The Magic of a Photoshoot
Hey there! I'm Susan, the photographer at Red Umbrella Boudoir in Destin, Florida.
When it comes to photoshoots, they’re never just "a photoshoot" to me. Sure, the prep work might look the same: I think about what I want to achieve, plan my shots, get my equipment ready, and double-check my memory cards and batteries. But that's where the similarity ends.
The real magic starts the moment I walk into the shoot and meet the amazing individuals who will be in front of my lens. Each person and every setting—whether it’s my studio, a dance studio, a hotel, or someone's bedroom—brings a unique energy. I love to tap into that vibe and let it guide the session. No two shoots are ever alike because I flow with the moment and the person’s unique spirit.
I’m definitely not a cookie-cutter photographer. I don't believe in giving out poses to practice beforehand (even though people often ask!). This approach helps people relax, laugh, and truly enjoy the experience, even if they start out a bit nervous and stiff.
What I aim for is a connection. Together, we create something special. I capture genuine reactions and raw emotions, whether in between serious faces or during those tiring poses. There’s no such thing as being unphotogenic—just photographers who miss the magic. My goal is to capture the authentic, beautiful you in every shot.
Each photoshoot is a unique adventure. When clients arrive at my studio, they might feel a bit apprehensive. It’s perfectly natural to be nervous in front of the camera, especially for something as personal as a boudoir shoot. My job is to turn that nervous energy into something beautiful and empowering.
I start by getting to know my clients. We chat about their expectations, their comfort levels, and their style preferences. This conversation helps break the ice and allows me to tailor the shoot to their personalities. It’s amazing how a simple conversation can transform the atmosphere from tense to relaxed.
Once we’ve established a connection, the real fun begins. I encourage my clients to be themselves, to move naturally, and to forget the camera is even there. This approach results in photos that are authentic and full of life. Instead of stiff, rehearsed poses, we get spontaneous moments of joy, confidence, and vulnerability.
One of my favorite parts of the process is seeing the transformation in my clients. They might start out feeling self-conscious, but as the shoot progresses, they become more comfortable and start to enjoy themselves. It’s incredibly rewarding to watch someone go from feeling nervous to feeling fabulous and empowered.
The settings I choose also play a significant role in creating a unique experience for each client. Whether we’re in my cozy studio, a stylish hotel room, at Vertical Pole Studio in Fort Walton Beach, or a more intimate setting like someone’s own bedroom, the environment influences the mood of the shoot. I love working with different lighting, props, and backdrops to enhance the overall feel and bring out the best in each person.
At Red Umbrella Boudoir, my mission is to celebrate individuality and beauty in all its forms. I want my clients to walk away from their photoshoot feeling confident and beautiful, with stunning images that reflect their true selves. There’s nothing more satisfying than delivering a set of photos that make someone say, “Wow, is that really me?”
So, if you’re considering a boudoir photoshoot but feel a bit apprehensive, I encourage you to take the leap. It’s a chance to celebrate yourself, to see yourself in a new light, and to have a lot of fun in the process. Remember, you’re not just booking a photoshoot—you’re creating an experience, a memory, and a celebration of who you are.
At the end of the day, every photoshoot is a collaborative effort between me and my clients. Together, we create magic. And that’s what makes each session so special and unforgettable.