Three Myths About Boudoir and How to Prepare for Your First Shoot

April Courville
of  A.Danette Photography in Lafayette, Louisiana is debunking the myths about boudoir and how you can prepare for your first shoot!

There are many common misconceptions surrounding boudoir photography. With fast-changing styles and different photographic visions, it can be hard to differentiate what is true and what is false. We decided to address those myths and show you how to combat them.

Myth #1

I have to be in skimpy clothes or naked for a boudoir shoot. 

Reality – 

Wear whatever makes you feel confident and sexy. Doing a boudoir session isn’t about stripping down to your undies. That may be okay for some, but the ultimate goal is to help you see your true beauty. Your boudoir shoot is all about you and what you love. If lingerie or nudity isn’t your thing, leave them in the dust! Other great ideas for boudoir shoots are button-down shirts, jerseys, cowboy boots, etc. Whatever makes you feel sexy and empowered!

Myth #2

The women in those photos are models, not real women.

Reality – 

The images you see on A.DannetteBoudoir.com are of moms, wives, fiances, single ladies, nurses, teachers, and other incredible, everyday women just like you! You’d be amazed at what a little makeup, coaching and confidence can do!

• Garters and thigh-highs make a sexy option for photos of your amazing legs. If you wear thigh highs without a garter, make sure you get the ones with the plastic stay-ups so they don’t slip off your leg. Added bonus: garter belts sit on your natural waistline, covering lower belly stretch marks.
• Accessories will add depth and another level of sexy to your photos. For example, you can easily elevate your outfit by wearing a stunning pair of diamond earrings or a long string of pearls. For simple outfits, we love statement necklaces. If you’re a bride-to-be, incorporating your garter or veil will add a bridal boudoir touch. 
• The higher the heels, the better for your session! You won’t be walking around in them, so don’t worry about that part. Black and nude heels work better than wedges or chunky.  
• Keep in mind that you don’t have to break the bank on stunning outfits. Heels, robes, and stockings can be found at places like Target. We recommend Frederick’s of Hollywood for garter belts, Amazon for bodysuits, and AdoreMe and Yandy for bra/panty sets. 
• When transporting your wardrobe the day of the shoot, bring your clothing and lingerie on hangers in a garment bag. Don’t just stuff it in a duffle! This will reduce wrinkles and fold lines.

To learn more about our What to Wear Guide or Myths, visit www.adannetteboudoir.com. A. Dannette Boudoir has specialized in boudoir photography since 2011 and is located in South Louisiana.

Thank you so much for sharing this inspiration and these awesome photos, April!

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Empowering Bridal Boudoir

Ariana Rodriguez
of  Ariana Rodriguez Photography in Dallas, Texas is talking to all bride-to-be’s on how empowering bridal boudoir can be! 

I have been shooting boudoir for 4 years now and each time I have a new client walk through those doors of my studio, I am blown away about how much I love my job. I never thought that photography would lead me down this path, but I am so glad it did. Over the years I have developed lots of new business friendships and even became long time friends with my clients.

I firmly believe every woman should have a boudoir experience at least once in their lifetime, so I collaborated with the incredibly talented Kerstie Tarango, one of my resident hair and makeup artists (you can see more of her work at @themaneprimp on instagram) and Brittany Daywn, owner of  Blissful Weddings and Events (@blissful_planning on instagram) on this styled bridal boudoir session. We wanted to give the opportunity to a bride-to-be to get the FULL experience of a bridal boudoir session for free! We promoted the giveaway on social media for about a week and chose a winner at random. Katelyn, our bride and winner, had been following my Instagram page for a while. She said that she was planning on booking with me anyways, but thought she would enter the giveaway just in case. Obviously, she was super excited when she found out that she had won!

Kerstie, Brittany and I drew inspiration from Pinterest, of course, and put our own twist to it. We wanted something sultry yet, sweet and had all the bridal vibes. As opposed to the normal big loose waves in my day to day boudoir clients hair, Kerstie styled Katelyn’s (our bride) hair into a boho braid with loose curls. We wanted for her to still be able to run her fingers through her hair, but also have enough product in her hair to hold a long, heavy veil. Her makeup was done something similar to what she was wanting for her wedding day, which is going to be held in Panama City Beach, FL– a total destination wedding dream!

Brittany is not only a wedding planner, but she designs the most beautiful floral arrangements for her clients. She is so delicate with every arrangement she designs and you can tell it’s her true passion. We found several inspiration bouquets on Pinterest, but we ended up combining a few of the flowers to make our own GORGEOUS statement bridal bouquet. Brittany also brought some loose petals for us to use as props during the session.

2. How did you feel before your session? What about after?

– After setting a date with Ariana, I counted down the days until my session. I was so excited to work with such a talented photographer; But naturally I also felt anxious about how my body would look in the outfits I wore for the pictures. Upon arriving to Ariana’s studio on the day of the session, I immediately felt comfortable as soon as I walked through the door. Ariana was so welcoming and laid back and Kerstie helped me feel even more confident and beautiful. After my session, I walked out of her studio feeling sexy, beautiful, and CONFIDENT, which was all along what I was hoping for. This session allowed me to see myself the way my future husband sees me and so much more.

3. What would you say to someone who hasn’t had a boudoir experience before?

– No matter your age, your weight, your confidence level, or whatever else, you WILL feel sexy after a boudoir session! Don’t hesitate and you will never regret it! Also, be prepared for your boudoir session by choosing outfits ahead of time that will make you feel sexy, confident and comfortable in.

4. Why did you choose me over all the other boudoir photographers for this experience?

– I chose Ariana Rodriguez Boudoir as my photographer for many reasons. After following her on Instagram several months prior to my session, I instantly fell in love with her work. I love that her pictures showcase the pure, natural beauty of every woman that she photographs. The natural lighting and minimal editing makes them still look like themselves. Her studio is absolutely gorgeous, very clean and versatile, allowing her to shoot so many different styles. Ariana did such an amazing job at helping me feel confident in my outfits, and poses throughout my session and made my overall boudoir experience more than I could’ve imagined. I would choose Ariana Rodriguez over and over again!

Thank you so much for sharing this inspiration and these awesome photos, Ariana!

Check out more of Ariana’s work, click right here: www.arodriguezphotography.com

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Greenhouse Outdoor Boudoir

Lisa Haynes of Charmed Life Photography in Austin, Texas is taking us inside a greenhouse outdoor boudoir photo shoot between two friends!

I have a sizzling hot boudoir shoot for your consideration.  These two models are really good friends.

I met them at a meet up for photographers and models; at a dreamy photographer’s retreat called the Sekrit Theater nestled in the heart of Austin.  The location is known for it’s iconic greenhouse, but also had an outdoor shower and tub.

As the sun was setting the couple stepped inside the shower and a spark occurred.  Suddenly it turned into a different kind of shoot and I’m not mad about it.  This wasn’t planned, and I kept asking if they were a real couple.

They laughed and repeatedly said no — but Honey, the camera never lies!

Thank you so much for sharing this greenhouse outdoor boudoir photoshoot, Lisa! 

Check out more of Lisa’s work, click right here: www.charmedlifephotography.com

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Outdoor Boudoir Photography

Jessika Hill
of  Jessika Christine Photography in Kansas City, Missouri is sharing about outdoor boudoir photography! 

Client Name: Brianna

Inspiration: She absolutely loves the outdoors, so she asked for an outdoor boudoir session. Those are some of my favorite sessions so of course I was super excited!

Motivation: She said she’s starting a new chapter in her life. She is finalizing her divorce, getting physically fit and strong, so she wanted to document this time in her life.

Her review: 10 golden stars across the board. 111% satisfaction rating.

I will always reccomend Jessika. This was my second time working with her, and from start through finish and beyond she is truly outstanding. She takes the time to personalize every bit of each session, from the color palette and the flowers to special effects and location. All to make for a unique and incredible experience. While making you feel like you’re the star of the show, reminding you how amazing you should feel about yourself. Taking the time to straighten your crown while she documents your confidence. I chose an outdoor boudoir session, figuring early September in the water would be perfect!

Well, we ran into a small snag and ended up getting attacked and chased out by the horsefly mafia.

Did that stop Jessika? Nope. Not in the slightest!

We completed my session the following day in her studio where she went above and beyond to make up for having to cut the session that we had been planning for, short. My point, Jessika’s work is worth all the bug bites, all the day after muscle aches and absolutely worth every penny. It wasn’t just a photography session, it was memories in the making. She’s not just a photographer, she’s a friend.

Thank you so much for sharing your outdoor boudoir photography and this amazing review, Jessika!

Check out more of Jessika’s work, click right here:  https://www.jessikachristinephoto.com/

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

The Biggest Misconceptions About Boudoir Photography

Luigi Crespo
of  CAPITOL BOMBSHELL in Frederick, Maryland is talking to all empowered beauty boudoir women – the biggest misconceptions about boudoir photography!

You Have to Bare All

You Need Someone to Gift the Photos To

You Aren’t the Right Shape, Shade, and Style of Woman

You Have to Be in a Bedroom

Don’t Fall for Boudoir Myths at the National capital’s best boudoir studio.

From photographer Luigi Crespo comes luxe boudoir and pin-up portraits. Luigi’s signature photographs boast exquisite sets, unmatched artistry and professional makeup and wardrobe — capturing memories for every occasion.  Call us today at (202) 904-1325 to schedule your bombshell session.

Thank you so much for sharing the biggest misconceptions about boudoir photography and these awesome photos, Luigi!

Check out more of Luigi’s work, click right here: https://www.capitolbombshell.com/

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Why Mamas NEED to do a Boudoir Shoot

Jennifer K. Engedal
of  Lush Mama Boudoir in Eau Claire, Wisconsin is talking to all mamas – why boudoir photography is so important after babies!

You know that infomercial that is frequently made fun of,  a guy trying to hold onto 20 million things to wash his car and dropping them all? It’s ridiculous. It’s messy. It’s hilarious. It’s basically motherhood in a nutshell. By the time you get done working, or staying home all day with the kids, you can barely get to eat dinner while it is still warm, let alone get any quality YOU time before you crash into bed and wake up the next day to start the cycle all over again.

As mamas we lose sight of ourselves in the mix of the family. As mamas, we neglect self-care and forget that we still have an identity outside being a mom. Beneath all the diapers, sweat, food and yoga pants, there is an amazing woman worthy of love from others, but more importantly from herself.

Below are the top 5 reasons why mamas NEED to do a boudoir shoot:

1.       Self-care is a necessity, not a luxury – To give the best to our families, we need to give to ourselves. We need to take the time to enjoy an experience and be reminded of how amazing we are. Instead of a massage, or a pedicure, you get an experience that not only boosts your confidence for the time you are there, but provides you with incredible photos as proof and reminders that you are as gorgeous on the outside as  you are on the inside

2.       Your body is perfect the way it is – Don’t say you will do it when you lose 20lbs. We’ve all heard that our stretchmarks are beautiful, and that our bodies housed human beings. But we don’t believe it. This is important to find a photographer who fits your needs/style. If you get a good boudoir photographer, they aren’t there to hide your insecurities, they are there to amplify your assets! Trust the process, and you will be amazed with the results.

3.       Spend some of your hard earned money on yourself – Seriously. How many little toys or treats have you bought for your kids in the last year? How many times have you put something back on the shelf that you wanted for yourself? Your kids will not suffer if they don’t get a toy or a juice box every time you go to the store. Challenge yourself to set aside a small amount of money each paycheck to save, and vow to only spend it on yourself! Trade the juice box for an extra story at bedtime, or the toy for cuddles. In the end, it will be a great reward for the both of you!

4.       Taking care of yourself shows your kids how important self-care and mental health is – In a world where mental health is such a prominent subject, we need to set the example for our kids of taking time for ourselves. Doing things that make us happy. Loving ourselves unconditionally! Unfortunately I feel like moms are praised nowadays for the more things they juggle, instead of focusing on scaling back and being mindful of time and moments throughout the day. We need to make a change, and it starts one mama at a time!

5.       You are making the world a better place – No seriously! Each woman that loves themselves more, has more love to give to others. Each mama that does a shoot and shows her friends, gives them the courage to love their bodies. Each mama who shows her gorgeous photos to her daughter, inspires her to love her body as it ages. No matter the color, shape or size.

At the end of the day, you can come up with a million reasons not to do a shoot. You can also find the light inside you that inspires you to do one. Deciding to take the jump is scary and may push you outside of your comfort zone. But I promise you, that being uncomfortable can cause growth. Start your journey of self-love, and celebrate the queen that you are!

Thank you so much for sharing this inspiration and these awesome photos, Jennifer!

Check out more of Jennifer’s work, click right here: www.lushmamaboudoir.com

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

Wetter is Better

Shawn Sawyer
of  Magnolia House Studios in Virginia Beach, Virginia gives us some steamy insight into shower boudoir…because wetter is better.

Steamy Shower Sessions are stripped down sessions that are perfect for everyBODY– My clients love these sessions. It’s the perfect session for women of all shapes and sizes. Plus there’s no need to stress over what to wear. My clients have gotten nakey or stayed as clothed as they like.

Black lace bodysuits are the most popular choice of lingerie but some clients have opted for white tank tops and panties- it’s all up to client. The more modest clients love that we can imply so much using light and shadow while they stay clothed!

I love offering these unique sessions

and my clients are stunned with the beautiful photos they get.

Thank you so much for sharing these gorgeous photos, Shawn!

Check out more of Shawn’s work right here: themagnoliahousestudio.com

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!

10 Tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot

Liz Hansen

of Chicago Boudoir Photography in Chicago, Illinois gives us 10 Tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot!

#1: It’s ok to be nervous.  Unless you’re already a lingerie model, you probably haven’t done something like this before.  But that’s part of the fun of a boudoir shoot – some of the best experiences in life come when we push ourselves out of our comfort zones a bit!

#2: Think about what you are going to do with your photos. Are you giving your boudoir photos as a gift?  Handing someone a USB with photos on it is not super sexy.  Instead, how about leaving a leather bound album under his pillow?  Or what about secretly hanging a giant print in the closet behind his dress shirts? Now that’s mind blowing!

#3: Try on your outfits at home. Make sure everything fits, the tags are removed and the bottoms of your shoes are clean (the soles of your shoes will show in a lot of your photos!). Bring wardrobe items that you love and make you feel sexy.

#9: And then trust your photographer!  After you’ve booked your shoot, take a deep breath and let your photographer take control.  They will know how to pose and light you to get the most flattering images.  Trust your photographer and their artistic vision!

#10: Make plans to go out after your shoot! Do something fun the night after your shoot – you’re going to look gorgeous and feel empowered – don’t let that amazing energy go to waste!

Thank you so much for sharing these awesome tips, Liz!

Check out more of Liz’s work right here: chicago-boudoir.com

Want to see more posts from our awesome Boudoir International photographers? Check them out here!