A naturally powerful place

What is your story?

I am a daughter, a wife and a friend. I am loud. I am impulsive. I am too busy, too tired and sometimes too much. I love pizza and red wine, my dog, a good book and a new place. I am a dancer. A writer. And an adventurer.

Why did you want to do a boudoir shoot?

Ever looked at a picture of your younger self and thought, damn, I wish I had appreciated that body when I had it rather than the self-loathing I regularly served it? I wanted to celebrate a moment in my life I could look back on and feel youth was not wasted, my life was not filtered, and I was not scared to try scary things.

What was the location of your shoot, and why did you choose it?

North Stradbroke Island. Both Marina and I were really drawn to a rocky point that had layers of colour in the stone and strong surf. It was a naturally powerful place.

How did you feel preparing for the session?

Unsure. As the location was a public beach, there was some trepidation about how we would proceed. I was also unsure what to wear or how to style anything, especially as we were travelling there the day before and would have to bring everything with us.

What was it like to be naked/ half-naked in front of the camera?

It was amusing to proceed with the shoot with so many people enjoying the beach. We had surfers, fisherpeople and couples watching the sunset (or us). It felt a little bit performative bc how you could be anything other than purposeful in front of so many people? I felt almost defiant in our right to be there taking photos, especially with the flashy fabrics and the power poses.

How did you feel after the session?

Elated. It was like closing night. I felt like we had done some amazing work. I personally felt great and realistically a bit hungry bc we had been so focused once we packed up, it was like, damn, ok, I have to eat now.

What have you thought when you saw your images for the first time?

I was nervous bc I was hyper-aware of being critical, and I think the advice to zoom out, lean back and take in the image as a whole was really sound. I was prepared to take a step back, but then when I saw them, I was like, HOLY FUCK. They were amazing.

Would you do it again?

Yes, absolutely. So many ideas.

Would you recommend a boudoir shoot to other women/men, and why?

I would. I think there's a thought about boudoir as lace garments and soft lines, but Marina has a unique approach, and it is personal and unique. She listens to your story, and she captures your truth. So don't go in expecting to shoot an underwear catalogue.

Do you have any tips for women/men planning to do a boudoir shoot?

Stretch! Your back will thank you. Bring options; not every outfit will work. Wear sunscreen. Drink water. Bring an open mind. Speak up if it's not working. Or if you have an idea you want to try.