Image source: Unsplash

Boudoir photography is a style of portrait photography accentuating the subject’s body in an intimate, romantic way.

This photography style surged in popularity during the height of the pandemic. Photographers across the country have reported increased bookings as more people show interest in getting photographed.

Getting a boudoir photography session is a way for people to appreciate their bodies and improve their self-esteem. If you’re considering trying this photography style, here are some tips and ideas.

What Is Boudoir Photography?

Boudoir photography is an intimate style that focuses on the subject’s body, comfort, and sensuality.

The word boudoir is French for a woman’s bedroom or private salon. The name itself emphasizes the personal and intimate nature of this style.

Despite being most popular among women, people of all genders can get a boudoir photoshoot. This photography style celebrates all adult bodies, no matter one’s sex or gender identity. Clients usually wear lingerie to express and take ownership of their sexuality.

Due to its intimacy, some people could perceive boudoir photography as sexual or indecent. This perception isn’t exactly accurate. Some boudoir images might be suggestive or a little risque. However, they are rarely erotic and are often for a small, personal audience.

Clients for boudoir photography sessions are often non-professional models. Boudoir photos are often taken as personal keepsakes or gifts for a partner. Some people also get boudoir photoshoots for special occasions, such as weddings, birthdays, or other personal milestones.

Boudoir Photography Ideas

Boudoir photography isn’t limited to wearing lingerie or taking bedroom shots. Photoshoot themes usually depend on the client’s style and taste.

For this reason, you and your client could get creative and explore different ideas to achieve your artistic vision. You could incorporate various accessories, clothing items, and locations to help your client feel comfortable and confident.

Here are some boudoir photography ideas you could explore in your next session.

Accessories

In a boudoir photoshoot, small details make a difference. The right accessories for a shoot enhance the theme and set the scene you want to create.

Depending on the look you want to go for, you could experiment with different accessories.

• Wedding veil. Bridal boudoir photography is a popular niche in wedding photography. Brides-to-be (or married people) could incorporate their wedding veil to celebrate their special day.
  A bridal boudoir shoot could help people feel more comfortable in front of the camera as they prepare for their wedding day. They also end up with gorgeous pictures afterward.
• Stilettos. High heels, especially stilettos, are a popular choice in boudoir photography. They help complete the outfit and give the illusion of longer legs.
  Talk to your client about their shoe choices. If possible, try out different shoe styles and colors to see which ones work best for them.
• Jewelry. The right jewelry helps accentuate your client’s features and add to the shoot’s theme. They don’t have to be expensive, as long as they complement the outfit and make the client feel great.
  Discuss different jewelry styles with your client. Some pieces might be tricky to pose with, which is an important consideration.
• Tiaras and hair clips. The hair frames the face. What better way to enhance this feature than with hair accessories?
  Headbands, tiaras, headdresses, and hair clips could improve the client’s look. You could get creative with these accessories and match them to the shoot’s theme.
• Flowers. Floral themes are classic for a reason. They evoke a sense of softness and femininity in any scene your client wants to create.
  You could use them in headdresses, jewelry, or clothing appliques. Incorporating individual petals into the overall look or as part of the backdrop also brings depth to the look.
• Glasses and masks. The eyes are a significant focal point in portraiture. They convey emotion and bring any boudoir photograph to life.
  Glasses, masks, and other eye accessories could accentuate the emotions. Specs, sunglasses, and other eyewear add help add boldness to one’s look.

Clothing

Many boudoir shoots exude sensuality and often use suggestive clothing. However, they don’t always have to be that way. People can express their sexuality in different ways.

You could make suggestions as a photographer, but it all boils down to the client’s preferences. The outfit should reflect the client’s personality and bring out their confidence.

• Lingerie. Traditional boudoir shoots often have the subject wearing lingerie accentuating their body. Wearing lingerie is an excellent way for the client to feel sexy and exude that energy during the shoot.
  The lingerie doesn’t have to be too revealing unless the client prefers it. Clients could choose among several styles and wear whatever makes them feel comfortable and confident.
• Oversized Coats or Sweaters. A big coat or sweater is a good pick if the client wants to be a little more covered up.
  Not only is it comfortable, but it also adds a natural vibe to the overall look. It shows off the legs as well, helping create a laid-back sensuality.
• Partner’s Clothes. This is an excellent outfit choice if the client is doing the boudoir shoot for their partner. You could also go with this look for a couple’s boudoir photography session.
  Wearing a partner’s clothes evoked intimacy. This clothing choice is also perfect for clients who don’t want to undress completely.
• Nightgowns or Capes. Nightgowns and light capes are another boudoir staple. A good nightgown in light materials like silk or lace can add luxury and drama to the overall look.
  The client could wear matching lingerie or keep the gown closed for something more conservative.
• Corsets. Corsets are an excellent addition to any boudoir outfit. They come in different designs, meaning there’s something for every client’s taste.
  Not only are they pretty to look at, but they also serve a purpose and fit all body types. They help accentuate the client’s shape and add flattering curves. You could wear corsets with almost anything—panties, shorts, skirts, etc.
• Dresses. Boudoir outfits don’t have to be revealing. Casual clothing could also belong in a boudoir shoot. Proper styling and the client’s energy could amp up “normal” clothes.
  Dresses in different styles are an excellent option for many clients. They particularly suit clients that aren’t comfortable wearing highly suggestive outfits.

Image source: Pexels

Locations

You can take boudoir photos nearly anywhere, as long as the client is comfortable.

It’s best to pick a private location to ensure your and your client’s safety and comfort. This latter point is crucial for first-time clients with little experience in front of the camera.

Some popular indoor locations for boudoir photoshoots include:

• A studio. This option might be your best bet if you have access to a studio. A photography studio gives you complete control over each aspect of the shoot.
  It allows you to create a custom space perfect for any theme. However, setup can take time unless you want a completely blank backdrop.
• The bath. Bathrooms are an ideal space for boudoir photoshoots. The area already has a sense of intimacy and privacy, perfect for this photography style.
  You and the client could play around with different props. Water and steam can add sensuality and mystery to the photos. Mirrors and frosted surfaces are also interesting visual elements.
• The bedroom. The bedroom is a classic boudoir shoot location. The space implies intimacy, ensures privacy, and offers several posing options.
  It’s even better if you do the shoot in the client’s own room. This option helps the client feel more comfortable since they already know the space well.

You don’t need to limit your boudoir shoots to indoor spaces. As long as the location offers privacy and makes the client comfortable, you can take your shoot anywhere.

Here are some fun outdoor locations for your boudoir photoshoot.

• The woods. Forests and wooded areas are an excellent choice for an outdoor boudoir photoshoot. Trees are a good natural backdrop that provides privacy and seclusion.
• The beach. Like the bathroom location, water from the ocean or lake adds another layer of interest to your images. Sand, rocks, or surrounding vegetation also provide exciting textures.
• A private garden or backyard. Flower gardens and greenery could lend some softness and whimsy to your shoot. Shooting in the open air also gives you a lot of natural light at certain times of the day.

Tips for a Successful Boudoir Photo Shoot

The best way to improve your photography skills is to practice. Below are five helpful boudoir photography tips you could bring to your shoots.

Get To Know Your Client Before the Boudoir Shoot

Before your shoot, talk to your client (preferably face-to-face) to get to know them. A boudoir photoshoot is an intimate experience, so developing trust and communication is essential.

You can start by understanding your client’s goals for the shoot. Is it to build their confidence? Will they gift the photos to a significant other? How do they want to feel during the shoot?

Understanding your client’s comfort zone helps you plan your shoot better. It also helps create a vision celebrating the client’s personality and interests.

Talk About Hair, Makeup, and Wardrobe Ideas

The boudoir photoshoot is about the client, so discuss each aspect with them beforehand. Once you and the client decide on a theme, you could build their outfit for the session.

Make sure the client is comfortable with the outfit choices. You can ask them to bring different outfit options to the shoot. Using the client’s wardrobe helps ensure their comfort and a proper fit.

While some clients may choose to do their own makeup, you can also suggest hiring professional hairstylists and makeup artists. Others might be more comfortable having a professional around.

Prepare the Setting for the Shoot

A well-put-together location helps the client feel comfortable during the shoot. It also sets the scene for whatever theme you choose to execute. Backdrops and props that suit the location help add visual interest to the final boudoir pictures.

Aside from making the location look pretty, setting a comfortable atmosphere is also essential.

Play some chill music and chat with your client. Set up a private dressing room and break areas.

Use Natural Light

If you have access to natural light, maximize its use. Well-controlled daylight could be highly flattering to the client’s appearance.

Make use of windows and doorways to let in some sunlight. Experiment with different props to create interesting lighting effects. If the natural light isn’t enough, you could also use artificial lighting setups.

For example, you could use blinds, plants, or other objects to create shadows. Strategically-placed shadows could hide certain parts of the face or body, creating drama for close-ups.

Image source: Pexels

Choose Comfortable Poses for Clients

For many new clients, posing is one of the most challenging parts of the shoot. You can discuss boudoir photography poses beforehand to help your client feel more comfortable.

During the shoot, don’t be afraid to give posing tips. Suggest poses that show off the client’s best angles and assets.

Encourage and give them positive feedback to lighten the atmosphere. If the client feels sexy, confident, and comfortable, your photos will reflect that.

Get Boudoir Photography Ideas With Contrastly!

Boudoir photography is a challenging photography niche to get into, but it can also be rewarding when done right. Aesthetic considerations aside, photographers must build trust with their clients and ensure their comfort throughout the process.

A good boudoir photographer combines technical prowess with the ability to make any person feel confident in their skin. Clothing, accessories, locations, and interpersonal skills play significant roles in this genre of photography.

After the shoot, make sure you have the right resources for post-processing. Contrastly has libraries of Photoshop and Lightroom presets you could use. We also have a supportive community ready to help you through your journey.

Get fresh boudoir photography ideas with Contrastly! Our picture-taking enthusiasts from all over the world can help you get started with your shoot!

FAQs on Boudoir Photography Ideas

How long should a boudoir session last?

Boudoir session lengths vary depending on the photographer and the client. A quick session could last around one to two hours. Others prefer longer sessions that take around four hours.

Some photography businesses offer boudoir packages with prices corresponding to the length of each session.

How much does a boudoir shoot cost?

Boudoir photo sessions could cost anywhere between $100 to $500. These costs vary widely depending on your chosen photographer or studio.

Prominent and experienced photographers and studios often charge more, especially if they have established their skills in the industry.

Why should I do a bridal boudoir shoot?

Bridal boudoir shoots are an excellent way to increase self-confidence before your wedding day. Many brides find the process empowering.

Photos from bridal boudoir shoots serve as keepsakes to look back on in the future. They also make excellent gifts to the bride’s future spouse.