Daily Inspiration: Meet Justin Vollbach

Justin, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I bought my first interchangeable lens camera in high school about 12 years ago. It was a ruby red Nikon D3100. I thought it was so cool. My cell phone camera just didn’t make the cut for me. The thought of capturing a high-quality moment was really fascinating. I wasn’t any good when I started. I didn’t take any classes on photography but I did a lot of research. I wish I knew the amount of time I’ve spent researching anything photography related. Every second I spent and spend researching, I’m in my happy place and have a passion for more. I quit going to college because all I could focus on was my passions and I’m the type of person who needs to be spending time on the things I love. I needed to work full time plus my side gigs to provide for my daughter. I was working 60 hours at the factory on nights, DJing (I own an entertainment company as well), working as a person trainer, and doing photography which eventually allowed me to buy my first home when I was just 20 years old. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed capturing portraits, family photos, and majestic landscapes when I go on week-long backpacking trips. 5 years ago, a good friend of mine asked me if I’d be interested in helping her do a boudoir shoot for her husband. I love trying new things and helping people, so I gladly said yes. When she saw her photos, I saw tears run down her face followed by an unforgettable smile. She told me she’s never seen this side of herself before and thanked me repeatedly. It was in that moment I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. They say your main source of income should be something you’re passionate about but it was never so clear to me until then. Having the privilege to help women change the way they see themselves, providing for my family through photography, and connecting with people on an emotional level is something I never thought was possible. I’m still working nights at the factory 40 hours a week, starting a photobooth company, and building my entertainment company as well. Hopefully, in the next year or two, I can financially rely entirely on Pure Luxe Boudoir so that it can be my business and source of income.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
This adventure has been quite the roller coaster! There are many things I’ve learned to understand along the way. You have to fall in love with the journey not just the end goal. You also have to fall in love with falling down if you ever want to stand on your own. I set goals for my company that I know are achievable in the time I give myself. You have to know your value and your products value. You have to know that you’re not going to be the right fit for everyone. I think a lot of photographers and business owners fail because they get impatient. I’m not thrilled to go to work every night at the factory, but I know that I have to be patient. Just like they say, “Anything worth having is worth waiting for.” It definitely isn’t always rainbows and butterflies. Sure, I may be an artist with my camera but I also believe it’s a form of art to run a successful business and sell a product. Learning about the business side of things has probably been the most time-consuming lately, however, I really love the process and learning how I can be better. I learn more and more every day, which I’ll continue to do until my last breath. Being a male boudoir photographer has also come with its struggles. I hid behind Pure Luxe for a while. I never talked about myself which i think is definitely needed to connect with clients. I’ve learned that if I show my true genuine self and intent, my clients will feel just as comfortable as shooting with a female photographer. There’s actually a few benefits as to why you would consider a male boudoir photographer. A common consensus is that it can be easier for a woman to show her sexy side in front of the camera with a male photographer because it’s a dynamic they are somewhat familiar with. A lot of clients want a session done for their man or husband so getting a male’s perspective and opinion is highly valued when deciding what photos their significant other may like best. Companies like Maxim, Playboy, and Sports Illustrated mainly use male photographers for that same reason. Boudoir on the other hand is mainly female because of the perception that the client and her spouse will feel more comfortable if she is shot by a woman. You should know that both male and female photographers are focusing on posing, lighting, emotion, and experience. We aren’t really looking at ‘you’ but creating the best photo as possible. Something that I think is important to have is a good support system. Whenever I have a rough day, my girlfriend is always there to cheer me up and remind me how much I’ve already accomplished. We bought a very gorgeous home last year after I sold my first home and she’s allowing me use the master bedroom as the boutique studio for Pure Luxe. Currently, the boutique is undergoing a 100% modern luxury remodel which should be finished this fall. When I was single, I knew that finding a woman who would support me though this would be a struggle. A lot of women would have a hard time dating a boudoir photographer but she sees the true intent of Pure Luxe’s purpose, our trust is out of this world, and our communication is top notch so I’m incredibly grateful I have her in my life. She’s also my lovely assistant if she’s able to take a break from her work as she’s incredibly busy as well. We have been called a “power couple” more times than none, and I couldn’t agree more.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m the owner and photographer of Pure Luxe Boudoir. Pure Luxe is a luxury boutique that gives everyday women the opportunity to indulge in a lavish adventure while I capture their sexy in a way that some may have a hard time seeing. We specialize in empowering women to own their sexy in the most comfortable, fun, and luxurious setting possible. It’s truly an invaluable experience that I’ve spent countless hours perfectly. You’re not just coming in to get a boring photoshoot done which is definitely what I’m most proud of. Your experience starts the moment you get on a call for your consultation. I think the initial phone call provides the foundation for a great connection. If they are a good fit for us, I set up a pre-planning date for them to stop in for a visit to get to know them and make them feel comfortable before they get in front of the camera since this is a very intimate experience. While elegant music lingers in the background, we plan our styling, wardrobe, and makeup (which is done by our amazing makeup artist just before their photo session). They also get the chance to see what products we offer so they have an idea of what they may be interested in. When they arrive for their magical experience, they are ushered to be pampered by our makeup artist and given a small glass of champagne along with some fantastic hors d’oeuvre’s. We vibe to a music selection of their choice and finally begin our photo shoot. We provide snacks and beverages during the shoot upon request. After their shoot, we plan a reveal date for them to see their photos for the first time and order the products they desire. Our main product we offer is our glass hardcover album made from one of the world’s best album companies in Germany. We also give the option of digitals as well as our sexy slow motion 4k short video. I feel the experience we provide is what we are known for and what sets us apart from the rest. As an empath, I pride myself in developing a professional and trustworthy connection with my clients which I think gives Pure Luxe an advantage over other boudoir photographers. We also donate to a local charity of our client’s choosing if their self-investment exceeds a certain amount. Telling someone’s story through incredible modelesque images is only part of what we can provide. Their experience and my opportunity to elevate their self-confidence is really what ties the bow around our gift.

What does success mean to you?
Success to me is knowing I’m helping others feel incredible about themselves. My heart needs to spread all the love it can offer. Hearing positive feedback from our clients about their experiences and images truly is fuel for my soul. If I’m able to leave a legacy of love behind when it’s my time to leave, I‘ll know I succeeded.