My first #SheerExperience

Alright honeys, listen up! This was my first photo shoot EVER! Can you tell? No. The reason behind that is because Jen and Brian made sure I was comfortable while we did the shoot & answered all my questions before I even stepped foot into their boudoir studio in Youngstown, Ohio. Once I warmed up, my #SheerBeauty was showcased!

If you're planning on a boudoir session, I'm here to give you some tips on how to make the experience as smooth and effortless as possible. You want to feel confident and sexy, and I'm going to help you get there girlfriend!!

First things first, communication is key. Talk to Jen & Brian beforehand about what kind of look you're going for, whether it's soft and romantic or sultry and edgy, maybe even a mix of both. This will give them a better idea of how to style, pose you & what areas of the studio to use. It's also important to discuss any insecurities or areas you want to highlight so that they can work with you to create the perfect shots. They email you a questionnaire to help with a lot of these things & ask things you might not even consider.

Another important factor is what to wear. You want to feel comfortable and confident in your outfits, so choose pieces that make you feel sexy, whether it's a lacy bralette or a satin robe. Don't forget to bring accessories like jewelry or heels to add some extra flair. And ladies, if all else fails, they have a whole lingerie closet, which I took full advantage of for every single one of my outfits! It was so helpful & less stressful, I came in with nothing to wear and Jen picked out everything based off what parts of my body I wanted to showcase & my self-perceived flaws that I didn’t want showing as much.

Next up, pamper yourself! Get your hair and makeup done beforehand, or do it yourself if you're a pro. It is so nice that they offer this in studio for all of us, and even better that Jen is the one doing your hair & makeup. It makes it a little less awkward to undress after you’ve been chatting with her for over an hour & feel like you two would be best friends outside of this! Don't forget to take care of your skin too - exfoliate and moisturize to ensure a smooth and glowing complexion.

Lastly, relax and have fun! Boudoir sessions should be a celebration of your beauty and sensuality, so don't be afraid to let loose and express yourself. Let Brian & Jen guide you through poses and movements, but also feel free to bring your own ideas to the table. They are amazing at working in any inspiration or props you have.

So there you have it, girlfriend - follow these tips and you'll be ready for your boudoir close-up in no time. Now scroll on down past my sexy photos and send them a message! Xoxo, Miss Y

I was a complete wreck...

I was a complete wreck starting from the thoughts of being almost naked in front of people I did not know to almost being in tears by being late over a flat tire the morning of my shoot. I almost felt like this was a bad omen BUT when I arrived, Jen said ok, you look like you need a hug & said don’t cry, it’s ok, calm down. From there the nerves started to melt away. I was at complete ease & we made it happen. I haven't felt good about myself in so long but when I saw the photos, I couldn't believe that was ME!!!!! I thank you for such an amazing experience!! Definitely gonna do it again!!

XoXo, Miss K

5 things that have helped me...maybe they can help you too

Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Therapy, psychiatrist visits, medication, meditation, and the list goes on. These are all things that have been a part of my life, some more recent than others. 

In my mental health journey I’ve made mistakes, changed paths, learned lessons and can say that this past year I’ve been able to become the best version of myself. Everyone’s journey is different, but I wanted to share a few lessons I’ve learned along the way. 

1. Routine. Having one and sticking to it makes my life less stressful and helps me keep up with everyday tasks that can be difficult to complete. For me this means keeping a schedule of daily tasks even the little things like washing dishes, and sticking to it.

2. Therapy. Bi-weekly when I’m doing well and weekly when I’m not. It helps me keep up with healthy habits and work though anything that life throws my way. Don’t be afraid to change therapists, it took me a few to find the right match for my needs.

3. Exercise. It helps me connect with my body, provides a positive stress relief and has improved my confidence and my physical health.

4. Communication. The people closest to me, and even my closest co-workers (I know scary) know how I’m feeling. This allows me to have an off day or a bad day without making things harder by trying to cover my anxiety or ADHD. My colleagues have been more supportive than I could have ever imagined.

5. Medication. This was hard for me, I wanted to work through everything using therapy and I struggled to accept that I needed more. I was afraid I wouldn’t feel like myself and the truth is I feel more like myself now that I’ve found the right medications and doses.

If you’ve made it this far your probably wondering what this has to do with Sheer Photography. My journey with my mental health has often made it hard for me to feel comfortable in the skin I’m in. My anxiety points out all of my flaws and when I step in front of a mirror my eyes flow to the things I dislike the most. This was my second session with Sheer and initially it was scheduled as a birthday present to myself but it as it approached it felt more like a celebration of the changes I’ve made in the past year. Jen made me feel right at home as I settled in for hair and makeup before my session, and they did an amazing job of making me feel comfortable during the shoot. I didn’t have a single moment where I thought about what if this isn’t my best angle or what if I don’t like the pictures. The highlight was coming in to see the photos, there wasn’t a single one I didn’t like and I can’t wait to have my favorites on the wall at home to remind me that I am a #SheerBeauty. The after effects are lasting, I feel more comfortable in my skin and even wore out the little black dress that’s been hiding in the back of my closet and I felt amazing! While the shoot is only one day it’s a great way to remind yourself how amazing you are.

XoXo, Miss J