Julia Henry is a Model in Regina, SK . Please read the exclusive interview with here and beautiful images from her Boudoir shoot with photographer Tara Madison.

01) What does boudoir photography mean to you?

The word “Photography” literally means “drawing with light”, which derives from the Greek photo, meaning light and graph, meaning to draw. I like bringing these images and my ideas to life. Being creative in my own way and showing the world what I want to create is rewarding to me.

Boudoir photography reminds me that I am a strong, confident woman. It allows me to embrace who I am, and to feel good in my own skin. It’s a way of overcoming my fears, and sometimes it’s just a treat I give myself.

02) Why did you choose to make a boudoir photoshoot?

I chose a boudoir shoot because I love the style. I think it represents the fact that women can be feminine and strong at the same time. And we’ve created some amazing shots. I like how empowering boudoir is and how it makes me. You get to express yourself the way you want. It helps make you feel comfortable with your own body and allows you to present a sexy version of yourself for a day. I just love the whole experience. It gives you a way to learn to love yourself in a way that you never thought you could.

03) What kind of creative process is there for you, behind boudoir photography?

There are so many different types of boudoir. I either work with the photographer's inspiration or I send them ideas of my own. Then we come up with something beautiful.

04) How did you communicate with the photographer to make yourself comfortable for an intimate shoot like boudoir?

I always have a conversation with a photographer before I shoot – sometimes several conversations. It helps to get an idea of their style and vision before we meet. I also get all the information I need to feel safe to shoot - whether it’s a phone call, text or to see the facility. Sometimes, I bring friends and partners with me.

As a model I only do what I’m comfortable with. I don’t go over boundaries of mine because that could ruin a shoot. Never do something or shoot with someone you don’t want or are uncomfortable with. It’s not worth it.

05) How do you educate yourself to be a better model?

I follow models I like. I get involved in magazine brands. I read articles, books and talk to friends who have been models for a long time and have more experience. I’m always educating myself and trying to keep up with trends - whether it’s watching a YouTube video or a TikTok. There is a lot of useful information out there.

06) Did you research before the shoot for inspiration such as poses, styles etc? If you did so, where and what did you look for mostly?

For me, I always browse online before a shoot. I also purchased a boudoir program and got a pose guide that shows you several ways to pose your body correctly. Mostly, I follow a certain photographer who puts out videos and pictures. I only started modeling this year and I find things like that very helpful. I look at modeling videos - ways to walk and pose your body, and facial expressions to use. I get inspiration from online images of models, poses and outfits that I would like the photographer to do at the shoot.

07) What is the most difficult part of being a boudoir model for you?

Honestly, the stigma behind it. People often have the wrong idea of what it means. It takes a lot of courage to do an intimate shoot in lingerie. You need to learn to be confident in who you are, and how you look, and be comfortable in front of a camera.

08) What is the most rewarding part of being a boudoir model for you?

Being able to create such beautiful photos and images like these is something I only dreamed about. To have something amazing to add to my portfolio that I know I created with a talented photographer gives me a great sense of accomplishment.

09) Just for fun, if you could shoot in any location, what would it be?

If I could shoot in any area, I would it to be in Hawaii. It’s so beautiful there, with the tropical landscape, beaches, volcanos. I’m sure the photos would be incredible.

10) How did you feel before your photo session?

Honestly, I am always a little nervous before a shoot – but excited too. And a good photographer is one that makes you feel at ease immediately. Once I am there, I am okay. It’s actually just physically getting to the shoot location that causes the most stress!

11) How did you feel after?

I can usually tell immediately how the shoot is going. Of course, some shoots are much better than others, but I can honestly say, I enjoy every moment and totally embrace the experience. After all, every experience in life is a learning experience!

12) Was there anything the photographer could have done to make you feel more comfortable?

This particular photographer did a lovely job. It was honestly one of the best shoots I have ever had. We talked quite a bit before we started to shoot, and she put me at ease immediately – she offered me a drink, and we discussed what outfits and colours etc I wanted to shoot in. We also decided where to shoot in her studio. She also did what I love the best - she had an idea and we went with it. She helped pose me, asked permission before she re-adjusted me, helped with facial expressions. She really coached me during the session which I totally appreciated - it could be something as simple as adjusting a hand or a slight movement in the leg, or a slight point in the toe, that made all the difference to the image.

13) What was your favorite part of the session?

Meeting a wonderful photographer and working with someone I was extremely comfortable with. It was a very positive experience. I felt she truly wanted to help me achieve my goals and to have a successful shoot.

14) Was your experience as expected? If not, how so?

The experience exceeded my expectations - above and beyond. It was honestly one of my favorite shoots of all time – professional, intimate and caring.

15) Do you have any advice for other individuals considering a boudoir shoot?

Do your research. Join model groups - they post their experiences with photographers - who is good to work with and who is not so good. Look at photographers’ profiles and make sure they are active – get references to make sure they are legitimate. Just be cautious and careful - trust

your gut and don’t do something you’re uncomfortable with. Other than that - just be yourself and have fun!

You were born to be real - flaws and all - not to be perfect