal challenges over the last year, and so this second set of artwork was perfectly timed really, helping to bring me back to myself. I can see the growth from the first visit which made me feel the potential to be beautiful, these make me feel like I could be sexy, which is startling and wonderful all at once.
The two Boudoir shoots gave me the ability to see myself in a new way and helping point me to taking the steps myself. For a long time, I've felt very broken, unattractive, and unqualified for anything - almost like a broken statue that's been mended too many times. But I'm starting to feel more like a restored portrait, refined and worthy of attention, never unrepairable, merely in need of some care.
I know that a next step of my journey is likely a great deal of therapy to unpack some of my issues, but just by being a safe space to see myself how I could be you've helped me to acknowledge to myself that they exist which is no small feat.
That is so, so amazing to read Beth. To you, what was the value of coming back in for a second Boudoir experience with us?
While the first experience showed me an inner confidence I didn't know I had, the second experience helped me to actually utilise it. With the knowledge of how Diva Boudoir shoots go, it was so much easier to relax into it and enjoy every moment. The more intimate nature of the photographs, and the experimentation of some of them, showed me that I am actually sexy and that I can internally validate myself.
After the second shoot, I had the feeling from that day in my back pocket and I’ve felt myself reach into that moment at difficult moments to use what I felt to push through. I've had comments at work at how its been noticed that my confidence increased noticeably in the last few months.
What difference did you recognise in yourself when you came back for your Boudoir shoot the second time?
I was able to bring myself more fully to the experience. Despite how welcoming and amazing everyone was, the first time was still somewhat terrifying through the unknown. With the second, although the theme was unknown, the rest was like coming back to see friends for coffee and a chat, but I just happened to take my bra off at some point in there!
What would you say to someone considering whether to come back in for a second experience?
If you can, you should. I think its helped to show another side of me that the first shoot didn't, and its a reminder of all that was in that first shoot - it’s easy to forget some of it but this reinforces it. I didn't tell people because it felt extraordinarily vain, but having done it, it isn't about vanity at all (well, maybe a tiny bit) but being able to see yourself as others see you as well as being shown the potential you have within you to grow.
What did your second experience help you celebrate about yourself?
Who I am becoming, I don't believe we ever stop growing and changing but sometimes its hard to want to be that person, especially when you don't like who you see in the mirror. Having had the experience and now being able to look at the pictures, I can be happy that right now I am the best version of me for this moment. Weirdly, its also helped me care less about my appearance, I'm less bothered about making sure I have make-up on and look as spotless possible before leaving the house, unless it makes me comfortable.
Do you have any general tips for any Divas?
- Accept that it will be scary the first time, anything unknown is by default, but doing the scary thing is what helps you grow the most!
- Ask all the questions in your calls
- Don't agonize over your outfits, yes you want to be happy with them but they're the icing on the cake, you are the showstopper in the photos so comfort is key
What does your artwork make you feel every time you look at it?
It is like a little glow of pride inside me that I AM that person. I also get a little giddy looking at the more revealing pictures
remembering how comfortable I felt taking them. I have the urge to show them off to the whole world to show them who I am, but its highly inappropriate so instead I just get to enjoy them, and maybe one day share them with a partner.
Finally, any last message?!
Yes. I wanted to say that I know these are just my ramblings but if anyone is hesitant, know this - this is possible one of the best things I have ever chosen to do for myself.
Are you ready to see yourself in a new light? Or, are you a Diva who is ready to come back for a new experience and continue uncovering and celebrating new parts of your confidence? Whatsapp or call us on 01225 483151!