Overcoming her demons

As an Ottawa Boudoir Photographer, I meet many different women from all ages and at different stages in their lives. When you meet someone who’s young, unassuming and beautiful, just starting their journey into adulthood, you sometimes can’t help but assume they have the world by the balls and no demons dare cross their path — until you get to know them and hear their story. Meet Miss R! She battled an eating disorder but managed to overcome it and change her relationship with food and her body. She came to Je m’adore fine art portraits to celebrate overcoming her demons. Here is her story:

Q: What’s going on in your life right now that motivated you to do a session?
Miss R:  I wanted to do a Boudoir session to celebrate beating disordered eating patterns. So I did it mostly for me, but I also wanted a special, unique gift for my boyfriend… He LOVED it!

Q: Besides beautiful photographs, what else did you hope to get out of the experience?
Miss R:  I was hoping to get out of my comfort zone, Lord knows how this pandemic has been pushing us into routinely circles! I also thought it would be a great way to gain some confidence, which I definitely did!

Q: How long had you been considering doing a shoot before you booked yours? What was the final push? What did it feel like to finally book your session?
Miss R:  I honestly scheduled a shoot within two days of discovering boudoir. I thought, I’m 20, and would love older me to have some pictures to hold on to. I browsed nearby boudoir photographers and had a “vibe” from Suzanne’s website that she would the one I would entrust. I was looking for a unique gift for my partner and thought well, I’d be investing in myself at the same time… perfect!

Q: Before your session, how would you describe your relationship with your body, your beauty and your sensuality?
Miss R:  I really healed these past two years. What used to be a hate relationship with my body has transformed into an adoration. I care for myself more than ever before, and I feel this radiates in my beauty, confidence and soul. I feel more beautiful than ever in my life and really wanted to capture this moment in time where everything fell into place.

Q: How did doing a session affect how you feel about your body, your beauty and your sensuality?
Miss R:  It only enhanced what I was already feeling. You’re never more vulnerable than when you are walking around a stranger’s studio in lingerie, but Suzanne was so professional and attentive. She helped me get out of my shell a little bit and have fun with something I NEVER thought I’d achieve. It was empowering!

Q: What were you worried about before your session? What helped to overcome that?
Miss R:  I was only worried about posing because I have no modeling experience, but Suzanne placed every inch of my body perfectly and guided me the whole way through!

Q: Tell me about your session day: How did you feel on your way over? What were your favorite parts? How did you feel on the way home?
Miss R:  I fell jittery on my way over! I loved the entire experience, but truly appreciated the lunch break. The catered lunch box I selected was filled with goodies, and I’m a real snacker so it kept me going! I was so proud of myself on my way home. I couldn’t believe what I accomplished and was just so excited to see the final product.

Q: What were you feeling when you saw your photos at the viewing?
Miss R:  WOW WOW WOW IS THAT ME?! It was incredible to see Suzanne’s master work on the photographs. The angles, the lighting, everything is set up perfectly to flatter every inch of my body. You can tell I was comfortable and confident during the shoot, and Suzanne’s posing directions made for some great shots. I look like a pro model in my photos, and I kept bragging at my boyfriend about how good I look! hahaha

Q: Why did you decide to hire me as your photographer?
Miss R:  I’m not sure. I’m very good at reading people’s energies and something about your website drew me in. My consultation had me SOLD! You had a very caring attitude and were very grounded. I love your sense of humor and felt really comfortable!

Q: If your friend were considering doing a shoot, what would you say to encourage her?
Miss R:  I would tell her that the investment is all worth it. It is such an empowering experience to go through: a real confidence booster. (And then I’d show her my pictures and we all know she would book an appointment as soon as she could, lol)

Age: early 20’s