Boudoir After Weight-loss Surgery

Boudoir after weight-loss surgery can be such an empowering thing!!
I’ve always believed that beauty isn’t determined by weight; it’s a quality that resides within all of us. However, I understand that for some, taking control of their weight—whether for medical reasons or personal choice—is a deeply significant and empowering journey. When someone makes that decision for themselves, I’m passionate about celebrating their achievements alongside them. It’s been an honor to witness so many incredible transformations in my Downtown Bloomington, IL studio, and I love every moment of it.

Recently, Heaven came to our Boudoir studio for a session, and her story is a perfect example of why I do what I do.

Here’s a glimpse into her inspiring journey.

Heaven before…

For most of my life, weight was a battle I couldn’t seem to win. It gnawed at my self-confidence, shadowing my youth with insecurities. But then, one day, I made a choice that changed everything—I decided not to care. I realized that what people thought of me said more about them than it did about me. I’ve always marched to the beat of my own drum, dressing in what made me feel confident and alive. I loved myself so loudly that the negative whispers simply faded into the background. I had to be ME.

Then, COVID hit me hard, leaving me dependent on an oxygen tank 24/7. It was a wake-up call, a moment when I knew I had to take control of my health. I chose to undergo weight loss surgery, driven by a deep love for myself and a desire to reclaim my life. On February 5, 2024, I had gastric bypass surgery at Rush in Chicago, and it was a turning point I’m forever grateful for.

Since that day, I’ve lost 130 pounds, shrinking from a size 24/26 to a size 12/14—a size I haven’t seen since high school. I’m not just lighter; I’m so much happier and healthier. My confidence was always there, but now I have a newfound passion for caring for my body and loving myself even more.

Sure, there’s loose skin and scars on my tummy, but these are my badges of resilience. They tell the story of a woman who can now run and have fun with her dogs without feeling tired and worn out. This is my new chapter, and it’s filled with joy and vitality.

Every step of my self-love and healing journey deserves to be celebrated, and this recent photo shoot was the perfect way to do just that. I have to admit, I was so nervous leading up to the session, my mind racing with doubts. But the moment I stepped into the boudoir studio, everything changed. Karen worked her magic, making me feel completely confident and comfortable.

During the boudoir session, I felt absolutely amazing, but nothing could have prepared me for the moment I saw the photos. I couldn’t believe that was me—looking so beautiful, so powerful, and yes, even sexy. I wanted to share them with the world!

Boudoir photography has the power to transform the way we see ourselves. Honestly, it’s an experience I think every woman should have. There’s something about stepping in front of the camera, embracing your true self, and celebrating your unique beauty that can ignite a whole new level of self-love. My journey isn’t over, but this boudoir session was a celebration of how far I’ve come—and a reminder that every woman deserves to feel this powerful.