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.

We have boudoir photo sessions scheduled in Edmonton for this Sunday, August 21st. Future sessions will be on October 28th.
For more information, please contact us.

Why did you decide to do a boudoir photo session?
I thought it would be a wonderful wedding gift for my fiance.

Why did you choose TAIT Photography?
I heard about you through SHE Lingerie, checked out the website and liked what I saw.

How did you prepare for your boudoir shoot?
I exercise regularly, but probably a little extra the month before! Bought some sexy lingerie, painted my nails.

Who are your boudoir photos for?
My fiance will be thrilled!!

How was the experience?
I had a really fun time, was only nervous for the first minute or so.

How do you feel about your boudoir photos?
I really love them! I had a lot of favorites and it was so hard to pick! I loved a lot of the ones of just my face as well, but because of the purpose of this gift I chose ones that showed my body as well.

Did you have your Hair & Makeup done at the studio?
Yes, it was fun and looked good in the pics!

Why should other women do a boudoir shoot for themselves?
Fun, Feel good about yourself, Do something special for someone in your life or for yourself!

Here are a few favorite images from a recent boudoir photo session in Calgary.

Due to her career, N has decided to keep her images private, but wanted to share her boudoir photography experience.

Why did you decide to do a boudoir session?
I really wanted to feel sexy, not just cute, and this session definitely did that!

Why did you choose TAIT Photography?
I really like how Erica brings out and shows the personal beauty out of everyone.

How did you prepare?
I would highly recommend getting the professional make-up and hair. It was a great way to relax and calm your nerves before the session. Plus you end up looking smoking hot which helps add to your confidence.

Who are your boudoir photos for?
The pictures were for my boyfriend and for me. My boyfriend was really impressed! There was one picture he really liked and he keeps asking, we’re ordering that one right? For me I wanted to feel beautiful. And I did.

How was the experience?
The experience was nothing I had ever experienced before. Erica coaches you the whole time and you can’t help but walk away with a huge smile on your face.

How do you feel?
I have too many favourites at this point! The ones in the white shirt and black bra and panty are definitely the running favourites with my boyfriend.

Why should others?
It’s fun, it’s a confidence booster, and a great way to celebrate who you are. Overall it was a great experience!