January mountain water boudoir: when your client is brave asf

I do a lot of outdoor boudoir sessions in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest year-round. But when J said they wanted to get in mountain water in January, I was like "are you fucking sure about this?" Spoiler: they were sure. And it was the best!

J is one of those people who's just genuinely kind, thoughtful, and intentional about everything. Which meant they showed up prepared - mentally and physically - to do something most people would consider absolutely wild. Getting in cold mountain water in winter for a boudoir session? That's not just brave, that's badass.

Winter golden hour is a gift from the photography gods

We caught golden hour in January, which is rare and gorgeous as hell. The light was soft, warm, and made everything look magical. J in the water with that winter light? Chef's kiss. These are the moments that remind me why I love outdoor photography - you can't replicate this in a studio. Nature gives you what nature gives you, and when it's good, it's fucking spectacular.

The session itself: cold water, warm energy

During the session, J was focused and present. No complaints about the cold water (though I'm sure it was freezing). Just trust in the process and willingness to be vulnerable. That's what makes outdoor boudoir sessions work - clients show up as themselves and trust that we're going to create something beautiful together.

After the session, we'll turn these images into customized artwork for J's home. Because moments like this (aka when you're brave enough to get in mountain water in January) deserve to be on your walls as daily reminders of your own badassery.

For PNW folks ready to do something wild

If you're in Seattle or the Pacific Northwest and you want outdoor photography that celebrates you exactly as you are—whether that's boudoir, family portraits, or anything in between—I'm here for it. Plus size, queer, polyam, whatever your story is, let's document it. Even if it involves cold water in January.