Meet Sharon Capps | Boudoir Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sharon Capps and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sharon, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
When I first enrolled for college, we had to take a career personality test that was created to help guide us into to choosing a degree. My test results were as follows: option 1 – Bartender. Option 2 – Photographer. Now at the time, I was of course frustrated because first, why is bartender an option for choosing a degree? And secondly, I had zero interest in anything photography related.

Fast forward a few semesters. I am a huge procrastinator (bad for business I know), and I waited until the last minute to enroll for my classes. The only option for an elective was film photography, which I hesitatingly accepted, mostly because I had no choice. I was given a school issued camera, I believe it was a Minolta 35mm Camera. The second that camera was placed in my hands, something clicked. I felt excitement and an eagerness to learn like I’d never experienced before.

I spent the next several years taking it all in. All of the education I could get my hands on, anything photography related, I wanted to know. I transferred to The Art Institute where I graduated with a bachelors of art with a focus in photography. I then photographed part time for another 10 years. I photographed anything and everything: weddings, newborns, children, couples, etc.

It wasn’t until a friend asked me to take some “sexy” photos of her that I learned of boudoir photography. I of course took on the task but wasn’t familiar with the posing aspect of sexy photos. I again dove head first into researching everything there was to know about boudoir. I stumbled across a Facebook group geared specifically towards boudoir photographers and it took me down a rabbit hole. Reading all of these other photographers posts about how fulfilled their life was since switching strictly to boudoir and how they really made a difference in those they photographed.

I dabbled in boudoir until I grew tired of the universe’s subtle pushes towards it, which is when I gave in and went full force. I now only shoot boudoir and it has completely changed my life. I’m so close to being able to retire from the 9-5 and go full time with my photography. Not only that, but my work makes a difference in others lives as well. I cannot begin to describe how it feels to watch someone happy cry when they see their photos for the first time. Or to watch a woman’s confidence come to life right before your eyes during a shoot. I have personally struggled with confidence in my life, just as I know majority of other women have as well. It’s not an easy thing being a woman in today’s society, and sometimes it’s difficult to appreciate your body as it is at this moment in time.

Along with photographing boudoir, I have created a private Facebook group for all women to come together and celebrate each other without the fear of being judged. I believe it’s so important that we have a tribe of humans that will be there for you on your tough days, because let’s face it, we all have them. Our tribe is thriving at almost 3,000 beautiful souls and growing every day.

I don’t believe I chose a creative career, I believe the path was already set for me and I just had to find my way there.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I empower women by allowing them to rediscover the love they once had for themselves, but may have lost somewhere along their journey in life. I give women a chance to redefine themselves, often at their darkest moments. I help them love the here and now version of their body, regardless of where they started or will end up. Each chapter of your life is worth celebrating.

I am growing and learning by the day. I didn’t get to where I am overnight. In fact, I began this journey over 10 years ago and am just recently discovering who I really am as an artist. I just take everything day by day. Are there setbacks? Sure! Is the struggle worth it? Absolutely!

I believe what sets me apart from other IS my story. I was that girl, who didn’t feel worthy or good enough. Who felt like the world was constantly moving on without me. I never slowed down or stopped long enough to appreciate who I was or what I had to offer. Once I began shoot boudoir, I quickly realized how much of an impact appreciating yourself, even for a moment can make. I strive to make each experience for each client unique. I want them to know they matter and that it’s ok to love themselves, because sometimes we need reassurance that it’s ok.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d start with a day of shopping at the Galleria Mall in Dallas, followed by a dinner at Melting Pot (I love fondue). I would make sure we caught either Rangers game or Cowboys game depending on the time of year. I would also want to make sure we made a show at Medieval Times. We would spend a day at Six Flags of Texas riding all of the biggest rides. We’d spend Friday night hanging in PBR at Texas Live, maybe even be brave enough to ride the bull. Then end the trip with walking around Downtown Dallas, and go up in Reunion Tower to take in the view.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I am blessed with an amazing support system. Everyone from my mom, best friends, even my son! They have all sacrificed along this journey with me.

If I had to chose just one that has pushed me the most, it would have to be my own personal hype man and best friend, Mr. T. It’s tough building a business all while working a full time job. On days that I thought about giving up, he reminded me why I started and that I have no choice to but to push though. He’s been my assistant, my cheerleader, my leader at times when I needed guidance, and even a hype man to my clients during their shoots. They love him too! I wouldn’t have made it this far without him in my corner.

Website: www.riskayboudoir.com

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