J’adore…Boudoir featuring Kiss Me Deadly

Yeay!  J’adore boudoir by Jess Petrie is here!  Doing boudoir has been on my list for a while … since I was asked to take part in a boudoir training session for photographers on the 27.01.2012.  (I know I’ve mentioned posting some pics since February 2012).  The session was run by the amazing Kate Hopewell-Smith.  I loved Kate’s approach to boudoir; it’s wasn’t your “typical” boudoir photography session by far… It was tasteful, classy and it felt rather great if I’m honest.

Kate’s style of boudoir photography is extremely flattering, soft and delicate… She is also great at making her ladies feel at ease & makes it all about them.  I was really inspired by the session & picked up some great and useful tips.  I have posted some picks for you to see how my confidence increased towards the end… This was down to Kate, really she knows what she is doing & she knows all of the right things to say.  At the beginning I was a complete wreck & towards the end I barely recognised myself…

My face & lips were tight and my jaw was locked!  I was petrified!

But as the session progressed so did my confidence…

Until I barely recognised myself…

I knew this was how I wanted to approach boudoir… And the time came after receiving a lovely email from Kiss Me Deadly about sending me some of their lingerie (even some brand new lines no-one had seen yet!).  I had no idea what was coming in the post but I knew it would be good

I have known Laura (who is modelling in this shoot) a wee while now. We have been collaborating with Kelly from Boho Weddings Ltd on DIY bridal stuff, as Laura is getting married next year & is making lots of goodies for her own wedding.  Laura has never had a boudoir shoot before but offered to take part.  She was not very confident about it at first and very apprehensive, but just like me she began to let go throughout the shoot.  Wow… all you have to do is look at these pictures!  Laura, you rock and totally worked it girl!

But just like Laura, I too knew how she felt as I had been through the same experience.   With gentle guidance I helped Laura with ways to stand & pose.  I made sure that she felt relaxed always by telling her how great she looked.  After chatting, laughing and helping her to feel at ease I took a few snaps and showed her the back of my camera… She was well chuffed!  After that is was all go!

I feel that the role of a photographer is not just all about taking pictures.  You have to have a connection with your subjects, it is your job as the professional to make people feel at ease when in your company and in front of your camera.

It was great fun… all girls together.  Jenn bridal MUA joined us too and did an amazing job of Laura’s hair & make-up, as well as help to style the shoot itself.  Thanks Jenn!

I’ve had some great feedback from this shoot already & it’s definitely set a trend… Watch this space!

Boudoir sessions are great confidence boosters & I highly recommend them to any woman of any age (over 18 of course) & body type.  Drop me a line or give me a call if you wish to enquire about having one xx

Thanks to Kate Hopewell-Smith for the 1st set of 3 images

Laura wears lingerie by Kiss Me Deadly

Hair & Make up by Jenn Edwards

Venue: Ringwood Hall Hotel, Derbyshire