As the door clicks shut behind her, I turn back to Breanna with a warm smile. "How are you feeling?" I ask, genuinely interested in her state of mind. "I know all of this can be a bit overwhelming."
Breanna takes a deep breath, her shoulders relaxing slightly as she exhales. "I'm... nervous," she admits with a small laugh. "But excited too. I can't believe how amazing Ainsley made me look."
I nod understandingly. "It's perfectly normal to feel a mix of emotions. Remember, this whole experience is about celebrating you. There's no pressure to be anyone but yourself."
Moving towards the clothing rack, I gesture to the array of lingerie pieces hanging there. "Now, let's go over a few things before we get started. First, here's our selection of lingerie. Feel free to choose whatever you're most comfortable in. We have various sizes, styles, and colors to suit your preferences."
Breanna's eyes widen as she takes in the options, her fingers reaching out to stroke a delicate lace teddy. "These are gorgeous," she murmurs.
"Take your time selecting what you'd like to wear," I encourage her. "And remember, you can change outfits as many times as you'd like during the shoot."
I pause, my tone becoming a bit more serious. "Before we begin, I want to check if you have any injuries or sensitive areas I should be aware of. This helps me guide you into poses that are comfortable and flattering."
Breanna shakes her head. "No injuries or anything like that. I'm pretty flexible from yoga, actually."
"That's great," I nod approvingly. "Flexibility can definitely open up some fun pose options. Now, let's talk about the flow of the shoot. We'll start with some simpler poses to get you comfortable in front of the camera. As we go, we can gradually move into more sensual or daring poses if you're comfortable with that. At any point, if you feel uncomfortable or want to take a break, just let me know. This is all about you feeling empowered and beautiful."
Breanna nods, her eyes bright. "Okay, I think I'm ready."
Chapter 18
Rayne
Imovetowardsmycamera setup, picking up one of the bodies and attaching a lens. "I'll be shooting with this camera, but I also have a couple of others set up around the room to capture different angles. Don't worry about them–just focus on me and my main camera."
Breanna nods, her eyes following my movements with a mix of curiosity and nervousness.
"Alright then," I grin, gesturing towards the changing area. "Why don't you pick out your first outfit and we'll get started?"
As Breanna disappears behind the privacy screen with an armful of lacy garments, I walk over to the sound system and put on one of my standard playlists, Show Me by Alina Baraz starting to play through the room.
Breanna emerges from behind the screen a little hesitantly. She's chosen a deep burgundy lace bodysuit that hugs her body beautifully. Her cheeks are flushed, but there's a spark of excitement in her eyes.
"You look stunning," I tell her sincerely. "That color is perfect on you. How do you feel?"
Breanna takes a deep breath, smoothing her hands over the lace. "A little exposed," she admits with a nervous laugh. "But... good. Sexy, even."
"That's exactly how you should feel," I encourage. "Now, let's start with something simple. Why don't you come over to the couch here? I’m going to walk you through some poses but also once you feel more comfortable, if you want to move and try different angles between each of the images I take that’s fine too. I’ll point out any adjustments you need to make to your pose."
I guide her through a series of poses, starting with seated positions that allow her to feel more covered and secure. As we progress, I can see Breanna's confidence growing. Her movements become more fluid, her smiles more genuine.
"Beautiful, Breanna," I encourage as I capture a series of shots. "Now, let's try something a little more playful. Can you lie back on the chaise and stretch your arms above your head?"
She complies, arching her back slightly as she settles into the pose. I adjust my angle, framing the shot to accentuate the elegant line of her body.
"Perfect," I murmur, the camera clicking rapidly. "Now, bring one knee up slowly. That's it. Tilt your chin down just a touch. Gorgeous."
The music shifts to a sultry beat, and I notice her body subtly swaying to the rhythm. The shutter clicks rapidly as I move around her, seeking out the most flattering angles. Breanna's eyes meet mine through the lens, a mixture of vulnerability and empowerment shining in their depths.
"Rayne?" she asks softly, adjusting her position slightly. "Can I ask you something?"
I lower the camera, giving her my full attention. "Of course. What's on your mind?"
She hesitates for a moment, biting her lower lip. "What made you want to become a boudoir photographer? I mean, it's such a unique profession. I'm just curious about what drew you to it."
I pause, considering her question. It's not the first time I've been asked, and it certainly won't be the last. But something in Breanna's genuine curiosity makes me want to give her an honest answer.
I take a deep breath, my mind drifting back to memories I don't often revisit. "Well, I grew up in the foster system," I begin, my voice soft but steady. "And I was never what you'd call a small girl. I was always taller than the others there, curvier too. Kids can be cruel, and I was an easy target."