ELIA’S BOUDOIR EXPERIENCE

Q: Why did you do your boudoir shoot?

As a woman I’ve had hardships growing up. Being raised by an abusive parent was difficult. Being told such negative and horrible things no four year old should hear for years, affected my self-worth and self-esteem. Started my journey to self-love not long ago, however that brought some hard times too. Felt as if I wasn’t making any progress with myself. When I saw your work and started seeing what a shoot can do for someone, I knew this would be the perfect way to re-start my journey. It would be the best way to re-introduce myself and show I am done being afraid.

Q: What was your favorite part of LaRose Portraits experience and why?

For me, there is no favorite part, I loved every minute of it! From waking up to get rest to waking up the next day and seeing a sneak peek of one image. From how easily comfortable I felt as soon as we got started and being able to be open while getting my make-up and hair done. To baring at all for the first time with your direction and support getting as excited as me with each photo. When doing the different poses the positions I didn’t know I could do was definitely fun. Got the chance to have some control on parts of it, I am grateful for that. Being able to see what come images were coming out, very much surprised me. Overall I had so much fun with everything.

Q: How did you feel during your session? Was your experience what you were expecting? If not, how was it different?

Not at all what I was expecting, it was much better. I’m usually a little awkward when meeting new people, so it was great to able to be at ease for once. Was anxious and nervous at first, however once we got started it I felt safe. When someone I do not personally be able to help me feel safe, is truly gifted. It was different in the best way. I felt confident with myself. Almost as if my inner goddess was coming out and making herself known. My expectations were exceeded in a positive way.

Q: Would you do it again?

Yes! I think I would want to do this very year if possible. The shoot was so much fun and new, I would love, LOVE to do it again.

Q: Did you feel safe and comfortable in my home studio?

As soon as I walked in, right away felt comfortable and safe. For me that does not happen often, so I was amazed. The ambiance was cozy and warm, felt right at home. Once we all at started talking it felt normal and as if I was visiting a friend I have known for years.

Q: What was your biggest fear before the session? Did your fear come true, and if not, what happened instead?

The biggest fear I had was how the images would come out. Have been insecure about myself most of my life, therefore was scared how I’d look. The complete opposite happened once I saw them, I was in awe with all of them. Every shot come out stunning! Also helped me see fear cannot keep me from going after what I want.

Q: When you first saw your images at the Image Reveal, how did you feel?

On the image reveal I was stunned! I cried a couple of times, the way the photographs showed who I am as a woman was an outer body experience. Seeing the first peek got me super excited to see the rest. Once I was shown the presentation with the music that’s when the tears of joy started coming out. Being able to see myself vulnerable yet strong was outstanding. You truly captured me in way I have never done so for myself, I felt grateful to see myself in a new light.

Q: How has your boudoir experience affected your self confidence, self worth, self image, and overall morale? Tell me your story.

After doing the shoot and doing the image reveal it has helped me appreciate myself as a woman. My confidence has been uplifted, so has my self-worth and self-love. This was one of the firsts that has helped me come of the little shy shell I have kept myself in for most of my life. The journey to self-love for me was very difficult. Doing this shoot has skyrocketed my journey to a new level I thought would take years. No more doubt or negativity towards myself. I can say “I’m stunning!” and truly mean it. Thank you!

Q: What would you do different for your next session?

I have been afraid of just baring at all, for my next session I would love to do more nude. Now that I know what to expect and knowing how safe it is, it would be so much fun to do it. To really put myself out of my comfort zone more and stop being scared. Perhaps also try the water shoot, seems like a lot of fun as well!

Q: Have you ever done a boudoir shoot before? If so, how does your shoot with me compare to your prior experience?

Never have done a shoot in my life. Even having family members or friends take pictures of me I have always felt weird about it. This shoot was a lot of firsts for me. First time doing a shoot, first time driving up to Los Angeles by myself and first time being half naked on front of a camera. All worth it!

Q: Do you have any advice for women interested in booking a boudoir session? What would you say to someone considering doing a session with me?

I recommend it 100%! Lauren is an amazing photographer that brings out the true beauty in anyone with every image. She is truly talented and knowledgeable of her craft, from the poses to the right lighting. Open communication is amazing, you have control of what you want and what you’d like to do. The only limits are the ones you set for your self. Fear often stops us from coming out of our comfort zone or new experiences, don’t let it stop you.