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

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?

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

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

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!!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Perfect Groom's Gift

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!!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Summer Skincare

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.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Summer Skincare

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!!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate

Part Three: The Day Before Your Photography Session and Your Big Day!

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Time has flown by and it is the day before your photo session!

You have been preparing all month for this and have gotten your clothes ready, your shoes are shining and your nails are polished.  You have had a blast surfing Pinterest for those images you pinned to show your ideas of what sexy, fun, glamorous and sophisticated are.    You followed all the information in the guides and emailed all your questions and are ready for your big day!  Now it is time to take a deep breath and relax a little.

Here are a few last minute tips for the day before your session:

  • Shave and use a moisturizer. Moisturize everywhere, from your nose to your toes.
  • Double-check that you have everything you will be bringing for your session – clothing, lingerie, high heels, jewelry, props…
  • Relax and have a stress-free evening.
  • Try to get at least eight hours of good sleep.

It is the day of your session!  Your Big Day has arrived. 

Whether you are doing a boudoir, glamour, fashion, pinup or some other type of shoot this is the day you have been waiting and preparing for!

This is YOUR DAY and it’s time to get ready!

  • Bath / Wash and dry your hair but don’t use any products to style your hair if we are providing hairstyling for your shoot.
  • Use a clear deodorant but don’t use perfumes or colognes.
  • Eat a light breakfast before leaving the house (Do Not skip breakfast)
  • Try to leave a little early to your session in case you get stuck in traffic or are delayed. You don’t want to be late.
  • Arrive in loose fitting cloths to avoid marks on your skin- yes be careful even with your socks! Lines from the clothes you wear to your shoot take time to fade and can be challenging to cover up especially in a boudoir shoot!

Relax and try not to be nervous.  We’ll make sure you look your best and are guided throughout the entire process making sure you’re as comfortable as possible.  Try to remember that nothing is sexier and more attractive than a confident woman.  This is your day and a wonderful experience so enjoy yourself and have a great time!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate

Awesome! You did it!!! You were beautiful, sexy, and looked amazing!!

Now it’s time to take a break for about an hour before we sit down and view the very best photos from your shoot. You can relax with some snacks, coffee, tea, juice or water and fill out your post shoot questionnaire.  While you are relaxing, we are preparing your images for you to view on our large screen.  We will sit together for your slideshow and from these images you can choose your favorites.  You will be able to select from our various print packages to show off your amazing photographs. We’ll get right to work preparing your images for print and have your order ready for you to pick up in just two to three weeks.

Here is an excerpt from a follow up email from one of our lovely ladies after her boudoir/fashion photo-shoot:

“Hi Marilyn!

I just wanted to email you and see how you have been doing…  I love the photos, I don’t remember if I told you. I like how they came out and I am so very proud of them. I also wanted to let you know that since I have seen you, my confidence has risen. I absolutely love that we had a chance to meet. You are definitely an inspiration.

-T”

Thank you for taking the time to read our posts and learn more about what an experience with us entails.  We would love to meet you and set up your very own Big Day!

Book your session today!!

Part 2

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate

Part Two: Five Days Before Your Photography Session It’s Time To Spoil Yourself

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So here we are with part 2 of our 3 part blog series: Preparing for your Photo-shoot. We are so excited that your BIG DAY is almost here!!
Last time we talked about what you need to get started on the month before your session. By now you have already booked your session and have the date for your big day, and you have finished your pre-shoot consultation and questionnaire. Your private Pinterest board should be all filled up with images that inspire you. Your session, no matter whether it is boudoir, fashion, pinup, maternity, bridal, will be individually planned for you based on the feedback we receive from you and the items you pin. You will have already added some poses, outfits and hair and make-up ideas so we can get your sets, lighting and your stylist ready to make this a super experience for you.
You are less than a week from your shoot and the excitement is mounting! You have your clothes picked out and some really amazing shoes, jewelry and props ready to go. This is when the importance of continued communication is vital. We have you either post to your private Pinterest board images of your outfits or send them to us via email. This allows us to see more what you are envisioning for your images and lets the hair stylist/make-up artist ensure they are also ready for your day.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate
Now that we are almost to your big day, we want to share more of the items you should be keeping in mind.

• If waxing is your thing, make sure to wax a few days before your session as to avoid redness and irritation.

• Pluck and shape your eyebrows.

• If you want to get your hair cut and/or colored, make sure to allow yourself a few days before your session to make sure you are happy with it.

• Either give yourself or have a professional manicure and pedicure. It does make a huge difference in your pictures.

• Don’t go out tanning and don’t use a spray or liquid tanner the week of your session.

• Try to cut way back on salt and increase you water intake. Lots of water makes for beautiful skin but the extra salt may cause water weight.

• Try on the clothes and lingerie that you have chosen to make sure everything fits well and be sure to remove any and all labels that might be seen.

• Make sure to clean and iron the clothing you will be bringing and hang them rather than fold them so there aren’t any wrinkles or fold marks.

We also want you to remember that you can email or call us any time to go over anything you have questions on. Another thing to do at this time is review our Image Collection information and let us know if you need any clarification or if you are interested in purchasing any specialty items. We will be doing your image viewing the same day as your session and want to ensure you have any questions answered before your big day. So now we are almost there!! Five days to go until the day that is all about you!

Next time we will talk about what important information you need to know the day before and the day of your session so check out our next blog – The Day Before Your Session and Your Big Day!

Book your session today!!

Part 1                                                   Part 3

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate

What Genre of Photography Inspires You?

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As a Woman’s Portrait Photographer I am often asked to explain more about the genres of photography I create.

Some types of photography are easy to explain like business head shots, and maternity.

Business portraits have been used for years and with the increase in social media and web development, your business photo is often the first impression you make. Maternity photography, though not a venue that has the history of business portraiture, is also a very well-known and now common reason for someone to visit a professional photographer.  Maternity photography ranges in style from outdoor, family type photography to more dramatic, artistically posed studio portraiture. My maternity photography takes place in our studio and ranges from the more dramatic editorial style to maternity boudoir and focuses solely on the mother-to-be. Both styles of maternity pictures help a family celebrate this momentous occasion and create special memories.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate

As I go through other styles such as pinup and boudoir I find people asking more questions about how these are specifically done.

I explain that pinup photography gets its vintage look from the hairstyle, makeup, clothing and props used.  These reflect the era that someone is trying to recreate their look from.  So if you are a fan of the roaring 20’s, the war era 40’s, the “Happy Days” 1950’s style or even the cinematic film noire, we will work with you to capture that in your session.  Pinup is also often a cross-over into boudoir photography if you are a fan of Gil Elvgren or Alberto Vargas.  Many of their pinup images are women in lingerie as well as their images that influenced the Nose Art on war planes.  Boudoir photography itself is also often a misunderstood genre.  Though it can range from images that could be considered artistic nudes to football jerseys, boudoir photos should be reflective of the individual and always be done in a way that is respectful of the comfort of the woman who is getting them done.  Personally I do not do images in the artistic nude category but will take pictures that while keeping you covered in all the right places, may suggest that you have nothing under that sheet. (Nude colored panties and a strapless bra are awesome for these types of photos)  I have done boudoir photo sessions for women in a wide range of outfits from long sleeve dresses and boyfriend or husband’s button down shirts to super hero costumes, Star Wars t-shirts, traditional lingerie and the suggestive with a sheet.  Each session is based on the woman’s comfort and the outfits she brings that have special meaning for her or her significant other.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate

Once I get to fashion, fitness and what I love to describe as “nerd chic” people begin to see that there are so many options to choose from that each session is truly a personalized experience.

Whatever your choice of photography, if you are inspired by a look or an era, there is a genre it will work with and it can be recreated and captured photographically for you to frame, hang or give as a gift.  I would love to spend a day with you creating your individual experience and capturing it for you to save and share.

Menagerie Photography Connecticut Boudoir Studio What to Wear What to Avoid

What to Wear to Your Boudoir Photography Session – and What to Avoid!

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Are you unsure or confused about what to wear for your boudoir session? Fully clothed, partially clothed, or implied nudity can all be sexy. It’s important that you plan your clothing items around what your comfort level is. You can bring items you already have and feel beautiful in or you can purchase new specifically for your shoot.  If you plan on shopping, make sure you’ve tried the clothing on, moved around, and love it. Don’t wait until you get dressed for your shoot to try something on for the first time. You may find it’s the wrong size or you just don’t like how it fits on you.  You will look the sexiest when you feel confident and good about yourself.

Remember, this experience is ultimately about what you want, what you like, and what you want to see yourself in.  Your clothing should reflect your taste and personal style.

Lingerie:

Vintage slips, a teddy and/or camisole always photograph well.  A corset or a bustier with thigh high stockings, a garter belt, and heels are a common choice. Start simple and go from there. Think about what colors look good on you. If you have something your significant other finds especially sexy, bring it along! We do suggest you avoid the Baby Doll outfits as they have a tendency to give even the thinnest girls a heavier bell shape that does not photograph as well.

 

Casual Attire:

Everyday clothing is another option to bring with you. Items such as lacy or sheer tops, lose knit sweaters, jeans, shorts, sportswear, and pajamas can look cute and sexy if photographed properly.  A simple white tank top or silky t-shirt is a must have!

 

 

 

Bra and Panties:

Most importantly, bring a varied selection of bra and panty sets. Start with basic black and white, but also bring colors and patterns if you have something you particularly like. Bras and panties can be photographed alone or paired with other clothing items or accessories. Make sure they fit well and don’t cause bulges from tight elastic bands.

 

 

Something of His:

If this is a gift for him, then bring something from his wardrobe. You might pick one of his favorite ties, a button down shirt, a sports jersey, or military uniform; anything that makes the images more personal and sexy to him!

 

 

 

To wrap this up, it’s always great to bring a variety of outfits that make you feel great when you put them on and items that show your personality. Don’t forget to bring some accessories with you like jewelry, scarves, hats, high heels, boots, gloves, stockings, garter belts, military tags or whatever it is that has special meaning to you. This is your day and it is going to be awesome!!

Menagerie Photography Connecticut Boudoir Studio Bra Calculator

BRA SIZE CALCULATOR (BETA)

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AT MENAGERIE PHOTOGRAPHY – WE TAKE BRAS SERIOUSLY!
Making sure women are comfortable and looking their best is our business.
As a boudoir photographer I see a lot of lingerie and making sure women are buying
what fits them to make them look their best while also being comfortable is important.
That is why we created this Bra Size Calculator.  Give it a try and let us know how it worked for you.

HOW TO MEASURE YOUR BRA SIZE

To find your bra size, you’ll need a measuring tape and your best fitting non-padded bra, preferably an underwire and not a minimizer or sports bra. If you don’t have a flexible measuring tape, you can use a piece of string and then measure the string results with a ruler.

BRA SIZE CALCULATOR (BETA)
BRA SIZE CALCULATOR (BETA)
STEP 1: Measure underneath your bust. This will help determine your band size.
Place the measuring tape around your rib cage, right under your bra line and breath in deeply.
Record this measurement in inches. Use whole numbers and round up to the nearest even number (29.5″ = 30″)

 

STEP 2: Measure around the fullest area of the bust to determine your cup size.
Place the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust line at the nipple level.
Record this measurement in inches. Round up to the nearest whole number (35.5″ = 36″)

 

Knowing these two numbers will allow a professional bra fitter to accurately calculate your appropriate size.

 

If you would like to try our free automated bra calculator, check it out HERE at our lingerie boutique’s web page.

Once you know you have the right size, have some fun shopping for your boudoir photo shoot.  Be sure to check out our article 5 Tips on What to Wear for Your Boudoir Photo Shoot  and also find some inspiration in our Pinterest board Boudoir Wardrobe Ideas.

Also, don’t forget to shop our exclusive lingerie boutique – Picture Perfect Lingerie – located right here at our studio.

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