A NOTE FROM JACLYN
Like many young girls growing up, I didn’t feel comfortable with myself. I was way too critical about myself and thought that I was “fat.” My weight fluctuated, stretch marks emerged at a young age, the prevailing message that we were told was that something needed to change. They said you are too much or too little. However, amidst all this I saw immense beauty in the women surrounding me, leaving me astounded by their inability to see the beauty in themselves.
During my youthful days, my photographic interests gravitated towards capturing nature's beauty. Yet, I yearned to discover the same allure within myself. With a tripod and a self-timer on my camera, I turned the camera on myself. When I looked at the photos, I saw that in one shot, I turned out exactly how I wanted, and in the next, I reflected what I had actively sought to avoid. The initial photograph captured a happiness, radiating from my smile, while in the second, my attention was drawn to my posture, and the way I had contorted my body.
I always photographed nature when I was young and I wanted to see beauty in myself so I set up a timer and photographed myself. When I looked at the photos, I saw that in one shot, I turned out exactly how I wanted, and in the next, I looked exactly how I didn’t want to. In the first photo, I looked happy so I focused on my smile and in the second, I focused on how I turned my body in a “weird way.”
Somehow, that’s all it took for it to make sense. Photography, mindset and life are all about what you focus on. Photography helped me see that if I focus on the negatives, I will hate the overall photo, but if I focus on the positives, the not-so-positives also become alright.
The
BOUDOIR EXPERIENCE
IT’S ABOUT ACCEPTANCE.
IT’S ABOUT CONFIDENCE.
IT’S ABOUT THE FREEDOM TO BE UNAPOLOGETICALLY YOU.
Boudoir photography is for the woman working on herself every day who realizes she deserves to commemorate all that hard work. It's for the confident woman who wants to celebrate life and celebrate herself. True confidence is not defined by your job title or your looks, but how you feel. It is all about your mindset.
Boudoir is about celebrating what makes you feel your best and it is different for everybody. My style of boudoir photography is suggestive. The portraits I create show the allure and sensuality of a moment without being too revealing. As confident women, we don't do things for other peoples attention; We don't have to. We know our value and we know that we are absolutely worth a beautiful photo shoot.
Let's Chat
If you’re ready to get adventurous with me, let your hair down, get silly, share your heart with me and capture all the perfectly imperfect moments then I’m your girl! Give me all the deets! I can’t wait to hear what you envision for your boudoir experience.
LOVING
YOURSELF
STARTS HERE
STEP INTO YOUR POWER.
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How many photographers will be there?I will be there and if you choose to have a second photographer to be hired.
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What is a retainer and what is the amount required?When you book, sign the agreement and pay the retainer, we agree to provide you the goods and services you have chosen and reserve your date. Our retainer amount is then 50% of your collection. Note: It's easy to make changes to your collection after booking, so there is no pressure to know everything you might want later when choosing your wedding commission now.
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How many photographs can we expect?As a general rule, you can expect to receive 75 to 100 carefully selected and edited photos for every hour of coverage. This is not a strict limit on the number of photos we will take, but rather an estimate of the final number of deliverable photos you will receive after the wedding.
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Have you captured a wedding like ours?Of course not! Because never has there been a wedding exactly like yours! As a wedding photographer I am familiar with different faiths, cultures, and traditions and if anything we’re not sure of, we research and find out. From beaches to gardens, churches to ballrooms, private homes to castles, this day is yours and we’re here to document your day and know your vision.
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Do you hold or pencil in dates?Our policy of not allowing dates to be tentatively reserved, or "penciled in," is not arbitrary. We have found that while holding dates may seem like a good idea, it can ultimately lead to frustration. To avoid disappointment and misunderstandings, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to book us and helps to prevent any conflict or disappointment for other brides who may be planning their dream wedding. So after checking our availability the next step is to set up a consolation or skip directly to booking us. Why some weekends become the “hot” dates, every year is difficult to predict. There are, however, a few generalities to know. Three-day holiday weekends are popular. Setting your date is one of the first things to check off your list. Finding the delicate balance between your personal, family, and professional life is the start of your journey as two become one. Once you do, contact us.
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Do you have backup equipment?Of course, we do. No matter what happens we will keep on moving along and capturing the day. On your wedding day, we carry redundancy across the full spectrum, from our camera cases to lighting and all foreseeable contingencies.
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What’s your style?Timeless, documentary, bold, creative, raw, and authentic. While artfully documenting your life’s adventures.
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How many weddings have you photographed?Since 2015 I’ve captured 300+ weddings
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How many weddings do you capture a year?Commissions are limited to roughly 25-30 per year
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When should we book?If you were surprised by how early you need to book your wedding venue, you may also be surprised by how far in advance our services are typically booked. We understand that you have many important decisions to make when planning your wedding, and we want to help make this process as easy and stress-free as possible. We don't use pressure tactics or special offers to encourage you to book with us, and we only want you to choose us if you feel comfortable and confident that we are the right fit for you. If you decide that you would like us to be your wedding photographers, we will be happy to take one more thing off your to-do list and capture beautiful, timeless images of your special day.
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How long have you been in business?Since 2015
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Are you available?Every invitation starts with a date. First, contact us by email or phone. If we are not available, we are happy to assist you any way we can by providing referrals. We’ve learned that kindness never goes out of style. When we have availability, your next step will be to make an appointment to meet with us, or you can skip directly to booking.
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Can we make changes after booking?You can add more to your collection when booking, before, or even after your wedding.
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What is your Client Portal?A personalized portal where you can access our agreement, invoices, due dates, guides, and links.
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What are the payment terms?50% is due at the signing of the agreement, which reserves the date. The remaining balance due 30 days before the event. Any additional coverage added before the wedding day is due on the day of the event. We will bill overtime requests on your wedding day after you return from your honeymoon.
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Do you eat on the wedding day?Yes, of course, we need to fuel ourselves as we will be working 8 to 14 hour days with few breaks and constant motion. Smart couples make sure we eat when they do. Talk with your caterer, hotel staff or coordinator ahead of time and inform them of your desire to feed your photo and video team at the same time you eat. That way, we are all on your schedule and available if you happen to walk around to greet your guests or want to sneak off for a few minutes to grab a sunset or night shot.
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Can we provide a shot list or inspiration board?Yes, I want to know what you have envisioned and to know which details and people are important to you. We request for a list of group photo combinations that you desire to have captured. The one friend you haven’t seen in years, your cousins, your extended family, just your best friends, your bridal party, it is your choice as to whom gets to join in your professional photographs. When you supply us with a shot list this allows us know what is important to you. This list helps us out a lot more than you think. That group photo list allows us to control the flow, provide a boundary to avoid others trying to take control, and to know how much time is needed to accomplish your list. Your photo list is not limited to people. Are there special moments that you would like to happen, like a letter or gift exchange, first look with your bridesmaids, parent, or partner, reading your personal vows together, if you are doing a choreographed dance? Does your wedding photographer need to be made aware of special personal details to which they may not otherwise pay special attention. Including any family heirlooms in your ceremony? Are you wearing any special jewelry? Highlighting something borrowed or blue? Inspiration is just that, inspiration. You may send photos over to show what you have envisioned. We never know what conditions we will receive on your wedding day and conditions may not be right or favorable to duplicate everything you fancy online. We also want to leave time we can dedicate to creating new and original concepts just for you. Someday another bride may be incorporating your signature pieces in her own inspiration boards.
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Our family friend wants to take pictures. Can they?Yes, guests are welcome to take photos during your wedding. However, if any guests are being disrespectful or disrupting the proceedings, we ask for your help in handling the situation diplomatically. Most guests simply want to capture a few quick memories for themselves and will respect the fact that you have hired professional photographers to document your special day. If you notice any issues, please let us know so we can work together to ensure that the wedding runs smoothly and that all guests are able to enjoy the celebration.
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Do we work with assistants?Not typically, but we know when a particular location or event might require one. In those cases, we will make the arrangements we think are best for the situation, so we will be sure to deliver our best work for you.
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If somethings are running behind, can we add more time?Yes you can always add on more time. We are aware that delays can occur on wedding days and we are making adjustments to the timeline when and where possible if needed. Nothing that you have to worry about. We have solutions and providing you options so we can keep things on track and rolling along. Your focus on your wedding day is to enjoy your day.
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I’m NervousIt's completely normal to feel nervous when you're not sure what to expect. However, I'm here to help guide you through the process from start to finish. During the actual photoshoot, you might feel nervous at first, but don't worry - I'll give you so much direction that you won't have time to be nervous. I'll be with you every step of the way.
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Why should I have a boudoir session?Boudoir photography is a way for one to embrace and celebrate their own sensuality and express their authentic self. It can be a liberating and empowering experience.
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Will you help me with Posing?Of course! That is all of my job. I will be guiding you through all poses so you have no worries and can enjoy yourself.
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I don’t want my photos onlineNo worries; if you have no desire for your images to be shared then they won’t. Images that are shared online I have received approval to share.
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You can Photoshop me right?Yes and no. I will retouch your images that are delivered. These retouches are removing breakouts, blemishes, bruises, and scars. If you want to keep any of your scars kept in no worries as we know these are life experiences too. What I will not do in photoshop is change what you look like. Your images are reflecting your beauty just as you are.
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What are some occasions perfect for a Boudoir SessionAnniversaries Major Birthday Milestones (25th, the Dirty 30, the Fabulous 40, the Sexy 50th)… and any birthday in between Significant Others Birthday Valentine’s Day For You Because the Day Ends in "Y"
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I want to lose 10-20 pounds firstPeople have said that the camera adds 10 pounds. Wrong… it’s the photographer. Lighting, angles, posing, and utilizing your accessories such as clothes and jewelry are the key elements. Lighting, posing, and choosing the correct angles are all of my responsibility. Accessories and attire for you are one of the many things we talk and plan ahead of our photography session.
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I’m not sexyYes you are! I think so many people believe that they have the show up .
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How many photos do you take?Every photoshoot is unique and customized, so it's difficult to give a specific answer. However, I always aim to capture at least 50 high-quality images for you to select from at the end of your session.
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What should I bring to my shoot?I recommend bringing along two to three outfits, jewelry, and any other accents such as a garter belt.
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Is there a minimum age for boudoir photography?You will need to be 18 years old. So if I ask you for your ID to confirm your age take it as a compliment. You must be at least 18 years old and of legal age in your country of residence to book. If you happen to appear young for your age, please do not be offended if I request to see photo identification as proof of your age.
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So, what exactly is boudoir photography?Boudoir photography is the art of celebrating yourself. Captured as timeless, stunning art that you are. You are honoring your lived experience, and documenting your expression of yourself. As a photographer, it is my privilege to be able to make you feel strong, sexy, and confidence through my photos. Everyone has their own reason as to why they choose a boudoir session such as to commemorate a special occasion, document a personal journey, celebrate a personal accomplishment, or simply showcase your amazing self, I am here to create stunning work to make you feel proud and empowered.
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Do I have to be naked?Nope; it is your choice as to how much or how little or wear.
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How far in advance should I book?It really depends on what you need the photos for. Is this for an anniversary, a birthday, a wedding? If you are looking for our handcrafted albums as a gift to someone we ask that you come in 6 weeks before the date. Our other handcrafted items take up to 4 weeks to create.
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Where are you based?North Wales, PA
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Do you sell gift vouchers?Yes we do! Reach out and ask me about a gift voucher.
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Where will my boudoir shoot take place?In my studio in North Wales, PA, in an approved airBnb, or outdoors.
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How do I book my boudoir shoot?Reach out to me! You can set up a consultation or just request to book right away.
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Can I do my own hair and makeup?Of course, if you’re comfortable doing your own hair and makeup to a professional standard, please mention this at time of booking and I can remove this from your package.
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Should I get a spray tan?It is recommended to avoid spray tanning as it can look streaky, patchy, orange/green on camera.
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Should I get my hair and make-up done?There is nothing better than a full on pamper session, which is why all of my in-person boudoir sessions include professional hair and makeup as standard.
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Can I bring a wig, hairpiece or extensions?If you are planning to use a wig, hair extensions, or other hair pieces for your photoshoot, please let me know when you make your booking so that we can arrange for one of our stylists to accommodate your needs. Keep in mind that the installation and styling of additional hair may require additional time with the stylist, which could result in an additional fee. We will discuss this with you before you confirm your booking.
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What’s your policy on body hair?Your body, your choice.
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Can you photoshop out my scars?I will only retouch scars if requested. If they are small and easy to remove then this would fall under my signature retouching. Extensive scar removal may incur an additional retouching fee, which will be discussed and agreed with you in advance.
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What’s your policy on body re-shaping?Our bodies are beautiful and I feel are best honored in that way. Pulling out an elastic indentation from lingerie is no issue – also I may add a little more volume to your hair – but anything more than that would make me uncomfortable.
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Do I get to choose the images I want?You get to choose your favorite images to go along in your chosen collection. Typically you will be reviewing about 50 images.
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What is not included in your signature retouching?My non-exhaustive list currently includes; fake tan and tan lines, holes in fishnet tights, ill-fitting lingerie, grown out nail extensions, hair roots, body hair, the soles of shoes, excessive bruising, tattoo removal
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What happens if I want more images?You may always upgrade your package to include additional images.
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How much retouching will you do?Retouching includes, blemishes, breakouts, and bruises.
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I’m worried I should lose weight before the shoot…There is no need to change who you are to have a boudoir session. You are not defined by a number nor by expectations from others. You are perfect as you are in this moment. Life is too short to wait for perfection.
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I feel really self-conscious about my scars…I always like to think of scars as stories captured on the body. Documenting our journey in life similarly as to how we can collect crow’s feet, stretch marks, and laugh lines throughout life. We never knew what will leave a physical impression on us but we continuously love ourselves through time. Learning to love ourselves in the best way for us is a practice. It is your choice as to what the focus is and how much we desire to show.
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I’m super nervous! Is that normal?That is completely normal but no worries as this is where my job comes in. You know that excitement that kicks in when you’re getting your hair and makeup ready before your go out on the town with some great people? That’s energy is what we got while our professional hair and makeup stylist is pampering you. Outfit and accessories have already been chosen ahead of time and I will be guiding you throughout the whole process.
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Can I use the images for news/magazine articles?Yes! Please make sure the publication includes a credit line for Jaclyn Kushner.
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Can I sell the images?No. Copyright remains with Jaclyn Kushner. Please do not sell prints, create calendars or sell usage rights to any third parties.
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Can I put the images on my website & socials?Yes of course! No personal edits are permitted such as utilizing filters. Please make sure to include a credit line – you can find me on Facebook & Instagram. For websites, please include a URL link to https://www.jkushnerphotography.com.
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Who will see my photos?You have complete control over whom sees your photos. Due to the personal nature of boudoir photography, I will not sell, license, or otherwise distribute your images or personal information to any third party without your permission.
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Can I use the images for event posters?Yes, please make sure all media usage by the event include a credit line for Jaclyn Kushner
One: Before the Session
First we start off with a Consultation where we talk about Personalizing your boudoir session – hair style, makeup vibe, outfit ideas, and more.
The Consultation can be over the phone or video.
This is when we typically select your date of your session!
Two: Pampering
The morning begins with some pampering by our professional hair & makeup artist in our studio (located in North Wales, PA).
All the while we’re listening to music, chatting about any and everything, laughing & having an amazing time!
Three: The Photoshoot
Once your pampering session of hair & makeup have been completed it'll be time for your photoshoot! The photoshoot portion of the day is approximately 90 minutes & 3 outfits.
During the session I will demonstrate poses & help you get into each one.
Four: Viewing Your Photos
Once the photoshoot portion is wrapped up, you can take a 90 minute lunch break while I sort & lightly edit your images.
Then we meet back up at the studio to see your photos the SAME DAY! You will look through them, pick out favorites & decide which ones go in your products!
Five: Getting Your Products
The final images that are going in your products will be fully retouched before the order is placed (blemish/bruise removal & skin smoothing.)
It typically takes around 4 weeks to get your custom products back, however I recommend scheduling your session at least 5 weeks before you need them to give us some wiggle room.
WHAT TO EXPECT
EXTRAS
These are the most common reasons people hold themselves back from embracing their sensual side. And you can find some empowering perspectives to help you take the leap.
Trust me; you won't want to miss this one!
What you really want to know about boudoir photography.
It is so empowering to see my metal prints hung up on the wall every day! When I wake up in the morning and see those photos, it makes me feel almost invincible; like no matter what the day throws at me, I can handle it because I'm a sexy and confidently empowered!
Kristen