The Power of Boudoir Photography

Boudoir photography. You may have heard of it before. You may have also said “what’s that word? boud-what?” “bedroom photography?” You may have even just referred to them as sexy photos. Or lingerie photography. Whatever you call it, boudoir is an empowering and transformative experience. Here in Lafayette, Indiana, a pretty small town, sometimes it can be hard to take time for yourself to embark on this journey. You may feel nervous, or worry someone would judge you. But I am here to tell you why you should go on this self-love journey.

I have had a number of clients in my Lafayette, Indiana studio who have said they mentioned doing one of these sessions to others and got looks of judgement. They were afraid that being a mother, or a wife, or a fiancé, or whatever role they have, that doing one of these sessions is taboo. Guess what, mama, boudoir is NOT taboo! In fact is it beautiful. Your sexuality, your intimacy, your body, your essence is BEAUTIFUL. You deserve to feel your beauty.

Boudoir photography is more than just a genre of photographic art; it is a powerful tool for self-empowerment and personal liberation. This form of photography is not merely about capturing stunning images, but it also serves as a celebration of confidence, self-love, and individuality.

Boudoir Photography

The term boudoir originates from a French word meaning a woman’s private room. Similarly, boudoir photography focuses on capturing intimate, sensual, and sometimes provocative images, often set in a bedroom or private setting. What makes boudoir unique is its ability to highlight the subject’s natural beauty and personality, offering a glimpse into their private world.

The studio we have opened here in Lafayette, Indiana, was thoughtfully and intentionally designed with this in mind. We have multiple sets to give whatever aesthetic you are visually drawn to. From a bed/bedroom set up, to couches and chaise loungers, greenery wall corner, and boho peacock chairs, we can create a visually appealing set that makes you feel you are in an intimate space.

The studio location itself was also carefully selected. The location is in Lafayette, Indiana, close to the highway. This was selected for a few reasons.

First – it is incredibly easy to get to if you are coming from Chicago, Indianapolis, Ft. Wayne, Kokomo, Ohio…wherever!

Next – it is in a super private location. It is an endcap of a small strip mall, but the mall itself has 9-5 business that don’t get foot traffic. Why was this important? I never want passerbys trying to peer in. Granted, I have covered the windows and doors in beautiful drapery so there is no peering in. But I also do not want people strolling by looking into the studio. Privacy is so important to me.

Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem

One of the most significant benefits of boudoir photography is its ability to boost confidence and self-esteem. When individuals see themselves in a new, glamorous light, it can profoundly impact their self-image and perception. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, visual affirmations can significantly enhance self-esteem and body positivity. Boudoir photography serves as a powerful visual affirmation, reminding individuals of their inherent beauty and strength.

But I am Nervous!

Posing in front of a camera in intimate attire can initially feel intimidating. However, this vulnerability is what makes boudoir photography so empowering.

Every single client I have gets nervous. Every single one! Heck, I even get nervous when I am the subject in a boudoir photography photoshoot! And I have done a LOT of these sessions!! It is TOTALLY NORMAL to feel nervous!

How I Help

Glam

OK so this is why I have chosen some of the things I do. First and foremost, we give you glam! What does that mean? You will have two of my favorite girls – Shelby and Kearstin come do your hair and makeup. You get pampered and literally when you look in the mirror you’ll be like WOOOOWWWW OK LET’S DO THIS!

Boudoir photography is ALL ABOUT feeling your best! When you step into the studio, I want you to forget any of those people making you feel you shouldn’t do this type of shoot and be present in the moment. I want you walking out of the studio feeling THE BEST! And when you see your photos I want you to say “Holy sh*t! That’s me?!?!”

The Vibe

The vibe is totally important. Like I said above, the studio location was very intentionally selected. I opted to NOT go with the downtown Lafayette Indiana location because there is too much hustle and bustle. I want a calm, serene aesthetic that people feel comfortable and confident letting their hair down (literally).

I also ALWAYS ask clients what type of music they like. I make a playlist based on your preferences. I have an Apple Music playlist now that is Classic Rock, a country one, a 90s hip hop, a folk playlist…. you name it! Heck – if you want to listen to a true crime podcast, I will turn that on! Whatever you need to feel the vibe, we got you!

Water, snacks, candy… if you feel any type of way, I promise we got it for you. If you need a break and want some chicken nugs, I will DoorDash that for you (or call my husband to do a McD’s run!).

I also always go off my clients. Boudoir CAN BE A WORKOUT! Literally every client says “wow this was a workout!”. So if we need to take a break and sit and chit chat for a bit before restarting, totally fine with me. Whatever you need.

Outfits

Clients always ask me what to buy for their boudoir photography session. If you did not see these blog posts, I encourage going there and having a read: Ultimate Guide: What to Wear for a Boudoir Photography Shoot and Boudoir Photography Shein Buying Guide

These two posts will outline a lot of my favorites and what I typically recommend. I will also be making an Amazon guide and a few other stores I loooove soon!

My best tip though – bring a bunch of things. Pack a bag and toss stuff in. We can decide and play!

I have had clients put something on and decide they weren’t feeling it that day. Maybe period is going to start soon and it is fitting just differently. Or maybe the color wasn’t hitting the way you expected with the studio tones. So bring a bunch of stuff and we can pick and choose. We can try different things!

Shoes? I get asked a lot if you should bring shoes. Sure. Do it. If you want. Or don’t if you don’t want to lol. If you’re one who loves heels, bring them. If you never walked in heels before, I would say don’t do it. But if you’re a boots person, then bring those. But barefoot is normal too! I have only ever worn shoes in 1 photo of my own shoot. I prefer barefoot, personally!

Heels can make your booty pop though. So if you have some you like then bring them. Again, we can play and do different types of shots – some with, some without!

Starting Off Slow

Like I have said – boudoir photography is intimidating. And Lafayette Indiana is quite the conservative place. This isn’t Vegas here! So there can be self doubt creeping in. That is totally normal and OK!

Because of this though, I always start off slow. In fact, most of the time, clients do not pick the first few photos of the batch. I know this, which is why I start off slow. May be fully dressed and just sitting – think headshot vibes. Usually smile looks a bit forced and you can see the nervousness on the clients face. But after a little bit, every single client warms up and starts feeling it.

It is actually one of my favorite things about boudoir photography. Clients regularly start off so stiff and nervous and by the end are posing like they are an actual super model! I love seeing the amazing transformation! Literally every single session….first few the client is so nervous and by the end I don’t even have to direct them. They are posing on their own and totally feeling it!!!

Picking YOUR Favorites

When it comes to boudoir photography, I do not edit every photo and deliver 100,000,000 shots like I do for a wedding (no, I do not actually deliver that many photos! but you get the idea). I want you to pick YOUR favorites. A shot that may be MY favorite may not be YOUR favorite. And that is OK!

So after the shoot, I do a light edit, in color and black and white for every image. Then we meet up again, either in person or through Zoom, and you pick your favorites! I really try not to influence my clients. I usually love every single photo. But I want you to have what you love. I want you to control which photos you get!

Once you make your selections, I then do the full final edit. Every photo is carefully touched up. Any blemishes, bruises, etc. are removed. If you want something specific, like maybe more shadows, totally fine! I’ll make that adjustment. We discuss so when you get your photos you are OBSESSED. I want you to be in control here and part of the creative process!!

Content Sharing

Inside every single contract that I send out, I also include a model release form. I love sharing the images I take but I also completely respect privacy. So within this form, I ask what, if anything you are comfortable with being shared. If nothing, that is totally fine! I have had many clients select that. But I always encourage clients to at least select anonymous. Read my past blog post about what anonymous means here.

As I say above, I want you to be in control. Boudoir photography is such a vulnerable type of art. You deserve to feel control!

Breaking Free from Societal Norms

In a world that often imposes unrealistic beauty standards, boudoir photography challenges these norms by celebrating all body types, ages, and genders. This inclusivity promotes a healthier body image and encourages individuals to appreciate their unique features. For instance, the Dove Self-Esteem Project emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and has shown that inclusive representation can positively impact self-perception.

Engaging in a boudoir photoshoot is a profound act of self-love. It is an opportunity to pamper oneself, embrace one’s sensuality, and create lasting memories. This experience can be particularly meaningful for individuals who have undergone significant life changes, such as weight loss, recovery from illness, or personal milestones. By capturing their journey through boudoir photography, they can celebrate their resilience and personal achievements.

Beyond the immediate boost in confidence, boudoir photography offers a tangible reminder of one’s journey and growth. These images can be cherished keepsakes, serving as a source of inspiration and empowerment in moments of doubt. Many individuals often gift these photographs to partners, adding a layer of intimacy and connection to their relationships.

I’d love to discuss your boudoir photoshoot today! Send me a message and let’s chat!