Boudoir Hair and Makeup Services by Evansville Photographer

Professional Hair and Makeup for Your Evansville Boudoir Shoot

When it comes to your boudoir shoot in Evansville, don't overlook the importance of professional hair and makeup. At Angels D’amour Boudoir, we understand that every detail matters. That's why we include top-notch hair and makeup services in our sessions.

Why do we emphasize the need for professional hair and makeup? Firstly, our state-of-the-art cameras and studio equipment capture even the tiniest details, from every pore to every hair on your face. While that level of precision is impressive, it's not necessarily what you want in your boudoir photos. By having our skilled hair and makeup artist work their magic, you can hide any imperfections and highlight your best features, such as your bone structure and eyes. The results? Photos that truly stand out and make you feel confident and beautiful.

But it's not just about the visual aspect. We understand that boudoir photography can be intimidating for many people. That's why we strive to create a relaxing and stress-free experience for you. Our professional hair and makeup services play a crucial role in achieving this goal. As soon as you step through our doors, you'll be greeted by our talented artist, Renae, who will transform your look with her expertise. You'll be amazed at the confidence boost you'll get when you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror, with bombshell curls and flawless makeup.

At Angels D’amour Boudoir, we're dedicated to making your boudoir shoot in Evansville an unforgettable experience. Our commitment to professional hair and makeup ensures that you look and feel your absolute best. Trust us to create the perfect look that suits your style and enhances your natural beauty.

Book your boudoir session today and let us take care of every detail, from hair and makeup to capturing stunning photos that celebrate your unique allure. You deserve to feel confident, empowered, and beautiful in every way.

One client’s boudoir hair and makeup!

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Rebecca's Boudoir Shoot | March 2021 | Evansville, Indiana

This vibrant 47 year old grandma-to-be walked into our Chandler - Evansville studio earlier this year in March for her very own boudoir shoot.

She’s been married for 35 years to the love of her life with 4 kiddos and she LOVES to read nonfiction! At first she was SO excited about her session and was in a good place with her body…and then BAM, menopause hit and it knocked her down on herself for a while.

I had no idea what I was in for. ( ladies, research..no... join some menopause support groups on Facebook and prepare your bodies now!)

I felt way worse about my body than I ever did before. I totally wanted to back out of the photo shoot. I have so many insecurities and hang ups.

However, she got up the gumption to come in and rocked her session! These images remind her that she’s still a sensual woman and she’s SO glad she pushed through her fear and self doubt!

Life is meant to be lived and loved. If you have considered it then you most likely really want to do it. Don’t end up with regrets.

Enjoy the photos we’ve put together for you!

Tanning before your Boudoir Session / Evansville Boudoir

Here at our Chandler Studio (near Evansville) we get this question a lot: To tan or not to tan?

We get asked a lot of questions regarding prepping for your Boudoir Shoot, and one we want to explain specifically is whether to tan or not to tan. For us, the answer is simple and it may actually surprise you. The answer is absolutely NOT! The reason is because we have really nice lighting in the studio, and a fake tan can tend to make your skin look very orange, and no one wants that! Even the best of the best spray tans or tanning lotions can cause some wacky skin tones in camera. Unless you want to run the risk of looking like a cast member of Willy Wonka, we say skip the fake tans. This goes for tanning beds too!

We have also had issues in the past where women who get spray tans too close to their session and end up staining our furniture and lingerie in the Client Wardrobe that we spend a lot of time and money on - and of course those stains don’t come out!

If you are truly terrified about looking like Casper in your images, we promise to give you a nice natural glow. We would rather add a little 'warmth' to your images with our tried and true methods than potentially have to reschedule your session because your skin tone was off. We get it - you want to look like a bronzed beauty for your shoot, but in reality, your pasty skin will look much more natural and beautiful without the fake tan! You can trust us on this one.

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Should I Lose Weight Before My Boudoir Session?

Should I lose weight before my shoot?

You do not need to fit a certain mold to do a boudoir session.


Repeat after me:

"I am beautiful right now, just the way that I am. I do not need to change anything about myself to be
beautiful.”

There is no one single definition of beautiful, we are all unique and that is what is special. Just because someone else looks different than you does not take away from your own individual beauty. We photograph women of all shapes, sizes, colors, ages, etc. and each and every one of them is gorgeous in many aspects both inside and out.

We want to photograph you how you are, right now.

There are a million reasons to book a boudoir session, but sometimes you don't need a reason at all.
A few reasons you may consider booking a boudoir session that have nothing to do with your weight:

• A gift to yourself just because

• Before having children

• After childbirth

• A monumental birthday (30, 40, 50, 60, 70, and even 80!!)

• Just because you simply need a boost

• Maternity boudoir

• For your wedding or anniversary

• To show off a new tattoo

• As a gift to someone else (birthday, holiday)

• So that you can finally see why everyone else keeps telling you that you are beautiful

• For your divorce

• Something amazing to look back on when you're older

We want you to love yourself just the way you are, and a lot of women don’t. That’s what we try to change
here at Angels D’amour Photography - we want to empower you. You may be feeling down about
the way you look or maybe you can’t lose those few extra pounds (we’ve been there, too). The most
important thing is to love yourself now, always. No matter what. We guarantee you will fall in love with
yourself even more after your session with us.

The Single Girl's Guide to Valentine's Day

The Single Girl's Guide to Valentine's Day

Or….if your significant other sucks at it.

Valentine’s Day is upon us. And for some, it’s the most romantic day of the year. For other though, it’s a sad and lonely day. Valentine’s day can seem so depressing for those who are single or who’s partners will be away for the day of romance. But it doesn’t have to be that way…

If you find yourself alone on Cupid’s holiday, take heart. Because while you might not have a significant other to dote on, you can definatly love yourself on this day. As a matter of fact, you SHOULD love yourself before you let another love on you. So take this Valentine’s Day to spoil and appreciate yourself!

Below is a list of things you can do for yourself either luxe or on a budget to make this Valentine’s Day just as special, if not MORE special, than a day spent with another half.

1. Take YOURSELF to dinner

   You can go fancy or plain here! There’s nothing wrong with eating out alone! It’s NOT sad, it’s EMPOWERING! If you’re not comfortable with that, take a girlfriend or make your favorite dinner for yourself at home! (Hello steak and crab legs)

2. Spa Day

   Books yourself a day at the spa or get a massage. There’s nothing more relaxing than being pampered in an atmosphere like that! If you can’t get into a spa, recreate the atmosphere at home! Draw a hot bath, light candles, play nature or light music, get your fluffiest towel straight from the dryer, put on a face mask and RELAX.

3. Buy yourself flowers

   Head to the local floral shop and spurge on a beautiful bouquet! You don’t need someone else to buy them to enjoy the sight of flowers! Another alternative is picking up flowers from Walmart…..you can get flowers for as low as $5 there that are beautiful and long lasting!

4. Get your hair done

   Book in with your favorite beautician and go all out! Freshen up your current do or go for something completely different!

5. Get your nails done

   Make an appointment to get those nails freshened up! Book and mani and/or a pedi! Relax and let them pamper you! OR get our your favorite polish and your foot bath (or a large container with hot water to soak your feet in) and do it yourself for free!

6. Music

   Go to the local music shop and pick up your favorite love ballad CD or your favorite badass female performer to lift you up! Or download your favorites from iTunes or make a playlist out of your current collection and jam to it!

7. Dancing

   Dress yourself up, grab your girlfriends, and head to the night club! Shake it, have some drinks, and maybe scope out the snigles there! (PS if you’re taken, disregard the scoping out part hahahaha)

8. Movie Marathon

   Harry Potter fan? Spend your Valentines day at Hogwarts. Or…go for 50 Shades of Gray trio…OR re-watch he Notebook and all of your favorite romantic movies. Drink your favorite wine, grab your favorite chocolates, and pop some popcorn and relax in front of the TV and appreciate the fact that no one will take the remote from you!

9. Solo Trip

   Go somewhere exciting by yourself or a group of girlfirends. Go all out and travel abroad or via a cruise ship. Go for a weekend somewhere close by. Or, take a trip to your favorite shops in your town that you never get to go to. Just remember if you travel alone, be SAFE.

10. Buy Lingerie and Book a Boudoir Session!

    There’s nothing more empowering than having your own boudoir session! You don’t NEED someone to give those photos to or anyone to prance around in pretty things. DO IT FOR YOU! Empower yourself! PS - we have our $99 Valentines Day Mini Sessions here:

Now grab your wine and stop lamenting over being single! You got this girl! GO CELEBRATE!

Being Genuinely Yourself/Authentic

Being Genuinely Yourself/Authentic

What is Authenticity?

To me, authenticity is about expressing who you truly are and who you were truly meant to be. It’s about showing your true colors and not worrying about if you ‘fit in’ with the crowd. It’s about being your own version of crazy and beautiful. You have to be really self aware to be genuinely authentic and you have to learn to shut out the “noise” of people’s opinions, media, social media, and your inner mean girl.

When you’re not authentic

When you’re not genuinely authentic, you run the risk of an unfulfilling life. Your relationships may break down as people start to find out to YOU really are. You risk missing out on opportunities that might only be available for you if you were authentic. You could risk your job or your business by misrepresentation. Always be true to who you are. Don’t present yourself as someone you aren’t.

Media and Social Media are killing authenticity

Our current generation and the generations before and behind us are being diluted with people who are trying to live up to impossible standards. Media is telling women that they HAVE to be a certain size in order to maintain perfection…and this simply isn’t true. Not all bodies were built to be a size 2! (I mean c’mon, some of us like beer and tacos damn it!) Women struggle to lead an authentic lifestyle because they are so focused on achieving perfection and not on enjoying the life before you! Sure, take care of yourself, lose the weight that you NEED to lose…but sometimes it’s okay to put the dumbell down and go to Olive Garden and indulge in pasta and wine with your girlfriends! You only life once!

Another way social media is killing authenticity are facebook and instagram timelines. How many times to you look at that certain woman’s profile and envy her immaculate house, perfect children, stellar mothering techniques, travel destinations, and perfect marriage? Nine times out of ten this is an illusion. An illusion we are all struggling to achieve. In reality that woman probably cleaned up that AREA of her house to take that photos. She doesn’t show the ABSOLUTE FIT Junior threw in the aisle of Target that made her abandon her cart and leave the store. She doesn’t show when she CRIED because her baby wouldn’t sleep and she tried every trick in the book. She doesn’t talk about the potential debt her family vacations cost them. And her marriage? It very well could be in shambles. But we see ALL the postives and we subscribe to those as an honestly unattainable perfection to strive for. Very few show the messy and the real. And we NEED that. We NEED to know we aren’t alone and that there are women out there JUST. LIKE. US.

Everyone has a different story to tell. They’re beautiful, and messy, and magical, and sad. But they’re ours and the good and the bad deserves to be told. It’s releasing. It’s freeing.

Authenticity in Relationships

Start every relationship, friendships and romantic relationships off on the right foot. By genuinely being yourself. You can’t have an authentic relationship with someone without being authentically yourself.

In romantic relationships start by not presenting yourself as anyone you’re not. Don’t be who you imagine you are. Don’t be who you think they want. Because everything you try so hard to do now, will slip and your facade will fall. Your true traits will come out and that will be a disappointment for you both. People are looking for specific things in relationships and if you don’t fit the qualifications, please don’t make yourself try to fit. It won’t work. It’s easier to end at the beginning and be disappointed than end later when feelings, and possibly children are involved and ends in heartache.

In friendships, do NOT try to ‘fit in’. We aren’t all meant to fit in everywhere. The friends who truly love you will love you for exactly who you are. Not who you try to be. So be your cucky, crazy, wild self and attract your genuine tribe. Find those things you love to do and DO THEM. That’s were you’ll meet people with common ground who will embrace you and give you genuine friendships!

How to develop your own authenticity

1. Observe yourself and ask questions

   Are you different around one group of people than another? Why? Do you feel more comfortable interacting with certain groups? Why do you feel the need to sacrifice your authenticity for others?

2. Examine your values and beliefs

   Your values and beliefs are the CORE of your authenticity. They are truly what makes you unique. And they’re YOURS. Don’t ever sacrifice them to fit in with others. Those are NOT your people.

3. Face your fears and your anxieties

   Your fears and anxiety tell you a lot about who you don’t want to be. Or who you do. Why are you afraid? What’s giving you anxiety? Can it be narrowed down to trying to please other people and meet other’s expectations?

4. Develop genuine self love

   I cannot stress this enough! If you don’t truely have INTERNAL love for yourself and embrace every part of who you are, you’re going to seek this externally You’ll always look for compliments, for people to tell you that you’re beautiful, or that you’re great at something. You’ll always need that external validation…but here’s the catch. It won’t mean ANYTHING without your own self love. So it’s just going to be a vicious cycle of seeking validation, the need to fit in, and being who you are NOT because you don’t genuinely love and accept yourself. So. Make a list of everything you hate about yourself and think of something positive to attribute to it. Every time that inner mean girl creeps in to tell you to hate yourself, flip it to a self love statement.

We need all kinds

Everyone is needed. Everyone is different and has different stories to tell. And that’s BEAUTIFUL!!! So, so beautiful! Don’t stuff your authenticity down and try to be someone you’re not! Share your shine, ladies! <3

Be outrageously, genuinely, authentically YOU

8 Quick Tips to Remember the Day of your Boudoir Session

8 Quick Tips to Remember the Day of your Boudoir Session

1. Come with no makeup and clean, dry hair.

   Your boudoir session includes a complete makeover! So please remember to come with clean, dry hair and no makeup on a clean face! Please wear your hair down and NOT pulled back to the studio as this makes styling MUCH easier!

2. Don’t forget the thongs!

   While you’re encouraged to bring your own lingerie, we do offer a small collection of lingerie in a wide variety of sizes for our boudoir clients to use. We only ask that you bring your own black or nude thongs to wear under our pieces for extra sanitary purposes. (All lingerie used is washed between clients)

3. shoes! and Jewelry!

   Bring shoes! The higher the heel, the better! Don’t worry, you won’t really be walking in them! If you have jewelry you’d like to wear, remember to bring that as well.

4. shave (if that’s your thing)

   If you prefer to be shaved please do so the morning of your session. Don’t forget your legs, pits, lady bits, and bum (YUP! Hair grows there and a LOT of people forget to shave it ) Be sure to moisturize the proper areas with the proper moisturizer. If you prefer to be al natural then that’s perfectly fine as well- we won’t edit out your glorious hair!

5. what to wear

   Please come in a button down or zip down shirt to avoid messing up your styles hair and wear loose sweat or yoga pants. Jeans and undergarments leave lines on your skin. If you MUST wear undergarments, opt for a loose sports bra and undies without seams.

6. Cut labels and remove tags

   Be sure to remove any labels you have on your clothing and to cut out any labels that are visible through your garments.

7. eat! please eat!

   We know you’re likely a bit nervous but please be sure to have a nutritional breakfast that will fill you up (but not too full) Also, feel free to bring a snack with you in case you need to nosh mid session.

8. prepare to have a great time

   We want you to have a blast! We know this is a one of a kind experience and we want it to be perfect!

not booked yet? No problem! Schedule your consultation below!

10 Great Reasons to Book a Boudoir Session!

10 Great Reasons to Book a Boudoir Session

1. It’s a great boost to your self esteem and confidence.

   As women we are often subjected to the media and what they say women should be. The thing is, most women are not what society accepts as the norm of beauty. We have curves, or less curves. Our skin isn’t always as flawless as it seems it should be. We have cellulite, and we have stretch marks from having our babies. We are REAL women….and we need to feel beautiful no matter what. It’s time to stop comparing ourselves to magazine models and re-work what normal is.

2. It’s a beautiful way to commemorate a pregnancy.

Pregnancy is a beautiful time in a woman’s life. Your body goes through so many changes to bring life into this world. You deserve to commemorate how beautiful and feminine these changes are. You’ll forever have these to capture and look back on when your body is going through the post baby changes.

3. A Boudoir Session makes a Memorable gift for your spouse to be!

Many women opt to have a boudoir session so that they can gift the album of images to their soon to be spouse just before walking down the aisle. To be able to give this to the person who will forever love you and is about to make their vows to you, and you alone, is a beautiful thing. I’ve had so many women send me videos of their spouse recieving their album and it’s a beautiful and emotional moment.

4. Commemorate a milestone birthday!

What more fun of a way to celebrate 30, 40, 50, 60 and beyond? Treat yourself to a milestone boudoir shoot because YOU DESERVE IT! And how fun will it be on your 90th birthday to look back at your album and remember how much of a slayer you were (and still are-get em girl!!!)

5. Gifts……

Having a session should be first and foremost for yourself. However, the produce makes for a great gift for your significant other. Birthday, Father/Mother’s day, Anniversaries, Christmas, or just because it’s Wednesday, the receiver of these images will be completely blown away.

6. Celebrate your hard work

Have you accomplished something you’re proud of? Have you gotten a promotion? Have you lost weight? Celebrate that shit! Do something for YOU!!!!

7. Dare I say, show your daughters that you love your body and your boys that perfection is in every body

A lot of us are raising children. We have little girls that hear their momma say they’re too fat, have too much cellulite, hate their stretch marks, and wish they had a firmer tummy and less saggy boobies. We are raising little boys that will be drawn to media depictions of perfection. We need to teach our daughters to fall in love with the body God blessed them with , and our boys to know that a woman isn’t any less of a woman because she’s not a model.

8. Rekindle the PASSION

A lot of times, after you’ve been with someone a while, that spark just fades. We wonder if it’s something we’ve done…but it’s usually not. It’s just the natural progression of a lot of relationships. The newness fades and sometimes you need that extra push to get the bedroom steaming again. Remind your lover who you are get things going again.

9. Remind yourself who you are

Life takes it’s toll for sure. As we get older, get jobs, get married, have kids, and just generally lose ourselves in life, we tend to forget the goddess trapped inside…let her out!

10. And finally….just because you fucking deserve it.

You do your life so well. You care for other people and you put everyone else first. It’s your time. It’s time for your to put yourself first and do something you’ve wondered about. You absolutely deserve it.

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Selfie Therapy

Selfie Therapy

Today I was sitting here contemplating life and the many choices I have to face in the near future. I feel like my life is literally crumbling around me in ways I can’t even discuss to anyone. I’m at war with myself internally. I look at myself in the mirror and I say the same demeaning things to my reflection that I coach other women to not say to themselves…and then I feel like a hypocrite and an imposter. Who will follow me and understand me and take my message when I can’t even be faithful to my own teaching?

But we all have those days…you have to give yourself grace just as I have to forgive myself and know that not every day is perfect. Not every week is going to be a great week. You might have stretches of months where your life seems….lackluster. And that’s life. In the big shiny ethereal light of life there can be brassy spots. Those spots need shined a little. You have to find ways to feel good about yourself again and to love the skin you’re in once again.

For me, it’s selfie therapy. When I photograph myself, not only do I get to try new things that I wouldn’t ask my clients to do unless they asked and I get to feel like myself again. And I can look at images and KNOW that no matter what, I’m still a beautiful soul and there’s still a beautiful life for me to experience. I can look and regain my confidence and know that I have lost nothing of myself…rather hidden it.

PS…I DIDN’T REMOVE THE IMAGES THAT WERE BELOW FOR THE PERSON WHO USED THEM AGAINST ME…I CHANGED IT SO I CAN USE MY WEBSITE IN ADS. EAT YOUR HEART OUT. MWAH!

Angel of the Week: Mrs. K/Boudoir Session

Angel of the Week: Mrs. K/Boudoir Session

Mrs. K is a 30 year old woman who came to our studio to have some gorgeous images done. She works as a shipping and receiving coordinator. She’s happily married to her husband of 10 years whom she has been with since she was 17 and they have a 10 year old daughter together. Mrs. K enjoys watching her daughter cheer, tumble, and dance!

We asked Mrs. K a little bit about why she booked a session and here’s what she had to say:

What made you want to have a boudoir session?

I was added to this group by a fellow dance mom. At first I was unsure if I wanted to join this group but watching Ashley and Jade lifting up women and the beautiful work they do. I finally took the plung and booked my session. I was still hesitant and didn't even ask off work until the week before my session. I was doing this as a 10 year wedding anniversary gift for my husband and as a confidant boost for myself. I am so glad I did.

What hesitations did you have before your session?

I am no longer a size 0 and I am at the heaviest weight I have been. I am the type of person whose self esteem is so low that I do not even take selfies. I was afraid to get behind the camera and that I would not know what to do or how to pose.

How has your perspective of yourself changed since your session?

I now see myself as a beautiful woman. Yes I am no longer a size zero, but I am not a child. I have curves that my husband loves and I now have a little more idea in how to pose and have the confidence to send him random pictures to spice things up.

Were these images done for yourself or as a gift?

They were both as a gift to my husband and myself.

What would you say to someone considering having a boudoir session done?

I would tell anyone who is considering a session to take the plunge and go for it. It is an amazing experience that I think every woman should do. I can't wait to get my photos and anytime I am feeling not my best I will look at my photos and remember just how beautiful I felt and how beautiful I still am.

A variety of annonymous shots from Mrs K’s session

Angel Of the Week: Heather Bramley/Boudoir Session

Angel Of the Week: Heather Bramley/Boudoir Session

Before and after of this weeks’ Angel of the Week!

Heather is a 33 year old Home Daycare Provider from Divernon, Illinois! She’s been married to her husband, Tyler, for over 10 years. They have two children ages 15 and 8 years old. She enjoys contry music, spending time with her family, going to concerts, eating Mexican food, reading, sunbathing, and reality television. She’s 4’9 (first client I ever had shorter than me!). She hates bridges! And she helps with a local non-profit foundation

We asked Heather a little bit about why she booked a session and here’s what she had to say

What made you want to have a boudoir session?

I was in a very low point in my life in 2016 and decided I needed to improve myself. I joined a health and wellness company and lost around 30lbs and finally started to feel good again! I wanted to celebrate myself and learn to love the body I have! I also wanted to do the session to have the album back for our 10 year anniversary to give my husband as a gift!

What hesitations did you have before your session?

I was worried about my “flaws”...stretch marks, saggy boobs, belly. I thought I would focus on only those in the pictures and then others would too. I didn’t have anything “sexy” to wear. I was nervous about being partly nude in front of the photographers. I wondered what people would think if they heard I had done a session.

How has your perspective of yourself changed since your session?

I am SO glad I did the session!! I finally saw myself as more than a sports bra wearing, diaper changing, T-shirt and comfy shorts mom! I felt confident, radiant, beautiful!!! I joked that even my rolls looked good!!! I was truly blown away with the whole experience from the amazing makeup and hair to the skill of the photographers to the way the pictures looked when finished! I feel empowered. I’m not ashamed of my body or that I had a session done!! I embraced my curves and what I thought were “flaws”. It was a great experience and I gained so much from it!

Were these images done for yourself or as a gift?

Both!! I did these as a way to celebrate myself for choosing to start on a more positive journey of improvement. But I scheduled it to use as a 10 year wedding anniversary gift also!

What would you say to someone considering having a boudoir session done?

Do it!! You may be nervous because you haven’t done something like this before and just don’t know what to expect, but it will be worth it!!

Photos from Heather’s boudoir session

Angel of the Week: Jessie / Boudoir Photography / Ashley Reida Photography

Angel of the Week: Jessie

This week's angel of the week is Jessie Reed!  Jessie is a 32 year old Pharmacy Tech.  She's been married for 9 years and has 2 children, and 8 year old girl and a 5 year old boy.  She decided to have a session as a birthday gift for her husband and she got a lot more than that out of it!

Jessie

Some of the hesitations Jesse brought in were her weight, stretch marks, and money.  Now she sees herself in a while new light! She utilized our in house financing program and got her collection paid off and delivered!

Here's what she has to say, "I look at myself in a whole new light, I no longer see the extra weight, I see beauty, a woman who never wants to see her daughter deal with the struggles of weight!"  And what she has to say to other women considering a session, "Don’t stress about loosing those last few lbs, weight changes consistently, but the way you feel in your own body should only feel great!"

Check out some of her favorite photos from her session!

Some of Jessie's favorite photos from her session

Boudoir is not a Scary Experience / Boudoir Photography / Ashley Reida Photography

Boudoir is not Scary

I get it.

You're nervous.  You've never done anything like this before.  I've been there.  I've been in your shoes and I know what it's like to walk into a boudoir studio can completely unaware of what to expect.  You don't know this person.  You're about to really, really expose yourself.  Inside and outside.  You're about to strip down to your lingerie and maybe even be completely nude in front of a complete stranger.  I mean, what's not to be nervous about.  Unless you're already a completely confident and carefree women, you're bound to have the jitters about a boudoir experience...  but in reality, it is not a scary experience!

It's a fun, empowering experience that can change your life and boost your self confidence.

Once you get here we'll start chatting.  We will go through your wardrobe and talk about the items your brought.  I'll ask you questions and I'll get to know you.  My hair and makeup artist will start on your outer transformation and bring out all the beauty and we'l chat just like old girlfriends.  When we get started with the session, we'll usefully start with your least revealing outfit and I'll explain EVERYTHING to you.  You don't have to worry about facial expressions or posing....I will guide you through it all.  We'll only take off as much as you are comfortable with revealing.  You'll never be pressured into anything you're not comfortable with.  My mission is to ensure you have a great time and that you're result will be a more empowered version of yourself.  Some have even said their sessions were therapeutic!

Some things to remember...

1. My makeup artist and I are both regular, real women.  We understand every emotion you're going through.

2. We've had boudoir sessions taken too.

3. You'll never bare more than you're comfortable with.

4. Your images do not have to be shown to anyone or in any way.  I know you've seen work I've done, but all of those images have been given permission.  It's completely up to you.

5. We do everything we can to ensure that you have a great time.

6. We really have seen every body shape, type, size, and color.  Your body is unique to you but we've seen it all so you have absolutely nothing to be embarrassed about no matter what.

What my past clients have said.....

"I was very nervous because of my self image. Being told by too many people that I wasn't good enough to do the pictures, no one will want me because I'm not a 10. But from the moment I came out in my first outfit and saw your reactions, I immediately felt comfortable and had a blast. Everyone's negative comments went out the window and I felt amazing every minute." -Jordyn

" I was very nervous about exposing my body because it has many imperfections however not but 5 minutes into my session and you and jade both complemented my figure and I felt beautifully comfortable" - Lindsay

" I was nervous because I didn’t know what to expect since I’d never done something like this before. How was it going to be being naked in front of a photographer I didn’t know? How was my body going to look in the picture? What were people going to think when they found out I’d done a session? But when I got there, my nerves went away!! Ashley explained each pose and even showed me what to do. Both photographers were funny and down to earth, they played music and talked to me throughout the session! Ashley showed me only 1 picture on the back of her camera that day and I was blown away!! " -Heather

" I was so nervous but wanted to do it again. And once I got to your house, I felt comfortable and had so much fun." -Tiffany

Just basking in the sun....not nervous at all

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Posing Class / Boudoir Photography / Ashley Reida Photography

Posing Class

When you come into my studio, you come as you are.  There's nothing special you need to know. You don't need to know how to pose, you don't need to know how to have a 'sexy face'...trust me.  I'll guide you through all of that and you'll look like a bomb shell.

But I know it's nice to go into something so unfamiliar and want to know a little about what to expect.  You can practice these at home and you'll come in more prepared and more confident about your session! So let's do a little mini posing class...are you ready?

Pop Your Booty and Arch Your Back

You'll hear me say that all the time!  Pop it and arch it!  The best way to achieve this is to stand in a relaxed position and rotate your pelvis toward the floor.  This should exaggerate the curve of your spine and make your booty pop out a little in the back.

Rotating your pelvis downward accentuates your booty and gives you more curve

Put Your Weight on One Hip

Stand tall, pop one knee out while feet are still together.  Then cross that knee over your other leg.  This accentuates the hips and give your a tapered, feminine look.

Hip posing accentuates the curves of your hips and minimizes the waist.

Weight on Your Head and Your Booty

This can be done on the floor and on the wall.  It gives the girls a little lift and stretches your body out and slenderizes trouble spots.  Lay on the ground and bend your knees.  Put your head on the floor where your high pony tail would be.  Lift your back and shoulders off the floor but keep your booty on the floor.   Hawt! ;)

Weight on head and bottom lifts breasts and slims your body

Facial Expression Tips

-When we say look at the floor or over your shoulders, we usually mean just with your eyes...so don't move your head and just move your eyes in the indicated direction.

-Keep your mouth relaxed and slightly open.  Breathe through your mouth.  We don't want photos of your closed mouth. Keeping the mouth slightly open will give you a relaxed, comfortable, and sexy look.

Keep your face relaxed and breathe through your mouth

What do I do with my hands? 

Busy hands are good hands.  We will usually have you grabbing or touching something....sheets, bra strap, panties, necklace.  We also like to have you run your hands over your face, across your chest, or along a well.  We keep your hands busy and it keeps you looking busy.  We like to have your hands tousling your hair some too!

Good hands are busy hands

Financing Your Boudoir Collection / Boudoir Photos / Ashley Reida Photography

Financing Your Collection

How to Finance Your Own Boudoir Experience with Ashley Reida Photography

Boudoir is a very powerful form of photography.  It has the ability to release your inhibitions.  It lets you rediscover who you are deep inside.  It helps you understand, love, and appreciate your body.  It's a luxury experience you'll never forget.  Something you'll look back on one day with your album in your lap and remember the day you stepped into your true self and let go of the distorted negative self image you had before.

You want this so badly but you understandably have a bit of sticker shock.  I completely get that.  Luckily, I do offer payment plans that will help as many women as possible be able to have this beautiful experience of self love, self appreciation, and self expression. 

Silhouette with light highlighting her contours

Ways to Finance

PayPal

PayPal is by far the easiest and most popular method of financing your boudoir collection.  You simply apply for a credit line with PayPal and you're usually approved within minutes.  You do have to have a PayPal account to apply so a great first step is to set up an account and get it linked to your bank account.  Once you're approved, PayPal will let you know how much you're approved for.  Simply use that to pay for the collection of your choice!

The benefits to PayPal financing are that you get your collection paid for up front which means your order can be placed right away and you can get your products back faster! 

Click here to apply for PayPal Financing!

In-House Financing

In-house financing can be used in the event that you do not qualify for Paypal financing.  It is set up at your reveal appointment.  Once you choose your collection, you will need at least $250 to put down towards a collection.  The remainder will be set up on a monthly payment basis for up to 6 months (12 months for the Celestial Collection).   So you can get a collection for as little as $125 per month!  An active credit/debit card on file is required.

While this is a great option, you do not receive any product (digital or physical) until your collection is paid in full and there are consequences for late and missed payments. 

Book Now!

So, what are you waiting for?  You've got this girl...you've got the confidence, you've got the motivation, and you have the options!  Get your session fee paid and get your session booked!

Click here to see my next available appointments and get your session booked!

5 Things to Remove From Your Life So You Can Be Happy / Central Illinois Photographer / Ashley Reida Photography

5 Negative Things To Remove From Your Life So You Can Be Happy

We all have negative things that clutter our lives.  We all allow it.  We feel like we have to. Like we deserve it. Like there's no other choice.  We feel like the world that's currently Thrust on us is our only option.  There's nothing we can do about our current situation and every time we try, we fail. 

My sweet lady, I'm here to tell you that it's all wrong.  You're not forced to stay in the situation you're in.  Change won't happen overnight...but it can and WILL happen! You've just got to take steps to improve your life and change your mindset and perspective.

Take It From The Girl Who Was Pregnant at 15

My life is FAR from perfect.  I grew up believing that everything happens for a reason and I just need to deal with it.  But yet, when things happened to me, I was criticized for it.  That didn't make sense.  I was shamed for my big butt and lack of a chest.  I got made fun of at school for my clothes that came from Walmart.  And then I got pregnant at 15 years old. 

I went on to get married and graduate and go to college.  But negative people had such a control over my life.  Stress led me to stare blankly at walls instead of do anything about the tight financial situation we were in. I looked at my 125lb frame and couldn't get out of my head how fat I was...because that's what I was told...that I needed to lose all that baby weight and get back down to 105.  Ludicrous!

Several years ago, I started changing that mindset and started implementing these things below.  I'm FAR from being perfect in those categories but...I'm a work in progress! And so are you. 

The 5 Negative Things I'm STILL Removing From My Life

1. Clutter

We love our STUFF.   But that STUFF can suffocate us.  The visual of clutter is stressful whether you deem it to be or not.  Don't attack everything at once though!   Go through it a little at a time.  Flylady is one of my favorite resources for controlling clutter and gaining a clearer mind.

2. Toxic People

People are the hardest to remove.  Because some of them we love.  Some are family and some are friends.  But the thing is, we become most like the 5 people we spend the most time with.  So you if you are always around an alcoholic, you're more likely to become an alcoholic.  If you're around someone who gossips, you will become a gossip.  If you're around someone abusive, you're a victim and also more likely to abuse in some form in the future.

You might not cut these people off...but distance them.  Far from you.  And don't use your kids as an excuse because they won't have a part of their lives.  Do you WANT your children gaining characteristics from abusive, narcissistic, gossipy, alcoholic bullies?  Me either. 

3. Excessive Use of Alcohol

Ah, alcohol.  Our favorite form of self medication.  Also the most abused.  It's great to sit down and relax and have a drink.  Unwind.  De-stress.  However, too much alcohol is not only good for your health, its not good for your mind or your future.  Alcohol is a depressant and although it seems fun sometimes and relieving, for some people it has very negative consequences.  Some people are angry when they're drunk, or they get sad.  And MOST people are prone to make very bad decisions when drinking ...from sleeping with someone you never would have sober or making the decision or operate a vehicle while under the influence.  Be careful with your poison, ladies!  (Don't get me wrong...I love alcohol ;)  )

4. Self Criticizing Mindset

Although mean people can be...mean....we are our own worst critic and enemy.  We take the insults people hurl at us and we internalize them.  We look and the mirror and thing very hateful things about ourselves.  Eventually, we hate ourselves.  We're too fat to be pretty.  To skinny to be beautiful. Too dumb to apply for that job. Too 'whatever' to peruse 'your dreams'. 

You are amazing my dear!  Simply wonderful.  No matter what you've been through or have been told, you have WORTH!  Make a list of 3 affirmations and write them on your bathroom mirror.  Every time you look in that mirror, say those to yourself.  The more you do, even when you don't feel like it, the more your mind will accept it.  And then your life will start to change!

Self help books also are a great help! (And not as boring as they sound)  This was the tool that changed my life the most.  If you're not into reading, get them on audio and listen to them in the car or while cleaning.  On a budget?  Library has them!  My 3 favorites are Girl Wash Your Face, You are a Badass, and The Slight Edge.

5. A Job That Sucks Your Soul

Having a job that makes you miserable can be one of the worst things in life  We spend 40 or more hours of our week here.  The majority of our day.  Away from our kids.  Doing something we HATE.  Don't do that to yourself!  Now, don't go quit your job today, you still need to support yourself and your family.  But start looking into options.  What do you love?  Can it in any way be created into a money making side source that can eventually be a business?  What's your dream job?  Do you need an education for it?  Go back to school.  Even if it's one class at a time.  Oh that will take too long? Not an excuse!  That time will pass anyway.  You're either working towards your dreams or you're sitting on your ass wishing your life was better.  Do something, girl!  Its SO worth it to do work that satisfies your SOUL.

Okay....off my soapbox now.  Enjoy your day, Angels!

Angel Of the Week: Trista / Boudoir Photographer / Ashley Reida Photography

This week, meet Trista, 35 year old mother and CNA

Photo collage of girl of the week

Meet 35 year old CNA, Trista!  Shes mother to 5 kiddos and was in desperate need of a confidence boost.  This fun bubbly lady came into our studio last year and was willing to try some new things! We had a ton of fun with her!

She came in, busted out some new confidence, and now sees herself in a different light.  Finances were a bit of an issue for her but this experience is something she valued and felt that she needed for herself. She says to anyone having hesitations, "Just do it, you won't regret it"

Check out some of her photos below!

Five Things You Can Do to Feel Sexy Right Now!

Five Ways to Feel Sexy Now!

Let's face it.  Some days, or most days, we just aren't feeling ourselves.  We're mothers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and wives. We have 5 million different jobs that keep us busy and don't let us focus on ourselves.  We lose the excitement and the self love. We feel like we've lost our sex appeal! We just don't FEEL sexy anymore! We stop feeling desirable and worthy!  It happens to us all!

It doesn't have to stay that way though! Take some small steps every day to reclaim that woman you know is in there. Find your inner vixen and let her come out to play!  Try these 5 things NOW to boost your sexy game today!  We're bringing sexy back ladies!

1. Put on some sexy lingerie.

There's nothing like knowing you're rocking some super sexy underpinnings!  Even if you're only wearing sweats...put some cute panties and a sexy bra on! It's an instant sexy boost!

2. Put on your old perfume.

Smell can trigger memories and feelings.  It's a very powerful sense.  It can bring back memories of times when you did feel sexy and instantly lift your mood.  So dust off that old bottle of Very Sexy perfume (my old fav) or whatever your date night perfume is, and put it on!

3. Send a sexy text to your man!

ESPECIALLY if you've not sent him anything naughty in a while.  Even if you have NO intention of following up with the suggestion, knowing you've snapped up his attention will make you feel like the goddess you are. (And maybe you should follow up with that suggestion)

4. Exercise

Exercise is a great sexy booster!  It not only makes you feel good when you accomplish a good workout (even a 15 minute walk) but it also boosts so many hormones and increases libido...which makes you feel sexy.

5. Read something a bit racy.

Sometimes all we need to do to feel sexy is to read something that sparks something naughty in us!  So dust off that old copy of 50 Shades of Grey or the old Penthouse Letters you have stashed away and take some time to yourself.

There are TONS of ways to feel sexy..this is just a short list of things that you really can try today! <3

At Home Date Nights

At Home Date Nights - by Samantha Jones

How often do you find yourself wanting to do something fun and intimate with your spouse, but you cannot find a sitter? Often, right? I am here to save the day with my list of at home date nights you can do after the kids go to bed, or even dates for when the kids are not home! This list will include everything from simple to sexy dates, have fun!

1. Let’s Get Cooking!- This is my first idea because cooking is my true passion. When you and your partner cook together, you can work on your bonding through teamwork, and you can create flavors that you both enjoy. Here are some fun ideas for what to cook:

• Spaghetti (Bonus points for a Lady and the Tramp moment)

• Fondue (Melted chocolate…what could be more sexy?)

1. Craft Night- Bring out your inner child. Make macaroni jewelry for her, make a picture frame with a picture of the two of you in it for him. Make things using materials that you already have around your house, make it more of a challenge. Draw pictures, color in a coloring book, do whatever you can to bring out the creativity in each other.

2. Movies and Popcorn- Keep it simple with cuddling and a movie. This is a date that will cost you pretty much nothing. Keep it light with a rom-com, or make it scary to give you a little more of a reason to cuddle. Extra butter on the popcorn please!

3. Wine Tasting- Now this one will cost you a little bit of money. Go to the store and buy3-5 bottles of different kinds of wine, and 5 random snacks (cheese, crackers, meats, chips, etc.) Work together to see which snacks pair well with which wines and create different flavor profiles. In the end, you will probably have a nice little buzz, so light some candles, turn on some mood music, and do whatever strikes your fancy 😉

4. Game Night- One of my favorite things to do is play board games. Dig out your old board games or head to your local store and pick out some new oness to keep at home. Some of my favorites are Life and Monopoly. These are all games that are possible to play with two players. One thing I love about board games is that they encourage communication and problem solving, both of which are essential to a relationship. (Ashley's note: try some awesome kids games to shake shit up! Twister, Flapdoodle, and Operation come to mind!)

Some of these date ideas can be combined to create the ultimate home date, for example, cook dinner together and then watch movies. There’s a classic date night, but at home. I had so many ideas for this blog but if I gave them all, this entry would be forever long. Let us know some of your at home date ideas in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!