There are some sessions that stick with you long after they have ended, and Elsie’s boudoir experience is one of those unforgettable photoshoots. It’s the kind that reminds me exactly why I believe so fiercely in the power of boudoir photography. She came into the studio carrying the nerves that so many of us do, especially when we’re just beginning to embrace self-love. However, as the session unfolded a transformation occurred. Here is Elsie’s boudoir photography transformation and how she went from nervous to confident.
Before the Session
When Elsie first reached out , she was honest about her nerves regarding the shoot. She was only beginning her self-love journey, and stepping in front of a camera felt bold—especially when it meant revealing parts of herself she usually hid.
Elsie shared, “I was extremely nervous about my session… I’m in the very beginning stages of this whole ‘love myself’ era and here I am about to show my biggest insecurity in front of a camera, a truth teller.”
Yet she booked anyway, resting her decision on one simple truth:
“I chose to book this session because I trusted the person behind that camera. The truth is safe with her. And the results of my shoot are proof of that.”
For me, that trust is everything. I love seeing women give themselves the permission slip to do something different and to embrace love for themselves.
In the Studio: Elsie’s Boudoir Photography Transformation
On session day, Elsie walked in with a mix of nerves and excitement, but her confidence started bubbling up the moment she put on her first outfit. She wanted a natural look, and Melissa, the talented makeup artist, did just that.
Elsie commented that part of the reason she relaxed so quickly was that she felt really good in her outfits and Melissa gave her the exact look she wanted. She later shared that she “felt really gorgeous that day”, and “was most surprised how comfortable I was in my own skin that day.”
Hearing statements like that is music to my ears! I also love seeing that transformation unfold in front of me, as you could see her confidence building throughout the session. As for the session itself, Elsie described it as a core memory. That’s what this work is all about.
“Jocelyn made me feel so comfortable… she gave direction and encouragement when needed but let me do my own thing too, undisturbed… core memory.”
The Reveal: Seeing Herself with New Eyes
A couople days later, Elsie returned for her reveal appointment. That moment when she saw her images for the first time hit her deeply.
“I was in disbelief, in all honesty, the first time I saw my photos… I couldn’t believe it was me!”
And even after the session, those images became a reminder of something powerful:
“I am kinder to myself and the body I have. I still have my moments, but these photos showed me that this body is beautiful and I hold on to that.”
That reaction is the moment I live for. Because the images aren’t just pretty pictures; they’re mirrors reflecting back the beauty and strength each woman already holds inside.
Elsie’s gallery became her daily reminder of self-kindness. When old insecurities whisper, she flips through her album and remembers how powerful she felt that day. Elsie’s message to other women couldn’t be clearer, and I couldn’t agree more:
“I would absolutely encourage and recommend any woman in any walk of life to book a session. This experience, for me, was SUPER empowering. I’m not about to keep that feeling to myself!”
What Elsie’s Story Teaches Us
I love that Elsie’s Boudoir Experience reminds us that these sessions are meant for every woman regardless of where you are in your self-love journey. Also, the trust and safety you feel during a session leads to genuine confidence on camera. Most importantly though it teaches us that the Boudoir images serve as lasting reminders of your strength, beauty, and worth long after the session ends.
Photographer: Jocelyn Cruz Photography
Hair and Makeup: MJ Bridal Artistry
Thinking about booking your own session?
Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, you deserve to do this for yourself. Book your personalized boudoir experience today! Reach out today to start a conversation and begin planning your session!
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