Exposing the Hidden Side of Boudoir Photography

If I achieve one thing in my career as a boudoir photographer, it will be to demystify boudoir. So often I hear people say, boudoir is too sexual, there’s no point in doing boudoir photography, lingerie is a waste and ‘how could I ever be so self indulent?’. So here’s the 5 hidden sides to boudoir photography that we don’t talk about enough.

Boudoir photography is sexual

I cringe whenever I hear someone describe boudoir photography as ‘sexy’. This is not (and never has been) the goal of boudoir photography. In fact, boudoir photography first emerged in the 1920s as a way for women to express themselves since nudity in photography was illegal at the time. The beauty of boudoir photography has always been found in thoughtful backdrops, carefully chosen lingerie and props, lighting and poses: nothing of which is inherently sexual. It’s about creating art with our bodies and in doing so, learning to let go and be our own liberators.  

What’s the point of professional photography if I can't show people?

Well, I challenge this idea with, ‘why can’t you show people?’. Or perhaps a better question is, ‘what’s stopping you from showing people?’. The way I structure my boudoir photography packages means you only pay for the digital and/or print images you truly love. This means they evoke feelings of confidence and self-assurance. Why shouldn’t you share that with others? Hanging subtle black and white prints in an ensuite, or choosing to show your closest girlfriends in person are some of my favourite ways to share boudoir photography. 

Lingerie intimidates me 

While some clients love the excuse to splurge on some beautiful new lingerie, I understand that slipping into something lacy can feel confronting for others. Because boudoir photography is about pushing your own boundaries and improving your self confidence, there’s no rules when it comes to outfits. If your budget allows, you can purchase a set for less than $100, or choose to use a white sheet, an oversized t-shirt or nothing at all and delight in the shadow and light which will dance against your bare skin. 

What if I don’t like what I see?

Can boudoir photography be confronting? Yes, for some people. It is a personal experience that is closely tied with the relationship you have with your own body. From a young age we are scrutinised for how we look and it can be difficult to change this harsh outlook on ourselves. I like to think of boudoir photography as a way of committing to changing this narrative and stepping out of ourselves to look at our bodies as living, breathing works of art. Whatever your emotional response to your boudoir shoot is, I’m here to hold your hand every step of the way. 

It seems a little self-indulgent 

There are so many incidental expenses we pay for every day. Car maintenance, tradespeople to fix a shower leak, takeaway because we need a break from cooking, sports fees for the kids, camping trips… The list is truly endless. But if we sat down and asked when the last time we spent money on ourselves, most women cannot answer the question. Boudoir photography is an experience in itself - an act of self care. And caring for ourselves should never fall under the umbrella of indulgence.