Myth Busting: 3 of the biggest misconceptions about boudoir photography
Over the years as a boudoir photographer, I have encountered a lot of misconceptions about what boudoir photography means, what it involves, and who it is for. I want to take a moment today to bust those misconceptions and let you know what boudoir photography looks like in my studio!
Boudoir photography can actually be done in so many different ways because each of my clients bring unique ideas, vision, and personality to their session. Sessions can take place indoors at my studio, or outside in nature. Some clients choose to get their hair and/or makeup done professionally for the photoshoot, while many opt for a totally DIY vibe.
The point is, there’s no one “right” way to plan a session. During our first planning meeting, I encourage clients to both notice and gently let go of any “should’s” you may have in mind about your photoshoot and to instead consider: how do you imagine your ideal boudoir session?
To help you imagine all that’s possible for a boudoir session, I want to share the top three misconceptions I hear from clients about boudoir photography. You can also click the links to see my instagram reels about these common misconceptions.
3 big misconceptions about boudoir photography:
1) Boudoir photography is only for a romantic partner:
Of course it doesn’t have to be that way! The reality is much more complex and interesting! Actually, the vast majority of my clients do a photoshoot just for themselves– as an act of self-love and celebration, or as a way of documenting a significant chapter in their lives. It’s okay if you want your boudoir photographs to be a gift for someone else, and it’s also okay to do a session entirely as a gift for yourself!
2) You have to wear lots of lacy lingerie:
The truth is there are NO rules about what you should or shouldn't wear for a boudoir session.
The number one thing I encourage clients to do when selecting their wardrobe is to find outfits that you love and that feel like you. If that includes lacy lingerie, awesome! And if that means wearing cotton undies and a big comfy sweater, or your favorite jeans and a cool leather jacket, that’s equally wonderful. Some of my clients want to take fine art nude or implied nude portraits, so they may be wrapped up in just a sheet or not wearing anything at all. Other clients choose to wear everyday clothing throughout the entire session.
What matters most is this one question: what feels most like you? Wear that :)
I have lots of resources to help you select outfits for your session, and I’m always happy to talk through those options with you during our planning session. You also can download the wardrobe guide from my website, or take the style quiz to help you narrow down what wardrobe vibe best suits your style.
3) Boudoir photography is only for women:
This misconception is both untrue and discriminatory.
While most of my clients do identify as female, I welcome folks of all genders in my studio. I've photographed men, women, trans folks, gender-fluid clients, nonbinary folks. The unfortunate reality is that I know this isn't true in all boudoir studios, but I make a promise to my clients and community: my boudoir studio is a safe space where folks of all genders can be seen, photographed, and celebrated.
Boudoir photography is all about celebrating your inner light and natural beauty, inside and out. You are art, already and always. You are welcome here.
