At Lone Barn Boudoir, I’m lucky enough to meet some incredible women — women who have faced battles, carried silent burdens, and finally chosen themselves. This is one of those stories.
One of my recent clients, who has kindly allowed me to share her journey anonymously, booked a boudoir shoot not just for beautiful photos — but for something much deeper, she wanted to see if she could find her confidence again.
"I had been in an emotionally abusive relationship for over 20 years. I’d also had gastric bypass surgery and lost over 4 stone. I wanted to see what others see and like about me."
This wasn’t just about lingerie and pretty poses. This was about rediscovering herself. Reclaiming her body and confidence. Rewriting the narrative in her own voice.
"I felt a woman would be more understanding of my lumps and bumps, and I’d be more comfortable in the underwear I wanted to wear."
It’s so important to feel safe, seen, and understood — especially when you’re doing something that can feel completely out of your comfort zone. That’s exactly why I created my studio as a luxurious, women-only space, free of judgement, filled with encouragement, and designed to celebrate every curve, scar and smile.
The lead-up to her shoot became an act of self-care in itself.
"I loved going shopping for underwear and getting a proper bra fitting. It was exhilarating to buy sexy stuff and know I was spending time and money on me. I gave myself permission to have a pamper day – hair, lashes, brows, and a cheeky bikini wax!"
That alone made my heart sing! Giving yourself permission to be looked after, to indulge, and to prioritise you — that’s the beginning of real transformation.
Like so many women, she had one big worry…
"My biggest fear was that I wasn’t going to like what I saw in the camera lens – that I’d just see the negatives and not the positives."
It’s such a common fear, especially for those of us who’ve spent years picking ourselves apart. But as she’d soon discover, that inner critic can be silenced.
The nerves were real — and completely normal.
"I must’ve had about three nervous wee’s before I stepped into the studio. Julie made me feel more relaxed. Seeing her with knee pads on just made me laugh!"
Hey, I’ll do whatever it takes to get the perfect shot — and yes, that includes knee pads! 😉 Posing guidance and constant encouragement helped melt those nerves away.
"The session was really great. Julie showing me some of the pictures on the camera helped relieve the nerves."
And then, that magic moment…
"WOW. I couldn’t believe it was me. I was able to see what others see in me."
That right there is why I do this. That moment when a woman truly sees herself — not through the eyes of past pain or insecurity, but with pride, power and beauty.
"Not easy at all! I wanted to keep them all. But Julie was there to guide me. I love my images and will be putting some on the wall."
She chose one of my beautiful treasure boxes filled with 30 of her favourite images — a keepsake to remind her every single day of how far she’s come.
"Yes – I feel different. I have more confidence in myself and what I mean to the world."
There’s something life-changing about giving yourself this experience. It’s not just a day of pampering — it’s a shift in mindset. A visual reminder that you are worthy and enough just as you are.
"DO IT. Whatever your age. We always put others first — put yourself at the forefront for once. It’s so worth it. Learn to love yourself. How do we expect love if we don’t love ourselves?"
I couldn’t have said it better.
This client’s journey from emotional trauma to self-celebration is just one of many I see in my studio — but it never stops being deeply moving. Boudoir photography isn’t just about looking beautiful — it’s about feeling beautiful. It’s about taking back your power, one pose at a time.
Whether you're healing from your past, celebrating a milestone, or simply ready to fall in love with yourself and to find your confidence again — you are so welcome here.
💗 If you’re ready to start your own journey, I’d love to chat. Click here to find out more about booking your confidence boosting boudoir shoot – https://www.lonebarnboudoir.co.uk/boudoir-studio-contact/
If it's to early to chat, then come and join my ladies only Facebook group. It's a safe place to find out lots more about my boudoir photography or check out more gorgeous images .
Hair and Makeup by the fabulous Miriam King
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