Meet Karen D Photography | Boudoir & Empowerment Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Karen D Photography and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Karen D Photography, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
That boudoir photography is so much more than sexy photos taken as a gift for a partner. Of course, it can be. But most of the women I photograph are either doing it for themselves because they want a confidence boost, or they start off with other intentions and don’t realize what a positive impact boudoir photography will have on their sense of self, sense of self-worth, and all the benefits that come with having a kinder mindset about oneself. Most women I photograph leave my studio beginning to shed societal expectations and unrealistic standards of beauty. Seeing photographs of themselves from the perspective of others, without their own self-deprecating thoughts, leads to a mindset shift. Boudoir photography is a form of therapy for many, which can really alter how they perceive themselves and their worth, as well as what they believe they deserve in this world. Of course boudoir photography is part of a process of reclaiming our confidence, and many women tell me whenever they’re feeling down about themselves, all they have to do is bring out their boudoir album and get that instant confidence boost. So while boudoir photography may sometimes start out as sexy photos taken as a gift for a partner, the real gift is what the experience brings to each woman.

What should our readers know about your business?
I specialize in boudoir photography intended to empower women by encouraging self-love and acceptance. Many things set my studio apart from others–For one, I find it extremely important to connect with the women I photograph. I want to get to know you, I want to be able to understand what brought you to this moment-in-time. Not only because I find having a connection with you brings out your genuine expressions, but because I want to capture what makes you you. Are you a breast cancer survivor wanting to reclaim your femininity? Are you newly divorced and wanting to commemorate your freedom? Are you a first-time mama wanting to honor your body and this special milestone? Are you celebrating your 90th birthday and finally feel comfortable in your own skin? You are not just another client to me. Knowing your story helps me know how to photograph you and your accomplishments. Getting to know you personally also allows me to discover your strengths and your insecurities, so we can navigate through those together.

Another thing that sets my studio apart from others is the vast Client Wardrobe I offer as part of the boudoir photography experience. I include a large collection of dresses, robes, tops, lingerie, veils, jewelry and body jewelry to use during our session in a variety of sizes.

Finally, a unique aspect to the experience I offer is the same-day reveal. The women I photograph leave my studio having seen their photographs the same day as their session, so they get an immediate confidence boost from knowing they rocked their session and look amazing. They get a sneak peek at their gorgeous selves in photographs before receiving their album in-hand.

I encourage any women looking for a safe-space that empowers and celebrates our individual beauty to join my Karen D Photography Empowerment VIP Lounge Facebook group, found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karendphotography

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My closest people know I love Malibu Wines & Beer Garden in West Hills. I adore the ambiance and outdoor setting, and they make it really pleasant by allowing guests to bring in food, so you can plan a picnic while sipping on a great variety of beer and wine. It’s a total hidden gem in the valley.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate my success to my mother, Gitta, who taught me the value of being an independent, resilient and curious woman, and taught me the best advice–If you don’t ask, the answer is ‘no’.

Website: https://www.kdportrait.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kdpportraits/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karendphotography

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/karen-d-photography-los-angeles-3