Jean is the founder and owner three photography businesses: Pearlescent Portraits, Adored Boudoir Photography, and Capow! Columbus. She discovered her passion for photography back in High School and decided to learn more about it at Jersey City State College.
In 2014, Pearlescent Photo was born, originally focusing on boudoir and women’s photography, but it soon expanded to cover all kinds of photography
Prepare to be inspired as we take a deep dive into her journey as a renowned boudoir photographer. This interview is sure to offer valuable insights and a glimpse into the magic of boudoir style photography.
Q.1 Can you tell us more about your journey as a boudoir photographer and how you discovered your passion for this particular genre?
Ans. I love this question, so thank you for asking! I started photography in middle school and got my first professional camera (when there was still film in cameras) when I was in high school. Then, I went to college for photography but started a family and fell into a job in the legal field.
It wasn’t until I met my husband, Patrick, and did a boudoir photo shoot to create a calendar for him for our first Christmas together that I knew I had found my calling.
I had the camera knowledge, now I just needed to learn the posing, editing, and skills to make women of all shapes and sizes look and feel amazing in a few hours with me.
2. What inspired you to start Adored Boudoir Photography and focus on boudoir style photography?
Ans. Like almost every other woman on the planet I wasn’t really comfortable in my own skin. I didn’t feel pretty enough, thin enough, sexy enough or like anything the media said I should be.
Adored is so much more than just beautiful portraits. I set out to create an experience that leaves women feeling empowered, gorgeous, pampered and see herself in a entirely new light.
Looking for boudoir photography outfit ideas? Check out this helpful blog post.
3. In addition to boudoir style photography, your other brand, Pearlescent Portraits has expanded to include other genres. How do you manage to excel in multiple photography genres while maintaining your unique style?
Ans. Boudoir Photography may be my primary focus and the genre that inspires me but it also creates a close connection with each lady I photograph.
My boudoir clients love the way they look, treasure their portraits and the way we make them feel during their portrait experience, so they often asked us to photograph their children for Senior Portraits, family for generation portraits, headshots for work, or pregnancy portraits.
The principles really aren’t any different. Everyone wants to look amazing in their photographs and have fun doing it.
Add new meaning and depth to your boudoir images with these boudoir text overlays.
4. Can you share a memorable experience or success story that stands out from your career as a boudoir photographer?
Ans. I have so many beautiful and heartwarming stories I can share about my special and unique clients over the past 11 years. Every client has a journey that has brought them into my studio.
It’s always joyous to photograph brides-to-be as they celebrate a big moment in their life but I have also photographed a beautiful, strong woman from the Mennonite community who escaped and fulfilled a dream to put on lingerie and feel sexy.
I have photographed many lovely women after great weight losses with gastric bypass surgery. We celebrated their struggles, growth, new body, new life and inner beauty.
5. What challenges have you faced in the boudoir photography industry, and how have you overcome them?
Ans. My biggest struggle has been fighting the stigma of boudoir being “porn” or “dirty”. I believe my work and portfolio dispels that image. A personal in-person consultation to discuss the process and options helps explain the creative process.
Curious about which camera to choose for your boudoir photography sessions? Check out this insightful post.
6. How do you stay inspired and continue to innovate in your work as a boudoir photographer?
Ans. My clients are my innovation! Each client is so different, so individual and has a particular story, vision, strengths and weaknesses.
I start every process with a design consultation to really get to know the client, their reason for a captivating boudoir session, their hobbies and interests, plan wardrobe, location, props, vibe, and what they hope to accomplish.
No two photo sessions are the same, because no two women are the same.
7. What advice would you give to someone who is considering a boudoir photo shoot but may be hesitant or unsure?
Ans. Go for it! Do your research and find a photographer that not only has a style you love but also a personality you mesh with well.
Boudoir is an intimate experience and you want to feel comfortable and have fun. With the right photographer, you will end up being best friends by the end of your photo session.
Learn to create sensual boudoir lingerie photos with 2 models in this ultimate course.
8. Can you share any tips or insights for aspiring boudoir photographers looking to start their own business in this niche?
Ans. Don’t sell yourself short. There is so much that goes into being a professional photographer and running a legitimate business.
Pay your taxes, pay yourself a salary, and create a legal business structure. Price yourself to be profitable, or you won’t last.
9. How do you handle client concerns or reservations regarding privacy and confidentiality in boudoir photography?
Ans. I love when clients sign a model release and allow me to share their beautiful portraits but no one can relax and enjoy their photo session if they are self conscious or not relaxed and having fun so I never share portraits if clients do not explicitly give permission for their images to be shared.
10. What are some common misconceptions or stereotypes about boudoir photography that you would like to dispel?
Ans. Some people don’t understand that boudoir is FOR woman, ABOUT woman and CELEBRATES women. Boudoir is about empowerment, self love, and pampering.
Sexy is different for everyone and boudoir customizes the experience. Boudoir is not porn.
Looking for boudoir photography inspiration? Check out this curated list of best boudoir photographers to follow.
11. What do you like to do other than photography?
Ans. When you own your own business it takes over most of your life. I love to travel to find new places to photograph my clients. Walking and running give me time to clear my head and come up with new ideas. Yoga is also a favorite.
12. What are your plans for the next 6 months?
Ans. I am planning several international trips for my clients to create not only travel memories but also boudoir, couples and landmark location portraits with “Travel with a Photographer”.
Learn freestyle boudoir photography with expert Ed Verosky in this comprehensive course.
13. Looking ahead, what are your goals and aspirations for Adored Boudoir and Pearlescent Portraits and your career as a boudoir photographer?
Ans. I am excited to spread joy and empowerment to women! We moved into a new location six months ago and are expanding to add additional photographers and cosmetologists.
Do check out some of our boudoir photographer interviews:
- Deborah Welsh: Her Take On Boudoir Photography & Body Positivity In Women Of Every Age
- Crystal Thompson: Unveiling The Journey Of A Top Boudoir Photographer
- Jes Hayes Interviewed: Embraces And Creates Art
Final Thoughts
As we come to the end of this captivating interview with Jean Tully, we hope you’ve gained valuable knowledge and a newfound appreciation for the art of boudoir style photography. Jean’s passion for her craft shines through in every word.
We thank Jean for sharing her wisdom with us and hope this interview has inspired you to embark on your own photographic journey filled with creativity, empowerment, and heartfelt moments.
Take your skills to the next level with these amazing boudoir photography resources
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