Tuesday, January 15, 2019

The Biggest Misconceptions About Boudoir Photography

Lynne Evans, one of our star stylists, putting the final touches on our client. 

While we know that boudoir is a phenomenal confidence booster and way to showcase the beauty of any woman, there are plenty of misconceptions that keep women from taking the plunge. Whether you’re fretting over feeling like you need to bare it all or unsure about how you’ll look in front of the camera, we’re happy to lay your fears to rest as you channel your inner goddess.
You Have to Bare All
You don’t have to be nude, or even be in lingerie. Your boudoir session is customized to showcase you at your most beautiful, whatever that means to you. If your favorite old band tee and pajama bottoms make you feel like your most sensational self, there’s nothing wrong with that! At Capitol Bombshell, we will always tailor your shoot to your comfort level, outfit preferences and desires.
You Need Someone to Gift the Photos To
Having a boudoir session done as a gift to a groom, fiancé, boyfriend or someone special in your life is a wonderful idea. However, scheduling a boudoir session just for yourself is just as delightful! Stepping out of your day-to-day life and into a space where you can channel your inner vixen is a unique experience. Boudoir photos are never merely a gift to someone else. Instead, they’re a gift to yourself, and whomever you choose to share them with.

You Aren’t the Right Shape, Shade, and Style of Woman
You are enough. Regardless of what society tells you about yourself, you are enough. Boudoir is for any shape, shade, or style of woman. You are gorgeous just as you are, so you never need to worry about your beauty not coming across on camera. Leave your negativity at the door and allow our glam squad and skilled lens to amplify what makes you amazing and leave you with a lasting memory of the experience.
You Have to Be in a Bedroom
While boudoir translates literally to “a woman’s bedroom,” some of the most enticing boudoir photos aren’t taken in a bedroom at all! Your boudoir shoot can take place in a variety of settings that complement who you are, the pieces you’ve chosen to wear, and the vibe you’re trying to get across.
You Will Have Your Photos All Over the Internet
This misconception couldn’t be further from the truth. In our photo contract, we promise you that we will never share any of your photos without your written permission. We always respect the privacy of all our clients and never break that trust. The images that you see in my marketing materials and online are from clients who modeled for a specific shoot, or who granted me permission to share their shots with the world.
Don’t Fall for Boudoir Myths at Frederick, MD’s Best Boudoir Studio.


Capitol Bombshell creates unique, luxurious experiences designed to bring out the bombshell in everyone. Whether it’s your first time in front of the lens or you’re a camera-loving diva, we will ensure your comfort every step of the way. Call us today at (202) 904-1325 or visit capitolbombshell.com to schedule your session and embrace your inner bombshell.

Sunday, November 20, 2016

In just one minute, everything can change...



In just one minute, everything can change. That minute for me was the day I felt the lump in my breast. From that moment forward it was sonograms, mammograms, biopsies, and then the call from my Doctor. "I'm so sorry to tell you this, but you do have cancer." I've fought some battles in my life and I've always been a scrapper, but this was one fight I wasn't sure I could not battle.  I was so tired every day and I could only sit and watch my family making plans, organizing dinners, lunches and standard household chores.  As they planned shifts of who would stay with me as I was recovering I couldn't help to think, "what will happen to them?"

During the next four months of healing I thought that something good had to come out of this situation. My wardrobe was ridiculous which was a routine of bathrobe, pajamas and sweatshirts. I remember looking at myself in the mirror and thinking how terrible I looked. 

After a few months of rest I felt better physically, but the scars where still there reminding me of what I went through. I began to feel very depressed, as there would be no way of forgetting this. Then one day I decided I didn't want to forget. I'd come too far to stop fighting now. I began viewing my scars as reminders of the internal strength which I never knew existed.

I wanted a reminder that I could be beautiful again, my scars make me beautiful and I wanted to document this battle.

I've heard of Capitol Bombshell though a friend and after looking at his work on the website, I decided that he would be the person that would be able to capture the images that would mean so much to me.

I'll admit that I was nervous when I walked through the door, but as soon as I did I was immediately at ease. The environment was so warm and Luigi and his team made me feel confident, like I could do this. He was extremely patient, professional, and fun to work with. I felt beautiful and strong.

As I looked through my album, I started to choke up. Luigi was able to capture my battle and my win so beautifully. I am so grateful to Luigi for hearing what I wanted and making it happen. 


Susan
Maryland 

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Miss Delaware goes to Washington (well, Frederick, MD) and lands a magazine cover!

Miss Delaware goes to Washington (well, Frederick, MD) and lands a magazine cover!






Interview Q&A by Perfectly Pinup Magazine (July 20016 Issue):

Hair/Make-up: Lynne Evans of The Startlet Parlour

HELLO! NICE TO MEET YOU. WHAT IS YOUR NAME?
 Hi there- It is a pleasure to meet ALL of you. My name is Katy Wohlman.






WHERE ARE YOU FROM?
I am originally from Huntington Beach, Ca. But I live in Washington, D.C. Been living here for 3 years now. 


HOW DID YOU DECIDE TO FIRST START MODELING? 
My mom decided for me actually. She started me pretty young,(10 years old) modeling for a popular brand of young girl's clothing.  I really started to enjoy modeling when I was younger. So I continued well into my twenties, doing various types of commercial modeling and Beauty Pageants. 


WHICH IS YOUR FAVORITE STYLE OF MODELING? PINUP? VINTAGE? SWIMWEAR? FASHION? 
That is difficult to answer. Because, each style brings a specific element to the table, more so for me when I am modeling. You get in the zone, with your outfit, your photographer, the set you're on, the makeup and hair you're rockin' and you just give off this way cool vibe to each style, bringing out a "character" you want not only the photographer to pick up on, but those who are going to be viewing your work!   



WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOBBY? 
I have so many.  Currently I am Miss. Delaware International 2016. I will be competing in the Miss. International Beauty Pageant in Jacksonville, Florida in July. So I have been extensively preparing for that. And let me tell you, it is A TON of work. Pause on the eye roll, it really is! Granted throwing on a bikini doesn't solve world peace, we know that,  but we work super hard for our titles! 

DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT?
Yes, how much space do you have for your readers. Kidding. One that won't make my mother cringe with embarrassment would be, Polynesian Dancing. I used to compete in PD  for 8 years. I know- A blonde competing against Pacific Islanders, kinda funny right?



WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE PHOTOGRAPHERS? 
Hands down, Luigi Crespo for Pinup. He took a chance and put the confidence in me to get back into the modeling industry and really embrace the beauty behind not only his work but the era of Pinup and Vintage photography. Granted there are many talented photographers-but he keeps it classy. 

WHO ARE YOUR INSPIRATIONS? 
My grandmother, Jean Ritchie! She is an immigrant from England. To hear the stories of her life including her survival in WWII would make your jaw drop. Many of my exotic features come from her, and she taught me how to be classy and sexy with a lil to the imagination. She is also hilariously witty! 


TELL US SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOU.
I'm a whiz with random, but useful facts. I'm a huge history buff and I nerd out pretty hard with American History. 

DO YOU HAVE A WEBSITE? FACEBOOK? INSTAGRAM? 
Yes I do.  
Instagram: @Miss.Delaware.International 
  and         @katywohlman
Facebook. www.facebook.com/katy.wohlman 

I was born and raised in Southern California to a very competitive family of 4 brothers and 1 sister. I come from a line of professional athletes, so I guess my love of competing started fairly early. I have always had a healthy appetite when it comes to competition. I was fortunate enough to win numerous local pageants and later competed internationally in Russia, and won the title of  Miss Tourism of the Globe. I then took a hiatus to finish college and graduated Cum Laude from Concordia University. Shortly thereafter, I became a flight attendant for American Airlines. I decided to hang up my wings, change careers and get back to competing and modeling professionally.  I was fortunate to be awarded Miss Delaware in January 2016, which is an absolute honor. I will be competing in the Miss International Pageant in July 2016, in Jacksonville, Florida. During my reign as Miss Delaware, I will be volunteering with an absolutely incredible organization called the Suiting Warriors Foundation. I hope with the help of my title and diligent work, I can bring awareness to this great charity.

Love to you ALL***
XO Katy Wohlman 









Thursday, July 21, 2016

Both a Woman, and a Mother

"I am learning to navigate life with this new body. I am learning it’s ok to be a mom and a woman at the same time. When I hear my husband say how good I look it’s hard to imagine he’s right. He thought I looked good before, how can he think I still look good with this new, permanently changed body? But you know what? He’s right. My body is amazing! For all of its efforts it should be celebrated.  

Within my body I grew a tiny human and using my body I feed him.  I have new curves and have lost others. But I am still sensual and physical and beautiful. I embrace my womanhood and my motherhood because I am both a woman and a mother. I am alive and overflowing with raw, real beauty. I can see it in my son’s eyes. I can see it in my husband’s eyes. Finally, I can see it in myself.

Being photographed by Capitol Bombshell before Zeke was fun and just for me, and of course, a few were for my husband. I liked the way I looked and I really liked the way I felt when I shared the pictures. 

When I was photographed pregnant I was in total awe that my body was growing a human. It was inspiring to know that I was holding a whole new life. I had reservations after the birth and I really didn't want to get in any pictures. I was worried because my body didn't look the same and I would never look as good as I did before. Turns out I was wrong. There is something so special about a mom and her new mom body. I feel like I'm glowing in these most recent photographs by Luigi Crespo of Capitol Bombshell and LuigiCrespoPhotography

Watching Zeke light up when we interact makes me light up too. It's like a perpetual circle of smiles and it's the greatest gift. And, guess what? I love sharing these pictures too." -Liesel




Thursday, June 9, 2016

F*** your beauty standards, I am beautiful and I know it!






I spent many years hating my body and wishing I looked like someone else. Growing up, the images I saw of what's "sexy" were tall, thin women with long hair. Mostly white women, at that time, but there was an emergence of more diverse races being featured in advertising and articles, such as People Magazine's Sexiest Man Alive and Most Beautiful Woman. It's only been in the last ten years or so that we've seen a push for featuring a variety of body types. Dove stands out to me as one of the first companies to use varying heights, body types, and races in one advertisement - and actually show the bodies of women who typically were not seen as fitting society's definitely of sexy. It was encouraging to see, and I'm happy that more companies and retailers have followed suit. 

Because of mainstream media becoming more inclusive, advocacy for body positivity and resources for self-acceptance have blossomed, some seemingly overnight. It's a beautiful thing to see so many people standing together and encouraging one another to embrace who they are and love their bodies unconditionally. So often, it seems, we are able to love others and see beauty in them that we aren't able to see in ourselves. People may say, "I wish you could see what I see" as a way of encouraging us to see how beautiful we truly are. All too often, we are our own worst critics.

Three years ago, I would never have been comfortable shooting boudoir. I would have loved the idea of it, but would likely have said something like, "after I lost more weight" or "maybe in a couple of years" and I would never have done it. I certainly wouldn't have entertained the idea of modeling for a boudoir shoot for my images to be used for marketing. It's amazing how confidence and belief in oneself - and an amazing support system - can truly change your perception. 

I started modeling for fun in college, stopped for a few years, then picked it back up in the last year when I was living on the west coast. I don't do it for income, I work a full-time job like most late 20-somethings. Part of my work is with women who have experienced significant abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, verbal, financial...any and all types) and struggle to rebuild after such traumas. It's work that I'm passionate about because I spent 4 years in an abusive relationship and can empathize with how much trauma can impact your life. It's taken me time to see myself as beautiful and not hear his words in my head, criticizing constantly. The body positivity movement on Instagram sparked something in me. When I looked in the mirror, I would see every flaw or perceived imperfection. But online, I saw women boldly daring the world to dispute their beauty, proudly standing up and saying "F*** your beauty standards, I am beautiful and I know it!" Tess Holliday made covers of magazines as Milk's (modeling agency) first signed plus-size model. Her brand uses the hashtag #effyourbeautystandards and spurned even more discussion and promotion of body positivity. 


I began posting my "outfit of the day" on Instagram and using hashtags I'd seen on other plus-size fashion bloggers' and models' pages. Even on days where I didn't feel 100% about my look, I would post. I made my own rule, two pictures only and I could pick the best of the two and that was it. I could filter for lighting but not to fix imperfections. I wanted to be authentic and show that I could embrace myself without enhancing or altering the image - or taking 100 pictures to get the perfect one. From this, I received requests to work (for free) with a couple of local photographers who were wanting to build their portfolios. My first boudoir shoot, I was extremely nervous. I bought new lingerie and wasn't sure how it or I would photograph. The end result was disappointing - my nerves were evident, my face wasn't relaxed, I didn't look comfortable. And I hadn't been. That's the difference when working with a photographer who is professional and can create an environment that is fun and allows you to relax. 

From my first exchange with Luigi I was not
only comfortable, but his talent for photography and his enthusiasm for his work made me excited to shoot with him. I looked through his pictures on Facebook, Instagram, and his website. Everything I saw, I loved. His clients rave about him - and now I do too! I picked out some new lingerie before my shoot, including a black two piece set that I loved but wasn't sure I could pull off. It ended up being one of my favorite looks and one of the pictures that received the most feedback and encouraging responses. It is one of the most empowering images I've ever seen of myself. Luigi is amazingly talented; his attention to detail, lighting, positioning, everything he does is to showcase you. I could not have asked for a better experience than the one I had with Capitol Bombshell and Luigi Crespo Photography. Not to mention, huge kudos to JKW Beauty for ultra glam hair and makeup!






My point is this: don't wait for the "right" time, right now is the right time. You are unique and beautiful in this moment. Embrace your individuality, give yourself the same grace that you give others - more even. Beauty is not one style or body or height or weight or race; beauty is what we choose it to be. You are beautiful because you are you - truly one of a kind. Book your very own sexy session now!

--------------

Whitney Byrd,
Bombshell

Monday, December 7, 2015

All I can simply say is WoW!


All I can simply say is WoW!  I am beyond pleased with my experience with Capitol Bombshell

This is my second time shooting with them and I even more pleased and blown away the second time around. Luigi, and his team are very welcoming and inviting. As an upcoming pinup model I have shot with several pinup photographers and I can truly say Capitol Bombshell is truly a must do. 

From the beginning a great consultation is given to discuss wardrobe and ideas, and they are very helpful and open to trying and making your ideas and visions for you shoot come to life. His lovely wife is very helpful with wardrobe and posing and assisting your needs. Jordan of Jordan K Winn & Co. does awesome makeup and retro hair styling. During the shoot Luigi and his team give great posing tips  and is very helpful in capturing the best of YoU. They even play your favorite music during the shoot.

Proof turnaround, and finals, is quick and I love how you don't see any proof until they are all polished to perfection. Luigi also works closely with you to help you get published in some great pinup magazines. My sweetheart always compliments all of my pinup pictures; however  after seeing my latest photos with Capitol Bombshell he said these are his favorite that they truly captured my beauty (as he blushed). 

Can’t wait for my next shoot with them.


©2015 Capitol Bombshell. Model: Cherry Von Sweets.

©2015 Capitol Bombshell. Model: Cherry Von Sweets. Apron by: Aprons Elegante by JoVal
©2015 Capitol Bombshell. Model: Cherry Von Sweets.

Thursday, May 28, 2015

Don't let others define you, BE YOUrself!

I recently had a fantastic time with one of the best photographers and hair and makeup artists I've had the pleasure to work with. Luigi, of Capitol Bombshell (http://www.capitolbombshell.com) and Jordan Winn of Jordan K. Winn & Co. (http://jordankwinn.com) who is a true artist, we produced a great set of Pin-Up and Boudoir perfection to add to my portfolio. 

I truly love all my fans and love hearing your stories of overcoming obstacles and being true to yourself. Although you may look at these photos and see a confident young woman, I've often struggled with self esteem.

I was born a near preemie with a low birth weight, as well as health issues, this caused delayed fine motor skills and mild learning disabilities. All I wanted to do was fit in as most children do, but unfortunately I could not hide these differences from my peers. I was made fun of and left out.

With today's social media, teenage bullying can be much more subtle but just as damaging! I have been called ugly, too pale, too dark of hair, weird, even have been told to kill myself. 
After years of trying to fit in it became clear to me that I no longer needed to be like the others, and I chose to believe in myself. Through my fashion style, tattoos, piercings, funky hair and music choices I was able to stand out from the crowd. Although, the bullying continued and escalated, I chose to stick with what I loved. 

You have to believe in yourself, when not many other people do. I somedays still struggle with this. My mother and I felt so strongly about this we started a small company "Believe in Yourself Clothing"; an anti-bullying, positive self image clothing line. This where I started my modeling career. The camera gives me the confidence to show my true self. In reality I am a very shy person but in front of the lens I bloom!

So dear reader, stop trying to please others and know that you don't have to conform to society's standards. To truly be happy you have to first find who you are and stick with it no matter the cost. Don't let others define you, BE YOUrself! 


And remember, Stay optimistic and live life to the fullest. 

@HEX_SGH

___________________________________Hex is a talented Suicide Girl Hopeful model. You can find her in Instagram @hex_sgh and at https://suicidegirls.com/members/hex/

SuicideGirls is a website that features pin-up photography and profiles of alternative female models who are known as the "Suicide Girls". The site functions as an online community with member profiles, member blogs, and the option to join networking groups based upon interests. SuicideGirls also features interviews with people from popular and alternative culture, user-submitted news articles, and an online merchandise store. Access to most of the site requires a paid membership. Source: Wikipedia. 









Monday, May 4, 2015

May the Glam Be With You!

May the Glam Be With You!  
Photography by Capitol Bombshell
Hair and makeup by Jordan K Winn  & Co.
Bombshells: Esmeral-Dita (StormTrooper),  Hex_SGH (DarthVader), LindsayLou (Imperial Officer)





Friday, February 13, 2015

I truly am a real woman, with stretch marks, scars, lumps, bumps, and fat rolls


As a curvy woman, I have struggled with my weight and body image for the majority of my life. After losing over 200 pounds, I was put on fertility meds which caused me to regain 30 pounds. Due to my recent weight regain, I was beginning to really struggle with my body image, when I won the #Realwoman contest from Capitol Bombshell and Jordan K. Winn & Co.  

I truly am a real woman, with stretch marks, scars, lumps, bumps, and fat rolls. Those imperfections tell the story of my life, and I wouldn’t trade them in for the perfect body if given the opportunity. Society places a stigma on what a “Real woman” is supposed to look like, when us actual Real women know the truth. We have lived a Real life, and our bodies reflect that. We shouldn’t feel like because we have really lived, we should have to cover all of the flaws that make us beautiful. 

From the moment I won the #Realwoman contest, Capitol Bombshell has made me feel like I have a new support system. This photo shoot was a team effort. Luigi Crespo, the photographer at Capitol Bombshell, helped me pick out my outfits and inspired some looks that I wasn’t quite comfortable with at first. Luigi assured me that my shoot would be epic, he was totally right! He was interested in getting to know me as a person, so that my shoot was perfectly tailored to my personality. Luigi was adamant about incorporating my love of vintage Pyrex into this Pinup shoot. As soon as I arrived at Capitol Bombshell, Luigi and his wife Annessess, made me feel at home. The staff at Jordan K. Winn & Co also welcomed me with open arms.  Jordan K. Winn & Co pampered me with a vintage glam makeover, worthy of my spectacular Pinup shoot. The makeup artist was really interested in learning my day to day makeup look. She already knew I wore winged eyeliner every day and gave me tips on how to achieve this look a different way. 

Capitol Bombshell encouraged me to be myself, and helped me pose in a flattering way. During the shoot, I wasn’t shy to show off my Real body. I knew that Capitol Bombshell was going to make my Real woman body look its best. I’m very fortunate for the opportunity given to me by Jordan K. Winn & Co and Capitol Bombshell to share my Real woman body. 

I hope this inspires more Real women to show off their perfect bodies as well. Real women should be proud of the stories their bodies tell. Whether you are a size 2 or a size 32, your body is Real, and that makes it beautiful. -Annette Olley, (Carlslie, PA).







Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Dial M for Marriage...

Two lovers, held up by Cupid's flaming gun of passion. Watch as a dark and handsome detective and sultry newspaper girl abandon their hectic and lonely solitary lives for a power-couple partnership of hedonism and romance! Congratulations on your engagement C&M.










We specialize in fun-tease boudoir, retro pin-up and daring burlesque photography in the Washington, DC-metro area. Let us capture your inner-Goddess. http://www.CapitolBombshell.com/