Vulnerability in the Viewfinder

Vulnerability in the Viewfinder

INTO FOCUS

Asheville photographer Sarah Hooker empowers women through boudoir.

Like many women, Asheville fine arts photographer Sarah Hooker spent decades hating the skin she lived in. But then, in 2017, she did a boudoir session with another photographer. Being vulnerable on the other side of the lens changed Hooker’s life.

To help empower other women, Hooker founded Virago Boudoir Photography.

How did you get started in photography?

In high school, I took a photography class using my grandfather’s film camera, and I loved it.

When did you decide to pursue boudoir photography?

My photography career started with everything, including maternity, families, weddings, and businesses. When I finally discovered boudoir photography around 2017, I knew I found my calling.

What are the joys of the medium?

The best part of boudoir for me is having people bravely sign up even when feeling nervous and vulnerable, hearing about their amazing life journeys.

What are some misconceptions people have about boudoir photography?

People often think that the women in my photos are all models and that they themselves could never look like that or do a boudoir session. Boudoir is for everybody regardless of age, size, shape.

Many people give boudoir photos as gifts. Can it be more than that?

The clients I see getting the most out of it are doing it for themselves. Even just signing up for a boudoir session is a message to yourself that you are worthy.

Sarah Hooker, Virago Boudoir Photography, Asheville.