Discover the Perfect Confidence Booster: What is Boudoir Photography?
What is boudoir photography, and why is does everyone seem to be talking about it?
Maybe your friends have already done it, or you’ve heard about it on TikTok. One way or another those sexy fun lingerie moments have caught your eye your curiosity is piqued; but you’d still love to know exactly what this type of photoshoot entails, what it’s for, and whether or not it’s something you can actually do!
And who are you even supposed to ask when you’re not 100% sure how the word “boudoir” is even pronounced?
Don't worry, that's what this article and I are for.
I’m a boudoir photographer based in New York City, and I’m here to explain exactly what a boudoir photoshoot is, and exactly how this life-changing experience can boost your confidence forever.
Contents:
The Meaning of Boudoir
What is boudoir photography? The term "boudoir" originates from the French word for a a woman’s private dressing room bedroom. In the context of photography, this word means images that aim to celebrate the subject’s beauty, sensuality, and power; and these photos are done in a way that invokes this same sense of privacy and intimacy as the french origin word. While most client’s choose to pose in lingerie for these photoshoots, it’s not mandatory or necessary; what’s the most important is that the subject feels gorgeous, empowered, and authentic in their photos.
Boudoir Pronunciation
Most Americans are really confused about how to pronounce boudoir. In fact, “how exactly do you pronounce boudoir” is one of the first questions my client’s will often ask. Which is only to say you’re not alone in feeling confused!
”Boo” (like a ghost) + “dwAHr” (“arrrr” like a pirate)
What Is the Purpose of Boudoir Photos?
The purpose of boudoir photography extends far beyond capturing beautiful images; these photos are meant to empower women and people of all genders to embrace their unique beauty, and sensuality. The goal is to walk away glowing with a newfound sense of confidence. The experience is a transformative journey of self-exploration and expression. At our studio, it’s also a safe space for clients to authentically explore their sensuality in whatever way is empowering for them them.
Why do brides take boudoir photos?
Boudoir is particularly popular with brides because it makes for a unique and intimate gift to give to their partner on their wedding day. Boudoir sessions before the wedding can be a moment of quiet reflection amidst the chaos of planning, allowing brides to reconnect with themselves and feel empowered before stepping into their new role as a spouse. Additionally, boudoir photos provide brides with a tangible reminder of their inner strength and beauty during a time when they may be feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Ultimately, boudoir photoshoots offer brides the opportunity to celebrate their individuality, express their desires, and create lasting memories that they can cherish for a lifetime.
What Happens in a Boudoir Session?
Preparing for the Session: At Earthly Venus, we align with our client prior to the start of the session with a consultation. This is our opportunity to learn their boundaries, guide them through the process so they know exactly what to expect, and to educate ourselves as to what makes them uniquely feel the most confident and beautiful. We discuss goals, preferences, and any concerns to ensure a personalized and memorable experience.
The Day of the Photoshoot: Once in the studio, the atmosphere is encouraging and supportive. Our clients start by sitting down at our vanity, where they’re pampered by our professional hair and makeup artist. After they’re all glammed up and ready to go, they’ll dress into their first outfit, and the photographer guides them through various poses and expressions. These directions are so easy to follow, and our client’s are often shocked by how effortless it was to look so good on camera.
After the Photoshoot: Clients may have the opportunity to review and select their favorite images for editing and retouching. The final images are delivered in the format of their choice, whether as digital files, prints, or an album, allowing them to cherish their boudoir experience for years to come. Our albums are our most popular product by far because they make amazing gifts and are incredibly discrete.
What Is Included In a Boudoir Session?
What’s included in your experience may vary from photographer to photographer. At Earthly Venus, our session experience is three hours long and includes:
Complete Privacy
Stunning Photo Studio Location
Personalized Wardrobe Guidance and Style Consultation
Professional Hair and Makeup Artist
Step-By-Step Posing Direction
High-End Retouching
Secure Photo Delivery
Image Reveal and Ordering Appointment
And of course the confidence boost is free. You can read more about our boudoir sessions on our experience page.
How Much Should I Expect To Pay For Boudoir Photos?
The cost of boudoir photography can vary depending on several factors, including the photographer's experience and expertise, the location of the studio, the length of the session, and the products or services included in the package. On average, boudoir sessions can range anywhere from $200 to $8000 or more.
Here's a breakdown of what you might expect to pay for different types of boudoir services:
For a Few Hundred Dollars You Might Expect to Receive…
Session Retainer: This is typically a retainer fee for just a boudoir session; products and photos are likely sold separately. These sessions are typically 2-3 hours long. They likely will include hair & makeup, multiple wardrobe changes, as well as a provided photo studio. Always ask the photographer you’re hiring to be sure about what exactly they’re offering.
Mini Sessions: Mini boudoir sessions are a fun and quick way to get a just few photos for a low amount of money. These sessions usually have a specific theme, and are 15-30 minutes long. They do not typically include hair and makeup, and you will likely only have time for one outfit. These sessions are typically limited edition, so act fast when you see them.
Complete Boudoir Service With a Beginner Photographer: A new photographer may offer an entire experience and photos for just a few hundred dollars. While this may seem like a deal, they are likely to be less organized and systemized than a seasoned pro, which can also cause some communication hiccups. You also may not receive as many photos, or be less satisfied with the quality of your final photos.
For around $1000 Dollars You Might be Purchasing…
Small Gift: For around $1000, you may be able to purchase smaller albums, wall art, or other minimal keepsake gifts.
A Few Photos: These photos may be physically printed, or digitally delivered.
For a Few Thousand Dollars You Might Get…
Complete Packages: Boudoir packages can include one or more albums, dozens of fully retouched photos, full sized digital copies of images, wall art, and more. Packages also often will save you money, because you’ll be spending less per-image while still getting even more product than you would making your purchase a la carte.
Customized Albums: Large albums with many images make amazing gifts, and are the most popular way my clients choose to keep their images. They’re super gorgeous and last a lifetime — your older self will thank you a million times over for making this!
Large Wall Art Sets: What better way to decorate your home than with large photos of your own booty? Even if you’re a private person, these make stunning pieces to hang in a walk in closet, bedroom, or bathroom. And a good photographer will make sure you have plenty of anonymous elegant photos to choose from.
A Wide Variety of Images: At higher price points you’ll receive up to dozens of images, even in a session that’s only an hour or so long.
When considering the cost of boudoir photography, it's important to factor in the quality of the photographer's work, their level of professionalism, and the overall experience they provide. While price is certainly a consideration, it's also essential to choose a photographer who makes you feel comfortable and confident, and who can capture stunning images that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
If you’re interested in knowing our most up-to-date prices at Earthly Venus, you can get that information by reaching out to us directly.
Are Boudoir Sessions Worth It?
If you’re wondering: are boudoir portraits a good idea? Our answer is an emphatic YES. Our client’s reach out to us years after their sessions to tell us how life changing their experience was. We recommend reading some of our reviews to learn more about just how amazing a boudoir photoshoot can be.
Where to get boudoir photos taken?
Find a photographer that specializes in boudoir, and who has a portfolio that resonates with you, and who makes you feel comfortable and at ease. At Earthly Venus we work with amazing clients not only who are located in New York City, but clients who also travel from all across the country just to be in front of our cameras. And we’d love to empower you with this amazing experience!
To get started on your boudoir journey you can reach out to us to book your complimentary consultation. You can also download our free Ultimate Guide to Boudoir to learn exactly what you can expect from our boudoir photoshoots.