You can’t teach new tricks to an old photographer. Or can you? Over the last few months, I’ve been feeling uninspired with my boudoir photography and women’s retreats, because well, life’s been busy and a bit unpredictable. With the upcoming retreats and boudoir sessions, I realized I was running on autopilot , sticking to the same routines, and not challenging myself as I used to. I needed to come up with some confidence building habits.

As you can imagine, this has left very little room for the creativity and passion I need to keep inspiring my clients. But in trying to get my mojo back, I’ve discovered that pushing myself to try new things, both in my photography and my personal life, has been incredibly rejuvenating.

If you’re in a similar place and have been feeling disconnected from your creative spark, you’re going to love this post. I’m sharing three new confidence building habits I’ve been trying to boost my energy and creativity.

Hint: There’s also one confidence building habit I’m giving up, despite the fact that a few big name photographers experienced great results with it. Can you guess what it might be? Read on to find out.

Why is Trying New Things in Boudoir Photography and Women’s Retreats So Important?

You may think you have loving yourself all figured out and you don’t need to change a thing. But after working with dozens of incredible women at my retreats and during my boudoir sessions, I’ve discovered that you may be stagnating in your progress without realizing it.

For example, when a client named Rachel first came to me, she was incredibly nervous about stepping in front of the camera for her boudoir session. She had been hesitant to embrace her beauty, thinking she would need to look a certain way to feel confident. Through working together, we were both surprised to discover that she was holding herself back because she hadn’t truly embraced her unique beauty. By trying some of the techniques outlined in this post, Rachel left her session with a newfound confidence and shared that she felt empowered in her own skin.

Want a similar boudoir photography experience? You’re in luck! I’m currently booking spots for my upcoming sessions. Reach out to me here!

Thankfully, I’m not the only one who benefits from challenging myself and trying new things. Let’s get into the three confidence building habits I’ve been trying.

#1. Lean Into Vulnerability

As a photographer, I often feel the pressure to always have it all together. But I’ve realized that embracing vulnerability can lead to some of the most powerful moments. For example, I’ve started opening up more with my clients about my own insecurities and fears. This connection has allowed them to feel safe to express their true selves in front of the camera.

Instead of pretending to have it all figured out, I’ve been focusing on the raw, real moments, which have resulted in some of the most beautiful and empowering shoots I’ve ever done.

Next time you feel anxious or self conscious, try sharing a part of yourself with others – it can open up amazing opportunities for growth and connection.

Check out Confidence Boosting Photo Shoot: How It Can Transform the Way You See Yourself for more on this topic.

#2. Embrace the Uncomfortable

I know, just like you, I have been rolling my eyes whenever someone tells me I need to step outside of my comfort zone. But after a conversation with a fellow photographer, I realized that staying in my comfort zone was limiting my creativity and my connection with clients.

So, I decided to embrace the uncomfortable. Whether it’s trying a new posing technique, or stepping into a more vulnerable space during my women’s retreats, embracing discomfort has pushed me to connect more deeply with my clients and myself.

Here’s what I’ve discovered since stepping out of my comfort zone:

• I’m able to connect more authentically with my clients during boudoir sessions.
• I’m challenging myself to try new styles of photography I never would have attempted before.
• I’m learning how to navigate discomfort and let it guide me toward growth.

#3. Intentionally Plan “Me Time” as a Confidence Building Habit

As a business owner, it’s easy to get caught up in the never ending list of tasks, emails, and client needs. However, I realized that constantly being “on” was draining me. I needed to set aside time just for me – whether it’s meditating, going for a walk, or taking a day to recharge.

By prioritizing my well being, I’ve noticed that I’m more present during boudoir sessions and more energized during my women’s retreats. Giving myself permission to rest has helped me show up better for my clients and be more creative in my work.

Want to learn how to prioritize yourself without feeling guilty? Check out my free guide that will teach you exactly that!

Bonus! I’ve Given Up On Multitasking

Here’s what I’m not doing anymore. Through my work with clients and at my retreats, I’ve discovered that multitasking just doesn’t work for me.

For years, I thought I had to juggle multiple things at once – checking emails while editing photos, or planning retreats while answering client questions. But I’ve learned that multitasking only leads to mistakes and burnout.

This means that I’ve given up on multitasking during critical moments. There is enough chaos in our daily lives without adding to it by trying to do too many things at once.

What I do instead: I’ve replaced multitasking with focused, intentional work. Now, I make time for one task at a time, which has helped me feel more productive and creative.

Key Takeaways for Confidence Building Habits

You can make the most progress in self care by picking a few confidence building habits, giving them a try, and seeing how they work for you. And if one technique doesn’t resonate, don’t be afraid to try another that’s better suited to your personality or style.

There are so many ways to boost your confidence and creativity, and I hope this post has given you some new ideas to try in your self love journey.

Is there a main takeaway that was especially life changing for you? Let me know over on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you!

Here at Photography by Amber Carl, I’m all about helping women embrace their true beauty and create lasting confidence through boudoir photography and life changing women’s retreats.

Want to know more about how boudoir photography can boost your confidence? Reach out here with any questions or comments.

We are lucky to have a supportive group of women who would love to see you on our next retreat or in front of the camera. Book your session today!