We were lucky to catch up with Traci Shadden recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Traci with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My strong work ethic has been deeply influenced by my mother, who tirelessly managed to provide for our family as a single mother of 3 girls. Witnessing her determination and resilience in working multiple jobs to ensure that we had a stable and comfortable life left a big impression on me. Her unwavering commitment to her responsibilities instilled in me the value of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of never giving up, regardless of the challenges that may arise. Her sacrifices and dedication serve as a constant reminder that success is born out of diligence and the willingness to go the extra mile to achieve one’s goals.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
My journey as a boudoir photographer started in 2010 after my daughter was born. She is my inspiration because I wanted to show her how to be a strong, independent woman when she grows up. Prior to her being born I was a mom to 2 boys and was a little lost in “mom” mode.
Every session I meet these incredible women that inspire me. Each woman, regardless of her background, found her self-love. Seeing these women shed insecurities and embrace their power just made it my “Why”. This is what I was born to do, show women their BEAUTY just as they are right now. I shoot for women and all of my photos are tasteful, classy and timeless. If a woman comes to me as a gift for someone else, it is ok because by the time they leave it will be for them.
Looking at to the future of my business, Beauty In Boudoir, I’ve got big plans to take this empowering journey even further. One of my future goals is the idea of giving back through philanthropic shoots. I’m looking forward to capturing the strength and resilience of breast cancer survivors and other incredible individuals who have faced adversity. It’s not just about the photos, but the stories of courage that these shoots will tell.
And that’s just the beginning!
I’m also excited about the prospect of education within the boudoir community. Sharing knowledge and expertise can truly take our collective passion to new heights. I’m envisioning workshops, online courses, and a space where fellow boudoir enthusiasts can come together to learn, grow, and celebrate each other’s successes. Because when we empower one another, we all win. The future of Beauty In Boudoir isn’t just about business; it’s about building a movement of self-love, confidence, and solidarity. And I can’t wait to see all the incredible stories and connections that will unfold as we move forward together.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge have played a profound role in shaping my path. Firstly, my extensive 15-year tenure in a government entity’s customer service department armed me with exceptional interpersonal skills. Understanding how to connect with and understand people’s needs has been instrumental in my journey as an empowering boudoir photographer. My advice to those starting out is to embrace every opportunity to interact with diverse individuals, as it not only hones your people skills but also helps you build lasting connections with people. Understanding that my business isn’t just about the art, but also how people feel. Boudoir photography can be very vulnerable for my clients, so making them feel comfortable and heard is everything to me.
Secondly, my commitment to continuous learning through conferences and workshops since 2010 has been a game-changer. Staying up-to-date with industry trends, technical skills, and learning from peers has been invaluable. To newcomers, I recommend soaking up as much knowledge as possible from seasoned professionals and peers. Attend workshops, engage in online communities, and never stop seeking ways to evolve your craft. I will never get to point where I have learned everything there is….learning never ends for me.
Third is my journey of acheiving my Master of Photography Degree from PPA (Professional Photographers of America). For those who are just starting their journey, I encourage you to set educational goals. Whether it’s pursuing certifications or advanced degrees, the commitment to continuous learning not only refines your skills but also boosts your confidence and credibility in the industry.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My dream client is a woman who’s all about building self-love and understanding that she is worthy of being confident. She’s someone who not only gets that these photos are a work of art but also knows she’s worth every bit of the investment. This woman understands that this journey isn’t just about striking a pose – it’s about owning her story, celebrating her uniqueness, and embracing her inner badass. She’s all about the little details, the personal touches, and the way the experience makes her feel. When I meet her, it’s like connecting with a kindred spirit who’s just as passionate as I am about self-love, confidence, and the incredible power of seeing yourself in a whole new light.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.beautyinboudoir.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beauty.in.boudoir
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/beautyinboudoirllc
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traci-shadden-36779b208/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/beauty-in-boudoir-saint-charles
Image Credits
My portrait (Traci Shadden) was taken by White Sheet Studios All other images taken by Traci Shadden (Beauty In Boudoir)
