Boudoir Photography: A Guide to Styles, Ideas, and Finding the Right Photographer
What Is Boudoir Photography?
Let's briefly look at how boudoir photography has evolved over the years, before we look at its defining characteristics.
History
Boudoir photography has roots as far back as the Victorian era. While it gained traction in the 1920s, it was viewed as risqué, as nude photography was outlawed. However, its popularity rose as photos of pin-up girls grew popular in World War II. But what is it, exactly? We’ll share a quick boudoir photography definition and what it entails.
Definition
Boudoir is French for a woman’s private bedroom, dressing room, or sitting room.3Boudoir is a style of photography that focuses on celebrating real women’s bodies, instead of just those that meet some societal stereotype. The essence of boudoir photography is to find poses and styles that make the subject feel sensuous.
Features
From classic sensual poses to artistic shots that capture a quiet moment, boudoir photography provides an intimate portrait of an individual or couple. Often the photos play with shadow and light, showing everyday scenes in a unique way.
Soft, diffused lighting often contributes to the alluring ambiance of boudoir photography. Today, boudoir photography has an intimate and often romantic or erotic style, typically capturing portraits of the subject in a bedroom setting.
Styles of boudoir photography can range from photos with a vintage look to glamorous modern ones. They can involve various levels of dress, from lingerie, nightgowns, or other garments, depending on what the subject feels comfortable with. Some people opt for nude boudoir photography or partially clothed photos, which can be taken from artistic angles that both hide and reveal. Sexy boudoir photography can be subtly flirty or bold and edgy, depending on your personality and preferences.
Why Choose Boudoir Photography?
Since boudoir photography is all about body positivity, it’s a great way to celebrate self-empowerment, confidence, and free expression. People of all shapes, sizes, genders, and ages can celebrate their body through boudoir photography. For instance, plus-size boudoir photography can be a great way to embrace who you are.
Couples' boudoir photography can celebrate a romantic relationship. Wedding boudoir photography is growing in popularity, but boudoir couples photography can also be a great way to mark an anniversary!
Maternity boudoir photo sessions have also become highly popular. This can be a wonderful way to honor the beauty of pregnancy, preserving poignant memories of this special time in life. Boudoir photography can simply celebrate growing confidence or independence, creating a lasting reminder of how fun, beautiful, and self-assured you are.
Boudoir Photography Ideas and Tips
A professional boudoir photographer will share ideas for styling and posing that flatter your body type and theme. Begin by thinking about the mood you want to create. A good photographer will offer creative ways to tailor the session to your needs, like fun outfits and props.
Here are a few boudoir photo ideas for themes and styles:
• An “Old Hollywood” or film noir look—sleek and glamorous, often in black and white, with lots of contrast between light and shadow.
• A minimalist, everyday look—think natural light and low-key makeup.
• Other vintage styles, like a Victorian theme.
• Vogue or pin-up styles.
• A fun, colorful, and flirtatious look—think bright, playful scenes with bold hues.
• Fine art photos that use photography techniques like luminous lighting and surprising perspectives to achieve creative effects.
Also consider these boudoir photography tips as you prepare for your session:
• Feel free to think beyond the bedroom if you want photos in an outdoor setting, bathroom, or other space.
• Some boudoir photographers have a studio, while others hold sessions in clients’ homes or a hotel. Consider which option would feel best to you.
• Your style doesn’t have to fit into a certain mold. If you’re looking for bridal boudoir photography, it could be sweet and ethereal, but it could also be bold and edgy.
• You can try different poses and angles in your session, and a mix of full-body and closeup shots.
• Wear something that’s authentically you—or that lets you explore another side of yourself!
Talk with your photographer about props to have on hand. For instance, wedding boudoir can incorporate a veil, garter, or lingerie.
How to Find Boudoir Photographers Near You
Research local boudoir photographers using PPA’s Find a Photographer Tool. Look at their boudoir photography portfolios to see if they match your chosen style.
Whether you want a sleek, sexy film noir look or a minimalist feel, check for examples of that style. Likewise, if you’re looking for male boudoir photography, make sure your photographer has a portfolio featuring male subjects. If you’re looking for wedding or maternity boudoir photography, look for a strong portfolio in that area.
Consider whether it features people with a range of body types, too. Look at client reviews for potential photographers. Also consider whether you’d feel most comfortable with someone of a particular gender. Meet with the photographer before you seal the deal, if possible, to make sure you feel relaxed around them.
By choosing the perfect boudoir photographer, you’ll end up with photos you adore. A good boudoir photographer will put you at ease, helping you radiate confidence. It should be a fun experience that lets you celebrate you.
Wondering, “How do I find boudoir photography near me?” Use the Find a Photographer tool to search for a local professional whose vision aligns with your own. In particular, look for a PPA photographer—you’ll then get the quality you can expect from a certified professional photographer.
Reference
Sources
Huffington Post, “Where Did Boudoir Photography Come From?” 2017
Michael West, The Birth of the Pin-Up Girl (dissertation), 2020
Christina Wehbe, Own Your Femininity: How Boudoir Photography Empowers Women and Changes the World, 2023