All about Self Love Sessions and Why Every Modern Woman Deserves One

In a world that constantly demands attention and energy, taking a moment to celebrate yourself isn’t just a luxury, it’s a necessity. Take it from me, a now mom of two. After juggling the ups and downs of motherhood, I truly understand the importance of self love and care. Which is exactly why I’ve decided to shift my main focus under The Grey Edit Photo to empowering women through self love photography. Allow me to take a few minutes to share about my Self Love Sessions — the power behind them and why every modern woman deserves one.

What is a Self Love Session?

A self love session is not your average photoshoot. It’s an empowering, uplifting day dedicated entirely to you, all about embracing your unique beauty and personality in a comfortable, supportive environment. A self love session is this incredible, transformative experience that goes far beyond the images you’ll get out of it. From the planning to the day of — you’ll show up as your truest, most authentic self, letting me, your trusted photographer/friend/hype women, take care of the rest.

Who is a Self Love Session for?

A self love session is for the modern, everyday woman. The hard-working, does-it-all-somehow, beautiful-inside-and-out girl who deserves to be celebrated. Who needs a reminder that taking care of her needs and allocating time for self care is not selfish. Who wants to document this moment in time. To be reminded of the woman she is. To honor the body she’s worked so hard on, that’s also worked so hard for her. It’s an experience for every woman. Who’s transforming and evolving. Who’s made a name for herself. Who wants to be reminded of who she really is. Who wants to celebrate a milestone. Who wants to give the gift of photography to a partner, or hell, herself for that matter. Who just wants to take a day off to get glammed, sip champagne and really, truly feel herself. No age restrictions, no body requirements… you as you are now.

How is a Self Love Session different than Boudoir?

While both self love and boudoir photo sessions are about embracing and celebrating your unique beauty and spirit, they have distinct differences that cater to individual preferences and comfort levels. Originally, the word "boudoir" refers to a lady’s private dressing room - a spot for getting dolled up or relaxing in the bath. Nowadays, when we talk boudoir photography, it often brings to mind images of lingerie, posing provocatively in sultry poses. But here’s where self love sessions enter the chat — embracing a broader and more inclusive philosophy. A self love session is all about embodying your version of confidence and leading your own level of sexy — baring as little or as much skin as you’d like. The focus is on celebrating yourself in a way that feels authentic and empowering, making it a deeply personal and customizable experience.

What can I expect from a Self Love Session?

When you book a self love session with me, it’s an experience. So naturally, there’s a process which lasts several months so you can properly plan (view the process broken out in more detail here). First, you’ll inquire via my site. Then we’ll jump on a consult call where I’ll share about my process and pricing and you’ll share what you’re looking for. If we’re a good fit and you’re ready to move forward, you’ll pay your $550 session fee to book a spot on my calendar and can decide if you’d like to pre-pay for your photos, as these are separate, or wait until after your shoot (clients can spend anywhere from $1200-$5000). Planning will follow, leading up to your shoot date with lots of emails, guides, resources, a planning call. On the day of, you’ll show up for hair and makeup and take the day off as after our 4-5 hours together, you’ll be on such a high you’ll want to take yourself out. 1-2 weeks following your shoot, you’ll be invited into my home office for a photo reveal session where you’ll select the photos you’d like to purchase and then 1-2 months after, you’ll receive the finished product for your to enjoy for a lifetime.

Why is a Self Love Session such an investment?

While the financial investment for a self love session ranges on average between $3000-$3500, the value you gain from the experience is immeasurable. This photo session is an investment in your self-esteem and confidence. It’s a celebration of who you are at this moment in time. The impact of this experience extends far beyond the photoshoot. It’s about carrying that sense of empowerment and self love with you every day.

Why do you feel it’s important to print images from your Self Love Session?

In this digital age, we often forget the power of physical mementos. A self love session aims to turn the empowering images we capture from your photo shoot into art. I’ve spent time finding the best luxury products from print shops around the world and offer a range of heirloom products across albums, folio boxes, wall art, prints and more. To ensure your photographs are preserved to truly capture your essence, ensuring your legacy lives on. You’ll be able to relive the experience through the art we create and you have access to in tangible form, to truly cherish for a lifetime.

Why should every woman experience a Self Love Session?

In the hustle of daily life, it's easy to forget your own worth. A self love session serves as a powerful reminder of your inner and outer beauty. Life is a journey, and every stage deserves to be celebrated, documented and remembered. This photoshoot captures your story at this moment, creating a timeless keepsake. To be able to look back at these photos years from now, and share with future generations… serving as a testament to your strength, beauty, and confidence.


In conclusion, a self love photoshoot is more than just a day of pampering and photography. It's a profound experience that affirms your worth, beauty, and strength. It’s about creating a legacy that celebrates you—not just for who you are now, but for who you will always be. So, to every modern woman out there: You are amazing, and it’s time to document and celebrate that.

If you’re interested in chatting more about a self love session for you — hit me up, girl.

Cortney Bigelow

A lifestyle photographer and blogger, based in Seattle. Serving women, amplifying and celebrating their every move.

https://thegreyedit.com
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What to Expect When You Book a Photo Session with Me