Today, we’d like to introduce you to Renee Buckles.
Hi Renee, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
When I first started my photography business in 2013, I focused on Senior girls because I was comfortable working in that genre as a high school teacher. Then, in 2018, I attended a photography conference in Atlanta, and I was introduced to Boudoir Photography. I ended up doing an impromptu boudoir session, which was life-changing for me. I felt amazing, and I thought about how all women should have that exhilarating feeling of stepping out of their comfort zone and doing a boudoir session; I focused on wanting to photograph grown women instead of teenage girls. I rebranded my business and switched genres in 2020.
I joined a Mastermind Class (Momentum Mastermind) and set my business up the correct way during the pandemic and I was eager to work with and coach ladies through their boudoir session after we could go back outside. Today, I have an in-home studio with a dedicated makeup artist and a client closet for the ladies who don’t want to shop for lingerie for their sessions. I have a boutique-style business. I only book three clients a month because each session is individually planned for the client.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not been a smooth road. Struggles have been learning things through trial and error, such as marketing. It is hard trying to run ads for boudoir photography because some people think that boudoir photography is porn.
Instagram and TikTok are quick to say boudoir goes against their community guidelines when posting boudoir photos of black and brown women, I also have had disagreements with pastors who feel that boudoir is not holy and does not glorify God.
I believe marriage glorifies God, and if my client wants to do a session for her husband, that is their business. Getting funding for my business is a struggle. Running a legitimate business is expensive. Photography is way more than just taking a pretty picture.
As you know, we’re big fans of Renee Buckles Photography. For our readers who might not be as familiar with the brand, what can you tell them about it?
My photography business specializes in boudoir photography for black women. As a trusted photographer, I believe it’s essential for me to approach my work with sensitivity and awareness of the issues of how society policing black women’s bodies.
Black women have been subjected to narrow beauty standards and harmful stereotypes that fail to recognize their individuality and diverse experiences. My goal goes beyond capturing stunning images; it’s about creating a space where Black women can reclaim their narratives and celebrate their identities authentically.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up.
My favorite childhood memory is the day that I learned how to read. I remember running to the car excitedly saying “Momma, I can read!” I read the Dick and Jane book from cover to cover until I went to bed that night. I am still an avid reader today.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.reneebucklesphotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reneebucklesphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reneebucklesphoto
Image Credits
LaJune King and Renee Buckles Photography
