How Boudoir Photography Transforms Confidence: Liz Hansen on The Power of Her Podcast
The Power of Boudoir: How Liz Hansen Empowers Women Through Photography
I recently had the honor of chatting with Dawn Sinkule on The Power of Her podcast, and we dove deep into one of my biggest passions: boudoir photography. For those who haven’t heard the term before, boudoir is just a fancy French word for a woman’s bedroom—but in my world, it’s so much more than that. It’s about creating a safe space where women can feel confident, empowered, and unapologetically themselves.
Since opening Chicago Boudoir Photography in 2018, I’ve had the privilege of photographing over 2,000 incredible women. Each session is unique—sometimes celebratory, sometimes healing—but always about helping a woman see her own value and beauty.
Boudoir Is About Feeling Powerful, Not Just Looking Sexy
When people first hear “boudoir,” they often think it’s all about sexy photos. And yes, our sessions are sensual—but the real magic happens when women walk out feeling empowered, not just attractive. Some come to my studio for happy reasons, like weddings or pregnancy. Others come after challenging life events—a breakup, leaving a domestic violence relationship, or even surviving a major health scare.
One session that still gives me chills was with Sarah, a 41-year-old mom who survived a heart attack and 17 surgeries. On the one-year anniversary of her heart attack, she came to my studio for a boudoir session to celebrate her survival. She wanted her scars to be visible in her photos, to honor what she’d been through, and to remind herself: “I’m alive. I’m here.” That’s the kind of empowerment I live for.
Balancing Business, Motherhood, and Life
Running a business while raising two teen daughters is no joke. Some days are smoother than others, but one thing I’ve learned is that you can’t be 100% in mom mode and 100% in business mode at the same time—and that’s perfectly okay. Boundaries, honest communication with my partner, and a well-planned schedule make it all possible.
Teaching Confidence to the Next Generation
Even though boudoir is only for adults, my daughters have always known what I do. I want them to grow up understanding that their bodies are powerful, not something to fight with or judge. Our bodies fuel our lives—they aren’t problems to solve. That’s a conversation I wish more teens could hear today.
Advice for Women Ready to Take a Bold Step
If you’re feeling a little spark inside you—a desire to do something bold, creative, or unconventional—I want you to listen to it. Sexy isn’t about size, age, or appearance. Sexy is a vibe. Your desires are worthy. Your dreams are worth chasing. Take one small step toward them. You don’t have to build Rome in a day; just start moving forward, even a little at a time.
Want to Hear More?
If you want to hear the full conversation and get even more insight into boudoir, confidence, and empowerment, tune in to the episode on The Power of Her podcast on Spotify or watch the Youtube episode below! Dawn and I talk about everything from business to motherhood, and I promise it’ll leave you inspired to step into your own power.
Ready to Step Into Your Power?
If you’re feeling inspired and want to experience the confidence-boosting magic of boudoir for yourself, let’s make it happen! Book a free consult with me today, and we’ll talk about your vision, your comfort level, and how we can create images that celebrate you—exactly as you are.