Style Inspiration: Relaxed and Casual
How do you want your portraits to look and feel?
This is a question that I ask each of my boudoir clients as we begin planning their session. Some clients have a very clear sense of direction -- they’re drawn to portraits with a romantic and cozy energy, or they want portraits that emit a casual and relaxed energy. Other clients like the idea of a mix of styles, aren’t sure how to put words to their ideas, or want guidance in how best to reflect their current chapter of life in their portraits.
Over the course of photographing 100+ boudoir clients, I’ve noticed that there are four categories of styles my clients tend to be drawn to. In the upcoming months, I’ll explore each of these four common styles to use as an inspiration. You might find that one of these styles perfectly encompasses what you’re looking for, which is awesome -- that gives us a clear direction to head towards! With that in mind, it’s equally okay if you’re drawn to a mix of things or have a completely different idea. These explorations are here as a starting point for your inspiration, but I’ll always be delighted to explore an entirely new direction with you!
The ‘relaxed and casual’ boudoir style feels really effortless, candid, and easygoing! It can feel grounded and ethereal while simultaneously feeling calm and cool. Out of the four styles I’ve covered on the blog, this style feels the most unposed and natural, with body language that shows off inner light and confidence without trying.
Energy and vibe
I’ve found that some folks take the ‘relaxed and casual’ style in what I like to call the ‘Sunday morning vibe’ direction. Picture the feeling you have when you’re hanging out in bed, drinking coffee or tea and waking up to the day! It’s a mix of the ‘relaxed and casual’ style with a happy, sunny, and easygoing feel to it.
Other people take this ‘relaxed and casual style in the direction of feeling really chill and calm. This direction feels sort of undressed and effortless. It’s unfussy, grounded, and cool.
I’ve also found that some folks love the idea of pictures that feel really unscripted and candid, almost lifestyle-esque. These photos feel natural and organic, like I just popped in with my camera while someone was going about their day (and then I happened to capture a really lovely picture of it!).
Inspiration for hair/makeup + outfits
For hair and makeup, I’ve found that going for a really simple look works beautifully for a relaxed/casual vibe. Messy, tousled bed-head hair with a bit of volume feels really casual and gentle! Easy waves pairs nicely with a fresh, glowy, lit-from-within makeup look; a little blush and highlighter gives off radiant, sunkissed vibes. I’ve also found that eye makeup that feels a little smudgy or smoky (think eyeliner that isn’t quite perfect) can look carefree and relaxed.
Everyday clothing pieces work really beautifully for a relaxed, casual style. Having a mix of clothing paired with lingerie (think jeans with a bralette, a t-shirt paired with undies, or an off-the-shoulder sweatshirt mixed with lace bottoms) feels low-key while simultaneously feeling a little sexy. I also love the look of unstructured, flowy fabrics, such as cotton or linen; they have an ease to them that feels cool and effortless.
In general, the ‘relaxed and casual’ style feels sort of opposite of ‘glamorous,’ but you could still rock lingerie or something dramatic and have it feel relaxed and casual by contrasting it with something more loose or drapey for a sexy-without-trying energy. While this style really shines with super simple pieces, like solid bralette/underwear pairs, don’t be afraid to bring in your favorite statement earrings or bold lipstick to add a touch of boldness or a hint of drama! Often the most compelling pictures end up being the one that play with contrasting elements.
Posing
Sometimes people think that if pictures look really candid, it means that someone wasn’t getting posed or directed -- but that’s totally not the case! I will often direct clients to do small actions in relaxed/casual poses, as this leads to pictures that have a sense of realness, movement, or story. I like to structure these around actions or activities that feel cozy and chill: drinking coffee, walking, or looking out of a window all feel like things you might do organically at home, and they look super easygoing in pictures. I’ve also found that cozy poses, laughter, and calm expressions feel really laid-back and lovely for the ‘relaxed and casual’ style.
Combining the ‘relaxed and casual’ style with other styles
This style plays beautifully with others! Combining the ‘relaxed and casual’ style with the ‘soft and romantic’ style leads to photos that feel loungey, cozy, and loving (almost like a hanging-out-in-bed vibe). Combining a ‘relaxed and casual’ style with a ‘bold and dramatic’ style leads to pictures that feel super effortless yet sexy, and can really show off different facets of your personality! Finally, pairing the ‘relaxed and casual’ style with the ‘strong and empowered’ style leads to photos that feel really calm, collected, and cool.
For more inspiration…
K's session really captured the essence of the ‘relaxed and casual’ style; her portraits are so easygoing and self-loving.
Amandajean’s session was an awesome mix of a ‘relaxed and casual’ style with a bold undertone!
Cyndy's session took the ‘relaxed and casual’ style and infused it with a beautiful, joyful energy.
Megan's second session feels both ‘relaxed and casual’ while also feeling romantic and feminine.
Ashley’s session combines the ‘relaxed and casual’ style with confidence, inner light, and a bit of romance!
Explore the other boudoir styles:
Considering your own boudoir session?
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