Unveiling the Goddess Within: A Conversation on Empowerment, Boudoir, and Finding Your Spark
Sexy Isn’t a Size: How Boudoir Photography Can Reframe Your Confidence
In a world full of filters, endless “self-improvement” advice, and pressure to look a certain way, I’m on a mission to help women rewrite the story they tell themselves. At Chicago Boudoir Photography, my philosophy is simple: sexy isn’t a size—it’s a vibe.
I recently got to chat with Penny Fitzgerald on the Penny For Your Shots podcast about exactly that—how I help women step into their power, one photo at a time. Our conversation was a mix of business talk, big dreams, empowerment, and, yes, a tiny Malort cameo at the end.
From Regular Photography to Boudoir Magic
My path to boudoir wasn’t exactly planned. I started out photographing weddings, babies, and family milestones—just the typical “life moments” stuff. But when I worked at a studio that offered boudoir sessions, I noticed something incredible: women would walk in nervous, unsure, and a little apprehensive… and they’d leave glowing, confident, and full of joy.
Curious, I decided to try a session myself. Coming from a conservative background, I’d always been taught that “good girls didn’t do stuff like that.” My hands were shaking as I fumbled with my bra, but as the session went on, something shifted. I felt empowered. And while the photos were technically a gift for my husband, they ended up being more for me—a way to embrace a bolder, more sensual version of myself.
A Photo Can Change Your Story
For my clients, boudoir is often a celebration—a birthday, a wedding, a milestone, or a new chapter in life. Sometimes it’s about healing after a breakup, a health scare, or leaving a difficult situation. Everyone’s reasons are unique, but the result is the same: a profound sense of confidence, self-worth, and empowerment.
I believe every woman is beautiful exactly as she is. My studio is a space where filters and Photoshop don’t dictate worth. We celebrate your real, lived-in body and the story it tells. During the podcast, I shared one of my favorite truths: so many of us spend our lives hating the very body that carries us. Boudoir is a way to befriend yourself—to show yourself the same kindness you’d give to a younger version of you.
More Than Just a Photoshoot
Boudoir at my studio isn’t just about taking pictures—it’s about building a community. Through my private Facebook group of over 10,000 women, I host conversations every day to help women feel powerful in their relationships, careers, and lives.
The energy of a session doesn’t end when you leave the studio. I encourage clients to display their photos somewhere they’ll see them daily, to carry that confidence forward. Many women return to mark new seasons of life—a bridal shoot, maternity, or even an annual birthday tradition. Their journeys are proof that self-love has no expiration date.
Dream Bigger, Show Up, Don’t Wait
One of my favorite parts of the podcast was sharing this message: don’t wait for the perfect time to try something you’ve been dreaming of. Whether it’s starting a business, picking up a creative hobby, or booking that boudoir session you’ve been thinking about… now is the time.
When I opened my studio, almost everyone—including friends and family—told me not to do it. Only my husband encouraged me. Seven years later, I’m still here, helping women step into their power and proving that the dream is always worth showing up for.
At the end of the day, my business isn’t about selling photos—it’s about helping women see themselves for what they’ve always been: powerful, beautiful, and worthy.
So, what’s that new thing you’ve been dreaming of trying? I’d love to hear about it—share in the comments!