Have you ever stopped to look at a beautiful boudoir portrait?
Have you felt a desire to be captured by a photographer in the same light?
Boudoir photography is as alive today as it was in the early 1940s. The great news is that you can capture the essence of your beauty and personality using this timeless art form in today’s day and age.
If you are interested in learning about boudoir photography, look no further.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know when considering booking your own shoot.
What Is Boudoir Photography?
Boudoir photography has been a very popular phenomenon since the early 1940s. This type of photography often shows the nude form in an implied fashion rather than explicitly. The result is an intriguing, playful subject appearance.
A boudoir portrait provides a representation of an often female (but sometimes male) form that is sensual and intimate. Photographers who create great boudoir photos always consider the subject’s body, personality, and clothing.
Some women request a boudoir photoshoot to keep for longevity, or to mark a major life event or anniversary. Others seek a boudoir shoot as a fun wedding gift for their soon-to-be-spouse.
Many clients seek boudoir photography for a maternity shoot, couples boudoir, or plus-size photography. Regardless, it is essential to seek out a photographer who knows how to use the proper equipment and location to develop classic boudoir photos that will last a lifetime.
The History of Boudoir
Boudoir is a French word. The boudoir was a place for a woman to have to herself. Depending on the woman’s budget, the boudoir could be a small corner or an entire room.
Boudoir photography has a long history but has developed recently as a new trend that has become very popular. Modern women have returned to the classic nature of the female form as sensual, beautiful, and intriguing.
The aim of boudoir photographs is to be candid and unposed, provocative and playful. Those who are photographed give off a strong sense of their personality and beauty. It is rare for nudity to dominate, rather than to impart a deeper connotation.
What Subjects Interested in Boudoir Should Know
There are some misconceptions about the nature or purpose of boudoir photography. Here are a few essential things to know about this exciting art form:
You Don’t Need a Lot of Confidence
Most women are uncomfortable at the beginning of the boudoir shoot. There is a reluctance to show skin and intimate regions because they are being captured by the camera for longevity. This is a natural feeling, but it fades as the shoot progresses and empowerment flows in.
It Doesn’t Need a Special Event
Oftentimes, the boudoir shoot is reserved for brides who wish to provide a special treat to their fiance or partner. However, the reality is that many women from all stages of life are turning toward boudoir to document that time and age. It is a fantastic way to reimagine who you are.
Some women wish to document their personality during a period of transition, and others are simply seeking something new.
It Is Best to Meet the Photographer Before the Shoot
Photographers impart their own style into the resulting images. It is important to choose a photographer that knows how to find the aesthetic you desire. Certain photographers specialize in retro stylings or pin-up looks, while others focus on moderns or nudes.
Take a look at a prospective photographer’s portfolio to make sure you will come away with what you are wanting. Also, note that some photographers offer hair and makeup while others do not. It should be expected to receive a consultation in advance of the shoot, however.
Make sure you are comfortable with your photographer and willing to be exposed in front of them. This will make for a wonderful shoot and images to last a lifetime.
Do Some Prep Work
Bring a variety of things to wear, but make sure to have tried them on before the shoot. It is always possible that something that looks great in person doesn’t look so good on camera.
It doesn’t need to be lacey to be sensual. Cute dresses or t-shirts can work in their own way, depending on your goals. Many women have gone for boudoir shoots in a baggy sweater.
For your body, do what is natural for you. Only do a spray tan if that is something you typically do in your regular routine. You don’t need to get one solely for the purpose of the shoot. Make sure to relax, get plenty of sleep and drink lots of water.
Finally, psychological preparation is equally important. Keeping your mood and morale high and promoting your own self-acceptance is paramount. One photographer recommends looking at yourself nude every day for at least a week to become more comfortable with yourself in that moment.
That way you can walk into the studio and own it.
Trust the Photographer
Unless you are a model, you won’t know how to pose. That’s okay! That is the photographer’s job. Trust that they will guide you into positions natural for your body type and traditional for the boudoir shoot.
You may be asked to twist and contort into positions that seem unnatural at first, but trust the process. There will be plenty of leaps of faith during the shoot, but the final result will be well worth it.
Try not to take offense if the photographer asks you to change to the next outfit. Often, these directions have to do with optimizing the lighting and creating variety in the gallery.
Many photographers also ask clients to bring something that belongs to their loved one as a prop to use during the shoot.
Have Fun
Above all, remember to have fun during the shoot. These won’t be the kind of photos you tuck away and forget about.
Make a special album of your favorite photos, and create a steamy collection in black and white. Or perhaps create a large blow-up image of the most gorgeous shot to hang in the bathroom. You can also use the images to create cards, stamps, calendars, and other common household items.
Location, Location, Location
Where should you aim to hold your photoshoot? It is likely that your photographer will have lots of input on this, but don’t be afraid to communicate your wishes.
The setting for your photoshoot will help to create the proper mood and set the tone for the images to follow. It should support you in feeling safe, sexy, and naturally beautiful.
Finding Natural Light
Lighting opportunities will make or break your result. A good photographer will ensure that you are being captured in a well-lit setting that works to capture the complex elements of your body and spirit. Anything with lots of natural light, perhaps behind a light curtain or blinds will be an ideal starting point.
Rooms with harsh top lighting or fluorescent bulbs will be less flattering and natural. Therefore, a naturally lit bedroom or studio is a much better option.
If you are outdoors, try to avoid an area with compromised shade or cloud coverage. You want to be in a remote area with not too much distraction or opportunities for a ruined photo due to background subjects.
During the Shoot
Here is an example of how a typical shoot may play out. Once you have met the photographer again the day of the shoot, you will finish your final preparations and get into your first sexy outfit.
One of the more challenging components is the initial phase of feeling and embodying your own beauty and sexiness. The photographer may applaud you and make constant communication to help you overcome any negative emotions you are feeling. Make sure to discuss what you are feeling with your photographer as it comes up; they’ve heard it all a hundred times before and know that your feelings are natural.
The photographer may play some music in the background to set the mood and help you relax.
Starting With Simple, Flattering Poses
There are several classic boudoir poses. A good position to start with is on the knees, with the feet tucked underneath. In this position, you will place your hands on the body in a natural relaxed way.
Any bra straps or jewelry may be used to play with casually to promote a feeling of sexiness or playfulness. If you are wearing a cover-up or top, you might be asked to wrap it around your body to highlight your natural form.
A second pose might include arching the back with a pillow underneath the arm propping you up. You will point the feet and turn the chin over the shoulder toward the camera.
Or perhaps you might lay onto your back with your arms over your head.
This way you can arch the back and begin to play with the hair or run fingers along the neck in a sensual pose. This is an especially natural position for male boudoirs as well.
An additional classic pose is lying one the side, with the bottom leg straightened outward and the top leg bent. This helps to promote the appearance of the body’s natural curves. You can also place a hand or object over the midsection if you are feeling self-conscious about this area or want it hidden from view.
Flow Posing
Another technique often used in the middle of a shoot is flow posing. This strategy helps to keep the boudoir photoshoot relaxed and comfortable. You may be asked to move naturally between positions, shifting from one of the discussed poses to another.
The photographer will aim to capture your body’s natural movement. It also helps to relax you if you are feeling awkward or stiff, as the tension from holding a pose will be slowly released.
Using Props
Props can be an excellent addition to a boudoir to improve detail and complexity. Some props will promote an engaging component of sensuality, such as a feather, a mirror, or a chair. If you have any ideas for a prop, be sure to discuss them with the photographer beforehand to involve them in the creative development of the shoot.
It is better to lean toward props that are classic, and not too complex themselves. A wedding ring is a great example of something sleek, simple, and beautiful that magnifies the subject of the image.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the most frequently asked questions by clients before a boudoir shoot.
When Should I Book My Boudoir Session?
Whenever is convenient for you! For women who aim to give boudoir photos as a gift or special present, three months is adequate time. If you set your shoot to take place three months in advance, your photographer will likely have sufficient time to prepare photos to your liking.
How Long Does a Boudoir Session Take?
This is highly variable by photographer, but most shoots will take place over approximately 2 hours. Some photographers may budget additional time for hair and makeup.
Where Does the Shoot Take Place?
As discussed, the location should be agreed upon by the client and photographer. Bedrooms and outdoor grassy areas are the most common choices, but there is no restriction as to where this type of art can go.
What Should I Wear or Bring?
Coming to the shoot in loose-fitting clothing is probably the most comfortable choice. It won’t leave any marks on your skin during the shoot.
During the session, anything goes. It is about whatever makes you feel comfortable and beautiful. Doing some sufficient prep work in trying on items beforehand goes a long way in making sure you are left with photos you love and adore.
Will I or My Loved One Really Be Happy With the Result?
Yes! A boudoir session is an exciting event for you and ends with a lasting memory that you (or your partner) will be sure to cherish with the right preparation by you and your photographer. It is an emphatic statement that you will be your whole self and not shy away from it.
The Timeless Beauty of Boudoir Photography
Boudoir photography is here to stay. For decades since its invention, this timeless art form has been used by photographers to capture the sensual beauty and personal essence of thousands of men and women.
If you are considering booking a boudoir shoot for you or your loved one, make sure to seek the best photographer you can find. This will ensure that you leave the experience with a souvenir of a lifetime: a permanent capture of your beauty and personality.
As a boudoir photographer, Annie Watson is second to none. She is a Naples-based photographer with availability for any woman or man interested in developing a boudoir album for longevity. Contact her here for more information.