Photographers- Update for ya!

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boudoir international

This post is a rare one directed toward boudoir photographers or any photographers who specialize in photographing women or empowering their fellow humans. (Usually this blog is for ladies out there interested in a boudoir shoot and looking for the right photographer for them).

It’s been a little bit since we’ve posted on this blog! And that’s only because there has been SO much happening in our boudoir photography world. I’m excited to take a few moments to update you on all the action and the cool things for you.

This website’s purpose has always been to list the leading boudoir photographers in the industry. And as you can see, we’ve done just that! There are over 400 photographers listed on this platform.

I’ve lagged a little bit in keeping up this blog. Here’s why…for the past 4 years I’ve had a membership site for these photographers called, “Marissa’s World.” I’ve given it this playful name because it’s about SO much more than boudoir. While a majority of the tutorials are about lighting, posing, shooting, editing, marketing, business, pricing, sales, and destination shoots, I also have other things I do in the membership site. Like for instance I’m about to upload a video on how we produce music videos.

I’ve been fully focused on that, but now it’s time to bring some attention back to BI.

Because we want this listing website, Boudoir International, to be the best it can be, we are currently only allowing Marissa’s World members a listing on it as gift. A free bonus for a very limited time.

Learn more about Marissa’s World here.

So to wrap up, want to be listed on this website? Just become a member. It’s the only way to be listed on Boudoir International.

And now back to our regularly scheduled programming of chatting to women out there interested in an empowering photo shoot!

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

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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!

Myth #3

I really want to do a shoot, but I want to wait until everything is just right: I need to lose ten more pounds, I need a better tan, I need to be more confident. 

Reality – 

So many women strive to be this “perfect image” according to society’s high beauty standards. The truth is, like many bucket list items, you just have to say “F&%K it” and just do it! Stop making excuses. There will never be a perfect time. Own your life and celebrate who you are right now. Be brave and fierce, and the rest will follow. 


If you’re ready to own it but aren’t sure where to start, here are some simple tips and recommendations on what to wear for your first boudoir session: 

  • If this is a gift for your significant other, then bring something from their wardrobe. This can be a tie, button-down shirt, sports jersey, or a symbol of how guys met. Anything that makes the images more personal will have a bigger impact.
  • 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

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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.

Katelyn and I chatted about outfit inspiration a couple of weeks prior to the session. We knew that we wanted for her to wear white, since she was gifting her images to her soon to be hubby. She brought basically half her closet, including shoes and accessories so we were not short on options. She brought her something borrowed and blue which just made the session even more special. She ended up wearing 3 different outfits, and used one of mine from my boudoir client closet. Once the shoot was over, I asked Katelyn some questions that I normally ask my boudoir clients after their session.
1. Why did you decide to do a boudoir session?
 – For years I contemplated doing a boudoir session. I spent so much time contacting different photographers, buying gorgeous pieces of lingerie, and vigorously exercising/dieting in hopes of finding the confidence to do it; But a boudoir session always felt out of my comfort zone. Over the past few years Ive overcome so much adversity and I’ve learned how to love myself unconditionally at every weight or size and at every stage of life. During my wedding planning I decided I finally wanted to do a bridal boudoir session, not only as a wedding gift to my future husband, but also for myself. This session for me was not only a celebration of getting to marry the love of my life but also a celebration of being able to love myself unapologetically. I believe every woman should experience a boudoir session, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone.

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!
As you can see, I am passionate about celebrating the female form in all its shapes, sizes and skin tones. I focus on my client’s needs and desires for the shoot before it even begins by starting with a consultation that aids in our direction for your shoot. No woman is the same therefore, my sessions are never repeated from one client to the next. Your images will reflect and enhance the beauty that is already within you. Whether these images are for yourself or for your significant other, this experience will make you embrace, rediscover, and fall back in love with YOU! To see more of my work visit my website at www.arodriguezphotography.com or you can follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/arianarodriguezstudio If youre in the north Dallas, TX area email me to book your session at info.aortegaphoto@gmail.com

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

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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

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Outdoor Boudoir Photography

Jessika Hill of Jessika Christine Photography is a Kansas City, Kansas is a boudoir photographer and is telling us about outdoor boudoir photography! If you are interested in doing an outdoor boudoir photo shoot then you need to read this!

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.

Jessika Hill of Jessika Christine Photography is a Kansas City, Kansas is a boudoir photographer and is telling us about outdoor boudoir photography! If you are interested in doing an outdoor boudoir photo shoot then you need to read this!
Jessika Hill of Jessika Christine Photography is a Kansas City, Kansas is a boudoir photographer and is telling us about outdoor boudoir photography! If you are interested in doing an outdoor boudoir photo shoot then you need to read this!

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.

Jessika Hill of Jessika Christine Photography is a Kansas City, Kansas is a boudoir photographer and is telling us about outdoor boudoir photography! If you are interested in doing an outdoor boudoir photo shoot then you need to read this!
Jessika Hill of Jessika Christine Photography is a Kansas City, Kansas is a boudoir photographer and is telling us about outdoor boudoir photography! If you are interested in doing an outdoor boudoir photo shoot then you need to read this!

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

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The Biggest Misconceptions About Boudoir Photography

Luigi Crespo of Capitol Bombshell is a Frederick, Maryland boudoir photographer and is telling us the biggest misconceptions about boudoir photography! If you are ready to be a empowered beauty boudoir, this is going to be your best bet!

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

While we know that boudoir is a phenomenal confidence booster and way to showcase the beauty of any woman, there are plenty of misconceptions that keep women from taking the plunge. Whether you’re fretting over feeling like you need to bare it all or unsure about how you’ll look in front of the camera, we’re happy to lay your fears to rest as you channel your inner goddess.
You Have to Bare All
You don’t have to be nude, or even be in lingerie. Your boudoir session is customized to showcase you at your most beautiful, whatever that means to you. If your favorite old band tee and pajama bottoms make you feel like your most sensational self, there’s nothing wrong with that! At Capitol Bombshell, we will always tailor your shoot to your comfort level, outfit preferences and desires.
Luigi Crespo of Capitol Bombshell is a Frederick, Maryland boudoir photographer and is telling us the biggest misconceptions about boudoir photography! If you are ready to be a empowered beauty boudoir, this is going to be your best bet!
Luigi Crespo of Capitol Bombshell is a Frederick, Maryland boudoir photographer and is telling us the biggest misconceptions about boudoir photography! If you are ready to be a empowered beauty boudoir, this is going to be your best bet!
You Need Someone to Gift the Photos To
Having a boudoir session done as a gift to a groom, fiancé, boyfriend or someone special in your life is a wonderful idea. However, scheduling a boudoir session just for yourself is just as delightful! Stepping out of your day-to-day life and into a space where you can channel your inner vixen is a unique experience. Boudoir photos are never merely a gift to someone else. Instead, they’re a gift to yourself, and whomever you choose to share them with.
You Aren’t the Right Shape, Shade, and Style of Woman
You are enough. Regardless of what society tells you about yourself, you are enough. Boudoir is for any shape, shade, or style of woman. You are gorgeous just as you are, so you never need to worry about your beauty not coming across on camera. Leave your negativity at the door and allow our glam squad and skilled lens to amplify what makes you amazing and leave you with a lasting memory of the experience.
You Have to Be in a Bedroom
While boudoir translates literally to “a woman’s bedroom,” some of the most enticing boudoir photos aren’t taken in a bedroom at all! Your boudoir shoot can take place in a variety of settings that complement who you are, the pieces you’ve chosen to wear, and the vibe you’re trying to get across.
You Will Have Your Photos All Over the Internet
This misconception couldn’t be further from the truth. In our photo contract, we promise you that we will never share any of your photos without your written permission. We always respect the privacy of all our clients and never break that trust. The images that you see in my marketing materials and online are from clients who modeled for a specific shoot, or who granted me permission to share their shots with the world.
Luigi Crespo of Capitol Bombshell is a Frederick, Maryland boudoir photographer and is telling us the biggest misconceptions about boudoir photography! If you are ready to be a empowered beauty boudoir, this is going to be your best bet!

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.

Luigi Crespo of Capitol Bombshell is a Frederick, Maryland boudoir photographer and is telling us the biggest misconceptions about boudoir photography! If you are ready to be a empowered beauty boudoir, this is going to be your best bet!

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

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Why Mamas NEED to do a Boudoir Shoot

Jennifer K. Engedal of Lush Mama Boudoir is a Eau Claire, Wisconsin boudoir photographer and is giving some reasons for why boudoir photography for moms is so important ! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience after babies, this is for why boudoir photography for moms is going to be your best bet!

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.

Jennifer K. Engedal of Lush Mama Boudoir is a Eau Claire, Wisconsin boudoir photographer and is giving some reasons for why boudoir photography for moms is so important ! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience after babies, this is for why boudoir photography for moms is going to be your best bet!
Jennifer K. Engedal of Lush Mama Boudoir is a Eau Claire, Wisconsin boudoir photographer and is giving some reasons for why boudoir photography for moms is so important ! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience after babies, this is for why boudoir photography for moms is going to be your best bet!

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.

Jennifer K. Engedal of Lush Mama Boudoir is a Eau Claire, Wisconsin boudoir photographer and is giving some reasons for why boudoir photography for moms is so important ! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience after babies, this is for why boudoir photography for moms is going to be your best bet!

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!

Jennifer K. Engedal of Lush Mama Boudoir is a Eau Claire, Wisconsin boudoir photographer and is giving some reasons for why boudoir photography for moms is so important ! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience after babies, this is for why boudoir photography for moms is going to be your best bet!

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

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Wetter is Better

Shawn Sawyer of Magnolia House Studio is a Virginia Beach, Virginia boudoir photographer and is giving us a sneak peak at her shower boudoir sessions! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience, and something a little different - try a shower boudoir session. 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.

Shawn Sawyer owns her boudoir studio in Virginia Beach, Virginia.  In her words, a little about Shawn:

“This is me:
I cuss- a lot
I like tattoos- I have several
I LOVE bourbon- I’m probably drinking it right now
I’m pretty freaking salty- don’t push me
I’m worth more than I’m charging- I know that (see above)
I’m licensed AND insured- that’s boring I know but ask around most other photogs aren’t.
I like to photograph stuff- Boudoir Photography and Wedding Photography are my main gig.

If you identify with any of this let’s chat- or go out for drinks- or be friends- totally up to you.”

You can see Shawn’s previous featured blog post here:

Real Boudoir | The Magnolia House Studio #1

Real Boudoir | The Magnolia House Studio #2

Shawn Sawyer of Magnolia House Studio is a Virginia Beach, Virginia boudoir photographer and is giving us a sneak peak at her shower boudoir sessions! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience, and something a little different - try a shower boudoir session. 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!

Shawn Sawyer of Magnolia House Studio is a Virginia Beach, Virginia boudoir photographer and is giving us a sneak peak at her shower boudoir sessions! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience, and something a little different - try a shower boudoir session. Wetter is better!

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

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10 Tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot

Liz Hansen of Chicago Boudoir Photography is a Chicago, Illinois boudoir photographer and is giving us 10 Tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience, and want to learn how to prepared, read these tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot!

Liz Hansen

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

Hi! I’m Liz and I run a luxury boudoir studio on Chicago’s North Shore.  I’ve been a professional photographer since 2011 and I believe that boudoir is an empowering experience that everyone deserves to have at least once in their lifetime! I’ve got 10 tips to make sure you have 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.

Liz Hansen of Chicago Boudoir Photography is a Chicago, Illinois boudoir photographer and is giving us 10 Tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience, and want to learn how to prepared, read these tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot!
Liz Hansen of Chicago Boudoir Photography is a Chicago, Illinois boudoir photographer and is giving us 10 Tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience, and want to learn how to prepared, read these tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot!

#4: Personalize your shoot. Bring something fun to personalize your boudoir shoot. How about a special mug or the heirloom necklace you wore at your wedding?  Bring anything that makes the shoot special for you!

#5: You don’t have to bare everything. An off-the-shoulder sweater can be just as sexy as a lingerie set.  Your photographer will know how to make anything you bring look great on camera.
#6: Get your hair and makeup professional styled.  Many boudoir photographers offer hair and makeup as part of your boudoir experience – if they do, then definitely take advantage of those services!  If your photographer doesn’t offer this, then go to a beauty bar and get your hair and makeup done beforehand for that extra glam look!
#7: Get your lies ready. Not that we endorse lying … but you might need to keep this boudoir shoot a surprise.  Need to explain why you’re packing up a bag of lingerie? Just say you’re taking it to the dry cleaner.  Will your boyfriend be wondering why you’re coming home with gorgeous fake lashes? Say that you stopped by the mall and someone was giving out free makeovers!
#8: Hire a photographer that you trust. Getting boudoir photos taken is a personal experience, so you want to go with a photographer you trust.  Read online reviews and talk to the photographer on the phone.  Don’t be shy about asking lots of questions!  The best way to find a photographer is to go off of a personal recommendation from someone who has already gone to the studio you’re looking into – you can also check out Boudoir International for a list of photographers in your area!

#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!

Liz Hansen of Chicago Boudoir Photography is a Chicago, Illinois boudoir photographer and is giving us 10 Tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience, and want to learn how to prepared, read these tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot!
Liz Hansen of Chicago Boudoir Photography is a Chicago, Illinois boudoir photographer and is giving us 10 Tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot! If you are ready to have the best boudoir experience, and want to learn how to prepared, read these tips for an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot!

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!

A Valentine’s Day Session Throwback

By | Featured Members, Inspiration, Real Boudoir | No Comments

A Valetine’s Day Session Throwback

Natalie Ray of Boudoir by Mia is a Las Vegas, Nevada boudoir photographer and is taking us back to a Valetine's Day session! If you haven't done a boudoir session before this is a great idea for a gift for your partner, and this will give you great boudoir photo inspiration! A Valentine's Day Session Throwback

Natalie Ray

of Boudoir by Mia in Las Vegas, Nevada gives us A Valentine’s Day Session Throwback that’s just absolutely gorgeous!

Adalia contacted me about a boudoir shoot as a gift for her fiancée for Valentine’s Day.  We planned a session that was both in studio and on location at a dry lake bed close to Las Vegas!  It was an incredible day, and I think she realized that it was more than just a gift for her fiancée, Joe, but also an amazing gift to herself.

Natalie Ray of Boudoir by Mia is a Las Vegas, Nevada boudoir photographer and is taking us back to a Valetine's Day session! If you haven't done a boudoir session before this is a great idea for a gift for your partner, and this will give you great boudoir photo inspiration! A Valentine's Day Session Throwback
Natalie Ray of Boudoir by Mia is a Las Vegas, Nevada boudoir photographer and is taking us back to a Valetine's Day session! If you haven't done a boudoir session before this is a great idea for a gift for your partner, and this will give you great boudoir photo inspiration! A Valentine's Day Session Throwback

She said: ‘Nat, this day brought me so much emotion.  I never thought I’d feel or look like this again. You have helped empower me and be proud of the hard work I’ve put in and by damn, show it!  I am truly blessed. Thank you for helping me find my inner beauty again.’

 I am so honored to share her story, and to have a job that allows me to give that kind of a gift to the women that trust me to photograph them!

Natalie Ray of Boudoir by Mia is a Las Vegas, Nevada boudoir photographer and is taking us back to a Valetine's Day session! If you haven't done a boudoir session before this is a great idea for a gift for your partner, and this will give you great boudoir photo inspiration! A Valentine's Day Session Throwback

Thank you so much for sharing, Natalie!

Check out more of Natalie’s work right here: boudoirbymiaportrait.com

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