Samantha Sloan’s Stories, Lessons & Insights

Samantha Sloan shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Samantha , thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
Goodness… where do I begin? I do a lot of educating when I speak about my business. One of the biggest misunderstandings about boudoir photography—especially for women who haven’t experienced it—is that it’s “just sexy pictures.”

The truth?
My business isn’t just about lingerie and poses—it’s about empowerment, healing, and self-celebration. Women often come to me thinking it’s about looking good for someone else, but they leave realizing it was really about feeling good for themselves. Boudoir is about confidence, empowerment, and falling in love with yourself again.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Samantha… I’ve got a camera in my hand, a coffee in the other (or tequila if its happy hour), and a heart that beats for helping women see their beauty exactly as they are.

I specialize in boudoir photography—but not the kind that feels intimidating or over-the-top. My mission is to make my studio known for “approachable boudoir”—the kind of experience where you walk in feeling like you’re hanging out with a girlfriend and walk out feeling like the goddess you are!

I deeply believe in the power of self affirmations and I love sharing that with the women I meet. I also am passionate about speaking on self love as well! I’ve seen what happens when a woman truly believes she’s enough—and I want every client to leave the studio believing whole heartedly they are WORTH IT.

Beyond my photography, I host women’s events at my studio from time to time — gatherings where local women can meet each other, friendships are made, and encouragement flows freely.

At the end of the day, this isn’t just about taking beautiful photos (though we’ll absolutely do that)—it’s about giving you a space to feel seen, celebrated, and unapologetically YOU. 💕

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
I know this sounds corny… but my husband of 18 years. He has loved me unconditionally and supported my business efforts all along the way. I hope every woman could experience the kind of love she showers on me on a daily basis. Even on days when I didn’t love myself or see the value in myself… he did. He’s always reminding me to give myself grace because I am so har don myself.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
RIGHT BEFORE the Pandemic hit. This was back when I was still photographing families. I just felt like my business wasn’t taking off like I wanted to and I was about to get a job waitressing or take an online course to be a secretary.
When the pandemic hot, like many others… our finances changed for th worse. I had to hustle and photography was all I know. I started working full time and soon after found my love for boudoir photography – AND, finally had the guts to go for it. My boudoir business was an instant hit with my current followers (and new ones). I haven’t looked back since!! Today I am busier than I have ever been helping women everyday and and creating a safe space at my downtown studio.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
YES!! I cuss like a sailor. I am blunt. I’m ADHD and usually say the first thing out of my mouth. I always say… I’m too tired and too old to be fake ha ha.
I am definitely an “acquired taste” as they say… but I’d rather authentically connect with fewer people being myself than having lots of fake friends.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing? 
Hopefully nothing… life is too short not to “Go for it”!

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Myself and Brittany Reynosa with Brooks and Co – Fills and Photography

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