I just got back from Puerto Rico, where I spent a week photographing women on beaches, under waterfalls, and in a villa with the ocean right outside the door!

My friend Alisha of Ivory & Lace Studios in Kingman, AZ asked me to be her second shooter for her annual boudoir retreat down there, and after I made peace with the mom guilt, I said yes to the plane ticket. We stayed in a villa right off the beach, and I woke up to the ocean waves EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. It was heaven. 

We started under a waterfall

One of the first things we did was hike to Juan Diego Falls in El Yunque National Forest — the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest System, and yes, it’s as unreal as it sounds. I’ll be honest, the hike was a trek! Climbing up and through the trees had my thighs furious with me for days afterward and I’ve got the bruises to prove it lol. Worth every step and stumble though! Some of the most stunning backdrops on earth make you earn them.

What we shot: destination boudoir at its best

This is the part that reminded me why I do this. We photographed at a private beach location that was pure magic, especially at golden hour! That low, warm sunset light wrapping around everyone like it was made for skin. On the last day we did a slow, sensual coffee-morning shoot in the oceanfront Airbnb we’d rented, the kind of lazy, unhurried session where everything softens, and I even handed off my camera long enough to get a few images of myself, which almost never happens. 

Shooting women in that environment does something different than the studio. The light, the water, the sense that you’ve traveled somewhere to do this just for you annnnnd it loosens something. Every woman stood a little taller by the end and had the opportunity to reconnect with themselves and their friends. We had morning and evening meditations too that were amazing for a whole body reset. That’s the whole reason destination boudoir exists, and now I get it. I can’t wait to go again (yes, I’m inviting myself already to next years lol).

The moments that weren’t on the schedule

Between sessions, we took a catamaran out to a couple of different islands. I was nervous I’d get seasick — I didn’t — and instead I got one of the best days of the whole trip. We saw stingrays, schools of fish, and even a few sharks. Friendly ones. The non-human-eating variety, I promise and it was truly magical. 

When it was time to fly home, I was genuinely sad to leave my new friends behind and a place that felt like home to me. I have family from PR and I’ve never been so this was like a soulful reunion for me. That’s the thing nobody tells you about a trip like this: you come for the photography and you leave with so much more. 

Yes, I travel for boudoir sessions

So let this be the official word: I travel for sessions. Whether it’s a destination shoot, a milestone trip, or a group of friends who want to turn a getaway into something unforgettable, this is exactly the kind of work I said yes to a plane ticket for. If you’ve been dreaming about boudoir somewhere beautiful, let’s talk about it.

Bringing the island home: Beach Boudoir Micro Mini Sessions in Chicago

Here’s the best part for my Chicago women: you do not have to get on a plane to feel this. I’m bringing every technique, pose, and bit of island energy I picked up in Puerto Rico straight to a Chicago beach for two days of summer fun.

Beach boudoir micro mini sessions are happening Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12. Each session is $250 for 5 images, and you choose your vibe:

• Fruit & coconut:  juicy, tropical, sun-soaked. Think bright color, fresh fruit, coconuts, and that just-off-the-beach glow.
• Surfer Girl: soft, sweet, and sun-kissed. A dreamier, glazed-in-light look that’s all golden skin and ease. Surfboard included of course. 

As of now, Saturday has four spots open and Sunday has one. These sessions are seasonal and tend to fill fast, so booking your consult quickly is the best way to claim a spot.

Puerto Rico reminded me that this work is meant to feel like freedom. You don’t have to fly anywhere to get it. A Chicago beach in July is the perfect opportunity for you.

Grab one of the last Beach Micro Mini Spots Here before they’re gone! 

xx Bri

FAQ 

Do you travel for boudoir sessions?

Yes. I travel for destination shoots, milestone trips, and group getaways. If you’ve been dreaming of boudoir somewhere beautiful, reach out and let’s plan it.

What is a beach boudoir mini session?

It’s a shorter, seasonal session shot on location at a Chicago beach. You get the same intentional, empowering experience in a condensed format, the perfect if you want to try beach boudoir without booking a full session.

How much is a beach boudoir mini session in Chicago?

These summer minis are $250 for 5 images. You choose between a fruit & coconut vibe or Surfer Girl look.

When are the Chicago beach mini sessions?

Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12. Spots are limited and they fill fast, so booking your consult early is the best way to claim one.

What should I wear to a beach boudoir session?

Anything that makes you feel like the most confident version of yourself! Swimwear, a flowing cover-up, lingerie, or a mix. We’ll talk through it before your session so you feel ready, not guessing.