Blog Post

How do you discover you're truly a goddess?

Patrick Falaniko • 1 August 2020

Deep down you know you are and always have been, but sometimes a boudoir shoot with the right photographer is just what you need to re-spark faith in your body and spirit. 

This image is unedited like much of my nude photography. Beautiful words from Rebecca, editor of Goldie Magazine.
How do you discover you are truly a goddess? Short answer: have a nude photoshoot with @falaniko.photo
But as you know I'm not into pictures without words ,so I share the way doing this shoot on Tuesday made me feel as best as I can.
Can you imagine loathing your physical appearance so much that for most of your life you would contort yourself to avoid being in photos? Or look in a mirror and on really bad days chuck up? Can you for a moment feel the depth of despair of who you are - how you look - that would lead you to think that you have no reason to be alive, no use to the world? Numbing with alcohol, or antidepressants gets you over hopeless times. But even on smiley-days the background commentary is one of self-hate, hurt and put-downs.
Anyway that's just a quick glimpse into the sense of self abusive relationship I had with myself.
Over the last few years I've worked intentionally hard to get over this. I've been really lucky to have had some special people come into my life who have supported me in a way I haven't had previously. But most of this work has been mine alone. A decision to change. To grow into the woman I hoped was there under all the layers of shit.
Forcing myself to confront this stuff via more times in front of a camera than I thought I could stand has proved cathartic.
But I'm not and probably never will be confident. If you think it's easy for me to walk into a studio and be really seen, well, sorry to spoil it, it's not. I tried to come up with plenty of reasons to cancel Tuesdays nude shoot - I even got the time wrong "oops I'm going to be late shall we re-schedule?"
I had fun once I got my head around being there. Patrick has a great way of making me feel good and I'm sure he does it to every other woman who enters his studio.
I left on a real high. I felt strong and powerful and lovely.
Last night Patrick sent through some images for me - just a taster from the session.
I'm in love with me today. Yes this is pure ego. Yes this is explosive self-love with huge respect for myself and a side of believing in my own fabulousness.
I can look at this photo and acknowledge that I'm a goddess.
Rebecca Weef.


The Goddess Studio is a judgement free zone and safe place for women to express themselves and we happen to create beautiful boudoir photography & art nudes too. If you'd like to book a shoot, it's only a £60 reservation. or click on the email icon below.
Clients are invited to submit their favourite Goddess Shoot images and a guest blog to our Goddess Life Blog/Magazine absolutely free.

If you like what we're doing here and would like to support us why not buy me a coffee. Thank you.

Share with your fellow goddesses

Love what I do? feel free to share this with a goddess you know :)

by Patrick Falaniko 14 September 2024
We always love it when clients share their stories and experiences. "I couldn't have been happier with my photoshoot experience, and I highly recommend working with Patrick. From the moment I arrived, he created a comfortable environment and took the time to understand what I wanted from the session.
by Patrick Falaniko 18 August 2024
Reaching your 40s is a powerful milestone, often bringing with it a newfound sense of confidence and freedom. If you’re a woman embracing this second era of your life, a boudoir shoot might be the perfect way to celebrate your journey. Embracing Your Second Act By the time you hit your 40s, you know who you are and what you want. Whether you’re experiencing a sexual re-awakening or simply feeling more comfortable in your own skin, boudoir photography offers a unique way to express yourself without apology. Our home-based London boudoir studio provides a personal, intimate setting where you can explore your sensuality with confidence. As your photographer, I’ll work with you to create images that reflect your personal journey, whether you’re interested in a classic boudoir photoshoot or something more artistic like nude glamour photography. Celebrate Your Body, Your Rules At our studio, we believe that every age, body type, and background deserves to be celebrated. Whether you’re posing in lingerie or exploring nude photography, we’ll create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel free to be yourself. Our very first clients were all women over 40, in fact we had a few in their 50s and 60s. Interestingly they have also inspired a whole new generation and our under 30 client base has grown as well, so yes you can celebrate yourself and inspire, we love that. Women over 40 have featured extensively in our Body Love group days and charity calendar shoots too. From lingerie to erotical pictures (erotical, an olde English term from the 1600s pertaining to love :)) you are truly stepping into your power, Yay! Our clients, ranging from 20 to 70, all share a common desire to embrace their bodies and express themselves through photography that feels joyful and liberating. So whether you’re stepping into a boudoir or an erotic studio for the first time or you’re continuing a journey of self-discovery, we’re here to capture the beautiful, confident, and unapologetic woman that you are today. This is your time—make it unforgettable with a boudoir and nude photography session that celebrates the real you.
by Patrick Falaniko 18 August 2024
Motherhood is an incredible journey, but it’s easy to lose touch with your own sense of self in the midst of caring for your family. If you’re a mum looking to reconnect with your body and reclaim your confidence, a boudoir photoshoot could be the perfect way to do just that. Rediscovering Your Sensuality At our home-based London boudoir studio, we offer a personal, welcoming space where you can rediscover your sensuality on your own terms. A boudoir shoot isn’t about fitting into a specific mould—it’s about embracing the unique beauty that comes with your life experience. As your photographer, I’ll work closely with you to create an environment that feels comfortable and supportive. Whether you choose to wear lingerie, opt for a nude photography session, or something in between, the focus is on capturing the real you. This experience is about more than just photos—it’s about reclaiming your body, your confidence, and your sense of self. Embrace Your Body, Your Way Every mum’s body tells a story, and every curve, line, and mark is part of that narrative. Our boudoir and nude photography sessions are designed to help you embrace your body as it is, creating beautiful images that celebrate your journey. Whether you’re interested in a traditional boudoir photoshoot or want to explore something more daring like an erotic nude photoshoot, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our clients, who range from 20 to 70, all share a common desire: to celebrate themselves through joyful, free-flowing photography. This is your time to focus on you and celebrate your own beauty. We love celebrating women at every stage of their lives, We also provide maternity portraits , and of course once the little darlings fly the nest? We can talk about Unapologetically You: Boudoir Photography for Women Over 40 :)
by Patrick Falaniko 18 August 2024
Your 20s are a time of exploration, self-discovery, and making memories that last a lifetime. As you embrace this vibrant period of your life, what better way to capture your confidence and sensuality than with a boudoir shoot? One caveat here, we get many young women who want to explore modelling. Boudoir is not lingerie modelling, fashion or glamour modelling, at least as far as we and our clients are concerned it is intimate and sensual form of self expression. If modelling is your goal, we can discuss and provide you with the appropriate package. Right! let's get back to boudoir photography sessions :)
by Patrick Falaniko 18 March 2024
So what happens if you really only require one or two images? Yes, I get do get many inquiries for actor and modelling online applications, and Linkedin and Business Profile images, the Ice Breaker session is ideal for you.
by Patrick Falaniko 25 February 2024
Of course you can treat yourself to a luxurious and empowering experience, simply because you deserve it. Here's a few more wonderful reasons to book a boudoir photo shoot or photo session with us... 1. Self-Love: Take time out to embrace self-care and celebrate your own unique beauty. 2. Empowerment: (Re)discover your confidence and an inner strength you may have not realised you had all along. 3. Milestone Celebrations: Whether it's turning 30, 40, or 50, any significant milestone, a boudoir session can serve as a beautiful reflection of your personal growth, strength, and resilience. 4. Body Positivity: Embrace and appreciate your body just as it is. 5. Love Letter to Yourself: Create a visual reminder of self-love and acceptance. 6. Pre-Wedding Confidence Boost: Feel stunning and confident before your big day, Before you say "I do," treat yourself to a boudoir session as a reminder of your beauty, confidence, and the amazing journey you're about to embark on as a bride. 7. Anniversary Surprise: Gift your partner an intimate and meaningful surprise. 8. Post-Baby Rejuvenation: Celebrate your journey into motherhood with a revitalising session. 9. Relationship Refresh: Reignite the spark and create beautiful memories together, there's nothing like sending a boudoir photo (or two) to your lover. 10. Empowering Gift: Surprise a loved one with a unique and empowering experience. 11. Bachelorette Party Fun: Enjoy a memorable and empowering activity with your closest friends, hey girl! up for a boudoir photo shoot?. Ask about our Refer a Friend and Share a session vouchers. 12. Body Transformation: All our photo shoots can be transformational, if you're ready to celebrate your personal fitness milestones or body-positive journeys, just type in 'boudoir shoot near me' and let's take that first step :). 13. Boosting Self-Esteem: Enhance your self-esteem and see yourself in a brand new light, with beautiful boudoir nude photography to take home . 14. Embracing Vulnerability: The most courageous things you can do, when you feel the fear, get up and do it anyway. Overcome insecurities and embrace your vulnerability. 15. Channeling Your Inner Goddess: Tap into your fierce, empowered, and feminine energy, I love this sooo much, you are goddess, it's time to roar. 16. Personal Reflection: Capture a moment of 'close your eyes and feel the sunshine' sensation of pure joy. Slow and sensuous movements and poses is a wonderful opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth, go deep and stir your soul. See it shine out through your boudoir photos. 17. Embracing Sensuality: Reconnect with your sensual side and embrace your femininity, from fine art nudes to spicy mama vibes, love yourself in your own way. 18. Overcoming Body Image concerns: Challenge and overcome those negative body image thoughts, let's draw them out & pop them in the trash. 19. Just Because: Treat yourself to a fabulous and empowering experience, simply because it's so much fun. 20. Forever Memories: Create stunning and timeless images that you can cherish for a lifetime. How did we do, did we mention any you resonate with? I'd love to hear your reasons for doing a goddess session. Why not fill out our questionnaire and let's have a chat. Patrick Falaniko Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio | Boudoir Photography London, UK & Beyond
by Patrick Falaniko 6 February 2024
Every so often when the need arises (or when an ambassador retires) I'll put out a discounted ambassador/model call. In this particular case the super enthusiastic whirlwind that is Lucy answered the call, and she's never looked back. A few boudoir photo session or three and quite a few artistic nude images later. Like many of our Ambassadors that came in for a taster session, she's stuck around and has featured many times. This is her story in her own words. There will never be enough words of praise, admiration or gratitude for Patrick and his studio! I have been an ambassador for Goddess Studio for 2 1/2 years and it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made and one that I never questioned from the moment the opportunity arose.
by Patrick Falaniko 10 January 2024
If you don't know what to wear for your session, look at this list for ideas.
by Patrick Falaniko 29 December 2023
Some poses, especially the spicy nudes can be quite challenging for the fuller busted woman, especially for keeping everything in place and not flying everywhere :). I've worked with a few hundred larger busted women over the last few years and for perkiness we've developed a few tips and tricks and poses to help things along. At the end of the day it's just not possible to recreate the bounce of plastic. And obviously we encourage everyone to embrace what they are blessed with. When it comes to lift and separation, great fitting bras and lingerie really helps with that. I've bought a few pieces from Curvy Kate including their Dear Scantilly Range. So far, a great service, pieces are well made and a perfect fit for women up to 38 K, so I'm totally happy to recommend. More and more I see sheer, natural or structured bra's that can add a variety of looks, and excitement, to your photo sessions. Their story. Curvy Kate's journey began with a launch through three small lingerie stores in and around London, specializing in plus-size fittings. Focused on providing the best D plus brands, the team faced challenges in offering the desired choice and fit to their customers. In 2006, a passionate team of bra enthusiasts at Curvy Kate decided to take matters into their own hands. They embarked on designing and producing a range tailored specifically for fuller-cupped individuals who sought something fun, fashionable, and, above all, beautifully fitted. Devoted to making women feel fabulous about their curves, Curvy Kate lives the "boob life," creating D to K cup lingerie and swimwear that curvy girls love. Their mission is simple: to make you happy by prioritizing fit, lift, shape, and comfort. The team works tirelessly to ensure your gorgeous figure gets everything it needs. Bras from Curvy Kate are rigorously tested by girls of all shapes, sizes, and curves. Only the snuggest, perkiest, and most comfortable designs earn a spot in their collection. Surprisingly, the average bra size they sell is a 34G, catering to a diverse range of sizes from small back sizes to plus sizes, including 40 to 44 backs and a variety of D to K cups. Their dedication to finding the perfect fit for all curvy bodies is showcased through the annual Star in a Bra competition, transforming one curvaceous lady into the poster girl for curvy girls everywhere. If you cherish your boobs as much as Curvy Kate does, they're here to help you discover the ideal fit! (Featured Elementary Plunge Bodysuit, Dear scantilly, Indulgence Stretch Lace Bodysuit in Ivory Cream worn by Jamie AKA @biggerbustbabe if you have any bigger bust questions, why not give her a follow) Interestingly some people think I specialise in photographing larger busted, curvier and plus-size women, but the truth is the average bust size in the UK is Double D and a size 16 so that 50% of the population DD and above. That's about the same for my client base. I just make sure they are showcased as much as everyone else :). Lingerie Spotlight: Celebrating UK lingerie designers and makers. If you have a lingerie brand or similar that you'd like to be featured, please get in touch, let's start a conversation :). Patrick Falaniko Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio
A woman with flowing redish hair is looking up with closed eyes, wearing a strappy green dress.
by Patrick Falaniko 20 December 2023
Thinking about modeling as a career? It's a hella lot more challenging than it seems, but I can guide you :). Start by assessing if you have the potential for modeling, you'll need a thick skin, determination, a professional attitude. Then, approach agencies with evidence of your credentials - here's where I come in to help!
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