JOURNAL
I AM JESSICA RAE
Boudoir Session in Vegas
One of the attendees at last years workshop during WPPI, Evgenia, booked a Boudoir Session in Las Vegas to compliment her experience. I personally believe that being on the other end of the lens is important in the boudoir industry. It allows you to put yourself in your client’s shoes and have a better understanding of what they go through. If you admire another photographer’s work then having them shoot you gives you an inside look into what they do and will help you in your own business.
Boudoir Session in Vegas
One of the attendees at last years workshop during WPPI, Evgenia, booked a Boudoir Session in Las Vegas to compliment her experience. I personally believe that being on the other end of the lens is important in the boudoir industry. It allows you to put yourself in your client's shoes and have a better understanding of what they go through. If you admire another photographer's work then having them shoot you gives you an inside look into what they do and will help you in your own business.
At the time of her Boudoir Session in Vegas Evgenia was a 40 year old mother of two, and while she was a boudoir photographer herself she had never had the opportunity to be on the other side of the camera. She had decided that now was the time. She admitted while the life had done a number on her body that she was never happier, and doing the session was just icing on the cake.
Evgenia said her biggest fear going is was being a photographer and type A personality. In her words "It gave me fear that I would be thinking and overthinking the session but Jessica was amazing!!! We did so many different settings and angles, my body was aching for a few days. I love how sensual but at the same time still very me the images came out!!!"
When asked how the session made her feel and what her favorite part was Evgenia gave an answer that showed she was an artist. She said she loved every minute of it! Felt so into it and at ease! Her favorite part was experimenting with light, seeing how another person creates their art!
So if you are heading to WPPI this year make sure you take advantage of the Workshops being offered, and if there is someone you admire book your own Boudoir session in Vegas.
Vegas Boudoir Session and Workshops
Every February in Vegas Photographers come from all over the world to take part in WPPI. It stands for Wedding & Portrait Photographers International. Don’t let the name deceive you though all genres of photographers take part.
This is a great time to meet up and network with your peers in the industry, but it is also a great time to hone your skills…
Vegas Boudoir Session and Workshops
Every February in Vegas Photographers come from all over the world to take part in WPPI. It stands for Wedding & Portrait Photographers International. Don't let the name deceive you though all genres of photographers take part. I've heard it said that it's the equivalent of spring break for photographers. So if you're going you should look into booking your own Vegas Boudoir Session.
vegas boudoir session
This is a great time to meet up and network with your peers in the industry, but it is also a great time to hone your skills. One of the ways you can achieve this is to join one of the many workshops offered by many of the professionals who attend. Last year was Jessica's first workshop in Vegas and she is returning this year with a good friend of hers Aroha Mckaig. Together they will be covering subjects such as maximizing your space. This will cover lighting, shooting, and setting up your space plus some portfolio building shoot out time. The second Day of the workshop will cover the topic of Mood & Emotion. In this class you will learn the art of creating images of both sexually suggestive and implied nature. You'll learn how to achieve the emotions to translate your own clients whether the are looking for a sensual or more sexualized style. Jessica's style lends to the more sensual side of the spectrum while Aroha enjoys pushing the boundaries to elude to more sexual undertones. Again this will end with a portfolio building shootout. This year they've booked a beautiful Air B&B for the workshop with plenty of space for shooting and learning. Five lucky attendees will be able to upgrade to the VIP seats. These will include a place to stay at the Air B&B, meals while there, all the classes, and a small group mentoring session where you can pick Jessica and Aroha's brains while relaxing after supper. Workshops are a great place to start your time in Vegas, but there is so much more to do. Between the parties, shootouts, and the fact that it's Vegas you'll be busy the entire time. One of the attendees from last year took her experience with Jessica one step further and booked her own Vegas Boudoir Shoot with Jessica. This allowed to her to see Jessica shoot first hand and she walked away with some amazing images that she will treasure forever. I'll be posting her photos in another post soon to follow. Jessica's make up artist, Ashley of Ashley Paints Faces, wanted her own Vegas Boudoir Session and modelled for the last workshop. The following are some of her images from the workshop and her own session.Written by the Artist Jessica Rae team. xoxo
For more information on the Workshop click here
To book your own session click here
Couple's Boudoir - Abbotsford
When you hear the words couple’s boudoir the picture that pops into most people’s minds is probably an erotic one. Two people intertwined in a passionate embrace sharing each other in every sense of the word. While that is a great way of documenting what you and your partner have together I’d like to show you another perspective. With Jessica’s Intimate couple’s boudoir experience it’s more about the connection, the intimate moments of love, laughing and vulnerability.
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
Couple's Boudoir
When you hear the words couple's boudoir the picture that pops into most people's minds is probably an erotic one. Two people intertwined in a passionate embrace sharing each other in every sense of the word. While that is a great way of documenting what you and your partner have together I'd like to show you another perspective. With Jessica's Intimate couple's boudoir experience it's more about the connection, the intimate moments of love, laughing and vulnerability. It's about getting lost in your partners eyes and connecting with them on a level that you don't always get to share. When you get these still... perfect moments everything around you just seems to fade away. The images captured in those instances are the ones you will take with you. Her unique perspective and artfully edited black and white images will be something that is always treasured. I've had the pleasure of taking part in one of these Intimate couple's boudoir sessions. At first I was probably like most people, shy, awkward, nervous, but with Jessica that soon went away. She gained and kept my trust and while I felt a little silly at first, it didn't take long for the camera to seem to disappear. It is a time, with the love of my life, that I will always hold on to. The first time I saw the images I knew I hadn't been wrong to trust her. It actually made me catch my breath and I couldn't speak at first. I remember thinking, as I looked through our moments, that these images showed how I felt about her better than I ever could express. It's more than documenting what two people share during the act. It's about showing those intimate moments that lead up. The shared laugher and joy of two people who love each other. The anticipation as your partner sits next to you and reaches out. It's the excitement the moments before their lips touch your neck, or feeling your worries melt away as you embrace. In my case Jessica captured the raw moments in such an authentic manner that I could actually see myself being vulnerable in a way I never imagined. I couldn't wait to share it with the world. I would do it again in a heartbeat and highly recommend that everyone should experience an intimate couple's boudoir session at least once in their life. I left looking at myself and my partner with different eyes. Check out my session here If you are a photographer wanting to learn this style of intimate couple's boudoir photography I will be teaching at the second annual Camp Do More next June. Click here for more details. Limited availability. It will be at Camp Timberlane in Haliburton Ontario. (3 hours west of Toronto.) Check out the official camp website.
Ovarian Issues and Self Worth
"What is your first thought when it comes to boudoir? Yes it can mean wearing fancy lingerie , but it also means celebrating your body. After getting photographed I feel on top of the world . My confidence is through the roof, which for most women , we struggle with feeling sexy. Being a woman who has fought ovarian issues for 3 years, I always have issues seeing my stomach. Knowing where my scars are and seeing the bloating that it has caused I started to hate myself. Then I stepped in front of the lens and it changed everything. I realized that beauty is within, and you see it in every photo Jessica captures. She takes the woman and reminds her of that goddess flame inside you. I don't have to associate Ovarian Issues and Self Worth " -D.
Thank you D for being open and willing to share your story with the world. It is brave woman like you who pave the way for the rest of us.Every woman has a different reason for coming in for a session. What is your reason?
xoxoxox Jessica RaeHair and Makeup provided by Ashley Paints Faces
Ovarian Issues and Self Worth
Ovarian Issues and Self Worth
Schöne Seele - Vancouver Boudoir Photographer
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Kate emailed me about doing a boudoir session for herself a few months ago. She is still relatively new to Canada, originally from Germany, and she was feeling a little down and needed a pick me up. A little self confidence boost. I am so glad that she choose an intimate lifestyle photo session with me in order to accomplish this!Here what Kate had to say:"I loved everything! From the make up to the shoot. I loved how friendly Jessica is. We spent a lot of time chatting, she really took the time to get to know me. Her studio is lovely and I really love my pictures."It was a such a pleasure to photograph you, Kate. Thank you for trusting me and for being so open. You are a courageous and beautiful soul ( Schöne Seele )xoxox Jessica RaeThank you to Ashley Paints Makeup Artistry
Smile Pretty or...?!! - Greater Vancouver Boudoir Photography - Daily Inspiration
I often get asked: "What should I do, should I smile? Am I suppose to keep a serious face?"An intimate portrait session is all about YOU. I want to capture your personality. I want you to feel comfortable being yourself, whatever that might be!Are you serious? Are you bubbly? Are you conservative? Do you like to push boundaries?It's all about you, so BRING IT!
Birthday Surprise - Abbotsford Boudoir Photographer
Ms. N came in to create an unforgettable birthday gift for her husband, but I think she would agree it was just as much a gift for herself.Ms. N had this to say about her session:I didn't know what to expect in the full scale of things. But I think it went perfect for what I was looking for. It made me feel beautiful.My favourite part of the experience was seeing the images, to see what I looked like in that element was pretty amazing.Jessica!! You are an amazing woman, your work is fantastic. I am so happy that I got to spend that time with you.Any words of advice for women who are thinking about booking a boudoir session?Breath and enjoy every moment. 
Self Love - Domestic Violence and Abuse - Vancouver and Fraser Valley Photographer
What does Domestic Violence look like to you?
Does it look like a bruise or a scar?
Did you know that there are numerous types of abuse, not just physical...
Domestic Violence Abuse Diagram
Self Love - Domestic Violence Abuse Awareness - Artist Jessica Rae Vancouver Boudoir Photographer
Self Love - Domestic Violence Abuse Awareness - Artist Jessica Rae Vancouver Boudoir Photographer
Self Love - Domestic Violence Abuse Awareness - Artist Jessica Rae Vancouver Boudoir Photographer
Self Love - Domestic Violence Abuse Awareness - Artist Jessica Rae Vancouver Boudoir Photographer
Self Love - Domestic Violence Abuse Awareness - Artist Jessica Rae Vancouver Boudoir Photographer
Self Love - Domestic Violence Abuse Awareness - Artist Jessica Rae Vancouver Boudoir Photographer
Self Love - Domestic Violence Abuse Awareness - Artist Jessica Rae Vancouver Boudoir Photographer
I have struggled with whether or not to even make a post about this - as vague as it may be, because any energy I give the situation, I feel, only gives it more power. HOWEVER, I also believe that we cannot help each other in silence and that we must talk about it.It is extremely difficult to escape your abuser when you share children with them, as you cannot simply cut ties with them. They always look for ways to maintain their sense of control over you, no matter how slight.#MaybeHeDoesntHitMe - have you seen this hashtag making its rounds on the interweb. 'Maybe He Doesn't Hit You' Twitter Hashtag Reminds Us That Intimate Partner Violence Isn't Always PhysicalWhen my ex sent a nasty email to me (not the first, and surely not the last), after a recent afternoon visit with our children, my heart broke. His words did not wound me in the way he had hoped, I'm sure, but it impacted me none the less. Did I take his insults personally? No. Rather my heart ached for our children. I cried because, a man like him, is their father. When I discussed with my children how their day was with their dad, they looked solemn. I find out that their father had gone on at length, insulting me, their mother, to our children.Children are comprised of two things.... their mother and their father. They share the DNA of both. So when you put down, insult or make light of one of their parents, you are in essence doing the same to said child. They take it personally, and why wouldn't they?! They not only love their parent, but they are a physical part of that parent.Rather than let his words burn me though, I have chosen to use it as fuel for my own fire.You only make me stronger.Self Love. Self Respect.xoxox Jessica RaePS: If you, or someone you know, believe you may be experiencing domestic abuse I highly recommend THIS BOOK, by Lundy Bancroft. If you are in immediate danger please call 911, contact your local women's shelter. <3Doing an intimate portrait session can help you to reconnect to yourself. Show you a fresh perspective. Embrace and love yourself"Never let your struggle become your identity" - Dana O'dell (The Beautiful Real)
"Words As Weapons"
I feel your knife as it goes right inCut to my core but I'm not bleedingAll that you say trying to make me smallWell, the bigger you get the harder you fallYou use your words as a weapon dearBut your blades don't hurt when you have no fearYou think that you're deep under my skinYou're trying to keep me sufferingIf you use your words as a weaponThen as a weapon, I'll shed no tearsYou (had) my heart but I lock it upThis burning flame has been burnt enoughMy window's cracked they can be replacedBut your arm will tire throwing stones my wayYou use your words as a weapon dearBut your blades don't hurt when you have no fearYou think that you're deep under my skinYou're trying to keep me sufferingIf you use your words as a weaponThen as a weapon, I'll shed no tearsI feel your knife as it goes right inYou use your words as a weapon dearBut your blades don't hurt when you have no fearYou think that you're deep under my skinYou're trying to keep me sufferingIf you use your words as a weaponThen as a weapon, I'll shed no tearsI'll shed no tears
-Birdy
Curvaceous Plus Size Boudoir Photography - Greater Vancouver and Fraser Valley Photographer - Daily Inspiration
"There is nothing more rare, nor more beautiful, than a woman being unapologeticlly herself; comfortable in her perfect imperfection. To me, that is the true essence of beauty." - Steve Marabolixoxox Artist Jessica Rae
Hair & Makeup Artist - Vancouver and Maple Ridge Boudoir Photographer - Daily Inspiration
I'm pretty spoiled having such a beautiful and willing hair and make up artist that will step in front of my lens.
Victorian Boudoir : Gilded Magazine : Vancouver Published Editorial Boudoir Photographer
At the beginning of December I was playing around with new studio setups and fell in love with this one so much that I put together a team right away and the next day this session happened. Sometimes the best laid plans aren't plans at all but whims of fancy! I partner up with one my of my favourite designers Charlene Rowley of Faye Tality Couture, she had the most amazing pieces to pull off the look I was aiming for. Fellow Maple Ridge photographer, Tanzyn Ambrose graciously agreed to be my muse for this set and she got all glammed up by the talented Makeup in Session's, Sana Nurani. I am so blessed to call all of these amazing women friends, and that they go along with my mad ideas <3These images have been featured in Gilded Magazines issue 7 vol 2 edition. 
You can purchase a digital or hard copy HERE
Miss O : Chronic Illness and the journey to a Healthy Happy place : Fraser Valley Boudoir Photography
What Miss. O had to say about her session with Boudoir By Jessica Rae and why she chose to do a boudoir session..."I've always been body conscious growing up, it's one of the many reasons I used to exercise daily and restrict my diet, and everything was going well up until about 6 months ago. All of the sudden I was loosing weight rapidly, at first I thought it was because of my diet and my exercise regimens so I thought nothing of it. As the month progressed my diet got worse and I found myself craving sugary foods and becoming so thirsty I couldn't sleep at night, all while loosing weight continuously. It got to the point that I had gone from a healthy diet and weight of 125 to 90 pounds and dropping while eating nothing but ice cream, chips, and anything sweet I could get my hands on. Eventually this led me to the emergency room with a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. After regaining my health and balancing out my body levels I gained the weight back rapidly, going from 90 pounds of bones to 140 pounds and bloated. The rapid weight loss and even faster weight retention cause my body to change, I didn't even recognize myself in the mirror. Not only did I have this chronic illness to deal with for the rest of my life, not to mention injecting myself two to three times a day, but now I had to deal with the emotional implications of what it had done to the way I looked. Over the few months that followed I slowly evened out and decided it was time to take back my body and feel good about myself again.This is when I contacted Jessica Rae, I saw her work through a friend and the beauty of the shots along with the kind and comforting responses showed me I was in good hands. The shoot was wonderful and fun, I felt inspired and beautiful again and I left so excited and ready to do many more! When I returned with a friend to view the photos and pick my favourites I was blown away at my images, I never thought I could look like that and I actually had a difficult time deciding which to pick, something I never do regularly as generally I hate photos of myself.Jessica Rae was incredibly sweet and gentle with a wonderful sense of humour and this experience gave me back my confidence and let me feel comfortable in my own skin again. Boudoir is not an experience just for someone else, it is all about your own feelings and the power it gives you. Given the opportunity I would do it again in a heartbeat." Miss. OReading her words gave me goosebumps. I am honoured and thrilled to be a positive part of her journey to being healthy, happy and positive <3 Thank you for sharing your story with us and thank you for allowing me to share your stunning images <3 xoxoxoHair and Makeup by Marecel Daniel 
Client privacy is held in the highest regard as I believe that the portraits we create are private by their very nature. Please be assured that images published by Boudoir By Jessica Rae are done so only with written permission by the client.
Miss. N :: Vancouver Boudoir Photographer
I had the privileged to photograph the feisty Miss N in my Maple Ridge studio a couple weeks ago. I am IN LOVE with her confidence! She fully embraced the experience of a boudoir photo session and the results speak for themselves!Hair and Makeup provided by the ever talented Master Stylist Kat
Client privacy is held in the highest regard as I believe that the portraits we create are private by their very nature. Please be assured that images published by Boudoir By Jessica Rae are done so only with written permission by the client.