Our Family Pictures on Hawaii with Jonathan Canlas Photography!

When my husband Romie and I decided to be his mother’s caregivers — she would live with us and we’d take care of her every need — we never realized how much it would change our lives … lots of ups and downs. And patience. To watch someone you love slowly lose grasp of the little things the rest of us find so simple to do, like feeding yourself, is not easy and almost heart-breaking. Her name is Pacita, but she’s known as Lola to her many grandchildren and their children. This is Lola’s diary…

As a portrait photographer based in Portland, Oregon, I photograph other people’s weddings and families all the time; I document their precious time together … The laughter, the tears, the joy, the memories of it all. Sometimes I get so focused on creating memories for others that I overlook my own family— I can’t ever forget about my own. (I hope you don’t forget yours either.) Last fall, when Lola’s dementia seemed to have gone for the worst, my husband Romie hugged me in silent tears … We felt helpless because nothing we did was making any difference for her. She was a stone, zombie if you will. So, we vowed to do whatever it took (and immediately!) to get beautiful images by one of my favorite family photographers: Jonathan Canlas. I don’t have any professional portraits of my own grandmother to treasure; she passed away years ago yet the pain still runs deep and I wish to have beautiful photographs of us together before she was sick. Because I didn’t want Romie to miss on having incredible portraits with his mom… We made it happen even though we had no idea how we could really pay for it all. But, I’d rather make memories than regrets.

(If Lola could still speak, she may say): “Want me to smile? Give me MONEY!!”

The Lola Diaries - family pictures on hawaiiThe Lola Diaries - family pictures on hawaiiThe Lola Diaries - family pictures on hawaiiThe Lola Diaries - family pictures on hawaiiThe Lola Diaries - family pictures on hawaii

Bunn Salarzon - maternity boudoir photography experience

She may look like a professional model, but she isn't. You may know her ... She is The Girl Next Door.

HER BOUDOIR PHOTO SHOOT EXPERIENCE WITH BUNN...

MEET VICTORIA

WHO ARE YOU? My name is Victoria and I work in the healthcare industry.

WHAT WAS YOUR GOAL? (Was this your first boudoir photo experience?) No, this was my 3rd. I wanted to do this for my son and to be able to remind myself how beautiful I looked during my pregnancy.

WHAT DID BUNN OR HER TEAM DO TO HELP PUT YOU AT EASE? Being pampered and having fun. She made me feel comfortable and helped me find the best position that helped me look flattering. (Hair & Makeup: Styled by Chrystal)

 

HOW WOULD YOU COMPLETE THIS SENTENCE: "Every woman should experience a boudoir photo session with Bunn because..." She will help bring out the confidence and the beauty that may be hidden away from the routines of life. This is an experience that every woman should have.

Bunn Salarzon - beautiful black woman posing on chair

She may look like a professional model, but she isn't. You may know her ... She is The Girl Next Door.

HER BOUDOIR PHOTO SHOOT EXPERIENCE WITH BUNN...

MEET CAROLINE

WHO ARE YOU? I am Nigerian and Grenadian. I am a film and commerical producer. Which basically means I take ideas from thoughts and make them real for your enjoyment.

WAS THIS YOUR FIRST-EVER BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCE? This was my first session. I am actually in the midst of what most people would term a mid-life crisis, so I thought it would be interesting to document it and have something to look back at one of the most difficult times of my life so far. My four-year relationship had just ended, and I had recently lost my grandmother who I was very close to. In addition, I am transitioning in terms of my career.

WHAT WAS YOUR GOAL? (And did you have any fear about it?) To be present and live in the moment. I am quite transparent and open to new experiences so I didn't really have any concerns. Plus, Bunn was so welcoming and real that I simply could not imagine her shooting me in a bad light.

 

WOULD YOU DO THIS AGAIN? (And would you recommend this?) Absolutely! I think it's a great girlfriend experience, also I think it would be a great gift for sisters, friends— anyone really. It can be a very personal moment or a great memory.

HOW WOULD YOU COMPLETE THIS SENTENCE: "Every woman should experience a boudoir photo session with Bunn because..." It will change the way you imagine your body.

Bunn Salarzon - boudoir photography books

My #1 Popular Product: Boudoir Photography Books

Hands down, my top selling product will have to be the “Little Black Book” (5×5 album). These photo albums are flush mount and printed in quality archival thick pages. No fingerprints left behind! You start with your favorite images and can add more as you desire; albums come in 5×5 and 8×8, or larger in 10×10 and 12×12 (BIG!). Cover options come in various colors and in leather or linen (white linen cover is shown in image); custom text optional.

P.S. Album automatically includes printable digital file copy of the edited images used in design.

Bunn Salarzon - boudoir photography portland dudeoir photos

Sneak Peek! (Dudeoir) Boudoir Photography Portland, Oregon

David was the first “Dudeoir” in my new studio this past weekend. First thing I made him do was install my window blinds and change a light bulb … Hey, I’m 5’5″-ish and he’s 6’2″ that whole foot helped a lot! haha! And he cleaned up pretty nicely if I may add. ;) Okay, fine. So he’s not showing much skin for “Dudeoir”— if any. But, this was the first outfit we shot him in … There are more photos to come aka “less clothes” photos. Yeah!! Hope y’all are ready for the “Dudeoir” version of Bunn’s Boudoir!! Fellas, I’m ready whenever you are. (Cohiba cigars not included!)