“There is only one sun. We can’t all claim to only have one way to use the light, but we can REDEFINE how we choose to express it. “

Why are you passionate about this topic?

JCP : I have always had a passion for creating and expressing myself through art. It’s something I’m attracted to without thinking too much about why. I am driven to capture simple, emotional, and thought-provoking images. I have become obsessed with light so much I will stop and start to appreciate a golden glow on a building or shadow covering my son’s cheek. If I’m with someone I’ll make sure they appreciate it too! haha
Transforming moments into art is extremely satisfying and powerful.

When did you first learn this technique? Or, when did you first realize you liked this topic?

JCP: My love for photography blossomed in my high school photography class shooting film and developing it in the black room. There is something magical about bringing a creative vision to life.

What are the tips you would share with anyone trying to achieve this technique? 

-envision what you want to accomplish before you begin your session. take the time you need to thoughtfully prepare your shot. keep in mind the lighting, composition, body language etc., background, and mood
-connect with other photographers
-don’t be afraid to screw up. Some of my “mistakes” have transformed my work into something beautiful
-be inspired by the world around you. For me, it’s nature, music, movie scenes, and other photographers
-don’t be afraid to ask your clients to do weird things if you have a vision… they will thank you for it

What were the challenges for you in the beginning?

JCP: I was a supply teacher for 7 years before starting
Joanna Crichton Photography, so I struggled with the business side of things. Managing my time has been difficult for me. Being a mama and running a business has been a huge learning experience. The Blissful Maven posted something on her Instagram that really resonated with me. “The obligation for working mothers is a very precise one: the feeling that one ought to work as if one did not have children, while raising one’s children as if one did not have a job.” It’s a balancing act I am working on everyday.

How do you prepare for a dare to bare session?

JCP: The most important thing is that my clients are comfortable in their session. Mind you if they have committed to a dare to bare session with me they are likely to open and free-spirited which works to both of our advantages to create beautiful art. Before a session, I visualize the angles, light, poses, and mood for the shoot but ultimately a huge part of how my shots turn out is the partnership created between my client and me. Sometimes my visions are derailed by stumbling into some beautiful light or getting inspired by a curve in the body and we run with it throwing the plans out the window for something unexpected.

How does it compare to other boudoir sessions?

JCP: I’m not sure how it compares to other boudoir sessions because this is all I know. That would be better answered by others.

How do I feel about censorship?

JCP: I hate it. Being comfortable and proud of our bodies is something I believe is so powerful. Bodies are bodies, we all have them, there is nothing to be gained by hiding them. My three-year-old son knows all of his body parts including female body parts. Teaching children to know and respect themselves and others is necessary. Censoring body parts are not.

 

ABOUT THE ARTIST

I am a 33-year-old mama to my three-year-old son, living in Ontario Canada, with my partner and extraordinarily large dog. I enjoy outdoor adventures, being near the water, traveling, and a challenge. Oh, and music and wine are fun too! I am so happy to be able to do what I love.

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