FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
GOT A QUESTION? LET US ASSURE YOU.
I’M NOT A MODEL AND I DON’T LOOK LIKE ONE. BUT YOUR CLIENTS DO?
Most models don't look like models. Have you ever seen a “before” picture of many top models? Often times, they're not the same mythical creatures you see in magazines. Hair, makeup and Photoshop are typically involved in creating that polished, editorial look. You have the option to choose to do the same, and you too can look like a model. Or, go with a more natural look. And if you’ve never modeled — Great. Because actually, 99.9% of Cate’s clients aren’t models either. A “model” is someone who is paid to be photographed for a living.It’s their JOB to know what to do. Instead, you are investing in one of the top boudoir photographers in the country to pose and guide you through your experience. Most of Cate’s clients are NOT models, although after their sessions they do sure do look and feel that way. A few have even gone on to do professional modeling with their new confidence.
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CAN I BOOK THIS SESSION AFTER I LOSE THOSE LAST 10 POUNDS?
No, you don't. Because you probably won't. While this session is a great “deadline’ to reach pinnacle shape, the large majority of women do not reach it. WHY? Because a photo shoot is NOT a motivating factor to change your lifestyle and habits. A sincere desire within to reach certain goals are the only thing that can TRULY motivate you. Believe it or not, 10 pounds is NOT all that visible in a photo shoot. On video? Yes, this is true. But in a photo session we can deal with variables of light, posing, wardrobe and professional retouching that help you feel great about your authentic self. Celebrate who you are RIGHT NOW. You can do a session now, then again and again. It’s actually great fun to see that progress. That is the beauty of milestones… You can celebrate your life every time you decide to. We have many REPEAT clients.
What about privacy? will my photos wind up on the internet?
No. Client privacy is the number one priority for any reputable boudoir photographer. To Cate, your intimacy is a highly protected entity that we go to great lengths to secure, and share only with your documented legal consent. We do appreciate and reward those clients who allow us to showcase their images and inspire others. However, we honor and respect all clients’ choices, whether they choose to share their images or not. We are guardians of your privacy, Cate is very firm on this.
WHAT IF I AM NERVOUS THE WHOLE TIME? WILL IT AFFECT MY IMAGES?
No, you'll be nervous for 8.5 minutes and that's all. Cate calls this her “8.5 Rule”. Once we get started, Cate is a guru that will help you melt away the tension and feel your groove. We typically find that it literally only takes 8.5 minutes, without fail, before your sensual inner goddess decides to makes her grand appearance.
IF I NEED MORAL SUPPORT, CAN I BRING A FRIEND?
Cate does not allow guests during your photo shoot. Not only does it interfere with day designed just for YOU — it also disrupts the photographic process, which is reliant on CONNECTION. While your friend may join you during hair and makeup if they like, we will send them on a LONG break while you are being revered for the day by the camera.
CAN I AFFORD THIS?
The answer is VALUE. We invest in the types of things we value. The Life As Fine Art experience is not simply about pretty photos. We work hard to do so much more — and to offer you the environment where you feel luxury and celebrated. Cate is an award winning photographer who settles for nothing less than her very best. If this is the type of experience you are looking for, it is absolutely affordable. While Cate is not a lending institution, Cate offers a variety of ways for you to invest in your boudoir experience by paying in full or paying over time:
All Major Credit Cards accepted; Cash, Checks, Venmo and Paypal.
6 Month Payment Plans are accepted through PayPal’s Line of Credit (0% APR)
6-18 Month Payment Plans are accepted through Affirm (0% APR) *no credit check to apply
Pre-Paid Installment Plans with Valuable Extra Bonuses once paid in full.
I don’t know how to pose sexy. what if i look awkward?
Having a highly experienced beauty photographer means they are trained to pose and give you great direction. The result is that you look authentic and natural in photos. Luckily, Cate is that person for you. This is an intimate portrait session. By definition it’s about intimacy, privacy and solitude. Cate’s job is to make you comfortable so you feel great in your own skin, and to draw out the goddess in you from within. It’s YOUR version of sexy, not anyone else’s. And, when the job is done right, you will absolutely see yourself as sexy. Cate is fully confident in her ability to help EVERY client to see their sensuality and beauty.
IS IT SILLY TO DO A BOUDOIR SESSION AT MY AGE?
We don’t use standards of measurement at the studio. We celebrate the individual. Are you too old to feel special? Appreciated?Beautiful? YOU get to choose to embrace who you are throughout life’s many beautiful stages. YOU get to choose which phase is the prime of your life. YOU get to choose how you’re styled in a way that makes sense to you. A large portion of Cate’s clients are in their 40’s, 50s’s and beyond. Sure, you may not be that same girl as you were in your early 20s. Now you're even better...you're an experienced woman. Today's woman is better than yesterday's woman. Let’s go now.
Can i shop around and get back to you once i explore other studios + pricing?
We would kindly ask that if you are shopping your boudoir experience on price, please reconsider. Because we may not be the studio for you. A boudoir experience is not a commodity that can be bought off a shelf, nor is it a one-size-fits-all women. We want you to gravitate to Cate’s art and philosophy first and all else secondary. We believe that the unparalelled experience offered by our Studio cannot be compared or replicated by any other. Cate’s firmly believes that woman’s most private and vulnerable moments should never feel like “bargains”. Rather, she wants you to FEEL priceless. In photography, as with many luxuries, the blatant truth is that you’ll get what you pay for. A boudoir session is a life-changing experience, which typically includes a moderate investment. A professional photographer's trade is very complex + expensive to operate; Therefore the best, reputable and most skilled photographers are not just “starting out” and are not available for a "deep discount". A boudoir photographer who knows their own worth also know what a great client is worth to Us. We’ll go to the furthest lengths to earn every penny, with gratitude and a pursuit of excellence. In addition, Cate ensures the experience is a value affordable to all through several payment options accepted at the studio.
DO YOU EVER PHOTOGRAPH CLIENTS NUDE?
Yes, absolutely. while some clients choose to be in a state of undress, that does not have to be the case. You can wear as much as you want or as little as you want. It’s not about your wardrobe but a personal depiction of your intimacy. Besides, you'd be surprised to know that Cate will be so busy adjusting light, composing the shot, working with the camera, and posing you, that your state of nudity is virtually the last thing she’s noticing. An experienced boudoir photographer is much like going your doctor. We have seen it all —and we are unphased.
CAN I DO MY OWN MAKEUP (OR HAVE MY FRIEND DO IT)?
Your time in the styling loft at the studio is very much a part of the overall experience. It is our opportunity to pamper and relax you before it is time to photograph. However, Cate’s hand-selected team is familiar with Cate’s lighting and specific needs for the session. They specialized in photo-ready makeup and are some of the best in the business. Cate makes exceptions for salon professionals who may wish to do their own hair styling. And, for maternity clients who may be uncomfortable sitting for an hour in the chair. However, we strongly advocate our experts in order to guarantee Cate’s signature results.
MY PARTNER WANTS THIS, SO I AM DOING FOR THEIR _____.
Your (husband/boyfriend/partner) loving the byproduct of our session is an exciting bonus for ALL of us. However, we serve this experience for YOU. This will be a celebration to reacquaint with your feminine self, in whatever style you choose for it to be. You are more than a book, a framed picture or an album. As a woman, you are a work of art. You deserve to feel that way. How lucky they are to get the hard work you put in to your SELF! Nothing sexier!
I THINK I MAY BE TOO OVERWEIGHT TO DO A BOUDOIR SESSION?
Too overweight? …compared to what standard? You’d be surprised to know many of the BEST trained boudoir photographers LOVE sessions with curvier women. In fact, many of us prefer it. Why? We know how to light, pose and dress you so you can celebrate those curves and not condemn them. Cate likes to shatter your negative myths and help you create new, positive ones. The idea is NOT to go in with someone else’s standard of perfection — but to love your own imperfect perfection. We believe that AUTHENTIC CONFIDENCE is the sexiest thing of all. We will help you gain that sense of self.
i don’t even own lingerie. what do i wear?
There are no rules that say a boudoir session is about lingerie. It’s about creating your intimate definition of beauty in any way you like. That can be in a sweater… in a negligee…in a ball gown. It’s about intimacy with your sense of self… not your wardrobe. Upon booking, Cate provides you with her Boudoir Preparation Guide. This guide contains all kinds of inspired looks - lingerie and beyond, to help you find your signature style for the session. In addition, you may enjoy the process of trying something new and exploring a sultrier side of things. But most importantly, focus on what makes you feel beautiful.
IS IT WEIRD OR ARROGANT TO HAVE PICTURES OF MYSELF IN MY HOME?
Absolutely not. In fact, it is quite normal for 99% of our Clients. Is it arrogant to look in the mirror? To keep a journal? To meditate? Your portraits are no different. They are just an introspective symbol of your powerful feminine self. They serve as a visual daily reminder of the joy you felt during your experience, so that strength carries through to every day life. Cate’s job is to help you love that Woman on the wall as much as any other work of art that hangs in your home. What’s selfish about that? We encourage it.
what if my friends and family don’t approve of this?
Well, that’s fine, because you’re not doing it for them. You’re doing it for YOU. You don’t need anyone else’s approval but your own. If they cannot be supportive and encouraging for you, Cate’s community of empowered women will cheer you on and celebrate. (be sure to join Cate’s private Facebook forum).
WHAT IF MY SIGNIFICANT OTHER IS NOT ON BOARD WITH THIS IDEA?
If your significant other does not appreciate the opportunity for you to feel special, confident and beautiful, that is their unfortunate choice. But you do not have to choose the same fate for you SELF. You are your own person, with your own emotional needs. Cate is committed to a non-judgmental neutral environment that respects the nature of your relationship. However, YOU are our client and are our priority/person of concern. And, if you feel you need a squad to support and rally behind you, we are IN.
WILL MY IDEA/REASON /personal SITUATION SOUND CRAZY?
As artists, we are idea people. We love to hear your vision and to fulfill your goal of having an amazing day. We are a non-judgement zone. We also understand that when it comes to intimacy, people come in all flavors. If we are a good fit, we are happy to work with you. And, if we cannot accommodate your requests, we can happily try to refer you to another photographer who specializes in your visions. Your ideas about beauty and intimacy are yours and not up for judgment.
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO BOOK?
Cate is often booked up and waitlisted, with bookings up to 3 months in advance, so you should plan ahead. She occasionally has unexpected openings each month that can accommodate urgent requests as they arrive.
In terms of deliverables, you should allow for up to 6-8 weeks from the day of your session to allow for your Viewing Appointment, Professional Retouching, Album Design, and for your Album to be crafted (in Europe).