Reviewing Reviewing Nancy Barbosa Alaimo & Crystal Cox at Fabulous Feminine Photography
Review is written by Staff @ The Ring and is based on • Interviews with this vendor • Interviews with past brides
When staff at The Ring began to research a photography company that specializes in boudoir sessions, we assumed it might be tricky finding past clients willing to share their flirty photos and posing details with thousands of online readers. Not only were we were wrong, we were overwhelmed with the feedback of so many women who were happy to flaunt what they’ve got and step up to sing their own praises of the Fabulous Feminine Photography Team (aka FabFem).
At the FabFem (a division of nbphotos), boudoir photo shoots are sexy, fun and freeing. It’s about two women teaming up to inspire you to feel free to just be yourself in a judgement free environment. Offering you support and inspiration during your appointment, while respecting your personal boundaries and comfort zones. FabFem shoots are filled with the confidence-boosting attention and encouragement from Make-up Artist & Wardrobe Stylist Crystal Cox. After your transformation, a professional female photographer Nancy Barbosa Alaimo in an editorial styled shoot captures your photographic journey, on camera. The result? A series of images that will not only have you look at yourself in an entirely new way, but also a gift to share with your partner in celebration of the unique and wonderful creation that you are. Let us tell you more.
From brides to boudoir
Nancy Barbosa Alaimo, who is Photographer and Creative Director of the Fabulous Feminine sessions, has been an artist for as long as she can remember. She’s been shooting weddings (via her company, nbphotos), people and relationships for over 18 years. “I love the instant high that it gives me,” she told The Ring. “I see myself as a reverse archaeologist, leaving bits and moments of people behind for future generations to see.” Her “first paid gig” was when she was just sixteen and she admits that she’s been hooked ever since. “Whether it’s weddings, families or my absolute favourite – FabFem sessions – it makes me feel like I am doing exactly what I should be…”
Fabulous Feminine Photography modern boudoir and glamour sessions are geared towards women & couples. Nancy loves that these photo sessions allow her to “switch gears”, to go from the “mass wedding mentality” (hundreds of guests, big wedding parties, families, etc) to putting all her focus and energy into one person (sometimes two, in the case of FabCouples shoots). Nancy says that FabFem sessions are her gift to herself. “It is wonderful to be able to use my gift to bring a person’s vision of themselves to fruition.”
But Nancy doesn’t work alone. The FabFem team takes an all-girl approach to boudoir shoots. It was actually in 2008 that Fabulous Feminine became an official division of nbphotos, a decision Nancy made when Crystal Cox joined the team to become FabFem’s Exclusive Make-up Artist and Wardrobe Stylist. Crystal makes sure that all clients who walk through the FabFem’s doors are looking and feeling like the person they want to be inside, as they strike their pose for the camera. She respects each clients right to privacy and remains on site for the photo session upon client request. Her contribution to the prep and confidence building portion of the session is integral. From the moment clients walk in the goal is to inspire and encourage personal freedom and appreciation. Crystal is always in the wings to retouch and assist in anything that the client may need during their photo session.
Together, Nancy and Crystal are the kind of welcoming, outgoing, fun ladies that have you feeling like you’ve been friends for years, even though you’ve just met. Over the two years they’ve worked together on the FabFem sessions, the duo has seen more than three hundred clients. Nancy, whose full time business was always weddings, now gets more requests for FabFem shoots than she does for weddings.
Rock out your boudoir session: “Yes you can!!!”
Fabulous Feminine Photography’s boudoir sessions combine attitude, beauty, freedom and fabulous photography together into one confidence-building experience that FabFem clients will remember forever. They’re about allowing yourself the freedom to just let it go and for a moment to uncover the beauty of your own inner spark, no matter what your age or everyday persona might be.
The most popular session package (the Jet-Setter, $595) includes two camera-ready make-up (build-up) looks, basic hair, three outfit designs and two photo sets, session styling with full access to all of the Fabfem’s accessories and studio props. So right away you know you’ve got enough options to ensure that by the end of the day, you’re going to be looking and feeling fabulous.
Many people who look at photos by the FabFem think they’re looking at professional models, yet its women of all styles and ages that are playing the part of cover model in each frame. Nancy says that their killer portfolio is both a blessing and a curse, “People are looking through it and say, ‘Well I could never look like that!’” The FabFem team’s automatic reply is “YES YOU CAN!!!”
Over ninety percent of the Fabulous Feminine portfolio photos are real people (not models) who’ve been made over, shot beautifully, and who are in their own, new and improved comfort zone, “feeling free to rock out their session”. Being able to give this feeling of freedom and confidence to their clients is at the core of why Nancy and Crystal are in this business. “No matter how many photo sessions you can do, each time you completely change the way a person sees themselves just by shooting them in a certain light.”
Kate Marie Massicotte saw The FabFem Team at a trade show. After looking through their FabFem portfolio, she and her boyfriend signed up the same day, deciding to make the session a Valentine’s Day gift to each other.
Striking a saucy pose can be a little bit daunting for some (or, let’s face it, most) so Nancy and Crystal create an atmosphere, of hospitality by supplying refreshments, snacks and music, that ultimately just helps each client let go and be themselves. Nancy and Crystal themselves are fun, real, and never pretentious, which definitely helps. Nancy says that the industry can play host to “its fair share of snobs”, but that the FabFem team doesn’t fit into that category. “We’re down to earth and relatable.” They want you to feel like you’re hanging out at your best friends’ place for the afternoon.
Sonya who had two boudoir sessions with FabFem (in August and October) and told The Ring she remembers laughing throughout the session. “I felt comfortable and so amazing afterwards. [It] was invigorating.”
Nancy knows that client see how much fun she has with FabFem and thinks that has an impact too. “Having people who truly love what they do and who just want you to feel really good, helps clients let go and feel safe enough to show us that spark that’s hiding inside them.” In fact, many of the FabFem clients just need a little encouragement. “They just need to know ‘Yes you can!!!’”
Since Nancy is the artistic eye behind the camera, she considers it her role to translate what each individual client asks for and makes sure it not only materializes in print, but that it surpasses their expectations every time. “By directing and giving each person individual attention we bring out the best in everyone. Everyone deserves to feel good about themselves. We just give them an avenue to make this happen."
Crystal (who also owns another company, Crystalized Artistry Make-up) gives each woman a look that is custom tailored just for her, designed to fit the client’s vision she has for herself in her photos. Nancy says, “Crystal helps each woman get ready for her photo session and helps them feel fabulous. Without her the FabFem would have just been a great photo shoot… With her, they are breathtakingly FABULOUS!!!!”
Karen Teeter’s FabFem photos were so good they landed her a spot in a fitness magazine. But even for Karen, it was as much about the experience as it was about the photos she walked away with. “The experience was fabulous. They made me feel like a queen. I looked far more beautiful than I ever thought I could. The price was very reasonable compared to other places. Nancy and Crystal are professionals and very good at what they do.”
How risqué are we talking about?
FabFem shoots aren’t about shooting nudity in any manner. The goal is total trust and comfort with each and every photo session done. Bottoms are worn at all times. “Implied nudity only,” says Nancy. You might slip into silky lingerie or maybe a playful pin-up style outfit or even that evening dress that you absolutely love, but never get a chance to have an amazing photo with. It boils down to allowing people to explore the looks that make them feel great about themselves.
What to expect
On the day of the shoot, clients are asked to come to the studio with their own wardrobe (sometimes, pretty much their entire closet, according to Nancy!). Crystal and Nancy go through it all with you. They narrow and help you finalize the different outfits according to the look you’re going for and package purchased. Once everyone agrees with the direction of the photo session, Crystal gets started on make-up while Nancy prepares the sets and equipment.
Sarah Godbout told us that Crystal was a genius with her make-up brushes and hair styling on her October 2010 boudoir shoot. “And her personality is so relaxed that she makes it feel like you have known her for years.” She liked that Crystal styled her the way she wanted to be styled. “Crystal asked me what I wanted and then built on that.”
Clients can bring one friend, just not their partner (unless it’s a FabCouples shoot). The photo session is to have you feeling like yourself free from what others might project on to you and sometimes the energy can be different when you have your loved one sitting in. With couples shoots the goal is to capture you as a unit and all the wonderfulness that happens with being in a relationship.
Meghan Farrugia admits feeling nervous and unsure of herself as she was going into her August 2010 boudoir shoot. But her insecurities didn’t last very long. “After having my make-up done and spending some time with Nancy and Crystal I felt much more confident in my own skin - even before the photo shoot had started... It was such a positive experience that filled me with a new sense of confidence.”
Patricia, who also admitted to not having what you’d call “one hundred percent confidence” before meeting Nancy and Crystal, said she felt like a different woman afterward. “They treat you like Canada’s Next Top Model.” What she remembers most is Nancy dancing and Crystal’s encouragement. “Nancy couldn't keep still in one spot without dancing and making me laugh and Crystal was like my personal cheer leader telling me how great the shot looked! So sweet!”
Kate says Nancy and Crystal became friends throughout the process. “They’re amazing. Both are welcoming women who know what they’re doing,” she told The Ring. In fact, every one of the many FabFem clients we interviewed attested to feeling at home with the Nancy and Crystal. Daniella said her shoot was just like having a little girls’ night party, filled with laughter, music, chocolates, refreshments, and fruit. “There was nothing robotic or uneasy about it at all!” she told The Ring. “These ladies are very approachable and so friendly… They really make a woman feel like a WOMAN. Their work is amazing and they’re an awesome duo.” Daniella says she now recommending the FabFeb to everyone she knows.
Fabulous in print
With many packages, the experience doesn’t end with the wrap of your shoot. You’re going to be looking fabulous in prints. For example, the Jet-Setter package (mentioned above) includes seventy-five “1st Edition eProofs”, twelve “Art Edition” digital files with full fashion airbrushed images, two 4x5 “Little Black Book Portfolios” which are printed two-sided with six of the twelve selected images, and also, twelve full resolution “Art Edition” digital negatives with licence for personal printing.
Nakary Tum had her photos done in November 2010 and uses them for both personal keepsakes and her modelling portfolio. She’d had her photos done before but says those previous shots hadn’t even compared to Nancy and Crystal’s work. “I love how Fabulous Feminine made me look so beautiful.”
Sarah has shown her photos to friends and admits that now they all want a FabFem session of their own. We asked her if she recommended FabFem to anyone. “Absolutely! To everyone!”
Bachelorettes vs. date night
Considering that the FabFem’s boudoir sessions means you’re all dolled up and you’ve just rocked a sexy photo shoot, you should definitely ride that wave as long you can. Go out on a hot date with the one you love, hit the dance floor or have a girls’ night out.
Fabulous Feminine Photography does bachelorette photo sessions parties where brides invite the entire bridal party over for photos. “Sometimes for bachelorette parties we will have refreshments as well as a movie playing while everyone is getting their make-over and private FabFem sessions done. Whatever works for them. It's their experience...”
From wife and mother to hot pin-up girl
Annette White hired the FabFem team in June 2010 to do pin-up style photos after she’d seen Nancy and Crystal at a local trade show. “I was very inspired by their beautiful pictures. My husband and I are into old cars and pin-up girls. Seeing the possibilities of transforming into a sexy pin up girl and feeling comfortable taking sexy pictures with two girls made it easier to go for it.” So Annette purchased the show special at a great price and started planning for photos that she was going to give her husband as an anniversary present. To this day, she feels that she was lucky to run into Nancy and Crystal. “I don't think there are very many photo studios you want to walk into half naked and feel comfortable at…” Annette loved her make-up once Crystal was finished. “Nancy works her magic and a great photo shoot falls into place. Crystal steps out of the room (upon request) and it's just you and Nancy doing the photo shoot. Seeing Nancy's pictures from before I knew she would get the right shots to hide those little extras you don't want to see.” And when Annette laid eyes on her final photos, she remembers being both shocked and proud. “I did look like a pin up girl! They were classy and tasteful.” As planned, Annette presented her husband with three framed images and a photo album filled with his wife-turned-hot-pin-up-girl. She says he was impressed and surprised. “It was the best gift I have given him and it was a great gift for me… I'm so glad I was able to do it.” Annette still looks at her photos every day and they still bring a smile to her face. “Forty years old, a mother of 3, and a grandma… And I can still pull it off!”
Pricing your options
FabFem sessions come in various packages with prices that range enough (from $195 to $795) to fit almost anyone’s budget. According to Nancy, the most popular package includes two make-up looks, three outfit changes and multiple sets. “We round out the package with all of your photos on a CD and also give you a custom created “FABULOUS Mini Magazine” with six of your twelve fully fashion-edited images.”
Meaghan found FabFem’s prices comparable to all other professional photographers. She says “They also have a wide variety of packages at different price points to meet everyone’s needs.”
Sarah agrees, saying that the prices are fair for what you get. “They also have enough packages to choose from so that anyone can afford it... It was a value packed session 200 shots in 2 hours with lighting, sets… They make it affordable to anyone.”
In Meaghan’s case, she booked Nancy and Crystal for her boudoir session as well as booking nbphotos for her engagement and wedding photos. “Later down the road we hope to use them for pregnancy and family photos as well.” It’s a relationship that will likely last for decades.
August 2010 client, Allison O’Connell, told us that every woman should do a FabFem shoot once in her life.
Details, details, details
• 50% of package is due upon booking your photo session
• Book ahead: Two to four weeks for a weekday appointment. Four to six weeks for a weekend. FabFem is currently not available for Sunday session bookings.
• HST
• Average FabFem client spends about $595
• FabCouples and FabMen sessions are also available
Fine Print from FabFem: "Sessions are non-refundable and non-transferable. We require a min of 24 hrs notice to rebook a shoot session otherwise a re booking fee of $150 will be applicable. No photo will be in blog or website publication without clients’ approval of display of image. Due to the artistic nature of these photos, please note that it can take up to 6 weeks to see proofs. We do not make any claims to shoot exactly the same each time. Due to the nature of the session creativity on the part of the photographer will be respected. Any images from the session cannot be rejected. WE do not shoot nudity in any manner, implied nudity only. Bottoms MUST be worn at all times. All photo sessions are base on the comfort level of all parties concerned. It is the clients’ responsibility to supply clothing and props for specific session. We will do our best to accommodate but clients are responsible for their wardrobe and all props. No children are allowed on set. We will not shoot anyone under the age of 18 with out a parent or guardian present. Significant others are not permitted during your shoot unless it is for a FabCouples session. Limit 1 non-photographed friend per session. All proofs are colour corrected and white balanced. Fashion retouching occurs ONLY after client has made selection, this include all forms of retouching. Including dark circles, skin retouching, eye brightening, skin smoothing, body imaging, clearing of background pieces. For any questions please contact us... Thank you!"
When staff at The Ring began to research a photography company that specializes in boudoir sessions, we assumed it might be tricky finding past clients willing to share their flirty photos and posing details with thousands of online readers. Not only were we were wrong, we were overwhelmed with the feedback of so many women who were happy to flaunt what they’ve got and step up to sing their own praises of the Fabulous Feminine Photography Team (aka FabFem).
At the FabFem (a division of nbphotos), boudoir photo shoots are sexy, fun and freeing. It’s about two women teaming up to inspire you to feel free to just be yourself in a judgement free environment. Offering you support and inspiration during your appointment, while respecting your personal boundaries and comfort zones. FabFem shoots are filled with the confidence-boosting attention and encouragement from Make-up Artist & Wardrobe Stylist Crystal Cox. After your transformation, a professional female photographer Nancy Barbosa Alaimo in an editorial styled shoot captures your photographic journey, on camera. The result? A series of images that will not only have you look at yourself in an entirely new way, but also a gift to share with your partner in celebration of the unique and wonderful creation that you are. Let us tell you more.
From brides to boudoir
Nancy Barbosa Alaimo, who is Photographer and Creative Director of the Fabulous Feminine sessions, has been an artist for as long as she can remember. She’s been shooting weddings (via her company, nbphotos), people and relationships for over 18 years. “I love the instant high that it gives me,” she told The Ring. “I see myself as a reverse archaeologist, leaving bits and moments of people behind for future generations to see.” Her “first paid gig” was when she was just sixteen and she admits that she’s been hooked ever since. “Whether it’s weddings, families or my absolute favourite – FabFem sessions – it makes me feel like I am doing exactly what I should be…”
Fabulous Feminine Photography modern boudoir and glamour sessions are geared towards women & couples. Nancy loves that these photo sessions allow her to “switch gears”, to go from the “mass wedding mentality” (hundreds of guests, big wedding parties, families, etc) to putting all her focus and energy into one person (sometimes two, in the case of FabCouples shoots). Nancy says that FabFem sessions are her gift to herself. “It is wonderful to be able to use my gift to bring a person’s vision of themselves to fruition.”
But Nancy doesn’t work alone. The FabFem team takes an all-girl approach to boudoir shoots. It was actually in 2008 that Fabulous Feminine became an official division of nbphotos, a decision Nancy made when Crystal Cox joined the team to become FabFem’s Exclusive Make-up Artist and Wardrobe Stylist. Crystal makes sure that all clients who walk through the FabFem’s doors are looking and feeling like the person they want to be inside, as they strike their pose for the camera. She respects each clients right to privacy and remains on site for the photo session upon client request. Her contribution to the prep and confidence building portion of the session is integral. From the moment clients walk in the goal is to inspire and encourage personal freedom and appreciation. Crystal is always in the wings to retouch and assist in anything that the client may need during their photo session.
Together, Nancy and Crystal are the kind of welcoming, outgoing, fun ladies that have you feeling like you’ve been friends for years, even though you’ve just met. Over the two years they’ve worked together on the FabFem sessions, the duo has seen more than three hundred clients. Nancy, whose full time business was always weddings, now gets more requests for FabFem shoots than she does for weddings.
Rock out your boudoir session: “Yes you can!!!”
Fabulous Feminine Photography’s boudoir sessions combine attitude, beauty, freedom and fabulous photography together into one confidence-building experience that FabFem clients will remember forever. They’re about allowing yourself the freedom to just let it go and for a moment to uncover the beauty of your own inner spark, no matter what your age or everyday persona might be.
The most popular session package (the Jet-Setter, $595) includes two camera-ready make-up (build-up) looks, basic hair, three outfit designs and two photo sets, session styling with full access to all of the Fabfem’s accessories and studio props. So right away you know you’ve got enough options to ensure that by the end of the day, you’re going to be looking and feeling fabulous.
Many people who look at photos by the FabFem think they’re looking at professional models, yet its women of all styles and ages that are playing the part of cover model in each frame. Nancy says that their killer portfolio is both a blessing and a curse, “People are looking through it and say, ‘Well I could never look like that!’” The FabFem team’s automatic reply is “YES YOU CAN!!!”
Over ninety percent of the Fabulous Feminine portfolio photos are real people (not models) who’ve been made over, shot beautifully, and who are in their own, new and improved comfort zone, “feeling free to rock out their session”. Being able to give this feeling of freedom and confidence to their clients is at the core of why Nancy and Crystal are in this business. “No matter how many photo sessions you can do, each time you completely change the way a person sees themselves just by shooting them in a certain light.”
Kate Marie Massicotte saw The FabFem Team at a trade show. After looking through their FabFem portfolio, she and her boyfriend signed up the same day, deciding to make the session a Valentine’s Day gift to each other.
Striking a saucy pose can be a little bit daunting for some (or, let’s face it, most) so Nancy and Crystal create an atmosphere, of hospitality by supplying refreshments, snacks and music, that ultimately just helps each client let go and be themselves. Nancy and Crystal themselves are fun, real, and never pretentious, which definitely helps. Nancy says that the industry can play host to “its fair share of snobs”, but that the FabFem team doesn’t fit into that category. “We’re down to earth and relatable.” They want you to feel like you’re hanging out at your best friends’ place for the afternoon.
Sonya who had two boudoir sessions with FabFem (in August and October) and told The Ring she remembers laughing throughout the session. “I felt comfortable and so amazing afterwards. [It] was invigorating.”
Nancy knows that client see how much fun she has with FabFem and thinks that has an impact too. “Having people who truly love what they do and who just want you to feel really good, helps clients let go and feel safe enough to show us that spark that’s hiding inside them.” In fact, many of the FabFem clients just need a little encouragement. “They just need to know ‘Yes you can!!!’”
Since Nancy is the artistic eye behind the camera, she considers it her role to translate what each individual client asks for and makes sure it not only materializes in print, but that it surpasses their expectations every time. “By directing and giving each person individual attention we bring out the best in everyone. Everyone deserves to feel good about themselves. We just give them an avenue to make this happen."
Crystal (who also owns another company, Crystalized Artistry Make-up) gives each woman a look that is custom tailored just for her, designed to fit the client’s vision she has for herself in her photos. Nancy says, “Crystal helps each woman get ready for her photo session and helps them feel fabulous. Without her the FabFem would have just been a great photo shoot… With her, they are breathtakingly FABULOUS!!!!”
Karen Teeter’s FabFem photos were so good they landed her a spot in a fitness magazine. But even for Karen, it was as much about the experience as it was about the photos she walked away with. “The experience was fabulous. They made me feel like a queen. I looked far more beautiful than I ever thought I could. The price was very reasonable compared to other places. Nancy and Crystal are professionals and very good at what they do.”
How risqué are we talking about?
FabFem shoots aren’t about shooting nudity in any manner. The goal is total trust and comfort with each and every photo session done. Bottoms are worn at all times. “Implied nudity only,” says Nancy. You might slip into silky lingerie or maybe a playful pin-up style outfit or even that evening dress that you absolutely love, but never get a chance to have an amazing photo with. It boils down to allowing people to explore the looks that make them feel great about themselves.
What to expect
On the day of the shoot, clients are asked to come to the studio with their own wardrobe (sometimes, pretty much their entire closet, according to Nancy!). Crystal and Nancy go through it all with you. They narrow and help you finalize the different outfits according to the look you’re going for and package purchased. Once everyone agrees with the direction of the photo session, Crystal gets started on make-up while Nancy prepares the sets and equipment.
Sarah Godbout told us that Crystal was a genius with her make-up brushes and hair styling on her October 2010 boudoir shoot. “And her personality is so relaxed that she makes it feel like you have known her for years.” She liked that Crystal styled her the way she wanted to be styled. “Crystal asked me what I wanted and then built on that.”
Clients can bring one friend, just not their partner (unless it’s a FabCouples shoot). The photo session is to have you feeling like yourself free from what others might project on to you and sometimes the energy can be different when you have your loved one sitting in. With couples shoots the goal is to capture you as a unit and all the wonderfulness that happens with being in a relationship.
Meghan Farrugia admits feeling nervous and unsure of herself as she was going into her August 2010 boudoir shoot. But her insecurities didn’t last very long. “After having my make-up done and spending some time with Nancy and Crystal I felt much more confident in my own skin - even before the photo shoot had started... It was such a positive experience that filled me with a new sense of confidence.”
Patricia, who also admitted to not having what you’d call “one hundred percent confidence” before meeting Nancy and Crystal, said she felt like a different woman afterward. “They treat you like Canada’s Next Top Model.” What she remembers most is Nancy dancing and Crystal’s encouragement. “Nancy couldn't keep still in one spot without dancing and making me laugh and Crystal was like my personal cheer leader telling me how great the shot looked! So sweet!”
Kate says Nancy and Crystal became friends throughout the process. “They’re amazing. Both are welcoming women who know what they’re doing,” she told The Ring. In fact, every one of the many FabFem clients we interviewed attested to feeling at home with the Nancy and Crystal. Daniella said her shoot was just like having a little girls’ night party, filled with laughter, music, chocolates, refreshments, and fruit. “There was nothing robotic or uneasy about it at all!” she told The Ring. “These ladies are very approachable and so friendly… They really make a woman feel like a WOMAN. Their work is amazing and they’re an awesome duo.” Daniella says she now recommending the FabFeb to everyone she knows.
Fabulous in print
With many packages, the experience doesn’t end with the wrap of your shoot. You’re going to be looking fabulous in prints. For example, the Jet-Setter package (mentioned above) includes seventy-five “1st Edition eProofs”, twelve “Art Edition” digital files with full fashion airbrushed images, two 4x5 “Little Black Book Portfolios” which are printed two-sided with six of the twelve selected images, and also, twelve full resolution “Art Edition” digital negatives with licence for personal printing.
Nakary Tum had her photos done in November 2010 and uses them for both personal keepsakes and her modelling portfolio. She’d had her photos done before but says those previous shots hadn’t even compared to Nancy and Crystal’s work. “I love how Fabulous Feminine made me look so beautiful.”
Sarah has shown her photos to friends and admits that now they all want a FabFem session of their own. We asked her if she recommended FabFem to anyone. “Absolutely! To everyone!”
Bachelorettes vs. date night
Considering that the FabFem’s boudoir sessions means you’re all dolled up and you’ve just rocked a sexy photo shoot, you should definitely ride that wave as long you can. Go out on a hot date with the one you love, hit the dance floor or have a girls’ night out.
Fabulous Feminine Photography does bachelorette photo sessions parties where brides invite the entire bridal party over for photos. “Sometimes for bachelorette parties we will have refreshments as well as a movie playing while everyone is getting their make-over and private FabFem sessions done. Whatever works for them. It's their experience...”
From wife and mother to hot pin-up girl
Annette White hired the FabFem team in June 2010 to do pin-up style photos after she’d seen Nancy and Crystal at a local trade show. “I was very inspired by their beautiful pictures. My husband and I are into old cars and pin-up girls. Seeing the possibilities of transforming into a sexy pin up girl and feeling comfortable taking sexy pictures with two girls made it easier to go for it.” So Annette purchased the show special at a great price and started planning for photos that she was going to give her husband as an anniversary present. To this day, she feels that she was lucky to run into Nancy and Crystal. “I don't think there are very many photo studios you want to walk into half naked and feel comfortable at…” Annette loved her make-up once Crystal was finished. “Nancy works her magic and a great photo shoot falls into place. Crystal steps out of the room (upon request) and it's just you and Nancy doing the photo shoot. Seeing Nancy's pictures from before I knew she would get the right shots to hide those little extras you don't want to see.” And when Annette laid eyes on her final photos, she remembers being both shocked and proud. “I did look like a pin up girl! They were classy and tasteful.” As planned, Annette presented her husband with three framed images and a photo album filled with his wife-turned-hot-pin-up-girl. She says he was impressed and surprised. “It was the best gift I have given him and it was a great gift for me… I'm so glad I was able to do it.” Annette still looks at her photos every day and they still bring a smile to her face. “Forty years old, a mother of 3, and a grandma… And I can still pull it off!”
Pricing your options
FabFem sessions come in various packages with prices that range enough (from $195 to $795) to fit almost anyone’s budget. According to Nancy, the most popular package includes two make-up looks, three outfit changes and multiple sets. “We round out the package with all of your photos on a CD and also give you a custom created “FABULOUS Mini Magazine” with six of your twelve fully fashion-edited images.”
Meaghan found FabFem’s prices comparable to all other professional photographers. She says “They also have a wide variety of packages at different price points to meet everyone’s needs.”
Sarah agrees, saying that the prices are fair for what you get. “They also have enough packages to choose from so that anyone can afford it... It was a value packed session 200 shots in 2 hours with lighting, sets… They make it affordable to anyone.”
In Meaghan’s case, she booked Nancy and Crystal for her boudoir session as well as booking nbphotos for her engagement and wedding photos. “Later down the road we hope to use them for pregnancy and family photos as well.” It’s a relationship that will likely last for decades.
August 2010 client, Allison O’Connell, told us that every woman should do a FabFem shoot once in her life.
Details, details, details
• 50% of package is due upon booking your photo session
• Book ahead: Two to four weeks for a weekday appointment. Four to six weeks for a weekend. FabFem is currently not available for Sunday session bookings.
• HST
• Average FabFem client spends about $595
• FabCouples and FabMen sessions are also available
Fine Print from FabFem: "Sessions are non-refundable and non-transferable. We require a min of 24 hrs notice to rebook a shoot session otherwise a re booking fee of $150 will be applicable. No photo will be in blog or website publication without clients’ approval of display of image. Due to the artistic nature of these photos, please note that it can take up to 6 weeks to see proofs. We do not make any claims to shoot exactly the same each time. Due to the nature of the session creativity on the part of the photographer will be respected. Any images from the session cannot be rejected. WE do not shoot nudity in any manner, implied nudity only. Bottoms MUST be worn at all times. All photo sessions are base on the comfort level of all parties concerned. It is the clients’ responsibility to supply clothing and props for specific session. We will do our best to accommodate but clients are responsible for their wardrobe and all props. No children are allowed on set. We will not shoot anyone under the age of 18 with out a parent or guardian present. Significant others are not permitted during your shoot unless it is for a FabCouples session. Limit 1 non-photographed friend per session. All proofs are colour corrected and white balanced. Fashion retouching occurs ONLY after client has made selection, this include all forms of retouching. Including dark circles, skin retouching, eye brightening, skin smoothing, body imaging, clearing of background pieces. For any questions please contact us... Thank you!"
