I have always loved ballet and dance in general so when clients bring in any dance themed items such as point shoes, or tutus, it is always a treat for me to photograph. Here is a series of 3 ballet boudoir images from a recent boudoir photoshoot.

THIS YEAR’S BOUDOIR PHOTO CONTEST WINNER IS MICHELLE!

I am pleased to announce that Michelle is the winner of my 5th Annual Valentine’s Day Boudoir Photo Contest. Michelle will receive a makeover, photo session and an album with 10 of her favorite images from the photoshoot.
HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!
Erica

Thank you so much for participating in our 2012 Valentine’s Day Contest, we greatly appreciate all those who entered and submitted such touching stories. As always, it was really difficult to narrow it down to the finalists! Now we need your help to select the winner, so please vote for one of these women.

The finalists for this year are:

1) Izabella
2) Michelle
3) Candace
4) Jennifer

To Vote:

Send an email to contest@taitboudoir.com with just the name of the person you are voting for in the subject line. Feel free to include comments with your vote, comments may be posted to the blog. Also leave a comment in the box below!

Voting ends on Tuesday, February 14th at 5pm PST. The winner will be announced later on Valentine’s Day on our Facebook page.

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Izabella’s Entry

I am putting in a story about the love of my life (Izabella) on her behalf because she is too scared to do it.  Izabella moved to Canada from Poland 21 years ago, and we met 17 years ago.  We were in each other’s life for 3 months, and fell in love, but were too young to even realize.  17 years later, and many life lessons learned we re-connected on Facebook of all places.  The meet was instant love again within a day, and both of us felt unbelievable to have each other back in our lives.  I remember Izabella was talking about this contest last year, and she was too scared to enter but she had hopes that she may be lucky enough to get to have an opportunity like this (she would never go on her own).  This contest really brought us close together as we only re-connected on January 23, 2011.  When this contest came on we started to become more open with each other, telling everything that we wanted out of life, and everything we wanted given our past lives without each other.  Izabella is now 35 years old and I swear she is the best mom on this side of the universe.  2 lovely children, 3 and 19 months, Iza never has a moment to spare during her day being a single mother.  I want nothing more in the world to be with Izabella on a daily basis and start our lives together forever, but I am having a hard time finding a job in my line of work to move to the city.  Now don’t get me wrong, I go there at least twice a week to help out and try give her a break because she never has a moment for herself, but she always makes time to put smiles on everyone else’s faces including mine and her mother who is very sick right now and might not get to enjoy life as the rest of us take for granted on a daily basis.  I would like to have Iza win this contest because of the simple fact that she feels like she is getting old with her years, but she is still as beautiful as the day when I met her.  It is a rare opportunity for me to get a picture of her, but when she lets me it’s like magic through the lens.  She is the angel that has fallen from heaven for me, and she makes everyone’s day that she is around everyday!  Iza still works all day, and tries to get rest at night, but the children are still waking up in the night and sometimes she gets no sleep at all, just to go through it again the next day.  Izabella has a huge passion for photography and is always taking pictures on a daily basis because everyday is a new adventure to her and the munchkins, being so full of inspiration and life.  Please take my story to heart as Iza has really not had everything in life like the rest of us have and take for granted moving to Canada from Poland not knowing English at all hardly at a young age.  All Izabella wants and enjoys are the simple things in life.  She expressed interest in doing a boudoir shoot so she can look back at pictures when she feels that the world is too much to handle and so she can show her family when she can’t enjoy the finer things in life.  I tell Izabella that she is beautiful everyday, and she would know it if she could see the world like I see it through my eyes.  There is only one wish that I have at this point in time… to get my career move to Calgary and to start a fulfilling life with Izabella and to bring the children up in a world surrounded by nothing more than joy and love.  I love the children like they are my own, and love Izabella more than anything I have ever cherished in my life.  She is my heart, my soul, my mind that carries me through each day, and another day passed is another day closer that we can start forever together.  Please help fulfill my angel’s wish and make her the happiest girl in the universe.

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Michelle’s Entry

I would be honored to be considered as a nominee for the 2012 Valentine’s Day boudoir contest.  Let me tell you a little bit about myself:

My name is Michelle and I’m 26 years old.  I have been married for 7 years this spring to the most amazing man I know.  He is an active duty US Navy Sailor and has been for 8 years.  We have two small children, ages 1 and 3.  Shortly after my husband and I were married, I was diagnosed with an auto immune disorder and the treatment caused me to gain a great deal of weight.  After the treatment, I finished my teaching degree and then we were blessed with the news of my first pregnancy.  The doctors considered me high risk and while I was in labor my daughter’s heart rate crashed and she had to be born via emergency C-section.  She underwent several weeks of treatment in the NICU of another hospital across town before we could take her home.  I didn’t even get to see her until I had healed and by then she was 4 days old.  Thankfully my second pregnancy went a lot smoother, and we now have two rambunctious toddlers!  I have also dealt with my husband going on two 7 month deployments, numerous other military separations, and are making preparations for a third deployment next month. It’s certainly been a roller coaster of a ride.  I have recently found a diet program that has really worked for me and I’m now 50lbs lighter, but I still carry that ‘fat girl’ image around in my head.  I think a boudoir shoot would be just the thing to help me readjust my inner view of myself and my body. It’s something I’ve been considering for a while, but as a full time at home mom there is always something more important that comes up, and I fall to the bottom of the list. My husband is also deploying again next month, and I have to say that I think some sexy photos of his wife would be the perfect addition to a mid – deployment care package. He does so much for me, I would love to be able to put a smile on his face when he least expects it. Through all the ups and downs we’ve been through together he has always been by my side and told me I am beautiful, I want to show him what a hot mama I can be!! Thank you for considering me!

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Candace’s Entry

Hi, my name is Candace and I would like to win this contest more than anything.  Not just a surprise for him but as a confidence booster for myself.

When I met my husband I had dreams, goals, big plans for myself and nothing was going to get in my way of them.  He was amazing and I knew that he was the one from the day that we met, I never believed that the love at first sight thing was true but he was an exception.  The first couple of months were amazing I would look forward to him meeting me everyday when I was done school (I was in College).  About 5 months after we met I got really sick.  I had been dealing with anxiety issues in the past but nothing as severe as what was about to come.  It hit me like a brick wall and my life spiraled downwards resulting in hospitalization more than once.  I had to withdraw from school and I got so bad that I became housebound.  The worst part of all of this is that my doctor was trying to find a medication for me that I wouldn’t react badly to and in this process the side effects from the medication caused me to gain about 70 lbs.  I lost who I was all confidence of who I was becoming, I lost my freedom but I didn’t lose Ryan.  He stayed by my side, watched me go from being this vibrant energetic woman that he fell in love with to this shell of her former self who couldn’t leave the house and was in constant fear. This all started in 2007 and it is now 2012.  I look back on pictures and journals of who I once was and realized I will never be that person I was before.  I am still sick now I have my good days and my bad ones, I can’t work right now and I can’t go into busy places like grocery stores. We can’t have kids right now as I wouldn’t ever want to bring one into this world until I am better, I basically have to rebuild my life from the ground up all over again.

I do photography for my friends and family to keep me busy and keep me sane so I really think this is great that you are offering this contest.

I feel that I should win this contest for myself because I have a hard time looking in the mirror and accepting that I am beautiful even as a plus size person, I need to be proud of who I am now and I think seeing myself in these pictures might allow me to see myself in a different light.

I want to win this for my Husband because it takes a really strong person to stick by someone’s side that is sick, he could have walked out 5 months into the relationship but he didn’t, he married me instead.  We very recently (last week) moved from Barrie Ontario to Grande Prairie Alberta where he has an opportunity for a career instead of just a job.

It will take a while to adjust to this new life here and I was extremely excited to see that you would be coming here to Grande Prairie.  I am sorry for rambling on about my life but it kind of feels good to get it out sometimes.  Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Sincerely,
Candace

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Jennifer’s Entry

Hello Tait Photography! My name is Jennifer.  I came across your website while researching boudoir photographers. Not only did I love your photographs, but I was thrilled at the prospect of getting a free session! Let me tell you why…

I am excited to announce my 5th annual Valentine’s Day FREE Boudoir Photo Shoot Giveaway! The winner will receive a free photoshoot, hair & makeup, plus an album with 10 images! The contest is open to anyone who would like to enter, whether you have a special someone as your Valentine this year or if it is just for yourself. The session can be at any of our upcoming Boudoir Photography Marathons in the US or Canada.
Click here for the current schedule

To enter the contest: 
Please email your story of why you deserve a free session along with a photo of yourself to
 contest@taitboudoir.com with the subject line “2012 VALENTINE’S DAY BOUDOIR CONTEST”.

If you are a finalist then your story, first name (or initial), and images that you submit will be posted on our blog. Feel free to nominate a deserving friend just please have their permission first and send us their contact info so that we can confirm.

We will be accepting entries until February 12th and the winner will be announced on Valentine’s Day!

You can also view past contest entries and winners here.

Before Breast Cancer awareness month comes to a close, I wanted to remind you of two programs we have for our on-going support of breast cancer awareness. First is our “Sessions for Survivors” program specifically for women diagnosed with or have survived a breast cancer diagnosis. More info on applying is available at www.boudoirforthecure.com

Additionally, I hold a quarterly “Boudoir for the Cure” fund-raising event where proceeds benefit the various breast cancer foundations. My next fund-raising event in Calgary is on January 25th, 2012. These boudoir sessions are offered at a reduced price. Anyone is welcome to participate and your entire session fee will be donated to cancer research. You can book a session for our next event here.

We also often do photos before masectomy surgeries, which is a great way to celebrate your natural body before breast cancer forever changes it. We offer a discount off our session fee for anyone undergoing breast cancer or other cancer related treatments.

The following article, written for our blog by David Haas of the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance is about the benefits of fitness and eating healthy during and after a diagnosis of any kind of cancer. “Each different cancer has its limitations, but if one can keep a healthy body, they can have a better chance to overcome this awful disease.”

Recovering from Cancer through Exercise and Lifestyle
By: David Haas

A cancer diagnosis can be a life-changing event for many people, but there are several lifestyle changes that a patient can make to improve recovery. While chemotherapy and a medically supervised treatment program are essential for any cancer patient, diet and exercise can have a positive impact on healing times and quality of life.

An active lifestyle and exercise helps release endorphins, which work as natural painkillers in the body. During chemotherapy, many patients may experience systemic or generalized pain. Exercise can help reduce chronic pain, while improving patient health. There are many low impact exercises that cancer patients can do during treatment and recovery.

Most exercise results in an elevated heart rate and increased breathing rate. For some patients with cancers such as lung cancer or rare mesothelioma, fast breathing may be painful or impractical. Yoga can be an effective form of exercise for patients, as it concentrates on slow breathing and relaxation.

Yoga is a form of exercise where patients hold poses and practice relaxation. Yoga provides low impact movements that tone and exercise the entire body, without putting excessive strain on any individual tendons or joints. For patients who have been sedentary or bedridden, yoga can be a great way exercise the entire body in a safe and relaxing environment.

Swimming is a popular form of exercise therapy. Swimming requires the use of muscles across the entire body, and can range from low intensity to high intensity. Many swimming facilities have instructors trained in physical therapy, who can help cancer patients find the swimming exercises that best meet their individual needs.

Cycling or spin classes can also be a great option for many cancer patients. Spin classes allow cancer patients to experience rigorous cardiovascular exercise in a controlled environment. Many spin class instructors can tailor a class to meet each person’s individual needs, while allowing group exercise in a fun environment.

Exercise can also be as simple as walking. The National Institutes of Health recommends that adults spend at least 30 minutes a day walking, to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Spending time outdoors can be a great way to beat depression, and an excellent way to meet new people. Maintaining a positive attitude is essential during any form of cancer treatment, and meeting new people can be a great way to improve attitude and mood.

Exercise can improve health, lower recovery times, and improve mood in many cancer patients. While medical treatment is necessary for many forms of cancer, lifestyle and diet can improve quality of life during recovery.

We have boudoir photo sessions scheduled in Fort McMurray for Saturday, November 26th and Sunday, November 27th.

For more information, please contact us.

Why did you book a boudoir photo session?
I wanted to do a boudoir session for myself and for my boyfriend. I struggle with low self esteem and I knew doing a boudoir session would help me over come my insecurities. I love my boyfriend more than anything in the world and I wanted to show him how much he means to me. I know this is the perfect gift for him.

Why did you choose TAIT Boudoir Photography?
I chose TAIT photography because out of all the websites I browsed, Erica seemed like the most professional and genuine photographer. All the interviews and testimonials said wonderful things about her and her work, her website was easy to explore and her pictures are just AMAZING! Her prices are very competitive and there are so many product choices! She gives you many pictures to choose from too. I am so glad I chose Erica to take my pictures, the experience was far better than I ever imagined.

How did you prepare for your session?
The morning of my session, I was very relaxed and had my nails done. I gave myself lots of time for everything and had a very stress free morning. The night before, I picked out all my outfits that made me feel sexy and pretty. I was more excited than nervous!

Who are your images for?
The images are for me and my boyfriend as an anniversary gift. My boyfriend has not seen the pictures yet, nor does he know I even did this. But I am quite sure he is going to be stunned and incredibly happy and I’m so excited for the day I get to show them to him!

How was your boudoir photography the experience?
Erica is an amazing photographer. She told me everything I needed to do and was really supportive throughout the whole session. She was very encouraging which made me feel really comfortable. The radio was playing in the background and it was all very relaxing. I felt like a supermodel!

How do you feel about your photos?
After my session, I was counting down the days until I could see my pictures. The morning I received the email I was so excited to see them! I absolutely love them. They all make me feel really good about myself and all the insecurities I have are gone whenever I look at the pictures. My absolute favourite ones are the ones with me in a superman shirt. My boyfriend is the biggest superman fan and I know he is going to laugh in amusement when he sees them!

Did you have your Hair & Makeup done with us?
I don’t wear make-up… ever. So for me getting my hair and make-up done at my boudoir session was a must! It was worth everything though. My make-up artist Gaby did such a wonderful job. She talked me thru the whole process, asked me questions as to how I wanted to look, I got to pick the colours I wanted and she made me feel comfortable and relaxed. I had no idea I could look that beautiful!

Why should others?
Other women should have a boudoir session because it helps you to see your inner and outer beauty. Every woman deserves to feel amazing and truly appreciate everything about her body. Erica is an amazing photographer and helped me gain my self confidence back.

Do you have an interesting story about your experience?
The morning of my boudoir session I was getting ready and putting on “fake nails” and he texted me that he may be coming home early! He was not able to escape work (thank goodness!). My boyfriend has never seen me with make up or with my hair all done up. I thought for sure when he did come home he would have questions as to why I was so dressed up. I made up excuses and he stopped asking. He thought that I looked so beautiful with my hair and make-up. Then the day I got the email my pictures were ready for viewing he was at home sick! I had to strategically place the computer so I could see them (I was very excited) and so he couldn’t! He has not seen the pictures yet and there have been some times when I’ve almost told him but I’m determined to make it a surprise!

I received my album and it all looks AMAZING. Thank you so much Erica for the wonderful job and all the time and effort you put into everything from the photo shoot to the final product. I have really appreciated everything!

Why did you decide to do a boudoir photo session?
I thought it would make for a very special Valentines Day present. I have been with my husband for ten years, and have always wanted to get some nice photos done, and when I found TAIT photography, I knew that Erica was the photographer I wanted to work with.

Why did you choose TAIT Photography?
After viewing some of the example books and Erica’s portfolio, I knew that I wanted to get my pictures done with her. Her work is amazing!

How did you prepare for the session?
I just tried to relax – oh, and make sure my legs were shaved!

Who are your boudoir photos for?
The images are for my husband, and I wanted him to help choose the images to go into the book, so it wasn’t a surprise, but he is very excited to see the final product.

How was the experience?
I felt very comfortable while taking the pictures – Erica is very easy to take direction from, and she knows exactly how to make you look your best.

How do you feel about your images?
I am so impressed with my pictures. My favorites are the ones where I am wearing my husband’s jersey. They look so relaxed and sexy at the same time.

Did you get your makeup done with us?
I really enjoyed getting my makeup and hair done, that was the highlight of my day, and I got to go to a party afterward, totally made-up!

Why should other women do a boudoir photoshoot?
A boudoir session makes you feel confident about yourself, and highlights your beautiful and sexy features. They make for a wonderful gift and keepsake!

Why did you decide to do a boudoir session?
To boost my self confidence!

Why did you choose TAIT Photography for your boudoir photos?
I chose TAIT because I thought her photos were the most classy and elegant I had seen.

How did you prepare for your boudoir session?
I went to the gym, ate healthy, and bought some new lingerie! As a makeup artist myself, I did my own makeup and hair. But I highly recommend having a professional do this for you so that you look your best in the photos!

Are the photos for yourself or for a gift?
The images are for myself and I couldn’t be happier!

How was your boudoir photography experience?
I was very nervous at first but left with a ton of confidence! It was fun!

How do you feel about your boudoir photos?
I love my images! It is hard to pick a favorite when you love them all!

Why should other women book a boudoir photo shoot?
To boost self esteem! Plus if you have a man, he will love them! The photographer made me feel so comfortable! This experience was one of the best things I have done for myself!

The next boudoir photo sessions in Northern Virginia (Reston) are scheduled for September 8th, 9th & 10th.
For more information, please contact us.