In a world where body insecurities loom large, Tanya Mayfield, a passionate advocate for self-love and acceptance, believes that we are all guilty of harbouring hang-ups about our bodies. “It’s often about what others will think? It’s not until you’re older you wonder why did I care so much?” she reflects.

Tanya, the driving force behind a thriving boudoir photography business, recognized early on that these insecurities can hold women back in various aspects of their lives. “Starting this business, I knew I would help ladies combat insecurities, but not like I have. It’s been beyond amazing,” she says with evident pride. Witnessing the transformation in her clients is something she cherishes. “Seeing someone see a reflection of themselves that they love and seeing their faces light up! It’s priceless.”

For Tanya, the power of boudoir photography lies in the ability to see oneself from different angles, exuding glamour and confidence. “Even if you go straight back home and put your joggers back on, you note it. It puts a confident picture of yourself in the forefront of your brain, which is something you cling to – it’s so empowering. It can really help change our mindset.”

The impact of seeing oneself in a reflection that one adores extends far beyond the immediate moment. Mayfield asserts, “It has an impact on us going forward – how we feel inside, how we hold ourselves, how we react to things, and how we dress.”

Wearing pretty lingerie is the starting point for Tanya, who believes in feeling good from the inside out. “I love lingerie, so for me, it all starts with feeling good in pretty undies under my clothes,” she shares with a warm smile.

Tanya’s journey has been a tapestry of heartbreak and liberation. She recounts, “I’ve heard so many insecurities. I’ll be honest; I never imagined some of them. I’ve sat crying with some ladies because they’ve faced eating disorders, sexless marriages, alcoholism, self-harm, and worst of all, cancer where they have lost a breast or both.” Her commitment to sharing these stories is unwavering. “I know I need to share these stories with others more for more ladies to relate and see this experience differently.”

With profound empathy, Tanya acknowledges the dichotomy of wanting to embrace one’s flaws while fearing the initial discomfort. “But it goes against my feeling of, ‘We all already know what we look like, so do we need to see that first?’ I love that saying: ‘Be the girl who fixes a woman’s crown without telling the world it was crooked.’”

Throughout her journey, Tanya emphasises the personal nature of the experience. “Photos never have to be shared on my socials. It can stay totally personal and private as lots of my images do.”

Tanya’s perspective is shaped by her own experiences, including an artificial limb. “Because of my disability, a right artificial limb, I visited hospitals when I was young a lot and I saw how lucky I actually was from a young age. So I certainly have a positive outlook on life and embrace the good.”

In conclusion, Tanya passionately advocates for self-acceptance. “There are so many people who struggle and fight so much and you really have no clue, then for some of us it can be that mum tum cellulite which we hate and the longing of that body we had in our twenties which we moaned about back then too! Whatever it is, however big or small – it’s ok! I’m here, we work together having fun and I will guide, help bring out and show you the beautiful ways in which your body can be held and seen. Even if you want to hide parts, I’ve got you.”

In her journey, Tanya Mayfield brings to light the importance of embracing our bodies, scars and all, and finding strength in vulnerability. Each boudoir photography session she conducts is a testament to her belief that true beauty lies in self-acceptance. “Our bodies share everything with us, we go through everything with it, yet we treat it back so badly. Our bodies, our scars, are a story, part of who we are. Each session is tailored to you personally. Be you.”

With her warm personality and uplifting spirit, Tanya has become a beacon of empowerment, proving that self-love is a journey worth taking. As she aptly puts it, “It’s about taking time out for just you, re-connecting with your true self, baring it all – seeing yourself in ways you wouldn’t have done before, connecting with your inner sensual self – accepting how you are as a whole and embracing the true beauty of us women! But with that being said, ‘It’s you, me, a bit of fun!’ More laid back and fun than you can ever imagine. I talk so much you’ll instantly be distracted!”

For those who hesitate, Tanya offers a powerful reminder, “If you’ve got it, flaunt it! You won’t regret it. It is an empowering experience that I believe all women should do, if nothing else, to look back on.”

In the lens of Tanya Mayfield, boudoir photography transcends the visual; it becomes a celebration of self, a journey of acceptance, and a powerful statement of self-confidence.