How to Choose the Right Boudoir Photographer for You

When deciding to do a boudoir shoot, who is behind that camera matters! The photographer does much more than just take beautiful images, especially in a vulnerable setting like a boudoir photo shoot. 

The photographer is responsible for setting the tone, making sure their clients are comfortable pre, during, post-shoot, and ensuring that their studio is a safe place so the client can let go & fully embrace the photoshoot. 

I know I am not the only boudoir photographer in the world! When you google “boudoir photographers,” a ton of hits come up that it can be slightly overwhelming. I have written this blog to support you in making a decision that speaks to your values & needs so that you can get the most out of your life-changing shoot. 

Things To Consider When Choosing Your Boudoir Photographer 

Here are some reflections, & questions to ask when researching the boudoir photographer you will connect with & be proudest to work with. 

1. Am I represented in their portfolio? 

I am proud to be a body-neutral & empowering studio that pushes the door open eagerly to my studio for women of all backgrounds & realities. I love working with EVERY body and believe in representation and body diversity.  I am skilled in posing for women of all bodies & abilities & am always expanding my knowledge through courses and further education. Diversity & acceptance is a pillar of Embodied Art Boudoir’s foundation. 

If the photographer you’re looking into is just posting photos of “standard” models & nothing else, this can be a big red flag. 

2. Do the reviews seem real? 

Reviews are a part of our world. The reality is, most people love to complain & will almost always write a review when it’s been a negative or disempowering experience. Now, there are always two sides to the story, but if a photographer only has a lot of low or negative-centric reviews, this is something to be wary of.

Oppositely, most people will write a review when they are incredibly happy with the results & really want others to know about their experience!

Absolutely always read the photographer reviews for inside insight into different experiences. 

3. Do they take photos in the style I like? 

This may seem obvious but it’s worth considering – does the photographer take the boudoir images I’ve been dreaming of? 

Some photographs focus on one specific “look” or style, whereas others, like myself, do a wide range including high key, dark & moody, cozy, classic, body scape, shower set, and MORE!

This year I even introduced new fun alternative boudoir shoots such as fairy, disco, and 420-themed shoots. I think it’s important to work with someone who is open-minded & can offer a wonderful range. 

4. Do they edit/retouch their photos? Am I okay with this?  

Many photographers (myself included) SLIGHTLY retouch images to remove non-permanent things like zits, bruises, etc.

Others choose not to retouch their images at all, while others retouch & edit like crazy!  I’m not here to judge, but I don’t believe in heavy editing.

I don’t want to produce anything that doesn’t look like the perfectly imperfect masterpiece in front of me.  My retouching is very subtle & only done when discussed with clients.  I never touch the integrity of the body & wont edit out “flaws”. If your looking for that, I’m not your girl.

When reviewing a photographer’s boudoir portfolio, look closely and don’t be shy to ask questions. Boudoir is all about empowerment and falling in for yourself in your TRUE form, all over again. 

5. Do they seem like kind & considerate people? 

A boudoir photo shoot can be a vulnerable experience. The last thing you want is to be stuck with a photographer who can’t wait to rush you out the door or makes you feel uncomfortable. 

When I book a shoot, my day is 100% dedicated to the shoot. I never book more than one shoot in a day. I hate feeling rushed & don’t want anyone to feel hurried, which can lead to feelings of being undervalued & or uninterested.  I also LOVE being a hype woman. I often joke that I’m a boudoir photographer because I can’t be a full-time hype woman! There is power in women lifting each other up and I will be there loud & excited the whole time, keeping the energy up with sincerity & joy. 

I am incredibly respectful of boundaries & needs. Everyone entering the studio is on a unique journey with their body, their life and past. You are the leader, & I follow you. If you prefer to do a modest shoot – lingerie who? You don’t feel comfortable in certain poses? No problem! 

6. Do they have resources so I know what to expect?

Most people who opt in for a boudoir shoot have never done anything like this previously! I believe that it is the photographer’s responsibility to calm the inevitable nerves by removing the fear of the unknown & provide detailed information on what to expect, what to wear, etc. 

When you work with me, I have a slew of information I send you leading up to the big day so you can feel as comfortable, confident and prepared as possible. I also do multiple pre-shoot phone calls, so that we can get to know each other & you can ask whatever questions you may have.

7. Are they within my budget?

When it comes to a boudoir photoshoot, I invite you to reframe the cost as an investment—because I firmly believe it is! It’s an investment in yourself, not unlike those massages, gym memberships, book costs, further education…etc! A boudoir photoshoot is in investment in empowering your life & furthering your wellness. That being said, you gotta respect the budget!

I’m very proud to offer accessible pricing, as I believe EVERY woman deserves a luxurious shoot, without breaking the bank. This is why I offer a payment plan that has NO fee & NO interest! This way you can experience a high quality shoot, complete with high quality artwork to enjoy afterwards, all while fitting into your monthly budget.

7. What kind of experience will I get?

Every boudoir photographer has their *thing.* I recommend reflecting on what it is you are TRULY looking for when you begin the hunt for the ideal photographer.

Are you looking for a quick photoshoot where you spend an hour or two? Are you looking for something low-cost for digital prints only? Or, are you looking for a more in-depth, self-care experience?

If the last option made you smile, my studio might be your match! When we work together, the experience is an all-day affair, that is focused on self-love & self-care. The day is very VIP, from the moment you arrive!

You will first be pampered by a professional makeup artist and hairstylist who will take care of you according to your requirements, followed by a mindfulness meditation led by yours truly. The meditation is a body-peace meditation, focussed on body neutrality. It will send peace & happiness to your body with ZERO pressure for you to say “love” to any one part of your body. There’s space for a complicated relationship with your body while avoiding toxic positivity.

That brings me to my next point: my studio is ALL about body positivity/neutrality—without any pressure, I meet you where you are! I love to highlight diverse bodies & people. All are WELCOME here.

My studio is more than just walking away with sexy photographs, but is about taking a step toward self-love & body confidence.

The Perfect Match 

I hope this helps you feel more confident about how to choose a boudoir photographer that’s right for you, is in synch with your values and will help you to feel seen & empowered. The right photographer is a critical aspect  & should never be overlooked. Take your time in the selection process & be sure to do your research. 

I hope you have an incredible shoot with the photographer that you select.

If you want to discuss working with me, fill out the form below!