Boudoir Photography

Boudoir photography is a fantastic way to look fabulous, feel empowered and show yourself at your best!

However, the thought of a boudoir photography session can be a bit intimidating if you have never done a photoshoot before, and some of the questions the Gold Coast photographers at GCPhoto get asked most often are about boudoir photography - what is boudoir photography? Is boudoir photography revealing? Do I need to be a slim young thing for a boudoir photoshoot?

Well, this blog post explains what boudoir photography is and answers some of the most common questions about boudoir photoshoots.

What is boudoir photography?

“Boudoir” is a French word meaning "bedroom". In photography, "boudoir photography" refers to a style in which women (almost always women, but don't let that stop you if you're not) pose for photographs partially clothed or in lingerie in a "boudoir" setting.

Is boudoir photography revealing?

Boudoir photography images are sexy but tasteful, often in lingerie, and nudity is typically implied rather than explicit. Implied nudity means that anything too revealing will be covered by, for example, turning away from the camera or by shadows. However, nude photography in a boudoir style is also an option — whatever makes you look and feel fantastic!

Do I need to be young, slim and beautiful for boudoir photography?

Absolutely not! Boudoir photography is for everyone and a good boudoir photographer will be able to flatter anyone and make them beautiful. Don't be self-conscious about your weight, your age, your looks or anything at all - the photographer will make you feel beautiful and confidence is sexy!

How do I pose for boudoir photography?

Unless you're a professional model, you'll probably appreciate some direction in how to pose for your boudour photography session. Fortunately, a good boudoir photographer will know all the poses that will make you look fabulous.

Arched backs, lifted legs, and twists of the torso are common poses in boudoir photography and you’ll likely spend a lot of time lying on your back or stomach. The boudoir photographer will direct you throughout and so if you’re ever confused about how to pose, just ask the photographer and he or she will be happy to show you.

Do I need hair and make-up for boudoir photography?

Probably. Unless you're very good with hair and make-up, you should get your hair and make-up done by a professional.

This can be done before the photoshoot, but ideally, hair and make-up will be done at the studio or location immediately before the photoshoot. Fake eyelashes and nails and hair extensions are commonly used, while make-up styles can be as natural or heavy as you’d like, although the make-up artist will have some ideas too.

What lingerie shall I bring for my boudoir photography shoot?

The style is up to you - sexy, playful, pin-up or glamorous. Black lace is very popular and works well with most styles. Make sure you have a few different options, as well as shoes (probably high heels!) and layers to go over the top, such as a large man's shirt.

For more advice, take a look at the What To Wear To Your Photoshoot page.

Should boudoir photography be done in the studio?

There are a number of locations that are suitable for boudoir photography, including the studio.

For boudoir photography in the studio, it is usually better to use a small, comfortable studio with a private changing room rather than a large commercial space - it's hard to feel sexy in a warehouse! Our Gold Coast photography in Tugun is perfect for studio boudoir photography.

A popular option for boudoir photography is to book a beautiful hotel or an AirBnB cottage for the day. Many hotels and hosts will let you book a room for a photoshoot (although often not in high season or at weekends) and there are several suitable options for boudoir photography around the Gold Coast.

If you'd be more comfortable doing a boudoir photography shoot at home, that can often be arranged, although the boudoir photographer does need some space and an uncluttered palette so it will depend on the size and style of the room.

Can men do boudoir photography?

Traditionally, boudoir photography is for the ladies, but there's no reason whatsoever why men shouldn't book a male boudoir photography session.
For a male boudoir photoshoot, we might modify the style a little ... or maybe we wouldn't, it's all about your style and showing you at your best!

Is boudoir photography LGBT+ friendly?

Of course! An LGBT+ boudoir photography session is just like any other shoot - the focus is you, your style and getting the best boudoir photographs.
LGBT+ friendly boudoir photography is available for singles and couples.

How long does a boudoir photography shoot last?

Typically, a boudoir photography session will last a couple of hours, or a bit longer if hair and make-up is being done professionally.

Longer photoshoots can be arranged, but boudoir photoshoots are surprisingly tiring and experience says that anything longer than a couple of hours stops being fun. If you'd like a large number of images or different boudoir photography styles, it's recommended that we organise a rest-break during the shoot, which will also give you a chance to top up the make-up and re-do your hair.

Choosing your boudoir photographer

Picking the right boudoir photographer is essential!

Many people when looking for a boudoir photography would prefer either a male or a female photographer, which is absolutely fine, but the most important thing is the particular photographer rather than their gender.

You want your photographer to have experience in boudoir photography and to take photographs in a style that you like. In addition, you want your boudoir photographer to be happy to explain the boudoir photography packages available and the style of images that you'll pose for during the shoot. A photographer that puts you at your ease and makes you feel relaxed is the most important thing!

Before the boudoir photography shoot

So you've booked your boudoir photographer and you're looking forward to the shoot. A few things to keep in mind prior to the shoot...
• Make sure that you have no awkward tan lines - treat yourself to a fake tan if necessary!
• Don't wear anything too tight or that leaves lines before the shoot as marks last for hours.
• Don't eat or drink too much the night before. You'll feel more comfortable if you're not bloated, and no one looks good with a hangover.
• Make a music playlist on your phone. You might not like the photographer's choice of music, so bring your own!

Take a look at the What To Wear To Your Photoshoot page for some more general advice.

Final tips

• Have fun! The photographs from a boudoir photoshoot are always much better if you're having fun!
• Don't worry about what anyone else would think, this is all about you!
• Be beautiful! Be yourself!


If you have any more questions about boudoir photography or the Gold Coast Boudoir Photography Packages, just let me know via The GCPhoto Contact Page.


Cheers,
matt g

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