Photographer Lisa Shifren delights in making her subjects feel beautiful. (Provided photos)

You might say Mount Washington resident Lisa Shifren is all about empowering others. As coordinator of Holocaust programming at Jewish Community Services, Shifren helps survivors obtain reparations from the German government and leads socialization activities to keep them active and engaged. As a photographer who specializes in boudoir portraits, she encourages women to feel beautiful inside and out. Jmore recently spoke with Shifren, who is also a headshot and family portrait photographer, about why boudoir photo shoots are so empowering.

What draws women to engaging in boudoir photo shoots?

People come for different reasons. Maybe they’ve always wanted to do a boudoir shoot or it’s a gift for themselves, their partner or spouse. Sometimes, they’re going through divorce and want to feel better about themselves, or it could be for a milestone birthday. I’ve photographed many people over 50. One woman was over 60 and she totally rocked it.

What can a woman expect when she comes to the studio for a boudoir shoot?

Most people are nervous at first, but in 20 minutes they’re totally fine and having a blast. My studio is in my house, so it’s not like it’s an intimidating warehouse or some cold space.

You can wear a bodysuit or a robe and heels, and we can still do boudoir. You can wear as much or as little as you’re comfortable with. I leave that up to the client but I can make suggestions. You can bring jeans, a camisole. … I always have your favorite music playing on Pandora so you feel at home. My last client said,’I like the Motley Crew station.’ We had the best time jamming out to the music of our youth. That client brought a black leather jacket and black leather pants that fit the vibe. Other people are into pink frilly lace. Whatever your vibe is, whatever makes you feel true to yourself, that’s what we can do. People always feel good about themselves during and after.

What makes a good boudoir photographer?

There’s a lot of sensitivity involved in it. You can’t just jump in one day and decide, ‘I think I’m going to try this.’ You really have to know what you’re doing, how to pose people, how to provide an atmosphere that makes them feel comfortable and safe. My favorite part is being able to make people into art. I love light, form, shape. It’s such a creative process for me and my subjects. I see beauty in everyone, and I love when people trust me to pose or direct them or when we try something interesting and they’re pleased with the results.

Does your Judaism play any role in your boudoir photography?

I think that our spiritual god, our higher power sources, want us to feel beautiful, empowered, amazing and confident in our own skins. I think this is one way to help people to do that.

Can you see offering boudoir sessions for men?

I’ve had men ask me, and it’s a whole different thing. I have been thinking about it and doing some research, but I have not tried it yet.

For information, visit lisashifren.com.

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