Currently adding magician to my resume. I’m no Chris Angel but hey I’ll take it. Pick a photo any photo. I’ll close my eyes…now let me guess you LOVE IT?! (I crack myself up). When showing Miss L her images at her reveal this response was pure gold, gold I tell ya! I strive for magic level EVERY photoshoot.
Are you a murderer? | South Carolina Boudoir
It’s a couple of days before my session with Mrs. E and suddenly my phone rings. I didn’t get to it in time, of course. But a voice mail pops up; “hey it’s so and so, I have a session on Sunday and I’m nervous…”(she sounds adorable by the way). She proceeds with “and my husband asked how do I know you’re not a murderer”. At this point I about fell out of my chair. I’ll be honest this was a first, but seriously I’m shocked more women doing ask this. Seeing as I have one too many horror movies under my belt, mind you I LOVE horror movies, it has resulted in a very paranoid head space. So needless to say, even though I found so much humor in this very innocent question, I totally related to her husband at that point. I have made a point in “beefing” up my website with any and every thing you could possibly think of. All the questions I have ever been asked is on my FAQ page. I got personal on my bio page because I want anyone who is interested in a boudoir shoot to feel like they know me. It’s such a personal and intimate session and there has to be a level of trust established. But even with all the information I lay out in my website, sometimes it’s a voice that you need to hear. For those who are extra nervous or you know, paranoid (points a finger at my own face) I’m more than happy to talk on the phone or hell even facetime. Even though I don’t do face to face pre-session consultations, I do establish a great level of connect and trust with my clients. So when I called Mrs. E back, we immediately connected, laughed and most importantly put her mind at ease. She had the chance to ask the last minute questions she had on her mind and we talked about other things as well like her excitement about the new house they purchased. By the end of our conversation, she was ready to do this! Most importantly, learned that No, I am not a murderer (still laughing about this)!
“I was very very nervous but Tiffany made me feel at home! There were no awkward moments or points where I felt uncomfortable! Tiffany is such a pro at what she does! I have and would recommend her to all of my friends!”
“Actually being able to see myself for what I look like, and seeing my husbands reaction to the photos has been so liberating. Before now I was always worried that being plus size meant I wasn’t beautiful. My boudoir experience has helped me realize that being big and beautiful are two sides of the same coin.”
That last comment got me. Especially after she revealed to me during her session that she had actually contacted another local boudoir photographer before me, and was DECLINED because of her size. I am still appalled, speechless, and most of all angry as hell that this incredible, beautiful woman was turned down. Which of course, I 1000% believe that photographer missed out. She/he missed out on not only knowing this sweet, vivacious woman but to have photographed her. I mean look how photogenic she is! Needless to say, I am beyond honored to have had the opportunity to not only have met her but also show her just how incredibly beautiful she is and that size should never be a factor to determine your beauty, worth, or anything really. Each and every woman is remarkable in her own unique way.
Thank you Mrs. E for having the courage not once but TWICE, and putting yourself out there once again when you contacted me. I am forever in awe of you and beyond grateful to have you as a part of the TMS family.
Are you in need of a reminder of how beautiful you are too?
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She's got all the moves | Columbia, SC Boudoir
Today’s client feature, like all my clients, is a very special one. Mrs. B came to me ready to have a great time, and fully ready to trust me every step of the way. Not only that, she was 1000% prepared for her session, having read my VERY EXTENSIVE prep guide probably 100 times ( I kid of course, BUT you catch my drift). We talked about her ideas and what she wanted from her session. One thing that jumped out was she wanted movement. We all know I love some motion blur in an image, so I was damn near giddy when she mentioned the thought. My favorite part was after the session though. She left with a bit of pep in her step, so excited to see the outcome. As I do with all my clients, I sent her a little preview picture that day. She knew from just that ONE picture she was going to want all her images, and upgraded her package right then. This is usually inevitable, as most clients do this at their reveal.
Here’s what she has to say:
Hair and make up by Liz Yturria
“I absolutely loved everything about doing this photo shoot with Tiffany! At first I was very nervous but she made me feel comfortable and confident. I love how she is very detailed oriented to every single picture (from making sure my hair was in the right place to how to hold my hands). ”
“This isn’t something I would normally do but it was a fun time and I would totally do it again! It was perfect! I feel like I am more confident than before.”
Months later I received an email after I thanked her for referring a friend to me. It was an update on how she’s been doing since the dreaded pandemic. Much like everyone else she’s been through a hell of alot since our time together, this part is not my story to tell, but her email brought so many tears to my eyes. She told me about how she revisited her images and how they reminded her of how strong of a woman she is.
“ I often think about how I felt when I was at my photo shoot with you.....I felt strong and empowered. I hope you realize how amazing you make people feel. I look at those pictures often and tell myself over and over that I am a strong person and I can do anything. You captured that and I am so grateful for that. I know things happen for a reason and I truly believe God put you in my life at that moment to help me remember that I am a strong, sassy, powerful woman 😊. During all of these uncertain times I feel like it is important to remind people of their greatness, and you are pretty freaking awesome!!! Can’t wait for the next session 😊 ”
I thank you Mrs. B for such an amazing time together and for the sweet words that came later. You my friend are truly a strong, confident, beautiful woman; capable of so much! Much like the furniture you bring back to life, you are a work of art and I wish you all the best. Until next time…
Want your own session full of movement? Let’s talk!
More Than A Mom | COLUMBIA, SC BOUDOIR
This woman right here; this unbelievably kind, beautiful, INCREDIBLE woman had me in tears when she left the studio. Not because she was a difficult client but because her story broke my heart and I could tell how unsure she was of herself when she walked in. Her lack of confidence was unbelievable. So when she left with a bigger smile than when she came in and had a little pep in her step as she walked out and dare I say little excitement to see her images, I wept.
The day of her reveal, I’ll admit I was a bit nervous. Not that I thought I didn’t do a good job, because I knew I loved the images we created. I worried that she wasn’t going to see the same woman her husband and I see. Her husband came with her for this and as they sat down I felt a little pit in my stomach. I started the slide show and the silence was deafening. After the longest minute of my life, I heard “Are you crying?” I was so scared to turn around. As I did he asks “Are these good or bad tears?” and like a breath of fresh air I for one so desperately needed, I hear between the tears “GOOD! I just can’t believe it’s ME!” Talk about choking back some more tears, she had seen what we see.
She is beautiful, a true goddess.
In her words:
“I am just a mom.
After having children, gaining a good bit of weight, and even losing the weight, I had felt like I lost a lot of self confidence and even a little of who I was. I had looked at boudoir photography before, but never felt like I had the right body type or was pretty enough to do them. I had shared my thoughts with my husband a while back. One day he decided it was a time in my life I needed to feel amazing and feel beautiful again. He found Tiffany Marie Studios through a friend and booked my session for my 39th birthday. I was so excited, but also nervous my body wasn’t good enough. Although I did work hard and lose a few pounds, I didn’t push myself any more than I would have normally. I stressed about that, but then put it behind me going into the session. ”
“Tiffany made me feel as comfortable as possible during the entire experience as well as giving me a boost of confidence leaving the studio. Even before seeing the first photo I felt better about myself than I have in a long time. After seeing the first sneak peek photo I felt even better. Tiffany is an artist to say the least. She has a tasteful eye for this type of photography. I’m so happy I chose her for my session. If I could say to all the moms out there, especially the ones with low self esteem, whatever your shape or size, do this. I don’t think I ever felt so beautiful.”
I couldn’t have said it better myself. It’s women like K that inspires me to do what I do. As a mom its hard sometimes to see our bodies go through such a transformation and then afterwards we feel for so long that we’ve lost our identity. We are the human creators, boo boo kissers, snack makers, and everything in between that our kids need from us and we gladly do it because we love them; we’d give our last breath for them. That doesn’t mean we should let it consume our entire identity, after all we are more than just moms. We are business owners, career women, philanthropist, wives, and most of all bad asses for doing it all! So start taking back your identity, I’m not saying neglect your children, but remember you’re more than mom, momma, mommy.
Men if you’re reading this too, take notice of your significant other, hear her when she’s standing in the mirror hating on her body. Give her the kind words she needs to hear, even if it’s the 1000th time you’ve said it. After all she gave birth to your mini me, crotch goblin. And if you want to talk about setting up a session for her, gift certificates are available! It’s ok to give a light push, just remember these aren’t for you but for her!
Bold, Sexy, and Beautiful | South Carolina Boudoir Studio
Miss A had always wanted to do a session and she got her chance after being the big winner of one of my donated boudoir/beauty sessions. I give one of these each year to a breast cancer group such as the YSC (Young Survival Coalition). Despite pulling her back out the morning of her session, she came rather than canceling. After all that would have been the easier thing to do. But she didn’t! A decision neither of us regret. She came in full of excitement and nerves, just like all the women who walk through my doors. But she was quick to say she was up for anything and willing to trust me and any of my suggestions. She was there for the experience and wanted to enjoy every part of it. After talking a bit before her shoot I learned she has a wild soul and I wanted to capture just that!
“This experience is a MUST DO!! Tiffany makes you feel right at home in her studio. From the moment you walk in door until your final selections of photographs are made, she will walk you through everything. ”
“Having your pictures to cherish for years to come is priceless... Don’t you want to be able to look back one day and say, “Look at ME. I was Bold. I was Sexy. I was Beautiful.” Do it....now...don’t wait...”
Thank you Miss A for putting your trust in me! Until next time…
xoxo,
Tiffany Marie
In Memory of Justin Cotterman | Truly A Legend
I was sitting in carline at my son’s school when my husband texted me the terrible news of Justin’s passing on Wednesday, January 29, 2020. I was so shocked and utterly speechless. I sat and cried as my brain went through one by one of all the memories I had of him. They were few and far between, unfortunately, as we weren’t close friends but friends to say the least. I first met Justin at his wedding, back when I was a wedding photographer. I had already spent some time with Alisha for her bridals, which I instantly adored her. Then low and behold we discovered that our husbands were friends from school. On the day of their wedding I walked up to Justin to introduce myself and get started with his portraits. He welcomed me with one of the biggest, most welcoming smiles I had ever seen and immediately started talking to me as if I’d known him for ages. He just had that kind of personality. The kind that made you feel at ease when you were around him, and could make you laugh instantly no matter your mood. And how he convinced ME of all people to dance at his wedding is beyond me. That is something I would have never done. Aside from my two left feet, I was there to document the day not to be apart of it. But Justin wanted EVERYONE to enjoy their wedding in celebration of him and Alisha. And the way he looked at her, I remember thinking “Now this is how every woman deserves to be looked at on their wedding day.” He was utterly in love ; They were absolutely perfect and meant for each other. I also remember how incredibly kind he was. He didn’t know me at all but he had this way about him that made you feel like you have known each other and for a lifetime. I was instantly welcomed into their circle and I had the MOST amazing time photographing their wedding and capturing the love between them. Afterwards, I kept in touch with the happy couple over the years. Occasionally, Justin would stop by to see my husband and we would talk and laugh about the silliest things. Later, when they were expecting their sweet Olivia Rae, I was asked to take their maternity pictures. I was so ecstatic for them! I knew they were going to make incredible parents. And the love Justin had to share, who better deserving than his two beautiful girls. During the maternity session Justin was nothing but laughs, jokes and full of support helping Alisha across the field or in the various poses I had in store. Later to have heard from Alisha the tragedy of losing their baby girl shortly after their pictures was heartbreaking. I often thought about all they went through not knowing what to say or do for them, but always sent them healing thoughts and prayers. They never left my heart over these years.
Yesterday my husband and I attended Justin’s funeral . The ceremony was so beautiful; To see almost 500 people in attendance, knowing that Justin had impacted so many lives in our community was incredible. Hearing the stories that were told I quickly noticed something they all had in common, everyone talked about how kind he was. The type of person that would give the shirt off his back to someone in need. I know many more have their own “Justin story” and I’m sure Alisha and many others would love to hear them. I want to ask anyone that has one to please share them whether it be here, or on facebook/Instagram. I will also be starting a care package for Alisha, if anyone would like to contribute please feel free to email/message me. In addition to the care package I will be donating 30% of any bookings I get for the month of February to the Cotterman family. I’m not asking for you to book because of this donation but if a shoot has been on your mind just know you will also be contributing to helping a family in our community. One last request is one I’ve seen Alisha ask for, and that is for anyone who is able to please go and donate blood or plasma. I will be going this week to my nearest by blood drive; here is the link for you to find your closest one as well.
Justin your passing has left a huge hole in this community Thank you for showing us what kindness, love and compassion truly is. You will be missed, friend.
Another Year Around The Sun
Welp here we are again, my birthday. The day I use to dread just 3 years ago. Now, not so much. More like welcoming it with open arms. I’m 32 and damn proud! I used to loath getting older. Now, I get excited for the day I can yell for kids to get off my lawn and it be acceptable because I’m the wild, old lady up the road. Until, that day I plan to keep celebrating each year with some fun self portraits (yep, actually made time for it this year) and slight reflection of the years past.
Since my last birthday I have learned/done the following adult-ish things….
Actually started a true skin care routine and sticking to it.
Stopped giving my self permission to dress like a I don’t care JUST because I’m a mom of two and currently have a 1 year old.
Started a capsule wardrobe and being more selective in what I buy (quality over quantity for now on my friends)
Investing more in the friendships that matter.
Started wearing less and less makeup and embracing my actual skin under it all.
Decided bras really are just dumb, so I go with out 80% of the time now. F-U BRAS!
Have discovered silence is sacred
Learned to truly listen to my body when its screaming at me to get help and take it easy. My autoimmune helped me realize this the most. I’m listening body, I’m listening.
Decided to take better care of my self and not just because fad diets tell me to.
Adapted the mantra “Nobody cares, like you think they care.” Thank you Schitts Creek for that one.
Simply put, I have realized most of all age is just a number. And even though I’m 32 and don’t tend to fit in with most women my age and certainly not younger, that it really doesn’t matter. As long as I’m living my most authentic self, and continue to do what I love the most, and love those I hold closest to my heart. I have truly found my happy place. It only took me this long to find it. This is the first time I can truly say I know who I am and see clearly of what I want to accomplish in the future. I thank my clients most of all for that. Hearing each of your stories has opened my eyes in so many ways.
Thank you as always for letting me share with you bits and pieces about me over these years.
Cheers!
Now let’s eat some cake.
Until Next Time | South Carolina Boudoir
The first time you have a boudoir experience, it’s great, it’s fun and hella nerve wracking. Before the session you’re breaking pinterest saving any thing and everything because your MIGHT love it. You're disheveling your closet wondering what to bring, “does this fit?”, “is it cool enough?”, Is it ME?”. You may even start drafting an email to me titled I need to cancel. But then delete, then restart and delete that same email multiple times. The day comes and you have butterflies, you show up early and circle around, working up the nerves to finally park. I meet you outside with a smiling and understanding face. I know you’re most likely nervous, because everyone that walks through my doors are. We get started with your hair and makeup and I start going through the 20ish outfits you brought narrowing it down to the beloved 3. Shortly your nerves start to fade while my hair and makeup artist does her thing. We have fun, some times REAL girl talk. Sooner than you think your done and it’s time to start your shoot. Those pesky nerves reappear, DAMN IT. The moment we start shooting you’re unsure of everything, “how’s my face, my body ect.” I assure you, you’re doing great, just listen to my words. After about 5 minutes you’re suddenly sinking into poses like a natural. You don’t even realize it’s becoming easier. I tell you just wait until next time, you will be doing this like you were born to be in front of the camera.
WAIT, NEXT TIME?!
You start to think next time? Why will there be a next time? Then you come back for your reveal and you get it. Seeing yourself suddenly in a new light and a new way. HELL YEA there WILL be a NEXT time.
The SECOND time you book…you no longer feel those first time jitters. You know what to expect. You already have an idea of what you will wear. Perhaps nothing, nothing at all. The first time you weren’t so sure. But this time why the hell not?! You come in and we start talking like long lost friends. Hair and make up is a breeze. The shoot starts and it’s so easy! You immediately start relaxing, taking deep breaths. Look a way, from the camera. Now bring your eyes back to me. I barely have to direct you as you already know what I’m about to say. You are working the camera like a model. So sure of yourself. So sure of my skill. You know we are going to create something amazing. What you don’t know until your reveal is we created something truly unforgettable. You realize you love your second shoot slightly more than your first. We did some cool new things you would have only dreamt about your first shoot. You’re already picking out your wall art because you are for sure are blowing yourself up (for lack of better words). And then you catch yourself thinking about when you come back for the THIRD time.
“Tiffany is just amazing. So much more than a photographer, she is truly and artist. The session with was amazing. She allows you to forget everything going on and just focus on yourself. Learning to love every part of your body even with the tiny flaws. You will feel beautiful, sophisticated and regret not doing a session earlier!”
Miss J and I have already started talking about the next time and I will be excitedly awaiting for that email when she comes back in.
Fall In Love With Yourself | South Carolina Boudoir
To fall in love with yourself is one of the hardest things to achieve for women. Life tends to happen around us every day and it's so easy to be caught up in the whirlwind of motherhood, marriage, work, ect. No matter the life stage you're at now, it tends to consume you until you are, well, no longer you. Looking in the mirror it's like "who is this haggard shell of me". We work so hard to keep all the relationships in our life a live that we tend to forget that one with ourselves. Women are just naturally selfless. We give so much to the loved ones in our lives, that we don't think about the love we need to give to ourselves. Instead we spend that time picking apart our lives and bodies, because we "can always do better'.
Many of my clients are just like this. These women come to me for so many various selfless reasons, but there's always that one reason to want to find themselves again that I like to focus on. Some don't even realize that they needed to rediscover their sexuality, femininity, or the love they once had for themselves until after the shoot. That moment of "holy shit, that's me!" almost always happens much to my delight. It's in that moment when their eyes do one of two things, light up with this intense fire or well up in tears of shock, happiness, and realization that they are as beautiful as they see other women. Both reactions are purely priceless.
Today's featured client is no different. She's a mom of two, a wife of a deployed husband, and a inspiration to others through her passion of beach body. As you can imagine she has so much on her plate, handling day to day life mostly by herself. Yet, she still finds time to inspire others just like her. She originally came to me looking to do these as an anniversary gift, but left with so much more!
Hair and makeup by Brooke Arthur of The Color Bar
"It’s an amazing experience of falling in love with yourself!"
"As women we are very judgmental of our bodies that we forget how beautiful we really are. When you are in the moment and/or see your pictures you are like wow. You will be surprised how much doing these pictures aren’t just for your special someone but for yourself. Love yourself first!"
I am beyond honored to have helped Miss S fall in love with herself again. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU, Miss S for your amazing review, for your trust, and for choosing me. You are strong, beautiful, and a total BADASS.