Why Everyone Should do a Boudoir Photoshoot!
The week before the COVID-19 closures, I had the privilege of being chosen as a ‘model’ for a boudoir photoshoot organized by professional women (virtual sex shop owner, makeup artist, lingerie creator, and photographer) to market everyday women using their products and services.
It was one of the most empowering things I have ever done for myself! The shoot took place in this beautiful warehouse used by photographers and artists. The day started by meeting everyone and having my makeup done. I don’t usually wear makeup, but it was really nice to have a professional makeup artist take her time and do it for me. It was also the first time in a while that I did not have my kids with me and that I could fully give my attention to the women around me.
Following my makeup, I went upstairs into the dreamy space that was made to look like a boudoir for the photoshoot. I was given lingerie pieces that were selected for me and I emerged from the change room a bit shy and unsure of myself. Everyone was raving about how great I looked and how well the fit was. I looked at myself in the mirror and thought, this is ME! I accepted my body and I was not ashamed of my flaws, cellulite, or flub. I was seeing its beauty and its accomplishments. Having a cheering squad has that sort of effect.
I requested 50 cents ‘In Da Club’ (I know I am dating myself) and I worked the camera. I was feeling beautiful, no I was feeling GORGEOUS, and I did not allow self-deprecating thoughts to take over. I chose to enjoy the ride, laugh, and believe what the women around me were saying.
My Boudoir Photoshoot
When my turn was done, I watched and encouraged the other ‘models.’ I genuinely marveled at the beauty of all the women there. We all joked saying we wished we could do this weekly because it was such an uplifting experience. I left feeling like I won a contest. I was on a high the entire day. When the pictures were shared, the rush of feelings I felt came right back.
It seems so small, but the power of self-affirming words and positive energy (with good music) cannot be understated. During my shoot, I felt on top of the world. I wasn’t thinking about everything I had to do or how tired I was. I wasn’t thinking about all the things that are wrong with my body or the things I want to change. I felt so much love and appreciation for my body, and I thought it looked GREAT!
These are the reasons why I think everyone should have this experience during their lifetime. When I told members of my family that I was going to participate in a boudoir photoshoot, some were skeptical. There is this negative perception about these photoshoots and I think it is time that we women, particularly Black and racialized women reclaim our truths, our bodies and our own views about our bodies.
This has been the focus of QueensConnected over the years. Our conferences and workshops are meant to provide safer spaces for women to come together and celebrate, unpack and discuss difficult topics, and heal in community. Our events goals are that women leave feeling more rested, validated, heard, encouraged, feeling great about themselves and their bodies.
Join us for our upcoming Ladies Dance Night for an unforgettable night of dance to old school hip hop, R&B, and dancehall music with DJ Ric Manuel. If you purchase your ticket before December 31, you have the chance to win a boudoir photoshoot package worth more than $1100 by Love and Wanderlust Boudoir.
Hope to see you there!