How Boudoir Photography can help you Reclaim Confidence, Body Positivity, and Empowerment
When was the last time you did something just for you?
If you’re anything like me—or most women I know—the answer is probably: “I can’t even remember.” Between juggling work, family, and that never-ending to-do list, it’s easy to lose sight of yourself. Particularly as women, we’re very used to putting ourselves last.
The idea of carving out time to celebrate our bodies, reconnect with our sensuality, and feel truly pampered can feel indulgent, even selfish.
But let me tell you: it’s not
I recently had the incredible opportunity to experience a boudoir session at Photo Nottingham, and it was nothing short of transformative. If you’ve ever felt disconnected from your body, your confidence, or your sense of self, this might be exactly what you need as well.
Before I’d even set foot out of the door, I felt welcomed into their community. I received a thoughtful email explaining everything I could expect from the experience and was invited to join their group of more than 3000 women in the the Ladies in Lace, private Facebook group - what an incredibly supportive bunch!!
In the lead-up to my shoot, I shared videos about my preparations, and the group was so warm and encouraging. Women shared tidbits from their own boudoir photography experiences, tips for feeling confident, and words of support that made me feel like I had my own cheering squad. If you’re considering a boudoir session but feel nervous, this group is an incredible resource—you won’t be going it alone.
You have been criticising yourself for years, and it hasn’t worked.
Try approving yourself and see what happens.
~ Louise Hay
From the moment I arrived at the studio, I felt like a celebrity.
The team greeted me warmly, and Sarah, their talented makeup artist, created a stunning hair and makeup look that made me feel both glamorous and like myself.
One of the things I loved most about this experience was how personal it was.
The team encouraged me to bring items that reflected me. I took along a deliciously decadent burgundy peignoir from one of my burlesque costumes, and it was such a joy to wear it and experience it in a new, empowering way.
The studio itself offers endless possibilities for creativity—there’s a gorgeous grand piano (perfect for musicians), a water screen, and props for just about every vibe you could imagine. Previous clients have brought everything from knitting needles to a motorbike!
Whatever makes you feel confident, the team will find a way to showcase it beautifully.
What truly sets Photo Nottingham apart is the immediate reveal of your photos on the same day.
After the shoot, I was invited into a private viewing room—a cozy, beautifully designed space that felt like stepping into my own personal cinema. As I settled onto the plush sofa, a welcome message with my name lit up a wall-sized screen. With the lights dimmed and music playing softly, my photographs appeared one by one.
I wasn’t prepared for how emotional I’d feel. Seeing the stunning, confident woman on the screen—the woman I sometimes struggle to see in the mirror—left me overwhelmed.
She was radiant, powerful, and unapologetically me.
A funny surprise? Holding those poses is no joke! By the end of the day, I felt like I’d done a full-body workout. But with Stuart, Sarah and Leigh guiding me every step of the way—adjusting poses, fixing stray hair, and ensuring everything looked perfect—it was worth every second. As a registered yoga teacher, I’m used to holding poses for a long time so this worked in my favour.
It was also a revelation to know how many people travel from all over the UK - sometimes even further - to enjoy this wonderful experience and take advantage of the team’s professionalism! Nottingham is located right in the centre of the country, minutes away from the M1 motorway and from East Midlands airport. Lots of women make a real treat weekend of it, traveling and enjoying the glorious countryside and the hotels that we are proud of that cater to all tastes and budgets.
Whether or not you’re ready to jump into a boudoir session, here are a few ways to start feeling more connected to yourself
Indulge in self-care
Take 10 minutes each day to do something just for you, whether that’s sipping a cup of tea or stretching out on your yoga mat. If you want other tips on how to increase your capacity for pleasure in non-sexual ways, take a peek at my 30 Days of Self-Care for Sensuality
Wear something that makes you feel amazing
Even if no one else sees it, slipping into a favorite outfit or lingerie set can shift your mood instantly.
Practice movement—dance, stretch, or move in a way that feels good for your body
It’s a great way to reconnect with how your body moves and feels. You are welcome to use my free Ease Into Yoga online mini-course to help you prepare your body physically. (If you want a more personalised session to help build your stamina, I can even arrange an online 1-2-1 yoga class!)
Consider joining a supportive community like Ladies in Lace
Groups like this are a wonderful way to connect with others who’ve had similar experiences and can cheer you on.
Remind yourself,
you DO deserve this!
If you’re nervous about trying boudoir photography with Photo Nottingham, please trust the process. The team at Photo Nottingham is professional, thoughtful, and dedicated to making you feel fantastic. Whether you’re perimenopausal, navigating a life shift, or just feeling disconnected, this is an opportunity to step into your power and rediscover the confident, vibrant woman you are.
Have you ever done something completely for yourself? Or are you considering a boudoir photography experience but still unsure? I’d love to hear your thoughts or answer your questions about my day. Drop a comment below, or let’s chat—because you deserve to feel as amazing as you are.
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