Welcome to Bloomington Boudoir where we invest in your self-worth.
Every person’s body is uniquely beautiful and deserves love and appreciation. Boudoir photography is a journey of self-discovery and expression. When you love yourself, it shows, and we want to help you show it off.
We believe true beauty comes in ALL shapes, sizes, and genders. Not everyone comes to us ready to share their softer side on camera. In fact, most don’t. But this is our favorite part! It is our passion and privilege to walk with you every step of the way to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in your skin. We will equip you with all the tools and tips you’ll need to make your experience worth-while and wanting more.
Introduction
Back in the day, boudoir was a woman’s private quarters where she could host her guests, entertain, or escape from the world into her own personal space. Today, it carries a similar essence, but has filtered into a stylized artistic medium. Sculptors, painters, and photographers alike embrace the beauty in every body and find boudoir to be one of the most intimate and empowering experiences they can offer their clients.
Because you deserve to celebrate yourself and your beautiful body. And they make EXCELLENT gifts for your partner. Boudoir photoshoots are guaranteed self-esteem boosters. They are booked by people who are interested in capturing their more intimate side, who want to give a special gift to their partner, or who are looking for the experience of feeling empowered and wanting a boost of self-confidence.
You will find some boudoir sessions start at $99 to book, but don’t let this number fool you. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Yes, $99 fits nicely into most budgets, but if you want anything more than simply to schedule a session, you will be paying for each additional add-on, like your digital images, hair and makeup, and printing options. For those interested in a bundled package that includes all the add-on’s, expect to pay anywhere from $500 – $3000.
General rule of thumb, book your boudoir shoot at least two months in advance of the occasion you are celebrating – like your wedding, anniversary, or Valentines Day. New mothers even book maternity boudoir sessions right before their baby is due, and again right after they are born. But never underestimate how long this might take – it is always better to build in some cushion for flexibility just in case.
Boudoir photography is a genre of photography where people, mainly women, pose in their more intimate lingerie during a specialized photo shoot. This is not pornographic photography, but instead, an empowering experience of capturing your more intimate, vulnerable side on camera. Boudoir studios are designed to cater to your personal level of comfort – a space where you can feel at ease and free to reveal your true self.
Boudoir photography is for EVERYONE. All genders, shapes, sizes, and ages. Boudoir embraces every persons’ unique personality and style, without judgment. Worried about feeling too exposed or don’t want those pesky stretch lines to show? We have all the tips and tricks on how to capture your softer side without showing too much.
Not to worry, you won’t be undressing in somebody’s shady basement. Boudoir specialists are artists who love to capture the beauty of your body, and celebrate your unique personality through your softer side. These artists are experienced photographers who understand that each client is different and will cater to your comfort level every step of the way.
Of course you can! Taking your own boudoir photos will certainly add a degree of your own personalized touch, but be prepared to spend a lot more of your time and energy on the whole process. Yes, you could absolutely wear your favorite lingerie and take selfies with your cell phone. But if you want something more artistic or professional looking, it is definitely worth doing some research into equipment, lighting, what to wear, how to pose, how to edit your images, and how to print. There is more to it than you think, but you will find everything you need to get from start to finish [here].
Where to Start
Start here – on this website. Before you do anything, it is important to do your research. Play around with what styles you like, what outfits you’ll want to try on, and which photographers in your area offer boudoir sessions.
Know your budget – how much do you want to spend? Photographers offer a wide variety of package pricing. Start thinking about what it is you want out of your session (i.e. printed photo album). Don’t worry about the details yet, just have an idea of what you are getting into so there are no surprises later.
Compare photographers – above all, you will want to find a photographer that you have good chemistry with. Find a few online that you might want to work with and before you book anything – MEET THEM. They will offer initial meet-and-greet consultations where you can feel out if they are the right person you’ll want taking intimate photos of you. The person could make or break the experience – take your time and find the right one.
Boudoir essentials include the following:
– The RIGHT photographer. The chemistry you have, or don’t have with your specialist could make or break your whole experience.
– An outfit you feel confident and sexy in, plus layers. This includes bra, underwear, garters, heels, over-sized clothing like skirts and sweaters, and other layers that would look good taking off – like a robe or a button-down shirt.
– Cosmetics for the tiny details that make the biggest difference. Your skin, hair, hands and feet are details you cannot neglect for your boudoir session. If you aren’t already pampering yourself as you should be, start now – Drink lots of water to hydrate your skin. Go get your hair done. Use makeup products that you know for sure won’t cause breakouts. Always keep your favorite lotion on hand to soften any dry skin. You will be surprised how frequently your hands and feet show up in your photos. This is a great excuse to treat yourself to a mani – pedi at the salon.
[This phone number]. We will help direct you to exactly where you want to go. Interested in working with the best boudoir photographer in your area? We’ve got their numbers. Needing an affordable hair stylist? We’ve got recommendations for all types of hair. Looking for the hottest places to shop for lingerie? We’ve got you covered! And we are only a couple of clicks or a phone call away.
If you are planning your session around a special occasion, birthday, or holiday, two months in advance will give you plenty of time to safely have everything ready when you need.
If you are wanting more specifics, there are a couple times a year that tend to be photographer’s favorite to shoot boudoir. Surprisingly enough, winter tends to be a popular season for a few reasons: you won’t be sporting tan lines that you’d want to edit out later, a bundle of the best holidays falls between November and April, you’ve been hiding under layers for far too long, and you’ll be eager to bring some warmth to that bitter and grey February day.
Time of day is an easily overlooked detail, but will add volumes to your experience. There is something truly special about the “golden hour” – the hour right after the sun comes up and right before it sets – when there is a golden glow that makes everything magical. Consider booking your session during this hour… it’s totally worth it.
Don’t know what styles you like best? Start with these [hottest style guides] that explore every boudoir theme and fashion to fit your unique personality. Find the perfect pieces that complement all body shapes and sizes. You’ll need to think about what makes you feel most comfortable, confident, sassy and sexy so when you slip into it, you’ll be dying to show it off.
Although losing weight is on everyone’s bucket list, it is also a self-judgmental mindset that you need to shake off before you go into your boudoir session. You’d be missing the point of boudoir if you felt you needed to drop 30 lbs before you “qualify” for this experience. Boudoir is inherently designed to help you feel confident and sexy in the body you have right now, and helps you love it as much as we do. Remember, you are your own worst critic. If you can separate yourself from your judgy self-conscious, you will only be doing yourself a favor. If you want to lose weight, do it the right way to help you feel healthier. NOT because you think you’ll look better in boudoir pictures. If you are still feeling unsure about revealing yourself too much, we have guaranteed successful ideas to let you show off your favorite parts in the sexiest ways.
Trust us, we’ve done our research so you don’t have to. Here is a list of the [most sought after photographers] in your area, the [cheapest photographers] in your area, and the [most specialized photographers] in your area. Spend some time comparing their packages, deals, personalities, what is included and what isn’t. There are enough options out there to find one that fits you like a glove.
Some do, some don’t. [Here] is a list of recommended general photographers in your area who do include boudoir in their palette of services they offer. But consider your options before you hire a general photographer for your boudoir session. General photographers will know how to work a camera and be familiar with lighting, but they might not offer the immersive experience that includes flattering poses, seductive styles, or supportive bedside manner that a specialist would. When choosing a photographer to take your boudoir photos, you’ll want to choose the right one.
Preparation
Everyone’s style is as diverse as their own personality. We welcome new ideas and embrace individuality expressed in your photo shoot. From themes and props to costumes and poses, we will help you find the right fit for you and your body. The idea is to have fun with feeling sexy. In our initial consultation, we will get to know each other, and our boudoir specialists will bring your ideas to life, and offer suggestions to explore. These artists are skilled in bringing your style to life through ambiance, lighting, props, and poses, whether you are outdoors embracing a natural environment or in the studio, embracing your one-woman show. The focus is on you and your boudoir style will set the stage to tell your story. Picture this: an elegantly sexy portrait of you wearing your favorite lingerie that makes you feel HOT, and showing off your engagement or wedding ring.
Not sure where to start? There are SO many options when it comes to boudoir outfits and props, it can get overwhelming. So we’ve narrowed down some popular options to help you get started and our recommendations to the best sources of where to find them.
To start with, we suggest playing around with [these] different styles or find some styles you are interested in trying out, outfits or costumes you would like to try on, and jewelry or props you would like to include. Thinking about a thematic boudoir photo session? We’ve compiled a [list] of popular themes, ideas for props to use, and where you can find them. Interested in a more classic elegant look? You will find a wide selection of flattering, seductive outfits and pieces at our favorite [lingerie shops]. If you would prefer, our stylists are available to work with you directly to find your style and get you fitted for the look you want, the look you will feel sexy and empowered in.
Take care of your skin, take care of your nails, take care of your body. Avoid drinking too much alcohol since it is known to dehydrate skin. Use hand lotion to soften up those rough patches we all get in the dryer months. Drink plenty of water, use sunscreen if you are planning on being exposed to sun for long periods of time, and resist the urge to hit the tanning bed. Discoloration and tan lines are details that will absolutely show up in your boudoir images and you will not want to spend extra money needing to touch up orange tones, drastic tan lines, or burnt peeling skin. Rule of thumb before walking into any photography studio – better safe than sorry. Don’t make any dramatic changes to your hair or skin that you are unsure about right before your boudoir session. The camera captures more detail than you might realize.
Practicing for your boudoir session is always a good idea to get comfortable with how you move and how you feel in your skin, in your clothes, and in poses that might be new and exploratory for you. Now is a good time to start thinking about parts of your body that you would like to show off. Believe it or not, your hands, feet, and a revealing shoulder are often some of the most teasing parts of your body that the camera can capture without you having to get undressed in the studio. Skilled photographers can do a LOT with very little, so it would be helpful for them and for you, before you begin your session, knowing what parts of you you’d like to show off.
But as we know, it’s not just about your hands and feet. Boudoir poses encompass a wide variety of positions you might not have even thought of yet. Standing up, laying down, and yes, even upside down! Find a few positions you feel most comfortable in. Of course your photographer will work with you, but if you play with and practice your favorite poses beforehand, the photographer can perfect them for the camera and will be able to offer ideas and suggestions for similar poses that meet your level of comfortability.
Your boudoir session is absolutely a good excuse to go get your hair done. But our advice to you is simple – don’t do anything drastic that you might regret right before your scheduled professional photo shoot. Have you always wondered what your hair would look like in bright blue or purple? These are super fun colors, but the time for experimentation is AFTER your photo shoot unless you are confident the color works for you and your style.
Our on-site makeup and hair stylists are available at the studio on the day of your session to style, manage, and maintain your hair fit for a star. All you would need to do is show up to the studio with clean hair. It doesn’t even need to be dry! We recommend selecting a style that is comfortable and casual that you won’t have to fuss with during your photo shoot. Everyone’s hair is different and we will work with it to fit your boudoir personality. Hair can do as much or as little as you want in your photos. We can pull it back so as to not distract from the places you want to show off, or it has the potential to add volume and texture to your images. Identify and play with a few styles you would like to try before you arrive. Our stylists will handle the rest.
Our boudoir makeup suggestion – now is not the time to experiment with new makeup products! You never know how new makeup products will react with your skin type and the LAST thing you will want is for your skin to break out right before your scheduled boudoir session. Go with the products you know work for you, that you feel comfortable in, and that are ideally matted in finish. When you are in the studio moving and posing under lights, it is easy to break a sweat or build up natural oils in your face. To avoid catching these details on camera, we advise wearing a powdered or matted finish foundation to control oils and perspiration. Our makeup stylists will always carry blotters and continuously maintain the integrity of your makeup throughout the session, but it never hurts to come prepared with your own.
Adding a little color in your cheeks or on your lips could also add a touch of warmth to your close-ups, but if you are planning on applying your own makeup before or at the studio, it would be wise to play with your style and do a practice run before your big day. If you are lucky enough to be able to pull off that bright red lipstick, go ahead. But if you are trying something new, experiment with your ideal look a day or two before in case you decide you’d prefer a more muted, subtle, or neutral look.
One of the most overlooked details in boudoir photo sessions are nails and nail polish. The cleanliness and care of your nails could make or break an image so this is something you will definitely want to consider before you step into the studio. Your nails could be a statement in your images, but do you want them to detract from what’s really important?
Of course, the specific shade of your nail color should complement your skin tone. If the color contrasts too much, they will steal your spotlight and become a jarring annoyance in your final image. Red is always a classic, passionate color, but it is not fit for every finger. If you are looking for more neutral tones, consider a soft blush or something in the grey or brown family. It is always fun to compliment your nail color with the outfit you are wearing. If you decide to style up in pink and black lingerie, either of those colors on your nails could tie your whole look together. And if you really want that dainty elegant look, French manicures with white or colored tips are always a popular option. Just remember, when you are preparing for your boudoir session, make sure your nails are clean and trimmed properly. They are guaranteed to show up in your portraits. Give them the attention they deserve.
If you are feeling like you are forgetting something, consider checking out our [preparation checklist] before you enter the studio on your big day. You’ve been looking forward to this immersive experience for weeks, or perhaps months, and don’t want to miss a single detail. Fact of the matter is, you can get out of it what you put in. If you spend time taking care of your skin, staying hydrated, practice your makeup styles and posing preferences, you will be WAY ahead of the game come the time you are finally sitting in front of your photographer. But don’t forget, our experienced photographers come over prepared and if you by any chance forget something, they will more than likely be able to provide it for you. Remember to breathe and embrace your experience. Your session is costly and you will want to make it worth your while. You are beautiful, you are worth it, and we want to be the tool to help you feel comfortable in your skin.
Lights, Camera, Action!
When thinking about what to pack in your bag to bring to the studio the day of your boudoir session, there are a few must-have’s and a few nice-to-have’s we recommend including. Our team of professionals have certainly been doing this long enough to advise on thing you’ll absolutely need for comfort and for just in case emergencies. We strongly recommend wearing something comfortable, preferably oversized that you can wear over your boudoir garments, and absolutely throw in you your preferred hair brush, an extra set of tights, a hand towel, and your water bottle. Not necessary, but nice to have includes a robe, an alternative outfit or two, and a few favorite props. Your photographer will most likely have everything you’d need on hand, but it never hurts to bring your own.
Up to you. If you are more comfortable styling yourself, feel free to do so. You are most familiar with how your hair lays, what works for it and what doesn’t. But if you want that extra professional touch and immersive boudoir experience of feeling pampered, our stylists are available and ready for your head-to-toe glow-up. From hair and makeup to nail polish, all you would need to do is arrive with clean hair. We will do the rest.
Something oversized. Something comfortable. When you are under the spotlight, you will most likely be wearing something much tighter and fitted to your body. But during session breaks, moments where you are touching up your hair and makeup, or when you are wrapping up and discussing next steps, you will want to wear something you feel most comfortable in. Feel free to bring a robe. We recommend oversized clothing that you can slip over your boudoir outfit.
We want your experience to be as comfortable as possible. Upon arriving to the studio, you will be greeted by your team who will prepare you for hair and makeup styling. You will then meet with your photographer who will consult with you about poses, props, lighting, and style. They will cater to your level of comfortability and help guide you through your whole session. You will never feel rushed or that your time is not valuable. This is your time in the spotlight and we are here for you. When your session is wrapping up, you will schedule your appointment to review your images, select your favorites and discuss printing and presentation.
Absolutely not! In fact, boudoir photography is not about nude photography. Boudoir is classy and tasteful while still being sexy and seductive. You will never be asked to undress any more than what you feel comfortable with. Most people choose to wear boudoir lingerie, favorite undergarments, or loose-fitting clothing that can pose as revealing. If you want your portrait to show more skin, the camera and photographer know the proper angles, lighting, and techniques to achieve this without you stripping down to your birthday suit.
Yes, but we suggest limiting your wardrobe or style choices to two or three max. Your time is valuable to us and we want you to get the most out of your session. Changing outfits, props, or thematic studio sets could take time away from your immersive experience. Yes, it is nice to have options, but including too many options takes away from your boudoir session. We recommend selecting one or two favorite outfits or themes and experiment with those. You will be surprised with how much you can do inside one theme or style.
A lot goes into a boudoir photography production. From hair and makeup to lighting and setup, your session could take a few hours. Our photographers aim for quality over quantity, which means it might take some time to get the lighting and camera angles just right for each shot. We strongly suggest blocking out a morning or afternoon in your calendar for your session. Our team will be as prepared as we can be on our end, but the party doesn’t start until you walk through the door. You will never feel rushed, but we do try to be as efficient as we can be during your time in the spotlight.
Absolutely! Couples boudoir photo sessions are extremely popular and often adds that touch of intimacy you are looking for in your boudoir portrait. Including your partner is a great way to celebrate an anniversary, holiday, or even just as a delightful way to appreciate your everyday love you share. Couples often feel more comfortable and relaxed with their partner present. But if you are considering giving your solo boudoir photography portrait to them as a gift, it might be better that you leave them at home. Never underestimate the element of surprise when you give them a printed album of your boudoir portraits.
For Photographers
From our experience and years of research, always wanting the cutting edge stuff on a tight budget, we’ve evaluated the following lenses measured by a healthy balance of quality and cost. Every photographer has their own preferences, but these are at the top of our ideal list:
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens
Canon EF 35mm f/1.4L USM Wide-Angle Lens
If you are interested in that little extra something, this lens filter is our personal favorite:
Hoya 77mm DMC ND8 Multi-Coated Neutral Density Filter
Every photographer knows that a good image is ALL ABOUT THE LIGHTING. That being said, it is important to have the right equipment on hand. You know your own budget, so we have provided a range of most recommended lighting equipment to consider as you start building your own studio:
Lowel LC88EX Rifa-Lite eX88 1000 Watt Softbox Light
Lowel Rifa LC-88eX1 eXchange-Lite 100 Watt 32×32 Collapsible Soft Light System w/ 1000w/120v FEL Lamp
Elinchrom D-Lite 200WS EL 20463 IT Strobe Head
Elinchrom EL 19349 Skyport ECO Wireless Flash Transmitter
Elinchrom EL 26179 Rotalux 39×39 Square Softbox with 2 Diffusers
Lowel 40×40 Fabric Egg Crate Grid for Rifa-Lite 88
California Sunbounce Micro Mini (2×3 Feet)
Sometimes the little things get left off the list. Maybe you’ve been so busy researching the fancy expensive equipment, you forgot to add a carrying case into your cart! No worries. We got you. Feel free to do your own research on this one, but you will quickly find they are all black, they all have lots of pockets, and most have straps. But if you look closely all these things actually matter to the starting photographer. So, we’ve saved you some time. Our recommendations include the following ideal camera storage options:
Vanguard Xcenior 48I Photographic Element Bags
Pelican 1740 Travel Vault Watertight Hand
You may or may not have had experience with it in high school photoshop class, but almost every photo studio, classroom, and home office uses Photoshop as their preferred photo editing software. But for many reasons. Photoshop gives you the agency, flexibility, creativity, and professional touch that goes hand in hand with quality images. Yes, there is a subscription fee, but if you are planning on editing professional photos as part of your business, this is a no-brainer. It’s like coloring utensils for the budding artist.
In addition to Photoshop, we also recommend Lightroom as a complimentary software program to add any final touches and translate any image into the format you want. This will be key when you go to store, print, or share any image. Every platform requires a different format and when you are handling large volume images, you will want the proper tools to make your work go as smoothly as possible.
To have a sensitive, comforting, positive bedside manner is a skill. But as you will quickly find, not one that you will have to work too hard at. When your client comes to you they will probably be nervous. Many have never even heard of boudoir photography before, let alone hire someone to take photos of them in their most intimate clothing. It is your job to celebrate them, their body, and welcome them with confidence and comfort.
As the photographer, it would be most wise to start by offering an initial consultation. This gives both you and your client an opportunity to meet each other, to feel out your vibe. If it is not a good fit, you will both know right away. But it is key to be open and available to answer any questions they might have, reassure them of their safety and confidentiality, and most of all, that boudoir is an artistic medium to celebrate who they are. Celebrate with them and shower them with honest, quality compliments.
This is your chance to get creative. Embrace it! Play with different lighting, ambiance, sets and props. Many photographers prefer shooting indoors where they can control the lighting. Try some spontaneity by taking your studio outdoors! A natural environment adds texture and new opportunities that you as an artist can have fun with. Your client is sure to appreciate your out-of-the-box approach.
Milk baths are by far one of the most trendy boudoir styles of today. Add some flower petals to add that romantic vibe, or have your client wear a shear gown to add some texture. Milk baths add that right balance of teasing translucency while maintaining that seductive secretiveness. Milk baths are not only trendy and popular, but they are also classic and timeless.
There will ALWAYS be that person who forgets a makeup essential or that tricky clear nail polish to mend a run in their tights. Don’t make them worry about these tedious details. Keep them on hand, and you are sure to get referrals. Offer your clients a personalized glow-up before their session. Have your stylist do their hair and makeup to their preferences, and fit to what works best with the camera. Help them feel the best in their body. Our list of must-have beauty necessities include the following:
HD High-Definition Super Palettes
Makeup For Ever HD Microfinish Powder HD
Ardell Fashion Lashes — Brown
Ardell Fashion Lashes — Demi
Ardell Lashgrip Adhesive
Graftobian HD Creme Foundation Super Palette
Graftobian Setting Spray
You should always ask your client if they have any personal items they want to include in their session. This could mean anything from engagement rings to favorite shirts to signed footballs or other objects of sentimental value. Give them priority over these preferences. These objects mean something to them and will make their boudoir session all the more special.
But you also should keep a few things in your studio should your client come empty handed. Of course keep a spare set of clothing items – scarves, robes, and oversized shirts come in handy. Also, items like a strand of pearls, dried flower petals, textured blankets, or other objects that would add to the ambiance of your studio setting.