When Vanessa first reached out to me, she was at a crossroads—feeling disconnected from herself, struggling with confidence, and facing the daily challenges of living with a disability. Like so many women, she had begun to see herself through a harsh lens, shaped by past experiences and self-doubt. But something inside her told her to take a chance on self love. What followed was a journey of empowerment, self-discovery, and a transformation she never expected. Here, in her own words, Vanessa shares what it was like to step into the world of boudoir photography at Lone Barn Studio—and how it changed the way she sees herself forever.
Why did you book a boudoir shoot?: I felt like I'd lost a lot of who I was. The combination of men rejecting me physically, and having developed a functional neurological disorder that means I rely on a wheelchair to get out and about had really taken its toll.
Embracing self love is about recognising one's worth and beauty, regardless of external opinions or circumstances.
Why did you book a session with me?: I saw an advert on Facebook, and contacted you on impulse. Later, (before you contacted me back) I looked at your website, and was bowled-over.
How was preparing for your shoot?: Fun! Shopping for new lingerie was great.
What was your biggest fear before your shoot?: That I would look "wooden" in the photos.
Tell me about your hair and makeup: Miriam was wonderful! Her skills made me look and feel a million dollars! I recall being rather overwhelmed when I was finally allowed to peek in the mirror.
Throughout the hair and makeup, both you and Mim chatted with me, and by the time Mim had worked HER magic, I was more than ready for the shoot!
How did it feel stepping in to the studio?: A moment of "how will I cope (physically, due to my disability)", followed by choosing my first outfit with help from you. By the time I was in my first outfit, I was excited to get started!
How was your shoot? Did you find my posing guidance easy?: The shoot was INCREDIBLE!! You demonstrated each pose, adapting a few to make them easier for me.
I will never forget how I felt when you gave me a peep at a shot or two on the back of your camera. Seeing myself, my whole body, through someone else's eyes (lens) was instantly empowering, and spurred me on for the rest of the shoot.
Knowing how stunning I was looking in the photos gave me the courage to do a few nudes, too.
How did it feel to see your photos?: Absolutely AMAZING! I was close to tears a few times … happy, overwhelmed tears. Every photo was BEAUTIFUL.
How easy was it to choose your images?: Apart from a few where I could see the fatigue in my body (some of the very last shots done), it was VERY hard to whittle them down at all!
Any words of wisdom to any other ladies thinking of a boudoir shoot?: Just do it, ladies! And do it with Julie at Lone Barn Studio. She's a magician!
Do you feel different after your shoot?: Absolutely I do! I feel empowered, more positive, braver, and like some invisible switch has been turned on inside me for the first time ever. I'm nearly 2 weeks post-viewing, and I'm still feeling the same. So THANK YOU, Julie, for working your magic on me; the combination of actually doing the photo shoot with you, and seeing so many beautiful photos of myself has affected me deeply … and only in good ways.
Will you have another boudoir shoot?: Absolutely I would! But I'll give it a while in the hope that my disability lessens so I can do the poses more easily!
If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and only seen your flaws, or felt like you’ve lost a part of yourself along the way, a boudoir shoot could be exactly what you need. It’s more than just beautiful photos—it’s about rediscovering your confidence, your strength, and the beauty that’s always been there. Whether you’re celebrating yourself, reclaiming your body, or just wanting to feel truly seen, I’m here to guide you through an unforgettable experience. Ready to boost your self love? Let’s chat—click here to get in touch: https://www.lonebarnboudoir.co.uk/boudoir-studio-contact/ 💕
You can also find out mre about your boudoir experience here.
I'f it'd too early to chat , then why not join my ladies only Facebook group where we chat about boudoir and self confidence.
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