What Is Boudoir Photography?

Boudoir photography has been growing in popularity in recent years, but not everyone is familiar with the field. Some describe boudoir photography as falling somewhere between fashion and glamour photography, but these shoots are also meant to be intimate in nature. Read on to find out what future boudoir models need to know about this particular type of photography and how to prepare for a session.

Who Can Model for a Boudoir Session?

One of the great things about boudoir photography is that it truly is for everyone, not just professional models. Women often schedule boudoir shoots to find ways of exploring different sides of their personalities or when seeking empowerment, but plenty of men also model for boudoir sessions. When hiring a photographer, be sure to look for someone who is all-inclusive and willing to work with any model.

How to Prepare

The first step in preparations is to start seeking a good photographer. When doing research, check out the photographer’s portfolio, but don’t stop there. Look for reviews online to make sure prior models have felt comfortable working with the person.

The only thing models need to do to prepare themselves for boudoir photoshoots on the day of a shoot is to collect some of their favourite pieces of lingerie and other accessories. Remember, these photoshoots are meant to be sensual, but also empowering. Models should look for items that make them look and feel confident as well as sexy.

What to Expect

It’s common for first-time models to feel nervous before their first boudoir photoshoots, but learning what to expect can help. When a new model arrives, the first step will be to get glammed up with the help of hair and make-up artists. Try to be communicative, as there are different styles to go for in a boudoir shoot, and everyone has a slightly different idea of how they want to look.

Once the model is ready to start, it’s time to begin choosing poses. Before the shoot begins, models usually let their photographers know what parts of their bodies they most want to highlight. Photographers can then help the models direct poses to capture the perfect posture. The photographer can also remove the background using quitar fondo, if it isn’t quite right.

How to Pose

There are almost infinite poses to choose from in a boudoir shoot, but most models stick to the top four most popular of them. These popular poses include:

  1. Lying down in bed either on the back or the stomach to create an intimate, sultry feel. 

Using a chair as a prop for seductive poses.

Reclining to draw up the leg and show off full, shapely hips.

Leaning back to bask in the limelight.

There are plenty of other ways to pose, as well. Just think about the history of pinup shoots. A good photographer will be able to recommend the perfect pose for every body shape and personality, so don’t be afraid to ask for advice or try different poses and angles. A boudoir shoot should never feel rushed. 

Find the Right Photographer

Finding the right photographer is key for any kind of photoshoot, but it’s especially important for boudoir sessions. Please make a point of researching photographers in advance to see their portfolios and check reviews, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good photographer will take the time to make new models feel comfortable and confident.