What is Boudoir?
A.Boudoir photography has been an artform since literally the invention of cameras. Still, there’s a bit of confusion surrounding the topic, so I wanted to take a second to dispel some myths and tell you exactly what boudoir photography is. In short: it’s a series of tasteful, artful sensual images — usually of a woman, but sometimes of a couple or even a man.
Different forms of boudoir photography exist both in terms of style/approach and level of nudity. As is the case with any photography, it’s important to seek a photographer whose style matches with your personal aesthetic. For example, some specialize is high contrast black and whites, others prefer a moody editing style, and some take a bright light and color-dense approach.
Most boudoir photographers leave it to the client to decide how much skin is exposed during the session. Some clients are OK baring all, and the images are shot in a way that’s creative, classy, and genuinely artful. Other clients prefer to do a lingerie session which can be just as provocative and sensual. Others yet prefer to go a flirty, less exposed route — maybe they wear an oversized sweater, a sport’s jersey, or her partner’s shirt. Boudoir photography runs the gamut and creating a customized experience with your photographer is part of the fun!
Are My Images Going to be Shared?
A.A common question I’m asked about my boudoir photography is whether a client’s images are going to end up on my website or on social media. That makes sense because I have images of other clients on these outlets, but the only images you’re seeing are from women who decided they were 100% OK with those images being shared. None of my clients are obligated to have their images posted, however, most of my clients find that sharing their beautiful portraits is a pivotal part of the journey.
When you have a boudoir session with me, one of the first things we’ll discuss is your privacy. Some women prefer to have zero images shared anywhere. Some are OK with me posting to a private and secure group online for other clients to see, and some don’t mind having their images shown on my Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, or Website.
If you’d like to share any images from your boudoir session, I’ll run the image(s) by you first and let you know when they’re being posted. You also reserve the right to have the images removed at any time. If you prefer to keep everything private, that’s 100% OK and an option
that many of my clients choose. To help ensure peace of mind, do note that I have taken extra protective measures in my home and on my computer to ensure your images are steel-trap safe.
Does My Age or Size Matter?
A.Beauty comes in all ages and sizes. We welcome thick, thin, young, and old. We encourage you to have this opportunity to experience self-love. I have done shoots with all types of women, all of which has their own unique beauty to discover.
Should I Worry About My Shape/Figure?
A.One of the most frequently asked questions I get — and it often comes across with a certain level of concern — is whether someone should “bother” with a boudoir session if they’re plus-sized or curvy. I understand that question because we’re all bombarded with a certain type of image in the media and marketing, but the truth is that every body is different, and every body is beautiful in its own way. The answer to whether you should have images taken if you don’t fit a certain stereotypical mold is YES! YES, YOU SHOULD! Of course you should — you are gorgeous.
When you’re in front of my camera, I’m 100% focused on highlighting your favorite features and making you look and feel dang good, and that’s true for clients of every. single. size. We all have some insecurities and self-perceived flaws, and that’s OK and normal, but I’ve yet to have a woman walk away from a session with me not feeling anything but stronger and more appreciative of every inch of herself.
Consider a boudoir session with me an opportunity to embrace every single curve on your body. A chance to show off your figure in a sexy something — or in some cases nothing at all! An opportunity to feel empowered in your own skin and walk away feeling more beautiful than you ever have before.
Do I Have to Show A Lot of Skin?
A.This is completely up to you! You can go super-sexy, with lingerie, or bring in one of your partner's white shirts, or of course you can always go a little more conservative – even a sexy dress could look amazing! After all, it’s your boudoir photo shoot and we want you to be completely comfortable.
What Type of Lingerie Should I Buy For My Session?
A.Every booked photoshoot comes with a pre-shoot consultation that includes a Lingerie Guide, so don't worry.
A brief answer is that It is honestly a very personal choice. Start by choosing your favorite color! You want to make sure whatever you buy fits you comfortably, not too tight and not too baggy. If you have areas that you most certainly want to cover, such as your stomach, try high-waists, corsets, or a gown! If you're going to simply break the ice, bring a button down. This is one way to warm up in front of the camera. Want a boost in your chest? Find a supportive bra and panties to match. The options are endless. Have fun shopping!
Do I Need To Know How To Pose?
A.Every package comes with expert coaching. I will pose you from the tip of your toes to the way your hair lays. I will do all the hard work for help you from start to finish. You do not have to worry about a thing and I promise we'll make your experience stress-free and empowering. I know exactly how to pose all types of women to look their very very best. I will direct you every step of the way, from helping to you prepare for your boudoir shoot with wardrobe and grooming tips; all of this assists in discovering your natural individual beauty. You just need to show up and TRUST ME.
Is Being Stressed and Nervous Normal? How Can I Calm Myself Down?
A.Absolutely! Almost everyone is nervous when they decide to do this type of shoot. It is totally expected. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere during your session. Let's turn on your playlist and jam out to your favorite music!
Why Do You Charge So Much for Photography?
A.As a boudoir photographer, I often get asked — sometimes not so kindly but mostly out of curiosity — “Hey! Why the heck do you charge so much for taking pictures?” It’s a fair question, really, and we all have similar thoughts any time we’re about to spend a decent chunk of change on anything. I figured I’d take the time to explain why I charge what I do and what goes into the total cost.
1. The images taken are sensitive. You want to entrust someone who is not only completely professional and makes you feel 100% comfortable in this intimate setting, but who you know will handle your images with utmost care during the editing and storing process.
2. It took time to learn this art. The cost of my sessions isn’t just for the time we’re spending together; you’re paying for all the years of experience that got me to where I am today. You’re getting images that reflect years’ worth of experience.
3. In some cases, the cost includes a small team of people who help make you look and feel beautiful the day of the shoot. This isn’t cheap, but it’s a service I like to provide!
4. In some cases, we’re shooting in a location that costs money to rent. This is included in part of the cost.
5. Photography equipment is not cheap, my friend. I’ll spare you all the numbers, but my arsenal cost hovers in the five-figure range.
6. There’s a lot of behind the scenes work you may not realize is happening. I spend time scouting locations, researching the latest photography techniques, looking through images from your shoot to select the best one, and editing each one. The time I spend doing these things far surpasses our time at the actual shoot, but it ensures an excellent finished product.
Wait, You Have A VIP Boudoir Club!?
A.I get a number of questions about my VIP Boudoir club, so I thought I’d take a quick second to give you the run down. My VIP Boudoir club is simply a private closed group (a “club” if you will) that consists of current, past, and future boudoir clients. It’s a safe space for you to ask questions and share inspirational images or stories, to collaborate and bond with other women who are just like you.
When permission is granted, I’ll post a handful of images from my sessions for others to see in this VIP group. The best part is that this turns into a positivity fest in the comments section on each image! I’ll also use this group to post upcoming mini session dates, specials, and to get feedback on new ideas for my studio regarding locations, props, new products, and even editing styles.
My VIP Boudoir club is free — I only ask that you bring your best attitude to lean into the atmosphere of lifting other women up and having a great time!
How Does This Experience Help Me Love My Body?
A.You don't need to look like a magazine cover or a centerfold. You are beautiful just the way you are. When you come to my studio, you will be glammed up to your liking. Natural, Hollywood glam, vintage, you name it. Let our team take over and cater to you. Take a day away from home, find a sitter for your kids, and just relax. This is all about you.
Do You Offer Boudoir Shoots For Couples or Men?
A.At this time, Bloom Boudoir is exclusively dedicated to women's portraiture.