Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Wash.
Katie, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started my boudoir business in 2019 after a few years of photographing a bit of everything. The decision to focus on boudoir wasn’t obvious at first, but after reflecting on it over the years, it was a no-brainer. Back in my teens, I was interested in pin-up culture, the Suicide Girls platform, and burlesque. Something about it all just called to me. In my art school years, much of my photography was self-portrait focused, often about beauty standards and exploring sexuality. Essentially, it was a fine art, narrative version of boudoir. While I had fun photographing families and headshots, that work didn’t feel as authentic to me. Boudoir has always been my calling, and seeing that it was a growing industry gave me my purpose: to empower women to express themselves through my creative lens. Over my seven years in business, my vision has evolved into something far more impactful, allowing queer people to show their bodies without judgment and giving them something unique to cherish for the rest of their lives.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not. The journey of business ownership is a wild ride! I feel incredibly lucky to have friends in similar industries who supported me through the struggles, especially since I have no formal business training. Things started off really well, and I was fortunate to have tremendous support from my friends and family. And then, bam, the pandemic hit. Navigating a brand-new business from my home was scary and uncertain, but the clients I attracted during that time proved to be incredibly valuable to my business.
As time went on and things began to stabilize, I worked hard to find my unique voice and stand out in an increasingly competitive industry.
As social media evolved from a creative platform into a more censored, influencer-driven space, I struggled to get my brand seen. Navigating those changes without clear answers or guidance on how to adapt was difficult. I wasn’t doing anything malicious – in fact, I was doing the opposite – yet I felt like I was being punished for it. I had to learn how to find business through other channels, with referrals becoming especially important. I even worked with brand ambassadors, which was a rewarding experience, but it came with its own set of challenges.
Last year, I took the plunge and invested in a mentorship program with Misty Moss out of Vancouver, and that investment was a game changer. When you’ve been struggling for so long, it’s easy to get stuck in circles without making meaningful progress. The mentorship reminded me why I love what I do and helped me work through the mental blocks that were holding me back.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned, and something that helps me day to day, is that it’s okay to rest, journal, and take time to research the things I love. Most importantly, I’ve learned the value of showing up as my best self.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Notorious Boudoir is about creating a dreamy escape through the female gaze. While some client poses may be similar to those seen across other brands, the way I photograph my clients is uniquely my own. I love capturing everything from classic, statuesque stances to casual, seated poses. I also incorporate natural movement to capture those in-between moments that are often missed when holding a pose.
I use the gorgeous natural light pouring into my studio to softly kiss and highlight the body. My photography incorporates a filter that softens harsh lines and creates a dreamy, ethereal atmosphere. While this style isn’t entirely unheard of, clients seek me out because my photographic approach feels distinct and unlike anyone else’s. 35mm film is also a fun and popular addition to my brand. Its raw, organic beauty complements my style while somehow capturing the same dreamscape I strive to create.
I am deeply proud to showcase a wide range of bodies in my work, representing different shapes, sizes, genders, and skin tones. While I know there is always room to grow, this representation helps potential clients feel comfortable choosing to work with me, knowing they will be seen, respected, and celebrated for who they are.
That commitment is deeply ingrained in my brand’s mission: every body deserves to feel amazing in their skin.
What matters most to you? Why?
My clients matter most to me. Their journeys are often deeply personal, and I want every experience to feel safe, empowering, and rewarding. Everything I do is for my clients – past, present, and future. I continually educate myself to create a better experience for them, experiment with art to refine my skills, and listen to their stories to deepen my empathy and understanding of the human experience.
As someone who came to understand my AuDHD identity later in life, I know how challenging it can be to navigate a world that doesn’t always feel like it was designed for you. Those experiences have given me a deep sense of empathy for others who have faced their own struggles. While not every client has experienced significant hardships, many carry their own stories, insecurities, and challenges.
In some ways, I feel like a mini therapist, creating space for people to feel seen, heard, and accepted. While I’m not a therapist, I strive to make my studio a place where clients can let their guard down, reconnect with themselves, and see themselves in a new light. More than anything, I want every client to leave feeling empowered, celebrated, and a little more in love with who they are.
Pricing:
- Session Fee – $500
- Digital Packages start at – $2000
- Print Collections start at – $2700
- Film Collections start at – $2800
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.notoriousboudoir.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/notorious_studiomke
- Other: https://patreon.com/NotoriousBoudoir
