From Miss A

I was skeptical at first, as I think any woman might be at some point during the decision process. Who do I go to? Who is going to capture me? Who is going to know what shots are going to be flattering? What if I look horrible? I had just gotten married and wanted to do something special for the man that makes me feel beautiful, comfortable and confident in my skin, every single day. My sister and I were talking and she had done a shoot a few months back - for herself! What an amazing gift to give yourself.

I was so nervous but had been scouring the internet for someone in the Midwest to do my pictures. I came across Shalista and was mesmerized at how beautiful her work was. I could tell she was an artist and took pride in everyone of her shots. You know when you meet someone you just feel calm? I felt that by just looking at her pictures. I decided to bite the bullet and make that call. After all, this was going to be a present to the most amazing person in my life.

So how bad could it be? I am here to tell you, it was beautiful! The way I felt so calm and invited when I walked in. The way I was whisked away to be made glamorous. It was almost like a TV show. My experience with my makeup artist was phenomenal. She listened to what I wanted, considered everything and made sure I felt perfect - and I did! Then onto the photo shoot. What a whirlwind. I have to change… into my barely there clothing? Oh my goodness! However, when I saw myself in the mirror, it was as if a sense of calm just over took my body. Shalista made me feel so welcomed and beautiful the first time she came out after I dressed. A little weird to step out naked, but you’ll get over it. I promise! I have never felt so empowered in my life. And I can see that in every single photo I took - which is nerve wracking to see yourself unedited in photos. I was taken aback at how beautiful they were. I felt fierce. I felt the fire in my body rise! I was so ready to give these to my husband. Which, by the way, got the best response I could have hoped for. He was so surprised, he never saw it coming. I tease him at how his jaw fell on the floor. I can’t wait to do this again!

I decided as my body matures and maybe I’m not feeling great from all the changes, that this is a great pick me up. I have recommended this to so many people. Even people I don’t really know at all. I am just so proud of myself and have to share with everyone. I will only do this with Shalista again. We talked, we laughed and we had a great time. Don’t fear finding yourself looking beautiful and confident. Don’t be scared to show the real you. The you, you may not think you are. The fire breathing you that will come out in her pictures. She is an artist and a damn good one. One last parting thought, Go Do This. Immediately. Do not wait, make that call! You will not regret it.

What made you decide to hire me as your photographer?: I had been scouring the internet for someone in the Midwest area to do this photo shoot. I came across your website and absolutely stalked you for a while. I followed you on Facebook and watched how many other women had chosen you as their artist. The shots you portray on your website were stunning. It appeared as they were all so comfortable in their skin with you. You made me believe I would be accepted and comfortable. And I was!

What made you decide to do a boudoir session? Describe how to came to that decision!: I had just gotten married and I couldn’t think of anything “special” to do for my new husband. My sister had done a photo shoot last year with an artist in her area. We talked about it at length and I just knew after talking to her, this would an experience unlike any other for both of us. I was going back and forth for a long time. My husband makes me feel like I’m the most beautiful woman in the world and I wanted him to know how special and confident he makes me feel, every day. I decided to do something that proves to him how amazing he makes me feel, even when I don’t feel it myself.

How were you feeling before your shoot? Any thoughts going through your head?: I was oddly calm. I honestly thought I’d be shaking and nervous. I had walked in and felt immediately comfortable in the space. It wasn’t cold or bare. Instead, It was warm and inviting. I had this peace after meeting you that I would be welcome in any form.

Afterwards how did you feel?: I felt empowered! As if I could conquer the world! I felt beautiful and I was so happy. I knew your skills from watching you, and I just knew I was not going to be disappointed.

What would you tell your friends about your experience?: I already have! I share your deals with them all the time. I’m sure they think I’m annoying, but I don’t care! I think every woman should feel the way I felt in those moments.