I wanted a chance to take photos of what I look like now- who I was before things changed. It felt empowering.

Ms E is an AMAZING woman. She is funny, creative, a dedicated weight lifter, and determined to look BRCA and say “not today”. When we spoke at her consultation and she told me her “why” for doing this session, I felt really honored to be her chosen photographer. We rocked her session out and man, her images turned out stunning!

Tell us your story, a little bit about you and why you decided to do a boudoir session?

In the summer of 2019 I learned I was BRCA2 positive, which is a hereditary genetic gene mutation that leads to increased risk for developing breast and ovarian cancer.  Because of my family history and being positive for the mutation, my lifetime risk of breast cancer was 87%.  Accordingly, I have been recommended to have a prophylactic double mastectomy, which is happening in early 2020.  I wanted a chance to take photos of what I look like now, before the surgeries, so I have some documented images of who I was before things changed.  It felt empowering. 

What was your biggest concern prior to booking your Boudoir Session? How do you feel now?

I was nervous that I would just feel goofy in front of the camera.  I’m not especially shy or modest, but I’m not a model by any means and didn’t know what I would do with my face and/or body to get the beautiful images I see online.  Now I know that was not a concern–Cassy was in charge of everything and that shouldn’t have been a worry–all I needed to do was follow directions.

What, specifically, did you enjoy most about your portrait session and why?

The hair and make-up before the shoot felt very “movie- star luxury.”  And I also enjoyed just chatting, listening to good music, and some giggles during the shoot.  It was a very relaxed day.

What did doing this shoot do for your self confidence, self worth, and self image? Tell me your story.

I LOVE the final images.  I plan to give the album to my husband for Christmas, but honestly the photos were more for me than for him.  They allow me to see myself in a new way, and in a far less critical way, than is typical.  Unapologetically, I look gorgeous in these photos, and it’s nice to be able to confidently say that.

Was your experience what you were expecting? If not, how was it different?

It was better!  It was easier and more fun

Thank you E for choosing me. Your new tribe of bombshells are here to cheer you on!

Hair And Makeup by Kendra Aarhus of Kendraaarhus.com

Have you thought about booking your own shoot with Cassy? Download your complimentary Dream Shoot Planner by clicking HERE.  It will tell you all about the experience and what to expect.  I would love to chat with you! You can give me a call directly at 319-849-5152.  You can also email me at info@chrysalisboudoir.com.  I can’t wait to hear from you