Why I Believe Every Woman Deserves to Be Seen: My Interview on the Boss Babe Summer Podcast Series
Sexy Is Not a Size: My Interview with Divas That Care
I recently had the honor of being interviewed on the Divas That Care podcast as part of their Boss Babe Summer: Leveling Up in Life & Career series—and I left that conversation feeling so energized and inspired, I knew I had to share it here on the blog.
If you don’t already know me, I’m Liz Hansen, the founder and photographer behind Chicago Boudoir Photography. My studio is based in Winnetka, just north of Chicago, and I’ve spent the past several years helping women see themselves through a new, more empowering lens—literally.
But what I do is about so much more than just taking pretty pictures.
How I Found My Calling in Boudoir Photography
Years ago, I booked a boudoir photo shoot for myself as a gift for my husband. What I didn’t expect was how transformative the experience would be. I walked out of that studio with more confidence, more clarity, and a deep desire to show up in my life in a bigger, bolder way.
That feeling was powerful—and I knew I wanted to give that same experience to other women. So I pivoted away from weddings and events and opened a space that was entirely focused on boudoir photography for women.
Fast forward to now, and I’ve had the joy of working with thousands of women across Chicago and beyond.
Boudoir Is for Every Season of Your Life
During the podcast, I talked about something I share with clients all the time: there's no right reason to book a boudoir session. Some women come to the studio to celebrate joyful milestones—an engagement, a pregnancy, a big birthday.
Others walk through my door during seasons of transition or healing. Maybe they’ve gone through a breakup or divorce. Maybe they’re recovering from illness or reclaiming their body after trauma. I’ve had survivors of domestic violence. Women fighting breast cancer. Moms trying to reconnect with the woman they were before kids.
No matter where you are in your journey, you deserve to be celebrated! And I truly believe that a boudoir photo shoot can be part of that healing and celebration.
Sexy Is Not a Size
If you only take one thing away from my podcast interview, I hope it’s this:
Sexy is not a size. Sexy is a vibe.
You don’t need to lose weight. You don’t need to be younger or different or “better.” You are already worthy—right now, as you are. And the photos we take together are a reflection of that truth.
This isn’t about perfection. It’s about empowerment. It’s about finally seeing what everyone else already sees in you: strength, beauty, confidence, sensuality, softness, and fire.
What It’s Like to Book a Boudoir Session at My Chicago Studio
So many women tell me, “I’ve always wanted to do something like this… but I’m nervous!” I totally get it. That’s why I’ve designed a process that takes all the pressure off you.
Here’s what it looks like:
We start with a planning phone call where I learn about you—your style, your goals, your comfort level, and what you’re excited (or nervous!) about.
On your shoot day, you’ll arrive with clean, dry hair and no makeup—and my beauty team will take it from there.
You’ll be pampered with professional hair, airbrush makeup, lashes, and wardrobe styling.
I’ll guide you through every pose, every angle. You don’t need to practice or prepare—we’ve got you.
Before you leave, you’ll get a same-day photo reveal, so you can see yourself in a whole new light—without filters or Photoshop.
Yes, it’s fun. Yes, it’s pampering. But more than anything, it’s personal.
The Power of Specializing—and Saying No
One of the things I talked about on the podcast was the decision to specialize in boudoir. Early in my career, I photographed everything—weddings, babies, family sessions. But once I realized the impact that boudoir could have, I knew I needed to go all in.
Saying no to other types of photography felt scary at first, but specializing allowed me to create a really intentional, elevated boudoir experience. It helped me get better at serving the women who were truly meant to work with me.
So if you’re a fellow creative or entrepreneur, here’s my advice: Start before you feel ready. Done is better than perfect. And don’t be afraid to niche down.
Ready to Be Seen?
Whether you’re local to Chicago or just exploring the idea of a boudoir session, I’d love to connect with you. Grab one of my FREE resources like my self-care calendar and my Ultimate Guide to an unforgettable Boudoir Shoot ebook!
Or follow along on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube to see behind-the-scenes magic and client stories.
If you’ve been waiting for the “right” time to book a shoot… this is your sign. You are ready. You are enough. You are worth it.