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
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."
Dedication Payoff - Vancouver Boudoir Photography
After working hard on her personal health and fitness routine for 16 weeks leading up to her intimate lifestyle photoshoot, Miss N was still feeling nervous.She worried about how to position her body and manage facial expressions... as well as feeling silly. These are common concerns with all my clients. You are not alone!Let's hear firsthand what Miss N had to say about her overall experience. Check out a few of her amazing images from her first session with me below! "All of my worries disappeared with Jessica Rae's expert coaching and calm disposition, and the fact that she obliged me when I preferred more anonymous body pics vs pics with my face! I feel that JR really knew what direction I wanted to go in and honoured it. Looking into her camera and seeing some of the shots she was getting was also helpful and visually informative for me.Being in a safe studio space and working with a female photographer really helped me feel open and comfortable. Also being guided by Jessica Rae during the session, in terms of how to hold and position my body, was very helpful. After the shoot I felt very proud and invigorated by the overall experience, and was so happy that I was able to document my best shape in such an artistic and classy way - in addition to really pushing myself outside my comfort zone and trying something new and exciting. After the session I felt like a model - lol! Overall liberated, scared, and excited! The most significant feelings of pride and awe though came from sitting with Jessica Rae and my husband post shoot and seeing the INCREDIBLE photos of me she presented to us!"
I would say this experience was remarkable! Worth every minute and penny. I've never looked so good!
Can't wait for session #2 hopefully a couples session... also looking forward to ordering a metal estate art piece." 
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!
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. 
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 
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
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
Published with Theresa Rock
Published in Surreal Beauty Magazine with the lovely Theresa Rock
You can get your copy here:http://www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/968227?__r=338832&s=w
Published - PHILOSOPHIE Boudoir Magazine AIBP
I set out a goal this year to get published. Why?... why not?! Seeing your work in print and being able to share it with others is an incredible thing. But when it's in a magazine put out by and filled with your peers - that's on a whole other level. I am so honoured to have my work be chosen as a feature, no less!The article that accompanies my images is a must read. ALTERED EGO - How embracing alter egos with boudoir can alter our predominant ego, for the better.So a big thank to you AIBP ( Association of International Boudoir Photographers )and all the wonderful people who volunteer their time to put together this amazing magazine. You really outdid yourselves this time - you don't have to take my word for it though. Get your copy now!Here are few images from the set that you won't see in PHILOSOPHIE Magazine. Big thank you to the ever lovely Caelyx for modeling, always a pleasure working with you!**The images below do contain / imply nudity**
