Body-Positive Health Coach Hannah's Strong, Confident Boudoir Portraits

I say this often and it’s always true: I’m always inspired by the different stories people bring into my studio, all the different reasons to choose boudoir.

This past year, Hannah had been on a journey to body positivity and self-acceptance and, through her work as a health and fitness coach, a journey to help other women cultivate self love wherever they are.

For Hannah, this boudoir session was a gift to herself, a natural extension of the joy of accepting and loving herself as a work in progress.

Also a fellow photographer, Hannah’s usually the one behind the camera so she wanted to put herself out of her comfort zone. She was worried she was going to be awkward and it was lovely to see that my natural approach to posing helped her relax and feel like herself.

More than anything, Hannah wanted her portraits to feel strong- to reflect the strength she feels inside and out. Her outfits embody that: epic workout wear, unique lace pieces and her favorite wear-around-the-house flannel each show her strength in different lights.

Here’s what Hannah had to say about her boudoir experience:

“I saw a friend of mine post some photos from her session with Alyssa and after chatting with her about her experience I immediately wanted to do a session for myself. It had been almost a year since I'd started my health and fitness toward a healthier, stronger life. I would've never considered doing a boudoir session one year ago because I lacked the confidence that I now have. When I first talked with Alyssa on the phone, I was excited and motivated, because this session was a way for me to celebrate my body and embrace all that it is.

The session itself was amazing. I was a little nervous going into it, but quickly became comfortable as Alyssa and I talked about outfits and a little more about the plan for the day. I felt pampered as I got my hair and makeup done by Hayley, and loved how it turned out. When we started shooting, Alyssa gave a lot of great direction with poses and always gave me choices as to which poses felt more natural and more "me." The session flew by and before I knew it, it was time for the reveal. I think the reveal was actually my favorite part. It's easy to forget how beautiful you truly are until you are literally lining the walls in photos; each photo elegant, classy, and real. I had a hard time choosing between them because Alyssa did such an AMAZING job. This is an experience I would recommend to anyone, at any point in their life. The session really is whatever you want it to be and Alyssa helps you through the whole process. I highly recommend doing a boudoir session with Alyssa, and I know this won't be my last with her!”

Hannah, thank you for bringing me along on your journey. I’m so inspired by your mission to cultivate love for yourself and empower others toward positive relationships with themselves. I was so honored to help you capture your own beauty, inside and out.