When you hear "boudoir," a few words may come to mind right away.


  • Scary
  • Revealing
  • Vulgar
  • Pornographic


Some boudoir photoshoots can definitely look and feel this way. But they don't have to.


I've recently discovered the art of boudoir photography and fell completely in love. Before you think I went insane and started posting naked pictures of myself online, let me explain.


I found out that a boudoir photoshoot can be something else entirely. The purpose of a boudoir shoot isn't to photograph somebody naked. Instead, the idea is to show a person's beauty in the most honest way.


This means different things for different people. Some prefer to get completely undressed, while others remain fully clothed. Both of these options (and everything in between) are completely OK and can still "qualify" as a boudoir shoot.


Because there's a lot of confusion around this subject matter, I decided to write this blog post. I hope it'll shed some light on the boudoir shoots. I'll also give examples, ideas, locations, and more.


What is a boudoir photoshoot?

A boudoir photoshoot is often described as:

  • Sexy
  • Sultry
  • Empowering
  • Feminine
  • Sensual
  • Intimate
  • Romantic
  • Alluring
  • Seductive


Each of these terms has a broad spectrum. Basically, a boudoir photoshoot can simply be a portrait shoot, but with an emphasis on showing your honest and real self.


In the past, photoshoots that reveal some of people's curves and typically covered body areas were reserved for models. As our society became more accepting of different body shapes and sizes, more and more people felt empowered to capture themselves the way they are.


If you think about it, wearing lingerie isn't much different than wearing a bathing suit. So why the stigma?


I feel strongly about removing this barrier and helping people feel beautiful just the way they are. I did a boudoir photoshoot myself, and I couldn't be happier. Maybe one day I'll look skinnier, tanner, better, etc. Maybe I won't. But I'm happy I captured that stage of my life, incorporated things I love (my camera, guitar, etc), and got an incredible representation of the real me.

Why do a boudoir photoshoot


Besides getting cool pictures, why would you do a boudoir photoshoot? My clients gave me 7 solid reasons I wanted to share with you.


1. Feel stunning in your own skin


Our social media world sometimes gets to all of us. The constant comparison game doesn't help our self-image and mental health. We're constantly seeing photoshopped photos of celebrities, friends, and fitness models (usually while sitting on a couch with a pack of Doritos nearby). It's easy to feel discouraged, not good enough, and get upset.


Now, imagine you had stunning photos of yourself where you too looked like a model (regardless of your size). If you only knew how stunning you could look, if you let a dedicated photographer show your true beauty, you just might feel a little better.


One day, you'll be a little older. Maybe your skin will get a little less elastic. Maybe you'll put on a few extra pounds - we're all human, and it's a natural process of aging. But if you could look back at your boudoir images, you would get this wonderful nostalgic feeling and realize - I was and still am beautiful. And what's better than that?

2. Treat yourself


Everyone has a different self-care routine. Some visit a spa, others go for a run, and some book a boudoir photoshoot. There's something about getting all dressed up, treating yourself to a mani-pedi, professionally-done hair and makeup, and feeling like a celebrity for a day. By the way, you don't need all those preparations for a boudoir shoot with me! They're optional, but definitely helpful.


When you choose a special outfit, book a cozy studio and hire a photographer, you can't help but feel special. Then, when you get the photos back, you get those feelings all over again. And guess what? Every time you look back at those photos, you'll get those wonderful feelings back. It's truly a gift that keeps on giving!

3. Create a unique gift to your s.o.


Many people love the idea of capturing their real selves in a boudoir photoshoot. Often, they choose to keep these photos private. Sometimes, they use pictures from this photoshoot as a gift to their partner. Some of my clients even turned them into photobooks for their significant others.


Here's an example of a photobook layout I created for one of my boudoir clients Ilana. She gave this book to her parter for Valentine's Day. Later, he told me that it's the most unique and thoughtful gift he's ever received.

4. Get dressed up


I relate to this one a lot. I've been working exclusively from home since the start of COVID-19. This means my dresses, sexy lingerie and high heels have been comfortably resting in my closet for a few years now. Aside from rare exceptions, my daily wardrobe includes leggings, sweatpants, hoodies, and fluffy socks.


If you're like me and love getting pretty from time to time, a boudoir shoot is a perfect occasion. You'll also get pictures later, so all the effort you put into getting ready will be so worth it!

5. Get a confidence boost


This was my #1 reason to finally commit to a boudoir shoot. I've always felt overweight no matter how much weight I've lost. The effects of this lack of self-confidence affected lots of aspects of my life. Besides therapy, I tried a boudoir shoot and was pleasantly surprised. Turns out, seeing yourself through the eyes of a photographer is magical. A good photographer will highlight your best features and gently draw attention away from "problem" areas (we all have them!). Above all, they will help you feel incredibly confident and invincible.


After my boudoir shoot, I started feeling a lot more comfortable in a bathing suit. I truly want to help you feel the same. Self-confidence can do wonders!

I hope you feel a little more comfortable about boudoir shoots now.


If you take away one thing from this post, let it be this: you can do, wear, and look however you want for a boudoir shoot. There are no rules. Lingerie, oversized shirt, sweater, blazer, jeans, kimono, blanket, bathing suit, pyjamas, lounge wear, or nothing at all will work perfectly.


Stay tuned for my next blog about everything boudoir - what to wear, how to prep, where to do it, and more. If you're ready to capture your beauty together, reach out! Simply fill out a contact form on this website, and I'll help you plan :)