Finding My Confidence: My Experience with Kim Kelley Boudoir in San Diego

I’m a photographer, can I do this?

As a boudoir photographer who spends most of my time behind the camera, capturing the beauty and confidence of others, the idea of stepping in front of the lens for my own boudoir session filled me with the kind of nervousness usually reserved for public speaking or accidentally replying all.

However, I recently decided to take the plunge and book a session with Kim at Kim Kelley Boudoir in San Diego. Spoiler alert: it turned out to be one of the most empowering (and surprisingly fun) experiences of my life.

Before MY session, i was ABSOLUTELY TERRIFIED. sorry not sorry.

The Nerves

I won’t lie—leading up to the session, my nerves were all over the place. I questioned my decision multiple times. What if I didn’t feel comfortable? What if I couldn’t relax enough to enjoy the experience? What if my face did that weird thing it always does in photos? These doubts swirled in my mind, but I reminded myself that this was an opportunity to see myself from a new perspective and to practice the self-love I often encourage in my clients.

The Session

From the moment I arrived I started to relax. Kim met me at the door, already laughing, giving out hugs and had an energy that instantly put me at ease. We spent some time chatting about what I hoped to get out of the session, and Kim’s genuine interest in my comfort made me have no regrets about who I chose to do this session with. Kim’s studio was gorgous too! I had no idea it was so big! I could live there! LOL

We went through the wardrobe choices together. Of course I do this myself with my own clients, but I was nervous about doing it myself. I wanted it perfect. There was a lot riding on this, I didn’t really know that until I arrived at the studio and had a mini freak out. I was doing this (probably) only once, it needed to be perfect! Kim offered her expert advice on what would photograph best while also making me feel good about what I brought. I borrowed a few things from her client closet and she surprised me with some handcuffs and spray water bottles! OMGGGG!!!

The Transformation

As the session progressed, Kim’s guidance and encouragement, and laughter! made me super comfortable and I actually was having fun! What struck me the most was how Kim managed to capture the essence of who I am. She highlighted my strengths and transformed what I initially perceived as flaws into beautiful elements of my individuality. It was fun, eye opening, confidence building (like she always says), and amazing. I wish I could feel that way every single day, it’s a feeling I can’t even explain. Like I’m a queen, and unstoppable, and worthy and beautiful, and shit now i’m crying here as I write this and remember it…..

By the end of the session, I felt like a different person—someone who had not only faced their fears but had also emerged stronger and more self-assured.

The Results

I stayed and did my reveal session that same day, I was blown away. Kim had managed to capture me in a way I had never seen myself before. The photos were stunning, showcasing a side of me that was confident, sensual, and unapologetically myself. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing vulnerability. And yes, there were a few shots where I looked like I didn’t belong there and I needed to hit the gym, but guess what? I didn’t pick those and she promised to delete them! :)

Conclusion

My boudoir session at Kim Kelley Boudoir was an incredible journey of self-discovery and empowerment, peppered with plenty of laughs. It reminded me of the beauty of vulnerability and the strength that comes from facing our fears. For anyone considering a boudoir session in southern California but feeling hesitant, I cannot recommend Kim highly enough. You will feel the love. Take the leap, embrace your beauty, and let Kim show you the stunning (and occasionally silly) person you truly are. You won’t regret it.