<< back to the podcast overview
147. Finding Confidence Through Boudoir Photography with Katie Bellini
Katie, a former counselor turned boudoir photographer, blends her mental health background with her photography work. Her mission is to help clients feel empowered and comfortable in their own skin. Through her journey from counseling to photography, Katie has created a safe, supportive environment where people can embrace their vulnerability and celebrate who they are.
The Path from Counseling to Photography
Katie’s journey began in education, supporting high school students with mental health and college applications. But it was during her own wedding planning that her love for photography came to life. Inspired by her own experience with a wedding photographer, Katie transitioned from guiding students to capturing life’s beautiful moments.
Her approach is unique—blending the compassion of counseling with the art of photography. This creates a supportive environment, which is especially important in boudoir photography, where many clients face insecurities and vulnerabilities.
Discovering Boudoir Photography
Katie first stepped into boudoir photography after seeing mini sessions being offered. Though hesitant at first, she quickly realized how fulfilling it was to create empowering, confidence-boosting experiences for her clients. It felt less like a job and more like a gathering with friends—where everyone left feeling empowered.
Sustainability in Business
Katie also understands the importance of running a sustainable business, one that doesn’t burn you out. She stresses having strong pricing and boundaries, allowing her to focus fully on delivering a personalized and thoughtful experience for each client without spreading herself too thin.
Client Experience: The Heart of Boudoir
Katie’s process starts well before the session. She ensures a strong connection with each client, using questionnaires, mood boards, and planning calls to tailor every detail to their style and preferences. Her aim? To make her clients feel known and truly celebrated from the moment they inquire until they see their final images.
The Transformative Power of Boudoir
A boudoir session with Katie is more than just photography; it’s a journey. Clients often confront their insecurities and emerge with a new sense of self-love. Katie’s goal is to help them see themselves in a fresh light, recognizing their true beauty and strength.
Empathy and Personal Connection
Katie’s sessions are a collaborative effort. She invites clients to co-create the experience with her, using open communication and mood boards to bring their vision to life. By the time the shoot happens, clients are encouraged to let go of the mental weight and fully immerse themselves in the experience.
Reflection
Katie’s story is a beautiful reminder of how powerful empathy and connection can be in business. Her photography is about more than just capturing images—it’s about empowering her clients to see their true selves, fostering confidence, and celebrating every human story.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a boudoir shoot, Katie’s advice is to choose a photographer who not only captures great images but makes you feel safe and understood. The right photographer will make the experience a path to greater self-love and confidence, both in front of and behind the camera.
Katie Bellini
Want more?
Ingvild Kolnes is the host of the Sustainable Photography Podcast, an educator for photographers, and is ready to help you with your photography business.
hi, I’m ingvild
This podcast is all about education and inspiration for photographers. A sustainable business is profitable and lasting. Instead of short-term wins you want to make sure you’re doing things that matter. Both to yourself, and to create the business you want. The goal of this podcast is that it will help you build and structure your business around your life, instead of the other way around.
