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Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture Photo shoot

Their Biggest Fears and What Happened!

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If you’ve ever been nervous getting up in front of a group of people to give a speech, you’ve probably heard the advice of imagining them all sitting in their underwear to make you less nervous.  But what if you were the one going out to give the speech in your underwear?

Everyone has things that they fear and I’m right there with you!!!  Find out what my clients biggest fears were when considering a photo shoot and what really happened when they got in front of the camera.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture Photo shoot

I’ve asked each client to tell me about their biggest fear when considering a photoshoot.  After their session, I want to know if it came true and if not, what happened instead.  Here are a few of their fears and what happened…

 

Ms. G:  My biggest fear was looking bloated or too small/flat chested for the skimpy lingerie I’d chosen!  It did not happen – instead I looked really sexy and feminine.

Ms. S:  I was afraid I would have fat hanging out in places you didn’t want people to see.  Didn’t happen! It was fun without feeling nervous and there was no judgement zone!  I just felt gorgeous.

Ms. R:  I was worried about posing and feeling comfortable holding a pose for long moments. Marilyn was so easy to follow and was very quick and enthusiastic.

Ms. B:  My biggest fear was of not being photogenic or comfortable.  It definitely did not happen!  The pictures were amazing and the atmosphere was great!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture Photo shoot

These ladies ranged in age from their 20’s to their 50’s and were all amazing!

Before their sessions, we met at the studio and talked about what they had envisioned for their session.  They filled out a short questionnaire to tell me a little more about them like, what is your favorite part of your body, how outgoing do you consider yourself on a scale of 1 – 10 and even if they have any phobias or allergies.  These things help me to prepare for their shoot and also, to make their experience customized and as comfortable for them as possible.

So whether your fear is posing, not being photogenic, or needing to lose that last 10 pounds, it’s OK.  You are not alone in your fears and I’m here to help you through one of the most fun, amazing days you’ll have.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture Photo shoot

If you’re interested in a personal tour of the studio or a complimentary pre-shoot consultation, give me a call or use our contact form and we can set up a date for you to come in!

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!!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture Photo shoot

What Are You Waiting For? Time is running out!

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I shoot many styles of women’s portraiture including head-shots, glamour, editorial, fitness, pinup… Boudoir photography has been one of the hottest gifts for the past few years but we’ve noticed a huge increase in its popularity in 2017.  Not only is it empowering and a confidence supercharger for the women that choose this style of portraiture, every recipient of this gift has said that it was the sexiest, most personal and amazing gift they’ve received.  Who doesn’t want to open a gift of sexy images of the women they love wearing lingerie, his shirt or perhaps, just the bed sheet?

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture Photo shoot

A client recently shared the reaction her photos got:

He opened the box…”Wow!”  Then he quietly looked at all the photos with a look of astonishment on his face. When he finished he smiled and said “Can I look at them all again?”  When he was done he said “I am floored!!!!- I can’t believe you would do this. That photographer did an amazing job, she must have made you feel so comfortable to be able to take these shots!!  She captured what I see every day when I look at you… You’re beautiful, sexy, and mine. You look like a super model. This is by far the best gift anyone has ever given me!!! I love that you did this for me and I love you.”

This is so much more than just having a few pictures taken, both for the woman coming into the studio and the person she is gifting the photos to.  This is an all-day event that we plan carefully with each client to capture something unique for each person.  I love each woman’s session and we all have so much fun no matter the age or reason for the shoot.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture Photo shoot

The problem arises when women don’t realize that a session with me should be booked anywhere from 3 to 4 weeks in advance and that it takes another 3 to 4 weeks to view, select and receive there printed images or books.  Each of our photoshoots are custom designed for our clients so that we can provide the hair, makeup and photo styling that you have envisioned for your perfect session.  In the weeks before your photoshoot, the team assigned to your session will work with you in a private Pinterest board to choreograph images that help inspire you and it gives you a chance to shop for outfits, get a mani-pedi, cut / color your hair… all in preparation for your session date.  One to two weeks after your shoot, you’ll be scheduled to select your favorite finished images and choose how you’d like to have them presented.  It then takes about 2-3 weeks to have them prepared, ready for you to pick up.

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture Photo shoot

So, if you’re thinking about surprising your significant other with amazing images for Christmas, you’ll want to think about scheduling a session soon.  Our calendar books up quick around this time of the year and the last date I’ll be scheduling a photoshoot for Christmas gifts will be November 30th which means you’ll need to schedule your shoot before October 31st.  Don’t miss this opportunity for the gift they will cherish forever.

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!!

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture

The Phoenix Has Risen

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A new year a new you!  How many times have you heard or said that phrase?  New Year’s is a time when people are filled with hope of new opportunities and belief that change can happen for them.  Like the Phoenix rising from the ashes to new life, a new year gives us the feeling that all things are possible if we start them today.

In the fall of 2015 I met some amazing women while re-branding my business to highlight women’s portraiture.  Each woman came to me with a different reason for having her photo taken.  I have been told by clients that the feelings they have at the end of their session and after they have seen their photos make them see themselves differently.  They feel empowered, confident and beautiful.  Today I would like to share a blog recently written by one of those women on her blog site Desirable Phoenix.

Boudoir or Not to Boudoir

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial Portraiture

The word, boudoir, is French. It means a women’s private room or bedroom. But, in a photography sense, boudoir is using a bedroom, hotel or intimate setting that is used to create or capture classy and romantic images.

I had previously heard of boudoir photo shoots, but I had yet to be a part of them. I began modeling for a friend, who captured more risque images … As a photographer, my husband had the opportunity to shoot boudoir with a woman who was turning 40 and wanted to get images done of herself! At that point, I knew I wanted to do one as well, but the time had never opened up to do so.

Around September or October of 2015, a friend of mine posted about a contest her mother was having. She was re-branding her photography business and wanted to run a new campaign. It just so happened that it was a glamour/boudoir shoot and she was looking for four models. Although they lived in Connecticut, I decided that it was worth a shot and worth the drive to get a free photo shoot. I went on her website and entered the contest. A couple weeks before the shoot was to take place, I received a phone call from Marilyn Riel, owner and photographer at Menagerie Photography. She explained to me that I had won one of the spot. I was so surprised that I had to know why. She told me that she liked what I put in my description of why I’d be a good model for the photo shoot.

I was so excited, that I made a weekend of the trip of it!

Before the shoot, we laughed and I cried and shared my thoughts about myself and my image. At the time of this shoot, I was struggling with my thoughts of what sexy looked like on me and how I felt. You may even look at these photos and see my petite body and think, “She’s beautiful”, or “She has a wonderful shape”, or “I wish I was her size”, but the reality is I had and still have some insecurities about my body and how I want it to look. Even doing the risque photo shoots did not make me feel like the boudoir shoot made me feel.

I felt vulnerable, and I felt sexy! It was a very powerful and personal experience. Unlike any other that I have had. After the photo shoot, I felt like I knew a little more about my sexy and what “type” I fell under.

Feeling and being sexy is not about what other people think of you, but what you think of yourself. No matter how you look: thick, skinny, fat, curvy, petite, or plus-sized, your sexy is determined by how you feel about yourself.

Would I do it again? In a heartbeat!! Would I suggest it to other women? Absolutely!!

In the long run, you will thank yourself that this was something you did. It may not be as awakening as it was for me… but what if it is? Do you really want to miss out?

Stay Blessed

Lady Lynn”

Menagerie Connecticut Photography - CT Boudoir Pinup Romantic Lingerie Sexy Intimate Glamour Maternity Head shots Fashion Editorial PortraitureIt is hard to put into words how proud I am of the strides this woman has made in finding herself and in opening up to share her challenges and victories with others.  I can tell you about what I do or why I do it but to have a woman share her feelings with others about HER experience with me, truly brings me to tears every time I read it.

Thank you “Lady Lynn” for sharing your story and letting me know that all the hard work and hours spent preparing, shooting and editing each session is so worth it!

To read more blogs from Lady Lynn go to Desirable Phoenix.

As for me in 2017…

My goal is to shoot 100 women before January 1st 2018.

I would love to meet you, do a session with you, and show you how absolutely beautiful you are.

Why are you waiting to have an amazing experience for yourself?

Call me today to meet, have coffee and plan a day you will always remember.

Happy New Year!!

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!!

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 Confidence

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.

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

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.

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

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!!