JOURNAL
I AM JESSICA RAE
Creativity Thrives in Adversity
Recently I had to pause my business to take care of my health. Recovering from a major surgery put a lot of limitations on me physically. I won’t lie, the experience was challenging for me in ways I never anticipated. As a creative, when we are unable to create, it can severely impact our mental health. One thing that I have learned is that Creativity Thrives in Adversity and where there is a will there is a way.
Creativity thrives in Adversity.
Recently I had to pause my business to take care of my health. Recovering from a major surgery put a lot of limitations on me physically. I won’t lie, the experience was challenging for me in ways I never anticipated.
As a creative, when we are unable to create, it can severely impact our mental health. One thing that I have learned is that Creativity Thrives in Adversity and where there is a will there is a way.
We all have perceived limitations because our brains are programmed to working a certain way. We tend to be creatures of habit. So when we are faced with adversity, that prevents us from carrying about tasks in our routine ways our brains can send up red flags and shut down. At least, I know mine does. Once we realize the only limitations we have are those that we set upon ourselves, things get a lot easier.
I love to pick up and my camera and get creative at least once a week. It’s feels like more of a need than a want. Surgery had me laid up in bed for weeks, and I started to doubt myself, my abilities. My brain began to venture to some dark corners it had never explored before and I was desperately looking for a spark of light to help guide me out. I NEEDED to get back into the studio one way or another!
Where to start?
I started by assessing my limitations. Instead of focusing on what I couldn’t do I focused on what I could do. At this point in my journey I was able to sit for short periods of time. So I found a big comfy chair and had it set it in the corner of the studio bedroom. Next was to consider what tools I needed and what I had on hand. I had my canon 5D mark iv, it has wifi abilities. I also had my cell phone that has an app to control my camera remotely. A tripod to hold the camera, and 3 lenses a 35mm, 50mm, and a 135mm. These will help provide more variety.
I chose the back bedroom set in my studio for a couple of reasons. One it has my favourite light. Secondly I felt that by being in a smaller, simple space it helped me and my muse to connect and stay focused.
Creativity thrives in adversity and my creative need outweighed my limitations. I was allowed to think differently on how to utilize my strengths to overcome my current limitations.
To accommodating my physical limitations I remained stationary during these sessions. By doing this I learned a lot about myself as an artist and photographer. It has made me stop and take time with my thought process. It has definitely helped me to grow, and I have a new enthusiasm for my work. I have shown myself that creativity thrives in adversity rather than drown in it. While I likely won’t stop being an acrobat during my sessions, I will slow down and be more present in the moment.
Boudoir session - Fraser Valley
I think when most people think about booking a boudoir session they plan on making it a gift for the special someone, or to celebrate a milestone of some sort. I often tell people to Celebrate Yourself. When S came in this is exactly what she was doing. Our time together was a lot of fun and there was a lot of shared laughs. We captured some beautiful images she will be able to look back on for years to come as a constant reminder of how sensual she is.
When asked what her biggest fear, going into the boudoir session, was her reply made me smile. “That I wouldn’t get any “sexy” photos. And boy, did we not only overcome my fears, but I got photos and an experience I will cherish for a lifetime!!!”
Celebrate Yourself
I think when most people think about booking a boudoir session they plan on making it a gift for the special someone, or to celebrate a milestone of some sort. I often tell people to Celebrate Yourself. When S came in this is exactly what she was doing. Our time together was a lot of fun and there was a lot of shared laughs. We captured some beautiful images she will be able to look back on for years to come as a constant reminder of how sensual she is.
When asked what her biggest fear, going into the boudoir session, was her reply made me smile. “That I wouldn’t get any “sexy” photos. And boy, did we not only overcome my fears, but I got photos and an experience I will cherish for a lifetime!!!”
When a person comes into my studio my goal is always to create the best environment possible so that they not only take away images they will cherish for a lifetime, but memories of our time together that they will hold onto as well. So when someone leaves a review I take it all in so that I can make the next person’s experience that much better. This is what S. had to say about her time with me. “Jessica makes the experience so fun. She is passionate and has a natural eye and ability to capture the moment, even if you think you’re not living it. Jessica also makes you feel at ease, provides amazing guidance and gets you to believe in your beauty and abilities.”
When a client embraces the concept of Celebrate Yourself it almost always leads to them also loving themselves a little more in the end. This is and always has been my goal as a Boudoir photographer. To love yourself you must Celebrate Yourself any chance you get. How you do that is up to you, but might I suggest you start with your own boudoir session
SCROLL to the BOTTOM to see the beautiful
printed product
she received from her session.
Boudoir session - Fraser Valley
I think when most people think about booking a boudoir session they plan on making it a gift for the special someone, or to celebrate a milestone of some sort. I often tell people to Celebrate Yourself. When S came in this is exactly what she was doing. Our time together was a lot of fun and there was a lot of shared laughs. We captured some sexy images she will be able to look back on for years to come as a constant reminder of how sexy she is. When asked what her biggest fear, going into the boudoir session, was her reply made me smile. "That I wouldn't get any "sexy" photos. And boy, did we not only overcome my fears, but I got photos and an experience I will cherish for a lifetime!!!" When a person comes into my studio my goal is always to create the best environment possible so that they not only take away images they will cherish for a lifetime, but memories of our time together that they will hold onto as well. So when someone leaves a review I take it all in so that I can make the next person's experience that much better. This is what S. had to say about her time with me. "Jessica makes the experience so fun. She is passionate and has a natural eye and ability to capture the moment, even if you think you're not living it. Jessica also makes you feel at ease, provides amazing guidance and gets you to believe in your beauty and abilities." When a client embraces the concept of Celebrate Yourself it almost always leads to them also loving themselves a little more in the end. This is and always has been my goal as a Boudoir photographer. To love yourself you must Celebrate Yourself any chance you get. How you do that is up to you, but might I suggest you start with your own boudoir session
S ordered herself a custom 10x8 Hand Crafted Album
to SHOWCASE her stunning photographs
Boudoir is for Every Woman
Boudoir is for every human.
From the time you walk into the studio until the moment you leave this experience is all about you. Your time will begin with professional hair and make up while we sit and get to know each other. You'll be pampered by the professional hair and make up artist while you sip on a Mimosa and relax.
When it’s all said and done you will agree boudoir is for everyone.
Boudoir is for Every Woman
Everyone comes with their own reasons why they want to do a Intimate lifestyle boudoir session. T wasn't much different from a lot of the reasons I hear. It was initially just a gift for her husband, but as the session progressed she realized it was really more for her. My time with T was a lot of fun. We laughed and talked as the session went on and I watched what little nerves she had at the beginning melt away. In her own words she is a Zero F's kind of person. I'm a firm believer that boudoir is for every woman and T was no exception.
I asked her a few questions after her boudoir session, about her time in my studio, and will share a couple of her responses with you.
Q: Did anything change about the way you see your own beauty / sexuality / sensuality / body confidence as a result of this session?
A: You know what, yes. I think we are all our own worst critics. To see examples in studio of past sessions I realized it's a lot easier to appreciate the beauty in other people flaws and all. I need to look at myself with the same appreciation.
Q: How did the session make you feel?
A: Like a pretty pretty princess just kidding, hot AF. (This made me laugh)
Boudoir isn't just taking pretty pictures. It's about the entire experience, connecting with each person, and creating an environment where they can open up and see themselves for the amazing person they are. Every individual has a different motivation for booking a boudoir session. Whether it's a gift for a partner, a celebration of a milestone, or even just because they want to do something for themselves. If it's this or something else the goal is to make it the most empowering experience possible.
Just remember Boudoir is for every human. From the time you walk into the studio until the moment you leave this experience is all about you. Your time will begin with professional hair and make up while we sit and get to know each other. You'll be pampered by the professional hair and make up artist while you sip on a Mimosa and relax. During the actual shoot you will move around the studio as you are guided through different sets and poses and you will be coached to make it look just right. It's expected that most people will feel unsure in the beginning, as this is normal for almost everyone, but rest assured it gets easier as you go. A couple weeks later you will return to view all of your images and make your product selections. You will again get to sit and relax with a drink and some treats as you relive your experience through viewing the images. When you leave you will agree boudoir is for everyone. Hair and Make Up provided by Ashley Paints faces
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Boudoir session - Vancouver
I'll be honest, I felt a little awkward at first, I'm sure most people do, but definitely felt relaxed and empowered by the end of the session. My favourite part was seeing the end product! Being a makeup artist, it's different being on the other side side of the lens but so rewarding. The proof is in the pudding. My images are STUNNING and Jessica is the absolute best at capturing feminine sexuality that speaks beauty and class. I just LOVE you, Jessica Rae and I loved my boudoir session!"
Stepping in front of the Lens
Some of you may remember Marecel, she used to be one of my makeup artists! That is, before she got on with the film industry full time. She is one of the most genuinely, sweet people I have had the pleasure to call my friend.
You can imagine how excited I was when she booked herself an intimate lifestyle boudoir session with me and made the move of stepping in front of the lens!
"I've always wanted to do a shoot and since there's a lull in the film industry right now, it was the perfect time! I ADORE Jessica Rae's work and I knew she would capture "my best me"!Though I grew up very conservatively, in my adult life, I am not shy when it comes to my body... but that doesn't me I am always confident or satisfied with how I look. My photographs turned out so amazing and I definitely see a more confident me in them! I'm happy I decided to come out from behind the scenes and took a chance stepping in front of the lens with my own boudoir session.I had no fear or hesitation in booking with Jessica Rae, I have seen her in action before. I'll be honest, I felt a little awkward at first, I'm sure most people do, but definitely felt relaxed and empowered by the end of the session. My favourite part was seeing the end product! Being a makeup artist , it's different being on the other side side of the lens but so rewarding. The proof is in the pudding. My images are STUNNING and Jessica is the absolute best at capturing feminine sexuality that speaks beauty and class. I just LOVE you, Jessica Rae and I loved my boudoir session!" - Marecel
She ordered the Portfolio box of Matted Prints
to showcase and treasure her beautiful images!
What are you waiting for
Book your session with Vancouver's
leading Boudoir Photographer,
Jessica Rae, today!
Photography Mentoring
“She knows her shit!
You can tell she absolutely adores what she does and she has a love for showing women how beautiful they are. Being a photographer myself, I should know how to pose - but being in front of the camera is completely different and nerve wracking to be honest. But Jessica was a rock star in helping me feel comfortable and relaxed and she made me feel so good in my skin. “
Photography Mentoring
I first met Michelle back in 2010 when I joined Helping Hearts, a non-profit photography program she co-founded. We lost touch over the years but she recently reached out to me on facebook and asked if I would be open to Photography Mentoring, as she had recently taken up interest in photographing boudoir. Quite the divergence from the newborn photographer I had known her for over the years!
When I found out she was staying in town for a few days I invited her to come by my studio for a quick in-person mentoring session. Well this quickly unfolded into an impromptu photo session! haha It is always such a pleasure and a honour to get to work with other photographers. Below is what Michelle had to say about her experience with me and her Photography Mentoring :
"Let me start off by saying Jessica is amazing. She knows her shit! You can tell she absolutely adores what she does and she has a love for showing women how beautiful they are. Being a photographer myself, I should know how to pose - but being in front of the camera is completely different and nerve wracking to be honest. But Jessica was a rock star in helping me feel comfortable and relaxed and she made me feel so good in my skin. I’ve had two children and like most women, I am uncomfortable in the skin I’ve been left with. But Jessica helped me to embrace my body and love it for what it is. To feel sexy and empowered in my skin. She took the time to talk to me throughout the session, reminding me what to do with my arms, how to pose my legs, where to look and what to do with my body. I walked away from our session with such confidence - I was on a total high! Thank you Jessica! My experience with you was so fantastic!!! " - Michelle
"She took the time to talk to me throughout the session, reminding me what to do with my arms, how to pose my legs, where to look and what to do with my body. "
"I’ve had two children and like most women, I am uncomfortable in the skin I’ve been left with. But Jessica helped me to embrace my body and love it for what it is."
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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!
Daily Inspiration - Williams Lake Intimate Portrait Photography
"As women, we're nurturers by nature. We want to make sure everyone is happy. That's a good thing, but we also have to put ourselves on that happiness list." - Victoria Osteen 
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. 
Anniversary Boudoir Gift - Fraser Valley Photographer
Here is what Ms. C had to say about her experience:" I had a fantastic experience with Jessica. This was my first Boudoir photoshoot and I was nervous at first. I didn't know what to do with my arms. Jessica put me at ease and offered great direction. I ended up having a lot of fun, from make up, to wardrobe changes, to the very last shot. I walked away from the shoot feeling more confident, refreshed and as though I had just done a really good work out. (Without the cleanup)The pictures are beautiful and Jessica was very accommodating with the layout of the album. The final product is an anniversary gift for my husband, but I know that I will cherish the experience and gorgeous shots of myself. Thank you"
xoxox Jessica RaeMakeup and Hair services provided by Dames and Dolls Makeup 
Body Form - Vancouver Fine Art Photographer
High heels, lingerie, pearl necklaces, men's shirts. What are some of the stereo types when you think of boudoir photography?When women contact me to book their sessions, these are some of their top concerns - what to wear and what about those accessories!Why not forget them all. Forget your preconceived ideas of what boudoir is.Strip it down to its core - literally. Go nude!Simple - Minimalist - Sexy - Real - Raw, Authentic - Intimate - Bold - Shameless **this post contains nudity 
Garden Patio with Ms.T - Vancouver Canada Boudoir Photographer
Ms. T planned a solo vacation to Vancouver, BC Canada last summer and contacted me to arrange for a boudoir shoot in the AirBnB she rented. I swooned when I saw the location photos. Beautiful natural light and an indoor/outdoor living space. Yes, please!I do not always receive permission to share clients images, and if I do, it isn't always immediately after their session. Often times clients need some time to think on it but I am so thrilled that after a year Ms. T graciously granted me permission to share some of her images. Thank you, you are so beautiful and it was such a delight working with you! Ms. T writes: I wanted to do a boudoir shoot for awhile but I was only familiar with male photographers and that didn't inspire me to get naked. It was important that I feel comfortable but well coached, since I had no idea what the hell I was doing. You guess it, I'm NOT a model. All of Jessica's additional advice on poses and placement were most welcome. Sana (Makeup In Session) cast a spell over my hair and worked magic with my make-up. A million thanks for a wonderful experience. -T 
Heeling Society - Published Vancouver Photographer & Model
I had the privileged of meeting Chad last year and since then we have worked and collaborated together on a few different photo shoots. I also have the honour of calling him my friend. Every one of our sessions together holds a special place in my heart and this particular shoot definitely ranks in the top.We were honoured with securing cover on Issue 6 of Beauty Mark Magazine with this set and I couldn't be more proud. When I first read Chad's article, that was to accompany the images we took in Vancouver, BC of him showcasing his fabulous heels, it brought me to tears. Don't take my word for it though,read for yourself ... My name is Chad Walters. And to self-locate, I am a 30 year-old, gender-fluid, gay-identified,European-Aboriginal Canadian man. I did my undergrad in social work at the University ofBritish Columbia and am currently making my way through graduate studies in the same field.I’m just some guy who wants to relax the rigid - and often oppressive - gender norms that runrampant in our world. I felt inspired to write, and so here I am. 
I remember a sociology prof at university encouraging us to push back against and defy normsand social mores, if only to experience the awkward tension. He highlighted the discomfort thatis often felt when citizens do not follow the social “rules.” He used an example of someoneentering an elevator but not immediately facing the door, as would be expected, and insteadfacing the back wall and the other riders. It confuses people by opposing what is known to benormal. His teachings have stayed with me and I have since paid close attention to oursociety’s norms and expected ways of behaving. Holding this attention throughout my socialwork degree has provided me with a hyper-awareness of norms that are oppressive, and it isthese norms, particularly, that should be pushed back against… with vigour.
Our society defines what is normal and abnormal when it comes to how we look and what wewear, and within this definition are strict gender boundaries, and god forbid we step beyond theborder. For example, only men should wear ties, only women should wear makeup, only menshould have short hair, only girls wear pink, only women should paint their nails, and, my leastfavourite, only women should wear heels. Unfortunately, there are plenty more of theseunnecessary “shoulds” within our worlds. I am not a fan of this word “should;” it suffocates me.Perhaps “should” shouldn’t exist.Fortunately - acknowledging our privilege - in today’s Canada we are beginning to honour andrespect that gender and sexual identity are not the strict binaries we once presumed, and,instead, that self-expression and self-presentation are more lax and fluid. More and morepeople are presenting themselves to the world in more liberal, exciting and creative counter-culture ways, myself included. 
My journey to authenticity has been long, and every day I continue to sink more deeply intomyself. Owning and announcing my attraction to other men was a huge step towards becomingauthentic. Anyone who has struggled with and tackled their gender ad sexual identity has aclear understanding of how oppressive our society and the people within it can be. It is tough toexplore what feels right and authentic when doing so causes social discomfort and provokesnegative responses. However, social discomfort is often an impetus for change… and changeis good. It is time, again, for me to explore what feels right.
I am writing today to share my experience of giving life to my desire to slap on some stilettosand head out into the public. I have occasionally seen images of men wearing heels and Ialways thought that it looked incredible. As someone who views the body as a canvass, onwhich I can be artistic and expressive, the thought of diversifying my wardrobe and appearancewith heels has always been alluring. I often thought, “women are so lucky… look at all of theseamazing shoes they can choose from. I want to be able to wear heels.” Let’s face it, theselection of shoes ascribed for men is more limited… bland, even. And who the hell says I can’twear heels? Society, with its death grip on what is and isn’t masculine.This past year I was drawn to a fundraiser for Foundation of Hope, a charity whose mandate isto assist LGBT refugees in their transition into Canada. The premise of the fundraiser was“walking a mile in heels is easier than a lifetime in the closet” - a way to bring attention to thetorment of growing up LGBT in an LGBT-persecuting country. This fundraiser spoke to twointerests of mine… LGBT refugees and stilettos! The shoe fit, so to speak. It was time to buysome heels… I suppose I needed that push, that justification. 
I felt like a kid in a candy shop, as is often said, during my first trip to the shoe store. I instantlysaw the winning pair, neon with a 7-inch heel; I made the purchase. Naturally, I wanted to wearthe heels out of the store and so I walked out onto the street, feeling tall (for once) andconfident. I was surprisingly stable in those babies and walked with ease, mostly.Something unique happens to me when I put on a pair of heels. Firstly, I begin to feel sexier. Itis my belief that heels are intrinsically linked to women and her sexuality. It is not news thatmany men find heels sexy, and that men’s behaviour can be influenced by a woman in heels.Perhaps this is why most men cannot bear the thought of another man in heels… if heels arelinked to sexual attraction then a man seeing another man in a hot pair of heels will reallyconfuse him and challenge his whole idea of masculinity… “Wait, that kinda looks good. Am Igay?!” …probably not, no. Of course, there are boundless opportunities to dig into the blaringsymbolism of women walking through the world supported by teeny tiny phalluses - but that isfor an entirely different article. Collectively, we connect the word “sexy” to a woman in heels - itis written into our collective coding. It is for this reason, I believe, that I begin to feel sexier.That, and because I feel confident, and confidence is super sexy in and of itself.
My confidence and self-esteem go through the roof when I am wearing heels; I feel like I cantake on the world. If you look at any strong, sexy and confident women in film, she is probablywearing heels… even while running away from dinosaurs as was the case in this year’s JurassicWorld. Part of this confidence may be connected to the height status factor - women who aretaller or the same height as men are often perceived as more assertive and powerful. Height =Power. Simultaneously, beyond my increase in height power, I feel the confidence that arisesfrom the basic awareness that I am pushing back against a nonsensical norm. I feel purposeand that purpose provides me with confidence to strut my stuff like no other - #werk. Stick it tothe man.
Also, I feel happy when I am in heels. Why happiness? Because I am exploring new ways tobend gender, new fashions to spice up my appearance and new interactions with the socialworld around me. It is fun! Getting dressed up is always entertaining, whether for some specialoccasion or themed event… it is a blast to evoke new characteristics, and sexy stiletto sass justso happens to be the latest characteristic to wake within me. Furthermore, I am an activist atheart and stimulating social change is part of what brings me joy. Being counter-norm in ourmisogynistic and heteronormative society appeals to me and speaks to my passion, and anypassionate engagement is always fun. As I walk and dance around in 7-inch heels I amactivating something… conversations, a paradigm shift, new norms, etc. 
Beyond what it feels like, personally, I think it is appropriate to share some reactions with you,dear reader. One of the most surprising things about my heel experiences, both while shoppingand strolling, is how frequently I was called, “Girl.” Some of the comments were as follows (I’mrelying on your mental intonation and emphasis to make these comments come to life): “Work itGiiiiiirl!” - “You’re looking fab, girlfriend!” - “Guuuurl, you look so good!” This started to botherme. Why? Well, because I am not a girl. I am a man, I just happen to be wearing differentshoes. It fascinates me how a simple article of clothing became reason to re-ascribe my sex.Of course, “Girl” is just a word… but words make worlds. This, to me, was a blatantrepresentation of how gendered our world is, and, in turn, how restrictive and oppressive thatcan be. A woman is no less a woman for not wearing heels. A man is no less a man forwearing heels. In simplicity, the person is merely taller or shorter.
On the sidewalk, and in the heart of the city, I walked past what I presumed to be a mother andher two daughters. As we passed each other I saw the mother smile and say, “girls, check outhis heels!” Little “wows” followed suit. It was positive and upbeat; there was acceptance. Itwasn’t a scoff or a shake of the head. Maybe those girls have never seen a man in heelsbefore, and maybe, just maybe, they now feel a tinge more confident to be bold themselves. Iwant to live in a world where difference is celebrated, and I believe that as we normalize genderfluidity the following generation is going to be so much more welcoming of the people who donot fit into tiny gender boxes.
Trying on heels in stores is very interesting. In one store, a clerk ask if I wanted to try a pair inmy size - 10, p.s. It was truly a powerful moment for me. It was powerful because it was socasual and normal. It made it clear to me how much progress we have made as a society andhow fortunate I am to be living here. I could not leave the store without voicing my gratitude forher acceptance. Sometimes I can feel the looks and the stares, the chuckles and the respect. Ican see the daggers of the impatient husbands, perhaps daggers of jealousy over how stellarmy calves look in a great pair of stilettos - #ownit. Whatever the reaction, i view it as a goodreaction. It means something is happening, and I believe that it is a positive “something.”As I bring this to a close, and dream about a pair of heels I want to order from Australia, I feel itis important to leave you with a question: what have you always wanted to wear, and, what isstopping you? Go out there and throw your rock in the pond… it’s time to make ripples. Pushback.Chad WaltersVancouver, BC Get your own copy of Beauty Mark Magazine Issue 6
Celebrating Love - Couples Photo Session - Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Photographer
I think it’s rather important to celebrate your relationship with one another throughout all the stages your relationship may end up going through. Finding someone who makes your life more fulfilling is the best thing in life. I used to think finding someone to complete you was the right mindset. When really it’s about finding someone you can call your best friend, someone who improves the quality of your life by supporting your dreams and aspirations. Someone who will push you to achieve things you didn’t know you were capable of because of self-doubt. You should complete yourself on your own but your partner should bring out the part of you deep down you didn’t know was there. When you find that person you start to understand really what “Home is where the heart is” means. When you are around the person you love dearly, you are home. So, why is it that we only get photos done together with our partners when we are getting engaged or married? Life is precious and that fact alone should be acknowledged. I think getting photos done to celebrate your relationship together is an amazing thing. I now have physical, beautiful, and meaningful pictures I can look at that matches how I feel inside. Working with Jessica Rae was comfortable and overall fun. Jessica was even was able to coach us through the jitters of expressing our love for each other and it not come off as we were aware there was a camera there with us. She made us both feel comfortable in front of the lens and produced amazing images that both of us can and will enjoy for years to come.- Jessica Dawn.Hair and Makeup: Ashley Paints Faces
Because TuTu's - Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows Boudoir Photographer - Daily Inspiration
Because Tutu's...I love getting my hair and makeup artist in front of my lens. It helps them to understand and empathize with my clients what their experience is like. Ashley Paints Faces was so much fun to work with, I just LOVE her tutu!!!
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
Ridge Meadows Boudoir Photographer - BookWorm Beauty - Daily Inspiration
“Reading is the sole means by which we slip, involuntarily, often helplessly, into another’s skin, another’s voice, another’s soul.” — Joyce Carol Oates
Hair and Makeup: Amaris Beauty
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.
Frosty Morning in the Valley - Published: Hell on Heels Magazine
The beginning of January met us with the most beautiful frost and I just had to take advantage of this amazing setting! Thankfully, my friend Nicole Ashley was willing to come out and play with me and brave the cold. She wore an amazing tulle skirt that she made herself paired with some beautiful corsets she had. Designer, Faye Tality Couture was kind enough to loan us a stunning full length cloak, which not only looked lovely but kept poor Nicole nice and warm during the session.Hell on Heels magazine saw one of my posts and asked me to submit the entire session to be published in their Winter Edition. You can purchase a digital or print copy HERE
