We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alexis Decker. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alexis below.

Hi Alexis, thanks for joining us today. Let’s talk about social media – do you manage your own or do you have someone or a company that handles it for you? Why did you make the choice you did?

I do a mix of both! Early on, I managed all the social media posting for my Facebook and Instagram accounts on my own. While I heard lots of advice about how often to post, I quickly realized that keeping up with those recommendations was really challenging. After about a year of doing everything myself, I decided to start hiring help.

Over time, I’ve worked with several different people, always trying to stay within my budget. I’d still manage it all myself if I weren’t a little burnt out from doing it solo for so long. I’ve learned that letting go of some control and bringing in reliable help—especially someone who truly understands your mission—can make a huge difference.

For fellow business owners, my biggest insight is this: outsourcing small tasks whenever possible can be a lifesaver. It not only prevents burnout but also allows you to focus your energy on areas where you can make the biggest impact. Prioritize finding trustworthy people who align with your vision—it’s well worth it!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a single parent to twin toddlers, and while I started learning photography long before they were born, I feel like my true journey with photography didn’t begin until they entered my life. Before that, I was working part-time as a Registered Behavior Technician, still trying to figure out my path. I enjoyed photography and hoped to turn it into something more, but I never imagined it would lead me to where I am today.

I’m completely self-taught, learning through YouTube videos and investing in photography courses along the way. I never finished my college degree, and while I’m proud of where I’ve gotten without it, I would never discourage anyone from following the path that works best for them—who knows, I might even go back someday!

My maternity leave gave me the break I needed to really dive into photography. I practiced by photographing my kids, and during their naps, I worked on my website and other aspects of the business. In October 2020, I joined a Facebook group that completely changed my life. I learned everything from how to price my work appropriately to the ins and outs of marketing, taxes, and pricing psychology. It gave me the confidence to launch my LLC in December 2020.

It was through those groups that I discovered boudoir photography. At first, it felt like a bucket list type of project, but I quickly realized it was so much more. I ran my first boudoir mini-marathon, and it was a huge success. When I heard back from my clients about how transformative the experience was for them, I knew I had found my purpose. Boudoir is so much deeper than “sexy photos”—it’s about giving people the ability to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.

I’ve even experienced this myself. Before my own boudoir session, I struggled with body dysmorphia, especially after having my kids. That session helped me see my body in a new way and embrace it for all that it is. Now, I love being in front of the camera just as much as behind it! I use natural light and shadows to accentuate curves and create art that celebrates every body type. I’ve worked hard to refine my skills, particularly in capturing the beauty of skin tones in color photography, and I know there’s always more to learn. One thing I’m especially proud of is how much effort I’ve put into mastering skin retouching. I strive to make my clients look flawless—like they belong on the cover of a magazine—while still looking completely like themselves. My approach involves no body shaping, just enhancing what’s already there, because everyone deserves to feel beautiful just as they are.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that success takes time. You have to keep going, even when things feel challenging. I do this for myself, my clients, and my kids. I believe all bodies are beautiful, and I’ve decided that my size has nothing to do with how I live my life. That realization has made me so much happier, and I love being able to teach and share that joy with others.

Through this art form, I know I can make anyone feel their best, and that’s why I do it. Boudoir is for everyone, and it can truly be life-changing.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

One challenge I’ve faced as a boudoir photographer is the misconception that boudoir photography is the same as pornography. This misunderstanding can create unnecessary judgment and deter people from experiencing the empowerment that boudoir offers. Boudoir is an art form that celebrates the human body in a tasteful, elegant, and deeply personal way. Unlike pornography, which is created explicitly for sexual arousal, boudoir focuses on self-expression, confidence, and capturing an individual’s unique beauty.

Many people also assume boudoir requires nudity or revealing outfits, but that’s not true. Sessions are always tailored to the subject’s comfort level—whether that means wearing lingerie, a favorite dress, or even cozy pajamas. The goal is to help people feel confident and beautiful, just as they are. It’s a transformative experience that can change how someone sees themselves.

Educating others about the differences between boudoir and pornography is crucial to breaking the stigma. Boudoir photography is about empowerment, not objectification. By understanding this, more people can embrace the opportunity to see their beauty through a lens that highlights their strength, individuality, and confidence.

Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?

I started my business with a $300 camera that I asked my grandma to help me purchase, and I’m so grateful for that! After learning how to use it and diving deeper into photography, I realized I needed a better camera. The ones I had my eye on were way out of my budget, but I found an incredible deal on Marketplace and have been using that camera ever since.

Most of my camera equipment and educational resources were funded through PayPal Credit. I also use some of my business profits to cover ongoing expenses, like my QuickBooks account, editing software, and other tools. Credit played a huge role in helping me get started and gave me the financial flexibility to invest in my business when I was just getting off the ground. Investing in the right tools and equipment is crucial, as I have been using my equipment for years and they have been paid for at this point!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://alexisraeboudoir.com
• Instagram: alexisraeboudoir
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexisraeboudoir

Image Credits

Hair and Makeup for client photos is Emmy Makes People Pretty
All photos were taken/edited by me