I am passionate about creating a safe and empowering space for all my clients, where we can capture not just killer images but also stories, emotions, and the essence of who you truly are as a woman.

As women, we are fed a lot of bull shit about what we should look like and how we should act. What if a simple photoshoot could transform how you see yourself and challenge your self perception?  

“I’ve always believed that a picture is so much more than taking an image, a good photograph will capture the essence and emotion deep within. I wanted to document this chapter in my life and that is exactly what Valentina Pardi MacGregor at Valentina Portraiture was able to do for me. She was able to capture the sadness, heartache, and grief that I have been experiencing for almost two years as she also captured the happiness and hope that I have been blessed to have during this second chance at life.

I was 42 years old when I did my first boudoir shoot. Not my youngest, most fit self.  That’s not why I did it, you can read about that here but the facts are that I was nervous as hell.

I did the homework the photographer gave me, followed her instructions for prepping, and did a little shopping, but I missed a few things.  Having experienced it, and seeing it all the time in my studio, I now understand what we can do to best prepare for that Boudoir shoot and ease the nerves (notice ease, not remove).  My clients get detailed homework, including an inspiration board, links to my favorite products, and no, nos.  So, here are my recommendations:

Chichas, I get it, I did MY first boudoir session in 2021, when I was strictly shooting dignified portraits of middle-aged women (like me) and was curious and drawn to the genre. I had been working out, turned a corner in my business and wanted to shoot with a specific photographer I respected. You can read about it here. Basically, I said f*uck it and paid more than I ever thought I would for what I thought, was just a shoot and an album. Mamma mia, was I ever wrong, the experience was truly life-changing, and once I realized every woman should have.

Often before a shoot, clients are surprised to hear that I always offer professional hair and makeup with my photoshoot experiences. Sometimes, women are resistant because they are picky or because they like a very natural look. And, hey, I get it. I’m the same but, being honest, every woman comes in a little nervous, a little apprehensive and unsure, then she sits in the hair and makeup chair, and all her troubles melt away.

Have you ever looked at a piece of art and thought to yourself, "I wish I could see myself like that?" Well, that’s the point of boudoir photography. It is a powerful way to see ourselves as art, and to celebrate our bodies and all of their unique qualities.

Society's narrow beauty standards often leave us feeling like we're not thin enough, not young enough, or not "perfect" enough. But we can change that narrative.

Some of my favorite shots include items that super non-traditional for boudoir. Think ripped jeans and a white tank (with no bra), a chunky knit sweater with undies, legs exposed, or even a bathing suit cover up!

Indoor or outdoor headshots. Which type of photoshoot is better for you? It depends on the look you want and what you are trying to promote. This is one of the reasons I do a through consultation before your session and ask you questions about your industry, job, competitors and inspirations photos.

my maternity clients get EXTRA special treatment at my studio in the form of very detailed emails, to prepare them, put them at ease and ensure they know exactly what to expect. Given that some clients have reservations about their ever changing-body, I want to ensure every woman feels confident by preparing them, connecting, and being on the same page.

Boudoir and beauty combined in one shoot, because every woman should feel beautiful and sexy.

We came all the way to Scotland to get Covid  on the 5th day and spend the next 10 days isolated from the very extended family we came to spend the holidays with. It was bitter sweet; we were lucky to be together and fine,  but I am ready for this to end and life to return to normal. 

As a portrait photographer in Austin, TX, I never really thought I would be attracted to boudoir photography. I always thought of myself as a lover of people and their stories and connection with the camera. The idea of boudoir seemed tacky and demeaning to me.

When you are in your 40s and a woman, you have often neglected yourself for at least a decade. Careers, kids, and/ spouses take precedence and it’s easy to fall last in line. I did. After homeschooling for 10 years, I was in awe of women that seemed to manage kids, careers, and self-care. Their grass definitely seemed greener than mine. I realized that if I was jealous it was because there was something they had that I didn't.

As I continue to work on my craft and hone in on my style, it’s important to me that I align myself with educators and photographers that have similar values and inspirations as I do. This also made me realize that, in my many years of shooting, I had never myself paid for a photoshoot. I had never myself experienced what my clients had. Self portraits, sure but I had not felt the insecurities my clients feel with someone else behind the lens.

This gorgeous lady came to me with a desire to celebrate being 40 with a sexy shoot for herself. Don’t get me wrong, she has an adoring husband and kids, but this was for her. If you know her, you know that she is the real deal. The full package… gorgeous, sweet and kind, and super smart.

What is a dream shoot you ask?

Well, it’s when you dream of being photographed somewhere extraordinary with hair, makeup, and wardrobe, all done for you. The photographer (me) takes care of everything and the magic happens with us together on the location of your dreams.

Paris. Milan. London. Buenos Aires. San Miguel de Allende. Basically, anywhere is possible. I tend to book a few shoots around the same time as I’m planning a visit to offset travel costs and keep it fresh! The idea is you get to fulfill a dream, feel fabulous and get the best images for you and your family to enjoy!