One Year Anniversary

Celebrating One Year of Passion:
My Boudoir Photography Journey

As I reflect on the past year since opening the doors to my very own boudoir photography studio, I am filled with immense gratitude. Being able to do what I love for a living has been a dream come true. Each day, I step into a world where creativity merges with empowerment, and I am continually reminded of how fortunate I am to capture the beauty and essence of the incredible individuals who come through my boudoir photography studio.

This past year has been a whirlwind of activity. In just twelve months, I have experienced an overwhelming influx of clients (104 to be exact), and I am grateful for each and every one of them. From the nervous first-timers to the seasoned pros (special shout out to my return clients who have been my biggest supporters on my new journey - you know who you all are), everyone brings a unique story and energy that enriches my work. The boudoir studio has become a haven for self-expression and confidence, and witnessing my clients embrace their own beauty is truly rewarding.

Yet, alongside the successes, there have been significant challenges that come with the territory of being an entrepreneur. The journey towards establishing my boudoir photography studio wasn’t always smooth sailing. It has involved countless hours of planning, marketing, and strategizing. Balancing the administrative side of running a business with my creative desires has proven to be more demanding than I initially anticipated. There were weeks when I felt overwhelmed by the scope of everything I had to manage—from keeping the calendar full and ensuring the workflow runs smoothly, to handling the finances and marketing, it was a learning curve like no other!

Every challenge I faced, however, has taught me invaluable lessons. I learned to adapt my strategies as I navigated through varying demands, learning quickly how to operate outside my comfort zone. The experience has reinforced my commitment to this journey. I’ve realized that the struggles are what make the victories all the more satisfying. Each small milestone—whether it’s booking a client, receiving positive feedback, or stepping out of my comfort zone with a new technique—feels like a tangible win in this exhilarating journey.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this year has been the opportunity to experiment and innovate. Starting fresh in my very own and new boudoir photography studio has allowed me to find my artistic voice, continually enhancing my skill set. I have embraced the challenge of learning and figuring out new, different ways of photographing my clients. Each session is not just a job; it’s an opportunity to explore unique lighting techniques, different poses, and even varying backdrops that evoke specific moods. I love pushing the boundaries of creativity to ensure that every client leaves with boudoir images that truly reflect their individuality.

The imagination and eagerness of my clients continually inspire me. They arrive, often unsure of themselves, but it’s through the lens of my camera that I get to reveal their inner strength and beauty. The energy they bring fuels my passion, and I strive to create a space where they feel safe, celebrated, and empowered. Whether it’s playing around with props, incorporating personal elements that have meaning to them, or simply working with natural light (and oh how I love natural lighting), every boudoir photo tells a story.

As I take stock of my journey in this first year, I am eager for what lies ahead. I can’t help but feel excitement as I contemplate year two of my boudoir photography studio. Will I launch new projects? Perhaps I’ll expand my offerings by introducing new sets or collaborations with other creatives in the community. The possibilities are endless, and the vision I hold for my boudoir studio only continues to grow.

As I look towards the future, I am motivated to invest in my professional development, whether through attending workshops, networking with other photographers, or exploring new photography techniques, or treating myself to that new $3500 camera body I’ve been eyeing up. I want to ensure that I not only continue to refine my craft but also maintain a close relationship with my clients and adapt to their evolving needs.

Looking back, each day in my studio has been a privilege, filled with laughter, meaningful connections, and personal growth. The journey has affirmed my belief that boudoir photography is more than just images; it’s about capturing and celebrating moments that empower my clients. I am excited to see how my boudoir studio evolves, and I hope to continue building on the strong foundation established over the last twelve months.

To everyone who has been a part of my journey—the clients, supporters, friends, and family—thank you. Your trust in me, the stories you’ve shared, and the memories we’ve created together are what make this endeavour so fulfilling. I truly look forward to welcoming many more beautiful souls into my studio in the coming year. Here’s to another year of creativity, empowerment, and capturing the beauty of every individual who steps in front of my camera!

Much Love,

Calie Brianna Schwartz

Boudoir Photographer and Boudoir Photography Studio Owner