Loving Boudoir Photography
I was 18 when I first got in front of a camera with a local Buffalo photographer. I was honestly so nervous and had no idea what I was doing. I got dressed all cute, brought some trendy outfits with me and was ready to be a "model." We took a bunch of photos and he showed me them on his camera, I thought I looked so cute and felt so badass! I remember not being able to stop smiling. I felt so beautiful and was having so much fun. I think this moment manifested itself in me, in a way I never knew it possibly could.
It wasn't long after I found myself wanting to be on the other side of the camera. I wanted to create that feeling I had, in other people. I wanted them to feel confident and beautiful. And now, don't get me wrong, I'm a big believer that beauty comes from within but you cannot tell me you've never caught your reflection in a mirror after getting ready and been like "Damn Girl! Where have you been all of my life?!" That feeling when you want to take a bunch of selfies or go somewhere so people can see how adorable you look! I know it happens! I've been there! And that feeling, right there, is why I love photographing female portraiture.
My first response to anyone who asks what I photograph or what I like to photograph the most is ALWAYS female portraiture and shortly after that I usually say "Boudoir is probably my favorite." And I know, I know! How dare I be vocal about liking something that is so taboo?! How dare I be proud that I like helping women feel confident when they're feeling so vulnerable and insecure?! I'll tell you why...because I'm so proud I can do that for so many women. No matter how many times I have shot a boudoir session, seeing a client's face light up when they see their images will always warm my soul and make my heart smile. Boudoir photography is AMAZING!
"Boudoir" is meant to mean a woman's private room. If you look it up though, in the late 18th century, it literally meant "sulking place." And if that doesn't crack you up I guess we don't have the same humor. Oh well.. Carrying on. I believe many people are confused as to what boudoir photography is, hence why I'm breaking the word down. It really is just meant to be a bit intimate as if you were in a private room in your home. Women don't have to be naked, semi naked or even in lingerie (most prefer wearing lingerie though!). I always suggest for my clients to bring baggy sleep shirts or oversized button downs. I've even had clients wear silk shorts and loose tank-tops. The clothing is all about whatever the client is comfortable with! Trust me when I say you can show up in a potato sack and we'll still be able to make it look sexy and beautiful! It's all about the posing, lighting and emotion!
Boudoir photography is something I really believe every single woman should try at least once in her lifetime. It's empowering, exciting and boosts your confidence... who doesn't want that?
