Boudoir & All that Sexy Stuff | Phoenix Boudoir Photographer

At The Bella Jade Collection we don't try to define sexy. We don't have a to-do list on how to get sexier for your boudoir pictures. And we certainly do not decide for you what you have to wear to be sexy. That's not us - and we are proud of it. Why?

Our boudoir clients re-define sexy everyday by breaking through to their true selves and embracing who they are in their own skin.

Of course I will provide my expert advice to help you feel more confident and comfortable during your session. I want you to look great, feel great, and walk away with the most captivating portraits of yourself you've ever seen. But, I also want you to be yourself, have fun, and re-discover what makes you uniquely beautiful! Otherwise to me all of that stuff (the lingerie, the make-up, the lashes, the lush hair, and that one photo where you looked like a model straight out of a magazine!) is just, well, stuff. 

I believe that whether you are doing this for yourself or for a significant other, a boudoir session is an investment in you! So, why shouldn't it be about you and celebrate all of the wonderful things that make you uniquely beautiful? Why does it just have to be about (you know) the "sexy" stuff. We take a different approach here at our phoenix boudoir studio, and want you to know that YOU are what makes boudoir the hottest and sexiest gift EVER! And, you are going to rock it by simply by being you and trusting your boudoir photographer to worry about all that other stuff.

I know, I know. I make all of this sound SO simple and I do understand that taking the leap and booking your boudoir photographer takes a bit of courage. I want my clients to know that having it all figured out prior to your boudoir photo-shoot is NOT a requirement. Before you go scouring the web with anxiety and jotting down notes on how to be sexy or memorizing hundreds of boudoir poses stop for a moment and remember that seriously

-the sexiest thing you can do is be yourself! 

What better way to encourage this type of attitude than to SHOW you what I mean with photos of real women who have braved the boudoir and rocked it just by being themselves and embracing their bodies and personalities to the core! 

Miss K. was a welcomed guest at one of our boudoir parties and I am excited to be able to share her images not just because she looks fabulous but  because she also ranks among the many who are not quite sure about this whole boudoir thing.

She was not ashamed to admit that she wouldn't have been here if it wasn't for being invited by a dear friend - a blow to the heart of a passionate boudoir photographer, but also the truth for most women out there. And, even though those words are never my absolute fave - I also knew right then I adored her, because her honesty and willingness to try something new is what I admire most about my clients. And this was my chance to show her how amazing a boudoir experience can be and give her something she will never forget.

I had to know more ( because I really did want her to feel comfortable) and as we talked about her skepticism about this whole boudoir thing, and how humorous some of the preparation lists they all had found on the internet seemed, I had to give it a bit of a laugh myself. But you guys I cant stress enough that at the end of the day, the best way to prepare is to just have a sit down with yourself  and figure out what YOU want and what is going to make YOU feel good about yourself. It didn't take Miss K very long to break through to the real her, and exude her own kind of sexy and we LOVE that here ar our Phoenix boudoir studio. Yes, the "stuff" and preparation will always be importrant, but not as important as

breaking through to the real you, and seeing yourself as unapologetically beautiful.
 

Want to learn more about the boudoir experience? Visit our official phoenix boudoir photographer site or contact Christina at bellajadecollection@gmail.com for a free pre-consultation.

Rockabilly Boudoir with Miss E. | Pheonix Boudoir Photographer

Miss E. re-defined sexy as she danced and laughed throughout her rockabilly inspired boudoir session. 

“It was the start of me being comfortable with who I am; being comfortable in my own skin!  ”

— Miss E

Getting to know Miss E. and taking her boudoir and pin up pictures was such a pleasure. She came to me a little unsure, which is normal. But her story really moved me as she went on to admit that she had spent the majority of her life trying to figure out why she was stuck in this body. She never would have thought there would come a day that she would feel comfortable enough to EVER do anything like this. I admired her bravery for sharing such intimate details with me and set out to ensure this experience would bring her the gift of confidence I knew she'd deserved.

I couldn't have been happier to help Miss E. create the most beautiful portraits of herself shed ever seen!

I mean, this is the kind of woman who is always looking out for everyone else. The kind of woman you call just to talk and hear a friendly voice on a bad day. She is everyone's momma bear, putting those she loves needs before hers every-single-day. And yet amongst spreading all of these beautiful gestures and accomplishing what seemed the unthinkable - of finding good health and happiness

she still looked in the mirror with some uncertainty. She wanted NEEDED to see herself as beautiful.

She was more then well deserving of such a wonderful and freeing experience. When Miss E agreed to allow me to share her story I could not have been more grateful. It is no doubt that she is such an inspiration and her photographs are uncannily beautiful.

THIS. This right here is my why - having the opportunity to help women find their wild and feel confident in their own skin. I want this to be a place where women can feel comfortable enough to be themselves, have fun, and create something that is authentic and genuine. Capturing Miss E's boudoir photos was not just about taking pretty pictures. My aim as a boudoir photographer is to capture your unique beauty in the best light, to collect all of those moments, and celebrate the well deserving and beautiful woman within all of us.

Thank you Miss E for choosing myself as your boudoir photographer and sharing your testimony with us! Here is her story:

“Seeing those pictures changed my perception about myself. When I saw them, the first thing that I thought was, “That girl is so pretty and she looks so happy.”  A part of my mind refused to believe it was actually ME!  I had to pull over on the way home and just sat and cried over the fact that the “pretty, happy girl” in those pictures was, indeed, me!! For years, every time (he) has said, “Hello Beautiful,” my response has been, “Hello Blind!” He noticed that after that day, he says, “Hello Beautiful,” and my response is “Hello Handsome,” or “Hi Baby,” or something like that. I want to thank you!  You helped me see it!  You helped me find it!!  ”

— Miss E

Considering your very own boudoir session? Visit our website to find out more about the phoenix boudoir experience.

Navy Wife | Military Boudoir at Virginias House

I cant help falling in love with these military inspired boudoir photographs. When Callie came to me wanting to create a romantic gift for their anniversary, she also mentioned that the photos would serve as a keepsake for her husband when he is on military leave.

Callie had been considering boudoir for a while, and things just hadn't really worked out. I immediately couldn't help but want to bend over backwards for this woman after hearing her story, and make sure everything was just what she had imagined. Photographing outdoors was something she was really hoping for. And after talking over what her ideal photo shoot would look like, I immediately reached out to the lovely Natalie, whom I had only met a few months prior while shooting an intimate wedding. Fingers crossed - but hopeful. I just knew this place would be perfect. 

And it was - a private evening at Virginias House, a boutique wedding venue in Glendale, was just the right place to bring this vision to life!

We knew we wanted the images to be romantic, and heartfelt so while we had the ideal location, incorporating some sentimental items was a must - down to the shoes which were worn on their wedding day. I cant help but love all over the amount of thought that was put into this shoot! Callie is truly a  woman to be admired.

Formerly a California Girl,  she is proud to let her feet hit the ground in Arizona, and allow her love for her husband hold her steady no matter where life takes them next. I don't know about you, but I think I just might have to pass the best wife award over to this woman!

I'm so thankful to be able to share these with you all.

And a huge thank you to Natalie for having us and making everything super comfy!

Photography by: The Bella Jade Collection // Phoenix Boudoir Photographer
Location: Virginia House // Glendale Boutique Wedding Venue

MILITARY BOUDOIR AT VIRGINIA'S HOUSE

 All images copyright The Bella Jade Collection | 2016

Considering your very own boudoir photography session? Contact your Arizona Boudoir Photographer today 602-380-8112 or visit our boudoir site to learn more.

Feel As Sexy as You Are | Phoenix Arizona Boudoir Photographer

I knew I loved boudoir after my very first go around behind the camera capturing intimate portraits of a friend. Yes I know, super wierd right!? Well, it wasn't really. Once we got going the game changed. I wasn't just taking photos of a friend in her lingerie. We were creating engaging works of art and tapping into something that can only be realized by stepping a little bit outside of your comfort zone. 

That moment where you finally feel as sexy as you are - and believe it with every inch of your body!

That moment when you look at your boudoir photos for the very first time and realize that all of the

perfecting,

stressing,

and hiding behind your comfort zone

was only hindering your own ability to love yourself unconditionally. YOU ARE sexy just the way you are right now. Sure, you probably have a few things about your body you'd like to change but let me tell you-

the best gift a woman could EVER give herself is the gift of confidence! 

If I can help do that for even just one woman - that is by far the greatest reward of being a boudoir photographer.

For Miss A this experience was a reminder that there is nothing wrong with practicing self love! 

Miss A was an amazing woman to photograph, and I am grateful to share her story. She works in an industry primarily of males where she sometimes feels she has to be a little more thick skinned, and rarely has an opportunity to show off her sexy side! For her session we had very little time to get the right shot, but she was not going to let that stop her from making the most out of her boudoir experience. She seriously blew me away with her energy and that made everything fall right into place. 

Miss A. had her make-up done right here at the studio, and we went through the wardrobe she brought together, We would have time for just one outfit so it was even more important to choose just the right one - which was super hard ( women are crazy indecisive, so I'm sure you can imagine). Between the three of us we were able to put together

a piece that was unique to her, that she felt sexy in, and that would bring out her INNER VIXEN! .... Score!

She even brought in her own ideas for a final epic pose - thinking back to a canvas she had seen of an important women in her life as a child. Miss A KNEW she had to have one herself - at least one day! Not because we all are just dreaming of the day we get to hang a life-sized sensual portrait of ourselves over the mantel before Thanksgiving dinner (as if!). But.

because it gave her a SENSE OF EMPOWERMENT

and something to aspire to. She remembered looking at this image and thinking "what a strong and powerful woman". When you exude that kind of emotion, it is contagious. And Amber desires to feel empowered, confident and that kind of energy creates beautiful, authentic, and powerful imagery.

The result - was jaw dropping! Here are some of her best shots from Miss A's boudoir session at our phoenix boudoir studio.

All images copyright The Bella Jade Collection | 2016
Photography by: Christina Storto
Make-Up by: Lori Udrija

*** Our clients reserve the right to request their images remain private. Your images will never be shared publicly without your consent. ***

Considering your very own boudoir session?

Contact your phoenix boudoir photographer today at bellajadecollection@gmail.com or visit our website to learn more.

A Grooms Gift and Everlasting Memories for Her | Phoenix Bridal Boudoir Photographer

Recently I have had a lot of brides come into the studio. Despite my lack of ability to hold my happy tears as I listen to your love stories and design albums personalized with lyrics love notes and wedding vows - my goodness does that get me excited!

Why many brides have a boudoir session before the wedding may be mind boggling to some but for us and many of my bridal clients it makes all too perfect sense. So why are so many women considering boudoir before the wedding?

First, consider there is a lot of planning that goes into preparing for a wedding and very rarely do brides take a deep breath and really enjoy the days leading up to the big day.  A bridal boudoir photo-shoot is a great way to celebrate your efforts and enjoy all the bits and pieces you have worked so hard to find. The shoes, the pearls, the veil, the dress... the list could go on forever. But the good news is one of the best ways to foreshadow the wedding is to include pieces of your bridal attire. I always recommend bringing in these things for the shoot such as a garter, a veil, or even take yourself shopping and pick up some bridal lingerie :). Slip it on and celebrate, girl! This is your day and you won't have too many chances to get into that dress - or out of it ;).

All images copyright The Bella Jade Collection

Photo by: Christina Storto // The Bella Jade Collection
Location: The Bella Jade Collection Portrait Studio For Women; Phoenix, AZ

Second, he is not going to expect this! Of the unique ideas out there to express your joy, devotion, and intimate connection with the love of your life, a collection of boudoir photos is sure to woo and wow him. Give him something that he can hold onto and look back on for the "ever and always". You can surprise him the night before or on the day of the wedding with a special album featuring what he wants to see the most - and that is you! Your boudoir photos presented in a gorgeous album will knock his socks off for sure!

Just imagine the look on his face when he receives this unexpected gift...

All images copyright The Bella Jade Collection

Photo by: Christina Storto // The Bella Jade Collection
Location: The Bella Jade Collection Portrait Studio For Women; Phoenix, AZ

Considering a booking a bridal boudoir session as a grooms gift? I'd love to talk about styling your own phoenix bridal boudoir photo-shoot! Get in touch to get started planning your dream shoot.

Pregnant Powerful & Alluring | Phoenix High Fashion Maternity Photographer

The moments leading up to the birth of a child are magnificent and life changing, and it is deserving of documenting. As the body transforms in preparation for motherhood, it is certainly a sight to behold.

While some of us cringe at the thought of being photographed in our awkwardly shaped and vast changing body, some women choose to embrace their new bodies and document the joyous miracle of childbearing.

Most pregnancy photos foreshadow moments to come after birth with blue and pink polka dot backdrops, and interchangeable baby booties. It's not everyday you see maternity photographs like these. This session was about capturing the essence of childbearing - the immense strength it takes to bring another person into the world. There is an emotional rollercoaster associated with caring for another human being, and thus pregnancy becomes less about becoming a mother and more about unbecoming and allowing yourself to open your heart, soul, and mind for the sake of a precious child.

“You are pregnant and you are powerful. You are bold and you are beautiful. Go forward in your boldness, in your beauty and your contendness. Trust your body to birth and know that collective power of women worldwide will be with you.”

— Unknown

All images copyright The Bella Jade Collection

Photo by: Christina Storto// The Bella Jade Collection
Location: The Bella Jade Collection Portrait Studio for Women; Phoenix, AZ
Wardrobe courtesy of: Anita McLeod
Model: Stefanne Kohl

These are bold, expressive, romantic, and alluring.

Women, do not stare blankly at the world as you walk through pregnancy, stand firm and tall, because to carry a little soul within you is to be vitally alive.

If you are considering your very own maternity session, please get in touch. I'd love to hear from you!
 

Before & After - A Look into Self Love and the Power of Confidence | Phoenix Boudoir Photographer

Before & After - A Look into Self Love and the Power of Confidence | Phoenix Boudoir Photographer

A woman is most beautiful when she feels sexy. When she is confident. When everything she has endured, witnessed, and dreamed about becomes less of an abstract thought and more of an awakening of the soul. When she feeds her wild and pursues the things that liberate her- a courageous act that is a breeding ground for self love.

All images copyright The Bella Jade Collection

Photography by: Christina Storto // The Bella Jade Collection
Location: The Bella Jade Collection Portrait Studio For Women, Phoenix, AZ
Pictured: Brenda Figueroa
Hair by: Hair By Bentley
Make-up/Assist: Lori Udrija

When Brenda came to me requesting a shoot, she shared her story and I knew she was just the type of woman Id love to have in the studio. She is a wanderer, a lover of nature and exploration,  and possesses the kind of beauty that is undeniably authentic. While I don't know her personally it is clear that she believes that women are not something to be looked at or exploited but something to be admired. We have been given this incredible gift to nurture, to captivate, to demonstrate kindness each and everyday. And, that can be so incredibly powerful.

As a boudoir photographer I believe this is about empowering women and giving you the permission to be fabulous, to embrace your identity, and reveal a side of yourself that is sexy, powerful, and glamorous - which can only be revealed if you let it -

If you seek out your brave, your bad assery, and your innate authentic self.

Need not be a perfect barbie doll, or women in need of a make-over. Different photographer - different day. I am here to photograph you in the best light. I am here to take everything you are and capture your unique beauty in a way that is memorable, captivating, and beautifully crafted. But, above all, I am here to make you

feel loved, feel confident, and feel like you can be yourself. 

““Often misconstrued, authenticity is not about being an open book revealing every detail of yourself without rhyme or reason. It is simply the act of openly and courageously seeing what needs to be seen, saying what needs to be said, doing what needs to be done, and becoming that which you are intent on being.”

- Scott Edmund Miller”

I want you to see that no matter what stage you are in your life, you are worthy of recognition.

You have a unique presence.

You smile differently.

You laugh at different moments,

and your personality shines for different reasons.

Not everyone will love you, and that's OK. But, bet your bum, your biggest fan should always be yourself. Everything else worth doing comes after.

 Even so, here we are staring at ourselves in the mirror thinking "Should I do this? Am I enough? Can I look like that?". Everyone has done it. You are not alone. But, trust me when I say you are always enough. Find that something that gets you motivated, that makes you feel worthy,

and start living a life you deserve.

If you are considering your very own boudoir photo-shoot, and want to learn more about the boudoir experience enter the boudoir site or get in touch. I'd love to hear from you!