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7 secrets your boudoir photographer isn't telling you

Writer's picture: Katharina RebeaudKatharina Rebeaud

Updated: Sep 19, 2024

Want in on all the dirty, juicy secrets your boudoir photographer isn’t telling you? Well, I’m here to spill the tea! 


Although boudoir is becoming more and more mainstream, there are still mysteries and trade secrets many boudoir photographers don’t want to let go.  It is a relatively secretive industry and many people don’t quite know what goes into being a boudoir photographer. If you’ve always been curious about what your boudoir photographer is thinking but isn’t telling you, check out these 7 secrets!


1. Boudoir is an addiction


Boudoir photographer in Arizona
Image created by Polaris Boudoir

It’s pretty common to hear people refer to boudoir as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. At first glance, it may seem like that. Booking your first boudoir shoot is a pretty big deal. It requires courage and vulnerability. But once you take that first step into the world of boudoir, you will begin to see yourself in a different light. There is a certain emotional spark that we see take place in the clients we shoot. There becomes a certain desire to relive that experience. Like anything you enjoy in life, doing it once is not enough. Boudoir is a great excuse to celebrate milestones such as a birthday, a  wedding, or an anniversary. You also don’t need a reason. Many women come into the studio just to celebrate their existence as a human. Once you see yourself as a work of art you’ll want to come back again and again.



 

2. The weirder it feels, the better it looks



It’s important to remember to trust in the process when you book a boudoir shoot. Many of the poses you'll be guided through may feel strange. It isn't your typical photoshoot, and your photographer understands this. They will know the best poses to create interesting curves and angles that help turn you into a work of art. Boudoir is a fun and exciting experience, but there’s no denying that some of the poses may be a bit difficult and strenuous. Once you see the final results, you’ll know it was worth it!


Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to let your photographer know of any physical limitations you may have or if any poses are too difficult for you. They will understand and adjust accordingly.



 

3. We like creative ideas


Boudoir photography
Image created by Polaris Boudoir

Don’t be afraid to ask your photographer if they can create your specific vision. We love testing our skills and pushing our creative boundaries. Do you want to add whips and chains? Great! How about body paint? Even better! Are you nerdy and always dreamed of doing a classy boudoir shoot of your favorite character? At Polaris Boudoir we offer special cosplay boudoir sessions! Pick the character and we’ll design the whole photoshoot even down to the outfit! 


Incorporating client hobbies, such as music, cooking, or reading, is one of our favorite parts of planning a shoot. We’ll do our best to make your photoshoot represent you. Whether you have a creative boudoir theme or some personal props that you want to incorporate into your shoot, it can be a unique experence tailored just for you. You never know what your photography team can create until you ask. 


Pro tip: When filling out your questionnaire, be sure to mention any hobbies you want to incorporate or any creative ideas you are curious about.



 

4. The first 10 photos may not be your favorite


Don’t get me wrong, there are usually some gems in these but don’t be disappointed if there aren’t. The reason for this is that the first few photos are used as a warm-up. Not only for you but for the photography team as well. We’ll be using these images to teach you how to pose and make facial expressions. Most people are not used to posing for boudoir images since it is a lot different than any other form of photography. This also allows you to feel more comfortable in front of the camera since boudoir can be a pretty nerve-wracking experience. These First few shots are also a gauge for your photography team as well. Every woman who comes into the studio has different complexions and different body shapes. The way each woman is shot and posed may have subtle variations. Certain lighting styles and colors vary from person to person. Likewise, poses may have to have subtle changes to better reflect and highlight the client’s features. These first 10 shots not only help you get to know your photographer, but it also lets your photographer get to know you. 


Pro tip: Don’t put too much pressure on yourself when your session first starts. It will begin to feel more natural the more photos you take. By the end, it will be some of the most fun you’ve had in front of a camera!



 

5. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone!


Arizona boudoir photography
Image created by Polaris Boudoir

Respecting our client’s boundaries and limitations is always our top priority. Yet, a little encouragement to try something new can go a long way to creating the empowering experience boudoir provides. If you are willing to step out of your comfort zone, there are some amazing photos to be captured. I’m not going to lie, when a client picks the extra spicy option on their questionnaire I get a little excited planning all the unique possibilities. With this being said, it is important to always communicate with your photographer what you are willing to try. The most important thing at your photoshoot is that you are having fun and enjoying yourself!


Pro tip: If this is still a little nerve-wracking to you but you love the look,  you can always give the illusion of nudity using nipple pasties. You can even make these a part of your look by going with something fun and adventurous like black x's or red hearts!


For some of my personal favorite nipple pasties, check out these Amazon paid links below:







As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases*


 

6. Tell your boudoir photographer what you want!


red silhouette boudoir photo
Image created by Polaris Boudoir

Every photoshoot with us is an expression of your personality and story. We are here to make your boudoir dreams come true! It is much easier to do this when you tell us exactly what you want from your shoot. Communication is one of the most important factors to remember when you book a boudoir shoot. This will make it easier for your photographer to plan your session and make the most of your time. It will also help you feel more relaxed and confident going into photoshoot day knowing what to expect. Be honest in your questionnaire. What you like, what you don't like, what your personality is, and much more. All of this will be used to tailor your perfect boudoir experience. 


Pro tip: Bonus points if you send us reference photos or your Pinterest board so we can see what poses and styles you like!



 

7. It’s more about the experience than the photos



This brings me to my final and possibly most controversial point: Boudoir is about the experience just as much, if not more, than the images you walk away with. This isn’t to say that your photos won’t be stunning works of art. But the way you felt while you were in the studio will mean as much to you by the end. Boudoir is a journey of self-confidence, discovery, and vulnerability. These feelings last from the moment you book until the images are delivered. Every time you look back at the stunning photos we captured, you will be reminded of the amazing time you had while you were in the studio. There is nothing more empowering than realizing you are a work of art! 



 

About the photography team


Arizona Boudoir Photographer

Hello!

We are Katharina and Michael, a husband and wife boudoir photography team based in Arizona. We specialize in creating unique experiences that showcase our client's personalities and individual stories. Our style is centered around dark and moody with pops of color. We believe that every woman deserves the opportunity to discover just how beautiful and valuable they are. Boudoir truly has the power to change how you see yourself. Every woman has a story to tell, and it is our mission to help bring this to light.

You are worth investing in yourself.


Interested in booking a shoot with Polaris Boudoir? Fill out the form below and we'll get in touch!





 

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