So what it is like?

When I was invited to be a guest on The Heart of the 325 podcast, I was truly honored. This local gem does such an amazing job spotlighting small businesses and giving creatives like me a platform to share our stories. Huge shoutout to Ren, the incredible host, for creating such a warm, easygoing space to open up about my work. In our chat, we dove into what it's like being a boudoir photographer—what inspires me, the challenges, and the unexpected beauty that comes with helping people feel empowered in their own skin. Below is the full Q&A from that conversation.

“To start, tell us your name and the name of your business."

• Hi, my name is Riley and I’m a formally trained artist and photographer based in the lovely 325. My business name is Higher RES Visuals, higher is my calling, RES are my initials, and visuals are my passion.

"For those who might be new to it, what is boudoir photography? And while we're at it, what does 'boudoir' even mean?"

• So, boudoir (boo-dwaar) technically means a woman's bedroom or private room. A lot of people associate it with “sexy photography”, which it can be, but to me it means a vulnerable style of art meant to empower women by reminding them that they’re “fearfully and wonderfully made”.

"You often describe your work as an art form. How is boudoir photography similar to other forms of art?"

• Great question! I am definitely an art nerd and am so grateful that I was able to be trained in a large variety of art forms. My style draws heavy influence from the dramatic lighting of Carvaggio and Rafael (not the ninja turtle), and posing from the painterly and sculptural nudes of the Renaissance, Romanticism, Rococo, and Baroque art eras. So, I use a lot of similar techniques. I also offer custom figure drawings using photos from their session, and I do a painting and photo combination. I like to mix digital and traditional art.

"What inspired you to start a boudoir photography business here in Abilene?"

• It’s actually three things. I saw the way my mom talked about her body growing, and I wanted to change the narrative to a more positive one since I am built very similarly. I also have a much younger adopted sister, and I want to set an example of what it looks like to embrace our “flaws and all”. And a big catalyst for my commitment to this niche happened after a former boyfriend had several affairs, which could’ve left me to feel less than or used. But instead after tons of prayer, heart work, and seeing my own boudoir portraits, it reminded me of my value in Christ and that I was strong and beautiful. So, I want to empower women, from Abilene and beyond, who then use that energy to go back to their communities and the trickle down change continues. 

"As a Christian in a community with a more conservative mindset, you might encounter some hesitations or even negative reactions to your work. Let's talk about this. How do you handle those situations, and what message would you like to share with the people of Abilene to help them understand the truth about boudoir photography?"

• Very thoughtful question! I’ve actually had surprisingly less push back than I expected. When I first get asked what I do, I usually phrase it as a women’s empowerment photographer, because that’s my aim. Not to portray them as just sex objects, but to remind them that they are truly a unique masterpiece. Once I see their reaction, I gauge how much to share with them. Usually once they find out my faith based motives, even the more conservative people are less negative about it. 

"What can models expect during a boudoir session with you?"

• I strive to provide the most custom, safe, and luxury experience for my clients. The process usually starts with a complimentary consultation where I get to know more about them and their motivation for boudoir. Then I provide several resources to help prepare them physically and emotionally for the session: prayer journal, client prep guide, wardrobe consultations, access to our client closet, and a virtual studio tour. Anything I can do to help them feel at peace, even though nerves are normal. The day of they are pampered with their favorite snacks, scents, and songs. Professional hair and makeup are provided to get them glammed up. Then we have a two hour photoshoot followed by a lunch break in which I edit their photos. Then they come back to have their images revealed and order their luxury products. So, it’s a whole day devoted to uplifting them and the products serve as a daily reminder of their God given worth. 

"Crucially, how do you create a safe and comfortable environment for your models during their sessions, especially when they might feel vulnerable?"

• Having been an educator for 10 years, I am a huge proponent for psychology and trying to understand people on a deeper level, so I try to use that to assess my client’s needs for the session. For example, I’ve had clients that are new moms, and we’re going to be mindful of the physical changes that her body has undergone and might choose poses that flatter her new figure. Whereas if I’ve had women in their 50’s who are doing it to remind themselves of their worth, so I will choose powerful poses and outfits. I’ve had several who have done it celebrate their marriage or health journey. Their needs look different, so I try to bring the authentic energy and listening ear because it helps them be authentic and vulnerable as well. 

"If your camera could talk, what do you think it would say about the amazing women you photograph?"

• Oh goodness! It would probably tell me to stop being such a goofball. But it would probably be grateful to be the tool that I use to try to capture the beauty of God’s creation in these awesome women. 

"Who is your ideal model, and how do you celebrate beauty in all sizes and shapes?"

• Any body is a boudoir body. Highlighting each unique figure’s features while also not drawing attention to the areas that they are still learning to love involves a deeper understanding of lighting, anatomy, and posing. I pose my clients from head to toe and even demonstrate for them, so that they can see what it looks like. And with lighting, it’s like painting: the shadows help conceal while illuminated areas are brought forward. It’s so cool to see the difference a good pose and lighting can make!

"Where can viewers find your pricing and learn how to book a session with you?"

• Thanks for asking! You can find my work online at higherresvisuals.com or @ higherresvisuals on YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook.