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Archive for April, 2015

Here’s another amazing post from guest blogger Kristine Isberg of L`Ecole Nuit. Click HERE to shop and use coupon code SHANNONMICHELLE at checkout for 15% off your lingerie!

It has always surprised me how many women have told me that they wear padded bras, not for the support or added cleavage, but because they are afraid that their nipples may peak through their clothing. Then one evening at an event I was hosting, two women from France were trying on bras and both chose all lace, non-padded bras. As I complimented them on their selections, we got to talking about why so many women in the US are afraid to wear a non-padded bra. I am of the opinion that this is in large part because of the nipple factor. For some reason, there is this belief that a woman’s nipple should never peak through her clothing in public, but remain hidden out of sight behind a thick layer of padding, as if they don’t exist. We want big boobs, but don’t want big nipples. To complicate the situation, women are told to embrace their curves, while at the same time advocating smooth contours that conceal our natural shapes. Think about it, even our swimwear has padding to ensure the natural form of the nipple is concealed at all times, even when wet!

So here are my top 5 reasons, besides the love of the nipple, for wearing unpadded bras:

Boudoir Padded vs Unpadded Bras

[Featured bra created by Black Lace Skin Jewelry]

Comfort 
Soft, sexy and comfortable, unpadded bras are lighter.
Plus, all the support comes from the band.
Underwires help but you don’t need padding to get lift and support.

 

Natural
Padding just doesn’t look natural and can cause awkward bulkiness.
Who wants to add more bulk?
Plus, men are not fans of padding, they want to see and feel the real thing.

 

Confidence
Free your ladies from the padding and you’ll be more confident in your body.
Also it’s not good to advertise what you don’t have.
It’s like makeup, at some point it’s going to have to come off!

 

Health
While there is much debate whether bras are actually good or bad for breasts,
one thing is for certain, breasts should be able to move.
Anything constricted for too long is just not healthy.

 

Fashion
Except for the entertaining, but not realistic, Victoria Secret fashion show,
most designers incorporate natural shapes in their designs –
on and off the runway.

SHOP L`ECOLE NUIT and use coupon code SHANNONMICHELLE at checkout for 15% off your lingerie!

 

Apr 24, 2015
posted in POSING with 0 Comments

As a boudoir photographer, I hear a lot of a body image concerns. In fact during consultations, I ask what concerns my clients have with their body. What do they want to show off and what do they want to hide etc. I hear the typical tummy, thighs, booty response; but just recently, I had a client say her least favorite body part was her arms.

I get that.

It might not be the first thing you think of hiding in boudoir since there’s a whole lot more to hide! LOL. But how many of you hate the look of your arms in pictures? How many of you avoid sleeveless shirts for that reason alone?

No worries. This is quick fix.

But first, let’s talk about why posing works. How many of you have accidentally taken a photograph that is either orange or green looking? Are you convinced you’re an orange person? Or do you just know that something went wrong with the picture?

Of course you’re not orange! So why do you look at a picture of yourself and immediately start with the self hate.

“I must really look like that?!”
“I’m so fat!”
“GROSS!”

How to pose in photos

Did you ever stop to consider that just like color temperature (orange or green photos), there are other factors that go into making an accurate picture of yourself?

Like….lighting, composition, color and of course…posing! Posing is a big part of what goes into creating a great photograph and I’ve learned a lot about posing by working with professional models.

It’s not fair to start judging a photograph of yourself when you don’t yet understand how it all works.

Which brings me back to your fat arms…

Did you know as a general rule, whatever is closest to the camera appears the biggest? This is especially true when you’re using your cell phones or point and shoot cameras! A simple fix for your arms, is to pose with your arms farther away from the camera than the other parts of your body.

[It’s easier than it sounds.]

So, if you are standing with your arms by your side, think about having a very slight bend in your elbows and push your arms back, keeping them just behind your hips. If you have pockets, even better! Put your hands in your pocket (thumb out), bend your elbows and keep them by your side.

Don’t think hands on the hips; think arms behind the hips.

By keeping your arms just slightly behind your hips, your body is now creating dimension that wasn’t originally there. It gives the appearance of depth and you’re no longer on a single plane. Take a look at the models below. Sure they’re skinny, but every single one of them still has their arms behind their hips!

coral

Left: Venexiana | Right: Monique Lhullier

falguni and shane peacock

Falguni & Shane Peacock

JMendel

JMendel

_Khan

Left: Monique Lhullier | Right: Naeem Khan

Practice this in the mirror, then in a selfie and let us know if it helps!
And if you’re local to the Charleston area, work with me directly!

http://shannon-michelle.us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=f2b4ec064f46550c0a422ac24&id=a9b1605d02

All photos © Shannon Michelle Photography.

Most people would say their first year of marriage is the hardest. My mom-in-law once told me that the first 5 years are the hardest but that might just be an adjustment for the Tyson men…lol.

“Most people would say their first year of marriage is the hardest.” That’s what one of my past clients told me when we recently caught up and she was asking me how I was doing and how we couldn’t believe that my one year anniversary was just around the corner. She was kind of taken aback when I told her that this first year has been pretty relaxing and overall a really good year. What we didn’t get into in too much detail, was that the year prior was absolute hell.

Because 80% of my boudoir clients are getting married for the first time, I want to share my story in hopes that you will have an amazing first year too!

Quick background: My husband and I met in high school. Although we had mutual friends and knew of each other, we rarely hung out. And looking back, we were definitely not ready for each other at that time. Thirteen years later, we reconnected on Facebook and got together when I was home visiting family. Because he lived in Virgina and I lived in Boston, we dated long distance for 10 month. It was when he moved to Boston that things really got interesting.

You would think that because we talked every day for 10 months and I spent one week a month with him in person, we knew each other very well. WRONG. No matter how well you think you know someone, when you live with them, you learn a whole lot more about him and about yourself. In fact, there were times where I found myself just staring at him thinking, “Who are you?! This is not the person I know. ” And he may have thought the same of me at times.

I will say this. The year prior to our marriage, we were hit with a lot of triggers for stress. Just after our engagement, there was a period of unemployment, we were planning an out of state wedding, my fiance was in a car accident, his mother was diagnosed with cancer…all this within the first 6 months of our 8 month engagement. It was a lot! And then there’s the issue of communication. I think it’s fair to say that most couples have to learn to communicate but it’s especially hard for two super independent and strong willed 30 something people who are really set in their ways. I used to joke and say that “The only one more stubborn than him, is me.” Probably the reason it works but it doesn’t always make it easy. We hadn’t quite learned yet how to communicate with each other and with all that life was throwing at us, it really exposed that issue and brought it to the surface.

I think our first year has been amazing because we did the hard work the year before our marriage. For better or for worse, I walked down that aisle knowing the good, the bad and the ugly parts of my husband. I will be honest with you that at some point, I did not think we would make it. But I’m glad I saw those parts before we were married. I felt like the decision was still mine. I knew his strengths, his weaknesses and I still chose him. I’m not sure I would have felt the same had we married and then I got to see that other side of us. I would have felt tricked, manipulated, gypped. [And if that’s where you are at in your own relationship, I’m sorry. Just know that it would have happened at some point anyway.] But we chose each other long before we chose each other. I’ve always said “he doesn’t feel like a boyfriend to me, he feels like family.” So, we got help. We found a premarital relationship therapist and we worked on our relationship. We worked hard on our relationship. In fact, we continued to meet with our counselor at least once a month for the next year to check in and keep working on our relationship. We know that our behaviors are learned. We also know that to thrive in this marriage, we must unlearn them. We learned at a very young age how to survive and what was necessary then, may be the very thing that gets in the way of a healthy relationship today.

We both work hard to be better partners and to be emotionally healthy so that we can be a support for one another. It’s not always easy. It’s work. Here are some things I’ve learned about my marriage and I hope they will help yours as well!

MMemories.

Hold on to those “in between” moments. You know the ones; where you are both happy, in love and loving life. Those actually are your “movie moments.” When you’re fighting or feeling discouraged about your relationship, you will need the movie memories to remind you of who you are fighting for.

AAlways say “I love you.”

No one has ever told me they love me more than my husband. He tells me countless times a day and I’ve learned to really appreciate this about him. God forbid anything happen to either of us, we know we will not say “I wish I had said ‘I love you’ more.”

RRegulate your emotions.

Wow, this is a hard one! The way you fight is another learned behavior from a really young age. Arguments are inevitable. It’s not that you fight, it’s how you fight. One of the most difficult but most empowering things I’ve had to learn to accept is that I can only control myself. The old “never go to bed angry” is advice we won’t be taking. Walking away and setting boundaries mid fight is very difficult for us but it’s better than letting the argument escalate to a place where serious emotional damage is done. Regulating your emotions takes practice and emotional reactions are not logical so there’s no point in trying to logically resolve an issue when emotions are high. Sometimes you need space. Don’t let the issue go unresolved but agree to revisit it when you are both calm.

RRespect.

Nothing will destroy a relationship like resentment. And nothing creates resentment like disrespect. Respect is a choice. Make sure you are choosing respect at all times in your relationship.

I I will leave if…

[Let’s make one thing very clear, I don’t believe in ultimatums. This is not about ultimatums; it’s about boundaries.]

A good friend of mine once told me that she and her husband had a list of X, Y and Z things they would not accept in their marriage. It basically says, if one of those things listed is ever done, I have every right to leave you.

I loved this so much that I put this into place in our own marriage!

You see, it’s not intended as a list of threats. It’s a promise of security when things get tough. It’s a promise to him that if things get really difficult between us but that list hasn’t been violated, you can know in your heart that I will stay. And it’s a promise to myself that although things are so bad that I may feel like there is no out, that if shit hits the fan and we are in such a place where we just can’t see straight but the list has not been violated, I stay. I will “put on my big girl panties” [as they say in the south] and I will stay in this relationship and we will work through it to the other side.

AAlways practice patience.

No definition for this one, it just takes practice. Have patience with your husband, yourself and your relationship. While I don’t encourage you to have patience with disrespectful behavior, understand that not all things will be resolved right away. Relationships are complicated. Habits are formed over years and they don’t break overnight. When my husband or I feel down about a disagreement we’ve had, I find it helpful to remember that “It’s ok, we have the rest of our lives to figure this all out.”

G – God.

If nothing else, God is love. While it’s much easier to focus or become fixated on the things we want to change about our husband, focus on the good in him and the love you have for him in your relationship. Love is much quieter than anger, but it is much more powerful. Someone once told me, “you’d be surprised what love can heal.”

EEmpathy.

Saved the best for last. You must have empathy for your spouse. The more you understand him, the more empathy you can have for him. The more empathy you have, the more patience and love you can muster up when you need it the most. I never feel closer or more in love with my husband than when I have practiced empathy. It’s often needed in times of struggle and it’s the one thing that helps me turn toward him when I really want to turn away from him.

Don’t forget the only person you can change, is yourself. Could you use some inspiration? Click HERE.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

This post ended up being much longer than expected but I hope you know you are not alone. Just because our first year of marriage wasn’t a blood-bath doesn’t mean that we haven’t had our year. We just got a jump start on things! And whether you find yourself in the first year of marriage or the first year of your relationship, these challenges are real. They can be extremely difficult and you’ll have to choose love, respect, commitment and empathy regularly. I have no idea what the future brings for us, but what I do know is that we are both willing to work on and fight for our relationship. Remember, the person you are meant to be with will challenge you and push you to grow as a person and that’s not always easy. Thank God that same person is also there to support and love you as well. In celebration of our 1 year anniversary, I welcome you to our wedding vows!

Marriage Vows

 Coleman & Shannon Tyson . May 30, 2014

Apr 20, 2015
posted in FASHION, PRODUCTS with 0 Comments

Designer prints make the perfect gift for any occasion!
Order 1 or all 3 to create a fun wall design in your home or office!

Save 25% with the coupon codes below.

{Discount codes good for 1 Day Only}

MONDAY [Print 1] – MON25
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FRIDAY [Print 3] – FRI25

This week, featuring the Monique Lhullier Spring 2015 collection.

ORDER PRINTS HERE

Designer fashion gift prints Monique Lhullier Spring 2015

 

Apr 11, 2015
posted in PRODUCTS with 0 Comments

We use the new line of lipsticks from Danielle Keefe Artistry today! Click SHOP to order your favorite hydrating lip balm.

LIpstick by Danielle Keefe Artistry

Apr 09, 2015
posted in LINGERIE with 0 Comments

Please enjoy this article by one of our favorite boudoir lingerie vendors, Kristine Iseberg of L`eCole Nuit.
Use coupon code SHANNONMICHELLE at checkout to receive 15% off your order.

HOW TO WEAR GARTER BELTS

“One of my favorite lingerie pieces is the garter belt. I’ve been wearing garter belts practically my whole adult life. I‘ve always found traditional pantyhose too constricting and uncomfortable, especially for all day wear. After switching to garter belts, it didn’t take long before I pleasantly discovered another benefit to wearing them. Men find them extremely sexy!

The most frequent questions I am asked about lingerie from both women and men are related to the garter belt. Many women have never tried a garter belt because they do not know how to wear them. So here are some tips and tricks on how to fasten and wear garter belts.”

How to wear a gart belt Boston boudoir photographer Shannon Michelle

1. What type of hosiery do I need with garter belts?

Stockings work best with garter belts. The top of the stocking has a reinforced double layer to accommodate the garter belt clasps without ripping the stocking itself. Unlike thigh highs, stockings do not have a silicone band to hold them up. They are made specifically for garter belts.

2. How do I fasten the stocking to the garter?

The garter belt typically has four straps that hook the stocking to the front and back of each leg. Once you have the garter on, pull the stocking up (it should reach about mid-thigh), place the side of the strap with the nub underneath your stockings, between your leg and the stocking itself. Next, place the nub in the wide section of the corresponding clip sliding down firmly to hold the stocking in place. As with a bra, you can adjust the length of the garter strap depending on your outfit.

Tip: Your rear straps should be a bit longer to accommodate sitting (and other) positions!

3. Can you wear garter belts under clothing?

Garter belts that are made of a thin material like lace or silk are perfect to wear under clothing. Some styles even offer shaping and smooth the tummy area if they feature a longer front design.

4. Are garter belts comfortable?

Absolutely. They allow you to wear stockings and have your legs looking and feeling sexier than bare legs, while not being constrictive like pantyhose.

5. Do I wear my panties over or under the garter?

You can do both. Most images show the garter worn over the panty. Unless you are wearing it for a boudoir photo shoot, I recommend putting the garter belt on first, then the panties. Why? Because it is easier to pull your panties down without having to unfasten the garter. This is practical if you are out on a date and need to use the ladies room. The other benefit – panties slip off easily – while garter and stockings can remain on during more intimate occasions. Why remove your beautiful, sexy lingerie when keeping it on during sex is so much more fun!

 SHOP HERE | Use coupon code SHANNONMICHELLE at checkout to receive 15% off your order.

Ready for a new headshot? A beauty portrait? Ready to try boudoir? Great! Now what in the world will you wear?! More specifically, what colors look best on you? Keep reading for…

3 Foolproof Ways to Know What Colors You Should Wear in Photos

what to wear for photos

1] Select a color that you love! Is there that one color you feel comfortable in and are happy wearing? Wear that!

2] You know that one color that you don’t love but every time you wear it, you get tons of compliments? Wear that! 

3] Who is your celebrity doppelganger? Google that person and look at her red carpet outfits. What color is she most photographed in? Wear that!
[Hint: She’s not dressing herself; she has a professional stylist.]

The bottom line – Don’t over think it. When you’ve hired the right photographer, you’re going to look great so just enjoy it!
Want more info on what to wear for boudoir? Click HERE to sign up for your free lingerie style guide.

IMG_8497b

Apr 04, 2015
posted in DOMESTICATED DIVA with 0 Comments

Easy BBQ Rib Recipe

[Disclaimer: Cell phone pic with poor lighting. We just couldn’t wait to dig in!!]

You’ll need:

* 1 Pack of Pork Ribs

* 1 Onion

* 2 Cloves of Garlic

* 1 Bottle of BBQ Sauce

In the morning, add one half cup of water at the bottom of a slow cooker, then add ribs. Top the ribs with a sliced onion and diced garlic cloves. Cook for 8 hours on low. Then, remove onions and set aside. In a baking pan, put enough BBQ sauce to cover the bottom of the pan [I used Kraft slow-simmered original barbecue sauce], move ribs from slow cooker to the baking pan and cover the ribs with the rest of the BBQ sauce (1 full bottle). Bake for 15 minutes @375. That’s it!!

These ribs will be falling off the bone and you won’t need a knife.

We enjoyed ours over home made mashed potatoes, topped with the onion I had set aside, along with a glass of Ruffino Prosecco, compliments of Boston Wedding Magazine!
[Thank you very much.]

Let me know how you like them!!

ENJOY THE RIBS! BE SURE TO CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO POSE THINNER IN PICTURES

The strangest thing in my camera bag is a big jar of Petroleum Jelly!

As a boudoir photographer, I can see how thing might make you a little nervous…lol, until I explain what it’s used for. Petroleum Jelly is an amazing way to highlight the skin and create a “glow” but I mostly use it to give you a wet look without the need for glycerin. A little KY, a spritzer of water and you’re good to go! The water will roll right off the jelly and give you those really cool water beads that show up in photos.

Below are some other really fun (but not dirty) ways to use petroleum jelly!

Uses for Petroleum Jelly

NAIL POLISH: Rub on the skin | cuticles around your nails before polishing. If you make a mistake, just wipe it off when your nails dry!

CHAPPED LIPS: Just apply to your lips! A little goes a long way.

MAKE UP REMOVER: Use to remove make up and moisturize your skin at the same time!

 

Click HERE to download your free shopping app & get instant access to coupon codes from some really cool beauty businesses!!