Imagine the thrill of reading your name announced among the crème de la crème of boudoir photographers in Madison, WI! I’m proud to say that it’s happened to me! It's a validation of my passion, dedication, and artistry. I've witnessed the transformative power of photography firsthand. What I am learning more and more is that photography is a gift and it can be a tool. To me, this accolade is a badge of honor and a testament to the profound impact that boudoir photography can have on both the artist and the subject.

In a city pulsating with creativity and vibrancy, being voted one of the five best boudoir photographers is no small feat. Two of the five photographers voted are friends and photographers I admire. Sam from Reverence Intimate Portraits in Madison: I just did my boudoir session and LOVED everything about them. Check out the blog post.

My newest boudoir friend is Melonie from Mizztique Boudoir, a body-positive photography studio in Madison, WI. I love her work and her passion for entrepreneurship. We are hoping to host some workshops and collaborate in the future. Can’t wait!


As I continue to navigate the empowering world of boudoir photography in Madison, WI, I am reminded of the honor of creating fine art photography.

Congrats to the other five boudoir photographers in Madison!

Let’s keep creating fine art for our fine town!

Want a boudoir session?

Schedule a call or book your session here.

A perfect 3-day weekend getaway that weaves together freedom and genuine connections and aims to expand more comfort and freedom in your body. 🌟 

Ever dreamed of a weekend where your biggest decision is whether to nap in a hammock or float on the river? Where the dress code ranges from PJs to paint? Welcome to our 3-day freedom weekend, a safe haven where time, dillydallies, and freedom are the only items on the agenda. It is a place so serene that even your inner critic takes a hike.

This is not your average "escape from it all" retreat. Nope, it's a dive headfirst into a world where body positivity isn't just celebrated; it's the air we breathe. And sleepover energy? Yes! Yes! Yes! We're talking jokes, sleeping bags, late-night snacks, belly laughter, and heart-to-hearts by the fire.

Arrival and Instant Chill

From the moment you step into our peaceful paradise, the "real world grind" fades away. Here, you're greeted by an ensemble of femme-identified and non-binary babes. The vibe is friendly and welcoming.

Choose Your Own Adventure

Wake up to birdsong and gentle sun rays, or, you know, at noon—no judgment here. Freedom Weekend has hours where you choose what your heart desires. Fancy a paddle board with a new friend? Go for it. Are you more of a land lover? Take a bike ride or a meandering hike. And for those who came to do a whole lot of nothing, we salute you. Grab a book, or don't, and find your blissful idleness. Our only rule: You do you, boo.

As the sun dips low, we reconvene for an evening of unfettered joy. Think campfires, dancing under the stars, and stories that range from the absurd to the profoundly touching. And when the mood strikes, we strip off the layers (literal and metaphorical) for a nighttime skinny dip because it feels so good!

Why This Getaway Rocks🌟

This retreat is more than just a break; it's a movement. A collective embrace of everybody, a space for genuine connection, and a big, fat middle finger to societal pressures. It's a place where you can be gloriously, unabashedly you, surrounded by folks who get it. This environment is simultaneously freeing and grounding, liberating and connecting.

So, if you're craving a weekend that promises laughter, acceptance, adventure, and some debauchery, you've found your people. Bring your quirks, your stories, and your open heart. Leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, more in love with your body and with some new friendships.

The truth? It's more than a getaway; it's another homecoming to yourself and a big hug from your community. 🌟

Delicious, gourmet, plant-based, nourishing meals by the vibrant and exceptional chef Lauren Montelbano.  🙌

Nights came alive with campfires, dancing under the stars, and nighttime skinny-dips.

The weekend retreat attracts nature-loving, kind-hearted femme-identified & non-binary people over 21. The vibe is queer-friendly, welcoming, freeing, and non-judgmental.⚡️

This is a poem the group wrote:

Do you want to join us this summer of 2024?

Registration is open!

I treated myself to a boudoir session! And it felt amazing!

Today's blog post is a bit different—it's a personal tale. I have been a boudoir photographer for over a decade, and have grown a lot in that time. BUT I’ve only had my own boudoir taken by another professional photographer a handful of times. It’s a totally different experience being on the other side of the lens. I am a goofball by nature and am more than okay with hamming it up for the camera, but it’s still a vulnerable experience! It was high time to treat myself to a boudoir session.

Spoiler alert: It was a transformative and self-love-filled experience and I'm excited to share the photos with you.

Choosing the Right Photographer

One of the critical decisions for my boudoir session was selecting a photographer who would embrace me for being me and create a safe and welcoming space. This is always my goal when I photograph boudoir sessions (or really any type of session), and it felt crucial when I was planning for my own boudoir session- it’s a vulnerable experience! I went with Sam at Reverence Portrait Boudoir Photography, whose work I deeply admire- she has a true talent for capturing the authentic essence of her subjects. Of course, dear reader, I hope you will choose me for your boudoir session, but go with the photographer that fits you best.

Spending Money on Myself

In the hustle and bustle of life, this often gets overlooked/overshadowed—spending money on yourself. It’s hard for many of us- it’s hard for me. I am discovering, though, that spending money on myself isn’t just a guilty pleasure- it's an act of self-love and can lead to self-discovery. Photography is art that I value, and I love the art that was created during my boudoir session.

A Birthday Gift!

This boudoir session was more than just a set of stunning photographs and an experience of self-growth- it was a gift to myself for my 45th (!) birthday! Happy 45 to meeeee!

Closing Thoughts

If you are thinking about a boudoir session, go for it! Whether or not you're a photographer, having a session can help deepen your self-love. It's a celebration of your unique beauty, a reminder that you are worthy of being seen and cherished. I felt held, loved, and appreciated, and getting the pictures was just the icing on the cake- I felt beautiful and confident. A little taste of what I hope my clients experience when they have a shoot with me :).

Thank you Sam for this experience!

Many of the boudoir photos I share are of a single person- but boudoir is also fantastic for couples and there are so many reasons to book a boudoir session with your special person!! Scroll down for the top 10 reasons I’ve seen couples book a session together. PLUS the featured couple Erin and Justin answer questions about their couples boudoir session with me.

Erin and Justin are a super hot couple who live in Texas. They both love photography- we actually met at the WPPI photography conference! We totally hit it off and they decided to fly up to WI for a couples boudoir shoot. It’s such a HUGE honor when anyone comes from out of state to work with me!! I loved how comfortable Erin and Justin were with each other’s bodies and with showing their love. And, as usual, I’m so grateful they’re willing to share their photos with all of you.

top 10 reasons to book a couples boudoir shoot

1. Showcase the bond and love you have.

These images will show both how hot you are AND the connection you have with each other- physically and emotionally.

2. Milestones and transitions.

Whether you are celebrating an anniversary, a transition in your relationship (becoming empty nesters, etc.), that you’ve stood the test of time, recognizing a difficult time while still recognizing your sexy humanity (starting/ending chemo, etc.)- so many things to recognize and celebrate in your love.

3. Rekindle your passion.

Maybe things have felt stagnant in your relationship (it happens to the best of us!)- this can be a great way to add spice to your love life. We spend so much time doing regular things with our partners- paying bills, cooking, cleaning, raising kids and pets, taking care of our homes. A boudoir photo shoot is something exciting to do together and remember why you wanted each other in the first place!

4. Bodies are beautiful.

You and your partner are beautiful and connection is too- this is a way to see if through a professional photographer’s eyes (and lens).

5. It’s a lot of fun!

I keep things light and know how to pose and crack a joke. I provide drinks and we listen to good music during the session. We have a good time together and my goal is always to help you feel comfortable while taking sexy photos.

6. It can be discreet.

Don’t worry if you or your significant other are shy when it comes to PDA. Maybe things get hot in the bedroom, but you would rather keep that part of your relationship private. The beauty of having couple’s boudoir photos is that you can step a little out of your comfort zone and then privately enjoy the pictures together. It can be like your best kept secret! What happens in the studio stays in the studio!

7. Couples shoots are GREAT for women who are too intimidated to do a boudoir session alone.

Some women simply aren’t comfortable letting themselves be vulnerable with their bodies in front of a complete stranger and that is totally understandable! Having your partner with you during the process can help ease those insecurities and allow you to be your sexy self. This might even give you the confidence to do a solo session in the future.

8. To remember how you look right now.

You will have the images for years to come- to enjoy and to remember the whole experience. I’ve heard from so many clients- “I never knew I could look like this!” OR “this is the best I’ve ever looked!”.

9. It’s a fabulous present.

It’s a great gift for a big occasion! Erin and Justin gave the couples session as an anniversary present to themselves (which I LOVE). The session itself is a gift to each other plus all those sexy photos.

10. It is art!

Pure and simple: you and your love are art.

No matter your reason, I’d love to work with you. Reach out if you have any Qs or want to book a session! And again, thank you to Erin and Justin for inspiring us with your love!

Asking my clients questions about their experience with having a boudoir session is something I really like about my blog. I am keeping it up. I hope you find it helpful.

What made you interested in having a boudoir shoot? 

Erin: It’s something I’ve always wanted to do, both for Justin and for my future self, but I felt insecure after having three kids. The why now, in our 22nd year of marriage? We found ourselves in the most beautiful place coming out of a rough stretch. Our connection has deepened and I’ve felt sexier than maybe ever, at 42. I wanted to freeze that time and feeling forever. 

Justin: Even after 22 years of marriage and the greater part of that behind the camera, we’d never brought ourselves to fully and intentionally capture the beauty and sexiness that we appreciated so much in each other, but not as much in ourselves. When Erin told me she wanted to do a boudoir session, I was 100% supportive and wanted her to see herself the way I see her. When she showed me Maureen’s work with other couples, it made me realize the best way to show that support was to take the plunge with her. 

Why did you choose Maureen? 

Erin: She’s AMAZING. Not only is she a talented photographer, but her personality put us both at ease. If I lived in Madison, I’d make her be my best friend. :) 

Justin: We met Maureen by chance at a wedding photography conference in Las Vegas, more years ago than I’m willing to admit. I think we met her in line at Nathan’s, buying hot dogs. We were immediately drawn to her energy, openness, and sense of excitement towards the world and people around her, and we had a blast the whole time we hung out with her. We followed each other’s photography and lives for many years after, and our respect and admiration for her just continued to grow. She’s long been a source of inspiration to us in finding the beauty in people, inside and outside, no matter who they are. 

How does your favorite photo from your session make you feel? 

Erin: Loved. Lucky and beautiful. We have an arrangement of several of these images over our bed and every time I see them, I feel happy and thankful. They’re a daily reminder of how we’ve grown together, how beautiful our relationship is, and how lucky we are. 

Justin: So many things… loved, seen, proud, honored… Like no matter what life throws at us, I will always have this amazing connection and devotion with someone so beautiful and sexy and loving, who makes me feel beautiful and sexy too.

What would you say to a couple who wanted to do a session but was too nervous? 

Erin: Just do it! The nerves pass when you walk in, I promise! And the images you’ll have are worth it! 

Justin: Life is short and memories fade. Just fucking do it. No matter how goofy or awkward or unsexy you might be afraid you’ll feel... I promise you’re wrong. Maureen has a gift for making you feel comfortable and sexy and helping you put all of that nervousness aside. Before you know it, you’ll be making out like lovesick supermodels and wondering where the afternoon went. You’ll come away from it with amazing pictures (and greater appreciation) of your love for each other, and of yourself.

What do you love most about your session?

Erin: We had so much fun! The entire weekend in Madison was amazing, but that day was something I’ll never forget. 

Justin: Honestly, I love the memory of the experience as much as I love the pictures. I usually come across as a very confident person, but right up until walking into Maureen’s door, I was insecure and scared shitless that I was going to do something to mess it up. Thanks to Maureen’s amazing energy (and a couple of drinks,) Erin and I both quickly felt free and encouraged to be ourselves, unfiltered and unadulterated. 

Would you recommend a boudoir shoot to others? Why or why not? 

Erin: 100% yes, for all of the reasons above. I’d do it again. Hell, do it every 5 or 10 years. Celebrate and document your body for all it’s given to you! 

Justin:  Absolutely, yes. Time and memory passes and eventually runs out faster than we realize. There are too few opportunities in daily life to express, celebrate and memorialize your sexuality, who and as you are right now. The courage it takes to put yourself in front of the camera is a tiny cost and fleeting compared to the lifelong benefit of capturing this part of your life. 

Heather contacted me last winter with a stellar photo idea with a twist that instantly had me excited about what we would create. Her partner is a cellist, and she wanted to steal his most prized instrument for a while and pose nude for photos. The photos would be a great surprise! Aren’t surprises the best?!

Handling the cello with utmost care she posed beautifully while he was out with friends. Heather has an infectious charm and is a person who embraces life and wants to live it fully!  She is strong and at home in her body.  It was a joy to photograph her and help her with this sneaky scheme. 

For Valentine’s Day, she gave him an album of her favorite photos. He was truly delighted at her thoughtful gift.

I learned from her that it’s a worthy idea to combine your partner's favorite things in a photograph. It makes for some really nice and unique fine art images that hold so much sentimental value.  I really enjoyed having such a special prop to create art. Plus, I love photographing nudes.  Nude photographs are so simple and natural and timeless. 

I asked Heather this question and I love her answer!
How does your favorite photo from your session make you feel?

That is me in the raw in my 50s in the deep winter of Wisconsin (no diets, not enough exercise, no sunshine, too much drinking, too much comfort food,…) yet I still think I look beautiful. Fuck age. Fuck working out or paying for procedures to look younger. Age naturally and love however you turn out!

Below is Heather’s favorite image.

Kristina is a photographer herself and I LOVE her work and presence!! She takes powerful and somewhat abstract/macro photos of nature. Often water and light-soaked. Her images are moving and connect you to something deeper. She asked me to take photos of her so she could have branding images for her website, headshots, and some boudoir images (a winning combination if you ask me). She knew she wanted to include water. We hit it off and are now dreaming of co-hosting a photo walk sometime this summer. Message me if you want to join!

What made you interested in having a boudoir shoot?

I am a photographer and recently was given the challenge of taking more pictures of myself. I ran into a lot of personal resistance. Then, I saw a boudoir shoot on Facebook that Maureen had recently done and I was instantly intrigued. Could I have pictures of myself that were this beautiful? I scheduled the shoot, cancelled twice due to being unprepared, and finally got the courage to show up. I am 100% delighted that I went through with this process. Being with Maureen, finding my Eros in front of her camera, flowing with the co-creation between her and myself brought me into a deeper place of my own beauty.

How does your favorite photo from your session make you feel?

My favorite photo anchors me into a depth of joy in being me, at this time in my life, doing exactly what I am doing.

What would you say to a woman who doesn’t think she is beautiful enough to be photographed?

Do it! You won't regret it! You will come away refreshed, enlivened, and in contact with the beauty within you that is always there!

What are your reflections on “beauty” in our culture?

Our standards of beauty are too narrow. Each person is uniquely beautiful and uniquely desired by Life. Any culture that says this is a beautiful person and the rest aren't is oppressive.

What are your hopes for the next generation of women?

What advice would you give to them? Love. Love more. Love this world. Love your life.

what would you tell your 16-year-old self if you could meet her now?

Your pain is your guide to your future powerful self. Face it. Your future is more and more beautiful.

what do you love most about being a woman?

Wow, big question. I love so many things about being a woman. I love that I was honored with having four kids. I love all the freedom to choose what I do with my life, like becoming an alternative health consultant and supporting thousands of people to better health, by facing and overcoming my own chronic health problems. I love the way my body experiences pleasure in all the ways- from trading massage sessions to making love.