Boudoir – What it is ALL about

Boudoir has quickly grown into one of my FAVOURITE types of photography. Why? Because it HELPS out EVERY woman who does it. How does it help? Because it reminds you that although you are bombarded with images by society to work out, eat healthy, don’t you dare eat that cupcake, and that this and that are in style, that who you ARE inside is just as beautiful on the outside.

With our next and last boudoir marathon of the spring coming up next weekend I figured this would be a good way to help out women who are participating, and those who may be a bit curious.

What is boudoir? Boudoir with Just For You Photography is a private photography session that is based on showing a bit of skin. Babydolls, corsets, men’s uniforms, and maybe just NOTHING at all! It is about expressing that sensual sexy side of you.

What should I expect? Expect to be nervous. No really, everyone is. If you aren’t then I have to wonder (no not literally). Expect to arrive being very nervous, having butterflies in your stomach and then expect to relax. You are ushered into hair where our amazing hair stylist will give you the hair you dream of. She is just THAT amazing. From there you are moved over to makeup where our wonderful makeup artist will complete your look. Once you are done prepping, we meet up for a quick consult to figure out which outfits to start with, and just how you’re feeling. I always start you off ‘tame’ to build your confidence and get used to the lights and camera.

What do I wear? How much? I tell women to usually bring about 3 outfits – and you can wear anything, quite literally. HOWEVER, I warn you, although this is an opportunity to express yourself, ensure you’re comfortable. If you are nervous, or don’t like what you’re wearing, you’re going to dislike your photos even more. Nervousness photographs into photos. I suggest to bring 3 outfits, 1 that you KNOW you can rock, a second that contrasts the first and the 3rd where you may need a glass of wine or two to rock. Don’t worry, we supply the wine.

How do I look sexy without looking like a duck? This is a tough one. Modelling is like acting. You are going to feel foolish, you are going to feel like you’re over the top, but you know what? that’s what I want in your photos. You almost have to pretend you’re someone else. For your face, to get that perfect “oh my” pout, practice in the mirror. Literally. At a red light? pull down your visor and practice in the mirror. Get used to what you look like, and get used to doing it. It’s very hard to photograph you ‘pouting’ when you bust out laughing every time. The easiest way to do it? Breathe out, it helps you pout. Another thing, stop putting your chin down. Most times when your photographer is taking your photo, he or she will photograph you at a similar level. When you put your chin down you lose your neck, and that is not a good thing. I tell this to SO many clients, if it FEELS awkward, it will look good. With ALL boudoir sessions I give full direction (if you need it).

Remember, odds are the first time you see your photos you a) will not recognize yourself and b) you will see everything you dislike first. Just remember, you ARE that beautiful, and no, no one is seeing what you THINK you see.

Just remember, Boudoir is and can be very nerve racking, I know first hand. I tell many of the girls I photograph about my experience. Although scared it was liberating and FUN. I got to buy beautiful lingerie and wear it for once. I plan on doing it again as well. I shook like a leaf, I was incredibly self conscious and it was hard to relax. I probably needed half a bottle of wine. I made it through though, and without a doubt, it left a lasting impression on me as a person and as a photographer. So don’t worry, I know what it was like. To prove it, here are is an image from my own.

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