What Is Boudoir Photography?
Boudoir, in current photographic terms, refers to a style of portraiture that includes personal, romantic, revealing, sensual images. Each woman has an idea of what is beautiful and attractive and your session should be a collaboration between the photographer and you; resulting in images that are uniquely personal.
I’m shy, do I have to be undressed?
Your boudoir session should be fun so you never have to do anything you don’t want to. Every woman is beautiful in her own way and it isn’t necessary to remove clothes to create gorgeous, romantic photographs. Images can range from fully or partially clothed, to lingerie and implied nudity (this is when the scene is set so you appear nude when you are not) to tasteful nudes if you desire.
Light and Shadow Figure Study
Discuss thoroughly with your photographer what your comfort level is and how you envision the final images to be. That way you can be as revealing as you want without overstepping any boundaries you may have. Not every photographer will photograph nudes so if that is your desire, be sure to mention it.
Through the selective use of lighting and shadow, your photographer will create images that accent what you believe to be your finest assets…while minimizing those areas you are not as pleased with.
I think I’m too old. I don’t look like a model. I’m not pretty enough!
Every woman is beautiful, regardless of her size or age. Have confidence in yourself and your sensual nature. Trust that your photographer is experienced and can arrange lighting and posing in order to capture the most sensual you possible.
What do I wear?
What you wear is entirely up to you. Your spouse’s dress shirt or a hockey jersey can be alluring if presented and photographed appropriately. Usually, lingerie, ranging from nighties to a bra and panties set are used during these sessions as are props like heels, feathers, necklaces, boas and much more. Your imagination is the only limitation. This is a good time for you to play “dress up”.
What about my Make-up?
You can do your own makeup if you are happy with the results; or visit a make-up artist prior to the boudoir session. Sometimes a make-up artist can be made available during the session if contracted by your photographer. (usually there would be an additional fee).
If it isn’t not your style, it’s not necessary to wear a lot of makeup.
How to choose a photographer
Lovely Curvature of the Back
Choose a photographer you trust as these images will be personal and intimate. Many women choose a photographer that will come to their home and set up a portable studio or use a room and props that are there. A big benefit to doing it this way is having all your clothing, makeup and anything else you may need close at hand. Others prefer a studio setting.
Remember, your privacy is to be protected and no images should ever be displayed anywhere without your permission. Make sure a contract is signed for your protection.
Nervous? What about a Group Photo Session?
Sometimes women are somewhat nervous about this kind of session. It may be fun for you and some of your friends to get together and all do a session at the same time. This can also be a money saver depending on the photographer. Whether at your home or in a studio setting, these group sessions should prove to be fun and lively. Each participant is photographed individually with helpful support from the others.
Retouching
Retouching can be helpful, particularly at times when a blemish appears on the morning of the intended shoot. It can be removed afterwards by retouching. Often, this will involve softening of the focus and creating a more sensual look to the image. Touching up areas you are unhappy with can be worked on, but be careful to not remove the truth of who you are as it is your beauty that is being captured.
Retouching may, or may not, be included with the portrait package being offered by your photographer. Confirm whether it is or not to ensure you don’t experience any surprise fees.
Preparing for a Boudoir Photo Session
The preparation for your boudoir session is very simple. Remember to wear loose fitting clothing and undergarments so no lines are left on your skin. If you are not having the session completed at your home, bring as many accessories and clothing changes as you think of. (If you don’t use it all, that’s fine)
Norm Hamilton is a photographer in Whitehorse, Yukon
See the Authentic You Boudoir/Romance page for more information.
