I can tell you a lot about how I work: that I take my time, that you’re free to say ‘no’ at any time, that I won’t touch you and that I’ll tell you what each pose is before we do it. All of that is true – and it’s also set out in my code of conduct.
But to be honest: what the women who have already posed for my camera say is far more convincing than my own words. Five of them have written down their experiences of their photo shoots with me – some of them have posed for my camera many times before. I’m quoting them here exactly as they wrote it, abridged in places.
"I always feel very comfortable and valued"
Nikola has been posing for my camera time and again for a long time now. Her words touched me deeply:
“If anyone deserves 6 stars, it’s definitely Leif. […] He’s a passionate photographer, warm and friendly, and exudes calm and peace during every shoot. I always feel very comfortable and valued.” — Nikola
For me, a sense of calm is the most important element of a boudoir shoot. There’s no time pressure and no frantic instructions. First we have a drink, we have a chat, and only then do I pick up the camera. This makes a huge difference, especially if it’s your first time in front of a camera.
“My input is always valued and taken on board”
A second quote from Nikola describes something that is very important to me:
“And my input is always valued and taken on board. That makes a huge difference to me.” — Nikola
Antonia had a similar experience when we first worked together:
“Our first collaboration went really well – from the planning right through to the shoot, everything was spot on. During the shoot, we were able to bring loads of creative ideas to life and try out new things.” — Antonia S.
A photoshoot with me isn’t just a set routine that I go through. Your ideas, your wishes and your boundaries determine what we create. If you have a favourite outfit, a particular mood in mind or an image that inspires you, then bring it along. And if you can’t picture anything yet, we’ll come up with ideas together.
"Time really does fly"
Before their first photoshoot, many women feel a sense of trepidation about the moment when things ‘get serious’. Jennifer describes what it actually feels like:
“When you’re on a shoot with you, time just flies by, so much so that you find yourself thinking: Where on earth has the time gone? […] I can highly recommend you.” — Jennifer
And Martina, who I’ve been working with for a very long time, sums it up perfectly:
“Every shoot with you is great fun, creative and has a brilliant atmosphere. […] And the results? Fantastic!” — Martina
Boudoir photography can be sensual – yet still light-hearted. There’s plenty of laughter in my sessions. I’ll show you each pose and tell you what looks good. After the first few minutes, the nerves usually fade away all by themselves.
“It’s almost as if we’re a well-oiled machine”
In her feedback, Jessy mentions someone who is present at some of the photo shoots: my wife, Andrea.
“It was a brilliant afternoon. We made good progress – it almost felt as if we were already a well-oiled team. It was just great to work with you again – and, of course, with Andrea, whose ideas for the outdoor shoot brought a whole new perspective.” — Jessy
If you feel more comfortable with another woman in the room, Andrea can be there for the whole shoot if you’d like. And of course, you’re also welcome to bring your best friend, your sister or someone else you trust. The important thing is that you feel safe.
What these voices have in common
When I compare the five pieces of feedback side by side, three things strike me:
- They felt at ease. Not just ‘managed to get through it somehow’, but genuinely at ease.
- Your views were taken on board. Your ideas have been incorporated into the pictures.
- They want to come back. Almost all of them talk about next time.
For me, that’s the best compliment of all: anyone who’s ever posed for my camera is happy to come back.
What if it’s your first photoshoot?
Then you’ve come to the right place. Every woman who comes to me receives the same calm, the same care and the same respect that these five women talk about – whether you’ve had experience in front of the camera before, whether you’re not feeling particularly comfortable in your own skin at the moment, or whether you’re simply curious.
You don’t need any particular skills or to bring anything with you – just a willingness to set aside a few hours for yourself. We’ll do the rest together.
The first step is very simple
Drop me a line – there’s no obligation. During our initial chat, we’ll get to know each other; you can ask any questions you’ve got on your mind, and only then will you decide whether you’d like a photoshoot. No pressure and no obligation.
Perhaps you’ll be here yourself soon – speaking in your own voice.
I’m looking forward to seeing you.
Leif Sundelius
