Couples boudoir: Loving the photoshoot as much as the photos
A guide to getting the most out of couples boudoir as a man or non-binary person
Boudoir is about reflecting who you are as a person. From gender-affirming photoshoots, through to self-love celebrations, boudoir photography is all about you. But what about couples boudoir? One Google search returns thousands of preparation guides and helpful blogs to get women ready for their boudoir ‘shoot, but what about men and non-binary people? Whether you’re flying solo or looking forward to a couples boudoir, here’s my favourite ways for the men and the theys to prepare for their ‘shoot.
Fresh faced, makeup or subtle touch-ups?
Styling is always included with my full boudoir sessions, but how you use it is up to you. Typically, masculine clients prefer to show up fresh-faced and skip the hair and makeup, but feeling pampered is all part of the experience. Light colour touch ups with a subtle concealer can even skin tone and hide blemishes, or slight shaving to straighten up any facial hair edges are common requests. If you would like a full glam look for your couples boudoir, please let me know in advance so we can plan a seamless look!
Couples boudoir outfits for him/they
It’s important to dress in a way that makes you feel comfortable. Even with the safety net of your partner in couples boudoir, awkwardness will come through the camera so ask yourself: how do you want to feel on the day? What is the overall vibe of the photoshoot? Will your outfit match your partners? I always suggest that my masculine clients Google ‘Calvin Klein for men’ and browse some of their campaigns–it’s a good indicator of my photography style and can spark outfit ideas. If sporting nothing but a white sheet, or opting for a well-fitted pair of trunks isn’t appealing, here’s some more suggestions:
An open button-down shirt, tousled and rolled up to elbow length
A pair of well-ironed slacks, unbuttoned at the waist
Low hung jeans with your favourite boots
A well-fitted cotton singlet
A few different t-shirt options, preferably v-neck
Bow ties and regular ties (these can be worn with or without other clothing pieces!)
A belt
Sporting jerseys or alike.
Hair & grooming for couples boudoir
In the lead up to your couples boudoir photoshoot, it’s important to follow a similar prep regime as your partner. Hydrating yourself from the inside out and moisturising your skin morning and night (at least two weeks out from the photoshoot!) will truly transform the final photos. But when it comes to hair and grooming, masculine clients have it a bit tricker. Remember, this couples boudoir ‘shoot is all about you too, so what’s your preference?
Embracing your body hair, shaving it all away or trimming somewhere in between: there is no right or wrong as long as it’s intentional. If you decide to shave or wax, allow 1-3 days before you photoshoot to let your skin settle and any bumps subside. If you opt for trimming, pay attention to evenness and trim length. If you’d like to go au naturel, condition the hair and practise styling prior to your photoshoot, so you can trim or shave any naturally uneven sections.
However you decide to prepare for your couples boudoir session, it’s important to have fun and remain authentically you. Feeling comfortable and relaxed allows me to capture you and your partner at your closest and those photos will always be the best.