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, & 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 & believe in representation & body diversity.  I am skilled in posing for women of all bodies & abilities & am always expanding my knowledge through courses & 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, & MORE!

This year I even introduced new fun alternative boudoir shoots such as fairy, disco, & 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 & don’t be shy to ask questions. Boudoir is all about empowerment & 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 & 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 & 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 & 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 & 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 & 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!