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Marilyn Riel

About Marilyn Riel

https://www.MarilynRiel.com

Marilyn's boudoir photography is quickly becoming recognized as some of the most empowering women's portraiture in the East Coast, USA.

Posts by Marilyn Riel:

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I Don’t Do Nudes!

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While I do believe that artistic nudes are a beautiful and valuable form of photography, I made the decision that this was not my style.  I admire the works of great artists that celebrate the shape and texture of the human body in art, but believe leaving a little something to the imagination can often be more enticing!

When I started offering exclusively Women’s Portraiture, I found that many people assumed that meant artistic nudes.  While I do offer implied nudes (bits covered) there is so much more to consider!  Women’s Portraiture includes a wide range of options but the focus is simple – portraits of women.

When I hand out my business card, it lists some of the variety of photography options included in Women’s Portraiture.  Many people read the word boudoir and never continue further.  They’re captivated with their idea of what I shoot, often thinking of artistic nudes and nothing else. I do love shooting boudoir images, and I’ll talk more about that later in this blog, but there is so much more available.

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Head shots, Glamour and Fashion or Editorial photography

These images can be a full body shot or close-up which can be used for personal, business or social media purposes and are often overlook when I speak with someone about what I do.  Women want that great shot for their profile or business card.  They want an image that shows them as a relatable person, confident, empowered and REAL. Included in this type of photography is also Mother/Daughter or Generations photography where we can celebrate the daughter, mother, and grandmother, together.

Editorial images may also be used for posters or book jackets.  And sometimes it is just because you want to celebrate a life milestone – losing weight, hitting 30, or forty, or fifty…, or just celebrating you.

 

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Maternity

Maternity sessions are so important to the women I photograph.  This is a time in their lives that a new adventure is beginning. It’s not just the baby growing inside them, but the changes in store as a new life joins their family.  Capturing that woman’s images as she cherishes the journey to embracing this new little life is an amazing thing!

Maternity is also not restricted to a particular area of photography.  Boudoir, fashion or Pinup are all options depending on your personality and style.

 

 

 

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Pinup or Fantasy Cosplay

Pinup and cosplay sessions are honestly so much fun!  Whether this is the woman’s daily look or if it’s her chance to explore a hidden side of her personality, it’s always an opportunity to have a great time.  Capturing images of them as perhaps their mother or grandmother may have looked and giving them images they can hang side by side with the family photos they cherish is such a wonderful feeling.

It’s super to have the chance to give them images that show them having a great time dressed as their favorite alter ego and knowing they will be sharing them with friends, laughing and enjoying their experience.

 

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Boudoir

I promised I would get back to boudoir photography and here we are.  I have to say that the emotions generated from a boudoir session are incredibly powerful.  Many women come in looking for a gift to give to that special someone.  Whether it’s a gift from a bride to her partner on their wedding day or an anniversary, birthday or holiday gift, boudoir photography is at the top of her list.

By the time they have gone through the entire experience they always tell me that it turned out to be more for them and they have a gift to give as well.  This is what makes my heart sing!!  To see a woman “brave the boudoir experience” and have a great time doing it is wonderful.  To watch a woman see herself on a 50 inch screen and realize, that beautiful, confident, woman is really her! This has the power to change how you look at boudoir.

No matter what type of portraiture you choose, to me, your experience is as important as the photos received when it’s all completed.  We start about 4 weeks before the session by meeting at the studio so you can get to know us, see the studio and feel comfortable.  We will sit and talk about what it is you want; how do you want to be photographed?  What will you be using the photos for and how we can make this a great day for you?  You will have access to a private Pinterest board to share images that inspire you and show what you are envisioning.  We will keep in touch with you throughout the time before the shoot with tips and reminders to help you prepare and be relaxed for your big day. Women’s Portraiture is about empowering you, building your confidence and letting you see the beautiful woman you are today!

We want this to be more than just an appointment to have your picture taken, this should be an experience personalized to create amazing pictures and wonderful memories.

Leaving a woman feeling great about who she is TODAY, loving herself, being confident, empowered, feeling sexy and strong should be the goal for every Woman’s portraiture photographer!

I hope I have given you a better understanding of women’s portraiture and the variety included within this type of photography.

If you have any questions about this article or ideas for other topics you would like me to write about, please comment below or Contact Us from our web page.

If you have dreamed of having a photo-shoot that is all about you, call me to set up a complimentary consultation.  You can see the studio and we can talk over coffee about how you want to be photographed.  To make that happen, just click to book below! Is it a long trip to visit the studio?  We’ve photographed women from all over the eastern part of the country including New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio,  New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.  Feel free to contact us and set up a special phone consultation! And, as you now know, Gift Certificates are available.  

 Book your session today!!

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Steampunk – Merging the Past, Present and Future

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Have you been interested in Steampunk style, culture and creations for years or are you not quite sure what it’s all about? Today, we’re going to talk briefly about how Steampunk has emerged in art, in photography, and as a life culture. I have fallen in love with the look of steampunk fashion and decided to look into the origins a little deeper.

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As you can see by my Halloween picture,

my husband and I made our costumes

with a steampunk theme and it was a blast!

 

To start, I want to share a little history about Steampunk. No matter what source you use for your research, it seems to be a consensus that the various avenues of art, jewelry, fashion, and current works are influenced by the 19th century scientific romances of authors H.G. Wells, Mary Shelly and Jules Verne. Steampunk works usually are showing what the writers see as where we would have been or where we would be now if steam power had stayed as the main source of energy. Over the years, steampunk has grown from a science fiction and fantasy subculture to a mainstream choice in fashion, art, engineering, music, photography and for some people has become a whole new lifestyle.

I want to share with you a few images from other artists (Thank You Pinterest Lovers) that show how steampunk has become mainstream fun and fashion. These images show the variety of ways that steampunk style has influenced what we wear, where we live and the art we produce.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Steampunk Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Steampunk
Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Steampunk Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Steampunk
Steampunk has merged into many areas of life and has become a popular choice for weddings and stylized photography.  People are building homes inspired by the look and even making new items look old by repurposing gears, tubes, piping and other assorted mechanical looking items. There are so many fascinating areas to explore that it cannot all be written into one brief blog.  Perhaps I will venture further into the subject again in the future.

Are you a fan or is your style inspired by these amazing works?  Let us know how Steampunk has influenced your life!  Leave a comment below we would love to hear from you.

Interested in booking a photo session, maybe even with a Steampunk theme? Contact Us to schedule your session now!

 

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Menagerie Photography Studio Celebrating Local Women in Business Featuring Jessica Keegan

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We’ve started a new group of blogs focusing on local Connecticut businesses owned and run by women. The blogs will give you a chance to learn about the women who own these businesses, why they chose the work they do, what drove them to transform that passion into their own business and how their business has a positive impact on others.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Women in Business

I am very happy to share the story below from one of our own Dream Girls, Jessica Keegan, who runs Jessica’s Dance Fitness in Jewett City, CT.  I’ve had the chance to spend some time with Jessica and she is fun and full of energy as well as being an amazing person!

 

Name: Jessica Keegan

Owns/Operates: Jessica’s Dance Fitness

“It’s not always easy but I just remind myself every day to stay focused on my goals because that’s what makes me happy. That’s what makes me love the skin I’m in. Motivating others to do the same is my biggest goal❤”

 

 

 

“Starting at a young age I’ve always struggled with my weight and body image. I was bullied to the point where I started starving myself and almost put myself into the hospital. My whole life focused around what I ate. I shut everything out including dance (which was my passion since I was 5), but even at my lowest weight of 78 lbs., it wasn’t good enough. Always seeing myself in the mirrors at dance just disgusted me. 

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Over the years I started getting into cardio. It was my escape from everything and it made me feel like I had a sense of pride in myself after my workout. Then one day my mom suggested we take a Zumba class. I immediately fell in love. 

I took Zumba for about a year until my favorite instructor left. I decided to take it upon myself and get certified. From there I had my own class at a gym. That alone gained me more confidence in myself once I knew my class was a hit!

 I decided to see if I could open my own place. Two years later I’m still open and it just keeps getting better! I couldn’t be happier! Not only do I get to do what I love, but I get to push and motivate people that do the same for me! 

The connection and camaraderie of people working out together and working towards the same goals is such an amazing feeling! 

It’s not always easy but I just remind myself every day to stay focused on my goals because that’s what makes me happy. That’s what makes me love the skin I’m in. Motivating others to do the same is my biggest goal❤”

Jessica really loves what she does!  She has been featured on Channel 3 with Scott Haney and is always ready to dance and work out.  Check out her videos and business information and you will see how dedicated she is to her business.

If you would like to be featured in one of our blogs, please go to our Contact Us page at MenageriePhotography.com and tell me more about you and your business!

 

 

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Celebrating You Photography Campaign 2016

There are so many women out there who have, like all of us, faced challenges or life changes and aren’t feeling as beautiful or as special as they deserve to. Every woman should know she is beautiful today! Our spring 2016 campaign was designed with this in mind.

This blog is dedicated to the lovely ladies we worked with during our spring campaign. The campaign was titled “Celebrating You” and our goal was to spend time with these women, take images of them and show them their unique beauty. We were so lucky to find that and more! We wanted to share with you some of their entries to our campaign, their reasons for wanting to take part, and quotes directly from them on how they felt when it was all over.

 

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Taking the step to be part of a photography campaign or to set up a private shoot can be a bit scary so I wanted to share with you some of the reasons these amazing women wanted to celebrate with us…

“For me I think self-love, and body image is huge. I think it is so important for everyone to learn to love themselves and to be comfortable in their skin. Something like this where I can get dressed up, feel good about myself, and take pics helps me a lot. My Body image has always had its ups and downs and little things like this keep me motivated! Everyone should feel beautiful!”  

 

 “Since having my daughter 7 years ago, I’ve been trying to get back to my original size, without much luck. In the last 8 months I have lost 30 lbs. and finally feel great about my body and the effort it took to get me where I am. I would love an opportunity to celebrate this accomplishment.”

 

“I have lost 110 lbs. and had skin removal surgery last year. During my weight loss I developed a love for fitness and I am currently taking classes to become a personal trainer. Even though I had skin removal surgery I still have stretch marks and imperfections, but I still love my new me and want to inspire others!”

 

“I know that other people see me as chubby, but I work hard to stay the size that I am at. I eat healthy, I work out, I take my medications. I have multiple health problems that prevent me from losing weight, but I love my body because it has gotten me this far in life and will continue to get me where I need to go. Honestly, I want to celebrate me.”

 

“On April 17th I will have one year clean and sober. As a recovering alcoholic, I have become devoted to taking care of all aspects of my health- physical, emotional, and spiritual- after so many years of neglect. I think that given how many women are struggling with addiction and dependency , it would be refreshing and inspiring to see a fellow woman who has overcome extreme challenges and come out happy, healthy and on top!”

 

“I have long (like past my butt long), black hair that I have been complemented on by a lot of people.  I also would like to use this experience as something to lift up my spirits, make me feel beautiful again and more like a woman, since I just got out of an abusive relationship recently.  I do not have experience but…”

 

“I love modeling and photography. It’s my passion and inspiration for life. I learned to express my feminine side through modeling which I think is very important for a woman. I also have some experience through John Casablanca’s modeling and acting agency. I love Menagerie photography and will be happy to participate in the spring campaign.”

 

As you can see, they each had their own personal reason for taking part in our campaign.  Some were doing it in the hopes of raising their own self-esteem while others wanted to inspire the women out there that could relate to them and their story.  Their sessions included boudoir, fashion, fitness, pinup and some themed shots inspired by things like “50 Shades of Grey” and “The Big Bang Theory”.

 

Before going any further I want to say that each of these women, no matter her age, size or history, is to me, an inspiration to all of us.  They were willing to share private moments from their life and their feelings to help other women see how uniquely beautiful each and every one of you are.  Thank you again ladies for letting me get to know you!

 

Each session included the full experience of hair styling and makeup, multiple outfit changes, different sets and a same day photo reveal and ordering session.  I asked them for feedback after their sessions because I wanted them to let me know how they felt about the whole experience.  Here are a few of their responses…

 

“My experience with my photo shoot was truly memorable. From the moment I arrived at the studio, I felt pampered and special. My morning routine is usually rushed and unenjoyable. That morning, I was able to sit and enjoy my coffee, all the while having my hair and makeup done by a professional. It was extremely relaxing and I felt very comfortable.

I was a little nervous when the camera first started going off, but I quickly warmed up and was able to feel at ease. Surprisingly, during the shoot I wasn’t worried about my imperfections or trying to hide my belly, which I usually do. I trusted Marilyn to guide and coach me into the right positions.

When the shoot was finished, I was very anxious waiting to see the photos. Once they were put up on the screen, I instantly felt like a celebrity. I could not believe the amazing pictures that came up were me. I felt like crying because I was so grateful for the whole experience. It is absolutely something that every woman should be part of, at least once in their lifetime. It could be a gift for a significant other, but ultimately it’s a gift for yourself. It is a celebration of who you are as a woman and that is simply beautiful! “

 

Yes, when I received this email, I cried!  It is such a gift to be able to show a woman how beautiful she is!

 

“From start to finish I felt nothing but comfortable and very at ease with Marilyn. The whole experience was perfect! I felt on top of the world! I felt beautiful! I felt like a celebrity! This is an experience I will definitely never forget! Getting all dolled up by Tanya (who also was a pleasure to work with) and getting to play dress up and seeing how amazing the pictures came out really boosted my confidence and made me feel great about myself. Marilyn really knows how to make the whole experience a great one! Instructing me on how to pose was VERY helpful! That’s what I was most nervous about!

I would definitely do this again and encourage other ladies to as well. I think it’s very important to feel beautiful, to know you’re beautiful and to see how beautiful you really are in so many different ways! Being comfortable in my own skin has never felt so right!”

 

I am so proud of these ladies – ALL THESE LADIES! They have each had challenges in their lives and have worked hard to take control and move forward.  There is no better feeling than being part of something that helps women see themselves as beautiful, empowered, confident, unique and just AWESOME!

Each of these women are now part of our Dream Girls VIP Group.  We will be announcing the winner of our Fall 2016 Cover Girl in September as we prepare to release our new and updated Studio Welcome Guide.

Please feel free to leave a comment or question and stay tuned for our next blog!

Book your session today!!

 

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Are You Ready to Release Your Inner Super Hero?

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Are you a fan of Wonder Woman, Storm or Lara Croft? Well, women super heroes have been around for quite some time and the list is constantly growing.  I believe every woman has what it takes to be her own super hero.  So how do you identify your inner super hero?

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 As this is Wonder Woman’s 75th anniversary, let’s use her TV show character as our example.  What do we know about her life?
– Raised by a single Mom, with lots of strong female role models

– Beautiful and tough and thought well of where she grew up. (Themyscira)

– Met a guy (Steve Trevor) and decided to leave all that behind her

– Went through a war and a lot of personal change (new writers and their choices of direction for her character)

When she left home, she decided to show the world the persona of Diana Prince.  Diana was the serious, smart, somewhat nerdy woman that hid behind her big glasses and kept her hair and clothes very modest to say the least. Underneath all that top layer serious Diana stuff, the beautiful, sexy Diana was still there.  Most of the time, people saw her as the Army nurse and then the Air Force Secretary.  She was viewed as nice and someone you could count on, but not Wonder Woman beautiful.  (I really wanted to just smack Major Steve Trevor on the head sometimes!! J)

Does any of this sound familiar?  We all have our history, where we grew up, family and friends.  Many of us have at one time or another, left where we grew up to follow our dreams or to start a family.  We all go through tough times and different looks as we grow.  Over the years we sometimes put ourselves in the background while we take care of family or business.

Diana Prince, mild mannered secretary may not be seen by most as hot like Wonder Women, but ask any guy how sexy she looked as she took off her glasses, let down her hair and started to spin!  Being sexy isn’t necessarily about the outfit but about the woman wearing it with confidence. Wonder Woman, hailed for her power, grace, wisdom and courage was a woman with many layers but was always confident, classy and caring. No matter what she wore, she was smart, loving and cared about people.  To me that’s what makes someone a Super Hero!

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When I work with women for a photo shoot, helping them prepare, pose, laugh and have fun is all part of letting out that beautiful, confident wonderful woman inside.  It’s my privilege to show them the beautiful woman they are; the woman that may have been put on hold so life could get handled.

With Halloween coming just around the corner, or on any day for that matter, dressing up as your favorite Super Hero, Cosplay Character or Masked Mystery Woman can make for a fun photo session.

No matter who your favorite female persona is, why not celebrate her like some of our Dream Girls have and capture your alter ego photographically?

And yes, you CAN do boudoir dressed as a super hero!  

Book your session today!!

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Are you missing out on the Perfect Groom’s Gift?

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Are you getting married and trying to decide what gift to give to your husband on your wedding day?  Well, wonder no more! The hot gift (pun intended) that is trending now is gifting your boudoir images in a keepsake box or album.  What man wouldn’t like beautiful pictures of the woman he loves, taken especially for him?

I have done numerous boudoir sessions for women to give as gifts on their wedding day and the response has always been awesome.

“He loved the pictures and the beautiful custom box.  He never expected them but keeps looking at them and can’t stop smiling! “
Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Perfect Groom's Gift

Some women are nervous when they arrive for their pre-shoot consultation and uncertain what they should wear and how they should pose.  It’s my job to help you with that!  We set you up with a private Pinterest board where you can pin photos that inspire you and that show what you like.  We talk about what you may own and what you have in mind for your outfits and props.

During these conversations, I’ve had women share some of their concerns.

“I know there are certain expectations for bridal boudoir, but I’m not really comfortable in that pose because it isn’t really my style.”

Or I hear…

“I’m not the sexy lingerie type so I guess this isn’t something I can do.” 

This is where I stop everything!  There is no specific type or required pose!

You Should Be You!

 

It’s so important to me that this misconception be removed from your thoughts!

If you do a search for Bridal Boudoir or Groom’s Gift photos, you may see some basic repeat images but no one should ever tell you what the best style choice is for you.  This is a very intimate gift for a couple to share and should reflect what’s important and special to the two of you.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Perfect Groom's GiftIf you are the cowgirl to his cowboy, bring your hat and boots! If you love sharing evenings cuddled up watching old detective movies, a trench coat over your sexy lingerie might be your style.  If you share your free time watching your favorite sports team, a jersey or a piece of sports equipment may be a super prop. If you want to use your veil for some images, bring it in!

The most important part of making these images that you will both treasure, is making sure they’re customized with things that are special to you, things that will make you both laugh and smile when you see them.  Things that even years later will hold a special memory when you look at your images.

This experience is so much more than just getting him a special gift.  This is also a gift of a day just for you!  What better way to take some time to relax and have fun?

“I came in with the thought that I was getting a gift he would love, but when we were done and I saw my pictures, I realized this was a day that I got as much out of for myself! I had so much fun, I love all my pictures and it was such a boost to my confidence.”

There is no better gift to give to someone you love than something that shows you were thinking of them and that you have put your personality into.  We are here to help you through every stage of your preparation and session.  We will help you with wardrobe ideas, guide you through poses and make this an experience you will love!

Book your session today!!

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5 Quick Summer Skincare Tips From The Photographer

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Summertime and outdoors go together for most people. Are you planning on spending a lot of your time outside this summer? If so, check out our 5 quick summer skin tips.

I love spending the day outside, absorbing the summer sounds, smells and the warmth of the sun. If you’re like me and have light skin and eyes the summer sun isn’t always very forgiving.  Even if you are lucky enough to tan easily there are still some important items that should be on your summer agenda.

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Also, remember if you are planning on getting married this summer or have a special event where pictures will be taken and you don’t want tan lines, it is important to protect your skin so you can look your best and feel great!

  1. Keeping your lips Kissable

Spending a lot of time in the sun and fun during the summer is expected but can dry out your lips. No one wants to kiss lips that are cracked and dry.  Keep your lips protected with a lip balm that has at least SPF 15 protection.

  1. Try a new fashion for your head

Throwing on a baseball cap can protect your scalp and keep the sun out of your eyes if you’re at your favorite team’s game; but does not protect the rest of your face from the harsh sun.  Choose a wide brimmed hat instead and be fashionable and protected.

  1. Summer fruits to encourage healthy skin

Cantaloupe and Watermelon are at the top of the list for healthy summer eating.  Cantaloupe is rich in antioxidants and is said to deliver a unique hydration to the skin.  Watermelon is an all-around favorite at most picnics and is rumored to actually boost your SPF by several factors according to skin care expert Kate Somerville.

  1. Summer salads – literally eating your SPF!

Some experts are saying that eating foods containing vitamins C and E together can help reduce your chances for sunburn.  With this in mind, eating a salad that includes citrus, berries or tomatoes for your vitamin C along with Vitamin E rich nuts is healthy and could help protect your skin from painful sunburn.

  1. Protect those areas where the sun doesn’t normally shine!

Slathering on the sun screen when you get to the beach or to the pool is great but don’t forget that most bathing suits don’t protect real well from the sun.  Many new materials are meant to allow your skin to breath – from beach wear to t-shirts – and allow the sun to burn your skin even though you feel covered.  Put your first layer of sun screen on before you get dressed to make sure you are fully covered.

Remember to take good care of your skin no matter what time of year and you will look and feel great!  Have that glow for your special day, whatever the occasion and remember to capture those memories in photographs.

If you are planning a photo session and want more information about Women’s Portraiture – boudoir, fashion, pinup, groom’s gift, etc. you can click the link below, fill out your information and we can set up a free pre-shoot consultation for you.

If you have enjoyed this or any of our other blogs, please feel free to comment below or send us a message via our contact form on our web page.  We would love to hear from you! Enjoy your summer!!

Book your session today!!

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Confidence is Key! Especially During Your Photography Session!

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“Confidence is the sexiest thing a woman can have. 

It’s much sexier than any body part.”

 – Aimee Mullins.

I truly believe this quote is right on target when it comes to women and photo sessions.  It’s completely normal to be nervous and unsure of yourself when you’re preparing for your session but when the day comes having that confident smile is so important.  Whatever type of photo session you are considering, boudoir, pinup, or fashion, adding confidence to your wardrobe is key to great images.

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Talking with women before their sessions, we discuss their expectations and their concerns.

Finding out their favorite body parts is helpful.  Often outfits, poses and props can highlight body areas we love.  If you have amazing, long legs and want to show them off, it’s great to know so we can get those gorgeous gams front and center in your shot.  Love your butt? Great!  Knowing how to pick the right outfits and using our pose coaching to show that bottom off will give you the pictures you’re looking for. We will provide you with our Studio Welcome Guide at your pre-shoot consultation and will coach you through poses that enhance your body and make you comfortable during your session. This is what one woman said when we asked if her pre-shoot experience prepared her for her session.

“Most definitely!  It got me to be comfortable with

the photographer  and I was given good tips

on how to prepare for the shoot which was really helpful. – J.”

I have found that knowing what you consider your least favorite body part can be even more important.  We all have those areas of our body that we would love to change.  Some don’t like their tummy, some their feet or their hands, their nose or their chest, and for whatever reason, it’s important to understand why before taking any pictures. Getting to know what makes you comfortable before we ever take a picture is incredibly important to us.

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What is your least favorite body part?

Did you break your nose years ago and feel uncomfortable with profile pictures?  Did you have a baby and haven’t quite lost the weight you wanted to yet? Do you love your bottom but your legs aren’t as long as you would like? Do you feel you don’t know how to pose in front of the camera or will look silly? Well, again there are ways to pose you to make you look your best without leaving you feeling exposed or feeling uncomfortable and we will help you with that.  Want your legs to look 6 inches longer during your boudoir session?  Bring that great pair of heels that you never wear because they hurt your feet to dance in.  You will only need to wear them for a few minutes and it will give you that extra length to your legs you want.

 “I was afraid of hiding my not-so-thin parts of my body.

Lighting helps everything!  I had a very relaxing and fun time shooting.

It was a very stress-free, fun environment. – A.”

Confidence also comes from knowing who you will be spending your day with and knowing they understand what you are looking for from your session. Are you uncomfortable meeting your photographer for the first time the day of your shoot?

We meet for your free pre-shoot consultation about four weeks before your photo session so you can see our private studio, and get to know who we are and why we love our work. 

“Coming here made me comfortable with my surroundings,

almost like a day of dress-up with some girlfriends –

laughing and feeling pretty too! – A.”

Are you nervous about meeting someone at a hotel or feeling rushed during your session?

We only shoot in the privacy of our studio and your session is the only one we do that day.  We believe making this YOUR DAY is important in boosting your confidence, making you feel pampered and having a great time.

“Immediately upon arrival, I noticed how Marilyn had thoughtfully put out

chocolate and had my favorite genre of music playing – two likes of mine

we had discussed in our pre-shoot consultation. That sets the tone for

the rest of the experience.  You’re treated like a princess – hair, make-up, creativity

plus really hard work and care on the staff’s part. 

You’ll feel glamorous like I did and enjoy the wardrobe changes and all the set ideas,

I highly recommend it. – T.”

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Confidence

Have a body part you love or a part you don’t love so much? Comment below or contact us to find out how we can take what you love, or even what you don’t, and turn these into great images and a day that is all about you!

You are Beautiful today! Embrace it! Celebrate it!

Book your session today!!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Fear

What Fear is Stopping You? – From Having A Perfect Photoshoot

Is fear stopping you from doing things you’ve dreamed of for years? Stopping you from feeling great about yourself and celebrating who you are today? Fear that you aren’t ready, that you won’t do it right, fear that you aren’t pretty enough or don’t meet society’s definition of beautiful? Well, I’m here to let you know it’s time to put that fear aside and realize you are amazing, just the way you are!

What is fear?  Well, the dictionary definition is “A distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined.”  We all have fear. It’s normal, and in many cases, a healthy thing to have.  Our fight or flight response to situations is a reaction to fear, and though good in cases of life or death, fear can also prevent us from doing things that take us out of our comfort zone.  In most cases, fear is our way of not stepping out and taking a chance, a way to avoid something that we feel may be embarrassing or difficult.

This is when I describe fear as:

False

Evidence

Appearing

Real

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Fear

 

 

The fear of not being as pretty as the women we see in magazines or in the movies.  The fear of being embarrassed of our size, shape or age.  The fear of not measuring up to what others think we should be.  If you’ve been considering a photo session, are these fears the reason you haven’t booked yours yet?

As a professional women’s photographer, I have seen women who are successful, smart, beautiful and amazing come into the studio without ever really seeing the beauty in themselves.  I believe that hearing what these women have to say in their own words is better than me trying to explain it.  Their answers below express clearly how overcoming your fears can leave you with more confidence and feeling great about yourself.

 

 

I ask women a few questions at the end of their shoot. Below are some of their replies.

Q: “Tell me about your biggest fear when considering a photo-shoot.  Did it come true?

A: “My fear was of not looking good –looking ugly or fat.  I’m happy it did not come true! Not only did my pictures come out great but it was definitely a confidence booster!”

A: “I was nervous that my insecurities about my body would keep me from feeling completely comfortable.  Instead, I was relaxed and felt beautiful!

A: “My biggest fear was probably feeling awkward or being unhappy with my body in the shots.  Instead, I felt comfortable, happy and very accepting of my body.”

Q: “What advice would you give to someone considering booking a session?”

A: “Think of it as a big gift to yourself.  It’s your life, your body, and every woman deserves to feel beautiful and sexy.”

A: “Don’t be nervous because it will be one of the best experiences you do for yourself.”

A: “It’s such a great thing to do for your self-confidence.  The photos you get will be your memories captured of who you were at that time and that can be such a positive thing.”

I am so proud of these ladies for stepping outside of their comfort zones, braving their fears, and realizing they are beautiful, unique, women!

If there are fears stopping you from celebrating who you are today, fears keeping you from booking your own photo-shoot to celebrate the beautiful you, give me a call, send me a note or comment below. I would love to chat about how we can get past those fears and book your own special day all about you!

Book your session today!!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate

A Photographer’s Answers to the questions you were afraid to ask!

, , ,

I know there are a lot of you out there with questions for me that you may not be comfortable asking.  Well, wonder no more. I’m going to give you the answers to the top five questions people are often afraid to ask before they book their photo session!  

 

Q: If I choose to have a boudoir session do I have to be nude or topless?

A:  Absolutely Not! As a matter of fact, I do not do nude photography.  Your boudoir session is designed around what you are comfortable with.  We will do implied nudes (bits must be covered), underwear, his shirt, tank tops… whatever represents your comfort level.  We have even done Wonder Woman outfits and Star Wars t-shirts for boudoir images!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate

Q:  Are my pictures going to be published on Facebook or on other social media?

A:  We only post images that we have been granted written authority to use.  If you choose to keep your images completely private, we will absolutely honor your request.

 

Q:  What if I can’t pose? I have never modeled and don’t want to look silly, can you help me?

A:  As a professional, it’s my job to pose you to look your best and I will talk you through each pose.  There is no need to worry! Most of the women I’ve photographed have never modeled and in fact are usually the ones in their family taking the pictures at all their events. How often have you heard someone ask “How come we don’t have pictures of Mom?” Mom is usually the one behind the camera!

 

Q:  Do you do other photography besides boudoir?

A:  Yes! I specialize exclusively in Women’s Portraiture, but that does not just mean boudoir photography.  I also do editorial style Fashion and Fitness photography, Pinup, Bridal, Maternity, and Headshots for business or social media.  If you have a style of photo you want done and are not sure, give me a call or drop me an email and we can talk about it! (I do not do weddings or event photography)

 

Q:  Am I obligated to buy images if I come in for a session; and do I have to pay for my session and my images all at the same time?

 A:  You are not obligated to buy any images after your photo session.  We charge separately for your session and your image purchase.  This allows you to choose the session type and image collection that best suits you.  Your session fee must be paid to book your date and you select your favorite images at the end of your photo session. You would pay for your selected images the day of your shoot.  We also offer a convenient, interest free, 6 month payment plan for image collection purchases.

 

I hope I have answered your questions but if there is anything I have not covered, please use the comment section on this blog or our contact form to let me know what else you would like to know. 

 Remember, YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL TODAY!  EMBRACE IT! CELEBRATE IT!

Book your session today!!

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