Why Boudoir Is More Than a Photo Shoot: A Conversation About Confidence, Body Image & Self-Worth
Boudoir Is Not About the Photos—It’s About How You See Yourself
Boudoir photography isn’t about being “ready,” losing weight, or fitting into someone else’s idea of sexy. In this interview, Liz Hansen, owner of Chicago Boudoir Photography, shares what boudoir actually is—and why it’s one of the most powerful, confidence-building experiences a woman can have.
What if boudoir wasn’t about being sexy for someone else—but about seeing yourself differently?
When women book a boudoir photo shoot, they often think they’re hiring me to create a gift for a partner. And yes—boudoir does make an incredible gift. But what I’ve learned after photographing more than 2,000 women is this:
Boudoir is really for you.
It’s for the woman who thinks she’s “too old,” “too busy,” “too curvy,” or “just a mom.”
It’s for the woman who hasn’t seen herself as beautiful in a long time.
It’s for the woman who wants to feel confident, sensual, and fully herself again.
Boudoir is for EVERY body.
Boudoir Isn’t Taboo—It’s Transformative
Many women come into my studio believing boudoir is only for a certain type of woman. But boudoir is for every woman who wants to reclaim the parts of herself that may have been buried under responsibilities, expectations, or self-doubt.
You don’t need a reason.
You don’t need a special occasion.
You don’t need to change your body.
You’re alive. You have a body.
That alone makes you worthy of being documented and celebrated.
What Women Feel When They See Their Photos
When women see their images for the first time, there’s often a pause.
Sometimes tears.
Sometimes laughter.
Sometimes, “Is that really me?”
They’re seeing themselves in a way they never have before—through a lens that honors their strength, softness, and story. Even the parts they’ve never thought to love before.
Your body tells a story. Boudoir turns that story into art. Read some real women’s boudoir stories here!
You Don’t Have to Be Confident to Do Boudoir
This is one of the biggest misconceptions I hear:
“I’m just not confident enough to do this.”
Here’s the truth—you don’t bring the confidence.
You just show up. I’ll take care of the rest, and help you debunk those boudoir myths you had before your session.
From professional hair and makeup to guided posing, lighting, and support every step of the way, this experience is designed so you never have to wonder what to do or how you look.
By the time you leave, confidence is no longer something you’re chasing—it’s something you’re carrying.
A Radical Act of Self-Love
Boudoir is not about perfection.
It’s not about fitting into a mold.
It’s about celebrating who you are right now.
Whether you’re a busy mom, newly divorced, engaged, in your 60s, or simply ready to do something bold for yourself—this experience is for you.
This isn’t just a photo shoot.
It’s a moment you’ll carry with you long after the session ends.
And every woman deserves that—at least once in her lifetime.
Have questions like What should I wear? Will you help me pose? Who will be at the shoot?
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to guess.
👉 Read our Boudoir FAQ page to get honest answers and feel fully prepared before booking.