When D and I first connected, he expressed interest in doing something to cultivate self-love and honor himself. D was feeling proud of the life he was creating within and around himself, and he wanted his boudoir session to be a safe space to celebrate vulnerability, feel connected, and take pride in who he is becoming. While I primarily photograph women and nonbinary folks, I welcome all folks into my Minneapolis boudoir studio, including men. I believe all people deserve to feel love and see themselves and their body as artful, and I bring the same self-loving energy and direction into all of my sessions regardless of someone’s gender.

Resonating with my self-celebratory approach to boudoir, D wanted his portraits to embrace his softness and to feel warm, emotional, and full of depth. He gave permission to share anonymous portraits only and loved all of the artful, close up details I captured that highlighted the natural lines and movement of his body.

When planning his boudoir wardrobe, D wanted his authenticity to be the focus of his portraits, so he chose a handful of outfits that felt simple, cozy, and effortless. He began the session wearing a comfy long sleeve shirt and gray boxers. Next he wore a cream shirt paired with simple black boxers. I loved how these colors photographed beside the bed in my studio, so I captured D lounging on the bed amidst layers of blankets that added lovely warmth, texture, and softness. I also took a series of pictures with D wearing only the black boxers. Standing in front of my black silhouette panel, these pictures feel clean, modern, and minimalist but still full of self-compassion. Next D wore a favorite pair of jeans with no shirt, and I love how effortless and everyday these images look. To end the session, I photographed D using the studio shower. These portraits feel candid, atmospheric, and alive, capturing an everyday ritual through such a powerful, self-loving lens.

After the session, D shared these inspiring words about the impact of his photoshoot. “The whole session and photo reveal was amazing. Working with Alyssa felt so natural, comfortable and uplifting. I showed up open to wherever the experience would take me, not sharing the same self-loving sentiments as when I booked the session. I didn’t think I would care for the person being photographed. Yet the person I found through my experience and in the photos - They’re worthy, they’re beautiful, they’re filled with kindness and empathy for themself. I didn’t know if that person was still there… I’m so glad they are. I feel loved by that person and I love them back.”

Celebrating depth and vulnerability

portraits from my Minneapolis boudoir studio