Don't Chicken Out! ~ Guest Blog, Vancouver, WA Boudoir Photography

My adventure with Brittney started with my search for a photographer. I was looking to do a boudoir shoot as a present for my boyfriend and for myself and had gotten to a point with my self esteem where I thought I was ready. I emailed Brittney, found a day, booked it… and chickened out. My self-consciousness got the better of me and talked me out of going through with the shoot. I’ve always had issues with how I’ve looked, with my stretch marks and my tummy, especially after having a surgery that leaves a scar going from ear to ear across the top of my head. I see the beauty in myself, but the negative thoughts flow in like a rollercoaster, going up and down between the good and the bad. 

Time went on and the photo shoot that I passed on was in the back of my mind. Out of my immediate thoughts but always there in the background. I was still following her on Facebook because I was in love with her work, even if I didn’t have the nerve to be the model. I eventually joined Brittney’s Facebook group filled with women going through shoots of their own and sharing their experiences and photos, as well as just being a community constantly bringing each other up. Post after post I would watch these gorgeous women slipping out of their comfort zone and seeing them being so glad they did it, and with time and some reflection I grew more courage to do that too. 

Then opportunity struck. Brittney had a cancellation and was offering a session with a waived booking fee. I saw that as my chance to go for it, so I took it. After talking with Brittney and reading her prep guide, I went through my closet and selected a few pieces for my shoot and mentally prepared myself. I woke up the morning of the shoot feeling nervous but more so excited, which I took as a good sign. I drove to Brittney’s studio, and sat in my car for a few minutes, not only to calm my nerves, but when I’m nervous for some reason I’m always extremely early. I finally grabbed my bags, and stepped into the rain towards Brittney’s studio. I walked in and was greeted by Brittney and Morgan, the dream team that made this one of the greatest days of my life, and a sign that said “Well hello Brianna you sexy thing” 

I sat there while Morgan did my hair and makeup, chatting with both of them, getting to know them and becoming more comfortable. After Morgan was done, I looked at the mirror in awe, because I was gorgeous, and for once I didn’t have any voices in the back of my head nitpicking. 

Morgan left and it was just Brittney and I, setting out and making a plan for which outfit was first. Over the course of the shoot, I was definitely uncomfortable at first, but with Brittney’s help and guidance, I actually started having fun. But as quick as it started my shoot was over, when in reality I was there for a few hours. But you know what they say, time flies when you’re having fun. I left with a thoughtful gift bag in hand filled with wonderful things. 

I had never felt so cared for and thought about from a complete stranger than how I felt leaving Brittney’s studio. From the second I walked in, it was like a safe zone and I left my worries at the door. I came back a few weeks later to see the edited pictures and pick which ones I would take home in my album, and I loved every one. It was really difficult to choose but I did, and Brittney sent it through for my album. I’m so excited to see the finished product. If I could have changed one thing about the whole experience, The only thing I would change about my entire experience would be if I could tell the insecure girl who chickened out the first time “Hey trust me, you’re gonna love it!”