Telling stories and creating imagery that connects emotionally with my clients, to me, is what boudoir is all about. It takes a combination of experience, communication, artistic and technical skills.
If you are looking for a boudoir photographer for your own session here are a few points you could use to make your choice. Considering becoming a boudoir photographer? You could do a lot worse than following these tips:
1. Develop a strong relationship with your client: Before the photo shoot, take the time to get to know your client and understand her desires and expectations. This will help you create a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere during the session.
2. Use natural light: Natural light is often the most flattering and creates a soft, sensual mood. Use window light or shoot outdoors during the golden hours for the best results. If you live in the UK, invest in studio lighting that can replicate natural light. I have re-chargeable & portable ‘Goddess Lights’ I can take to any location.
3. Use props and room design: Incorporating props and a little thought can help create a specific mood or atmosphere. It doesn’t have to be too fancy. After all your client is the star of the day. Our makeup room has a growing treasure trove of masks, candles, crops and fluffy handcuffs and other items that may take the client's fancy on the day.
4. Direct and pose your subject: It is vital to be able to direct your subject and pose them in a way that flatters their body and shows off their sensuality the way they want. (You would have discussed this in the pre-session chat, right?).
I have extensive experience in posing women of all ages, shapes and sizes in nude work, boudoir, erotic, fashion and glamour, so I'm pretty confident I have the bases covered for whatever ideas a client brings.
5. Capturing emotions: this is my absolute favourite, try to capture your subject's emotions using the right angle, framing, lighting and plenty of engagement and connection. This is where you let your inner cheerleader shine.
6. Allow space to play: As your client gets comfortable and confident, allow her space to play and collaborate, don’t shut her ideas down. Some of her favourite images will from those personal and creative moments. And if they don’t work you’ve only lost a few minutes. And she will likely appreciate that you took the time.
7. Edit with intention: when editing the photos, consider the mood and emotions you want to convey and ensure that the final images reflect that.
8. Feedback: Get continuous feedback from the client and make adjustments accordingly, to ensure she is always happy and comfortable. Show her a few of the images on the back of the camera. For sensual nudes this is doubly important.
9. Be respectful: Remember to always be respectful of your client, she has entrusted you with some of her most personal thoughts and vulnerability. This is her time, not the time to go looking for a specific shot for your portfolio.
10. And ensure your questionnaire and model release forms are signed and levels are agreed before the shoot.
11. Finally, It’s the little things, providing a warm and welcoming environment, a robe for between shoot sessions and outfit changes, asking permission always before adjusting outfits etc. Making a good cup of tea, a little conversation and generally not being a dick goes a long way :).
By following these tips, you can create sensual photography with a connection that will resonate with your clients.
And give her an experience she will truly appreciate.
I'm a London based boudoir & art nude photographer, and I love helping women feel beautiful. I cater every session to each woman and her individual tastes, including sensual boudoir, artistic nude photography, to spicier and erotic nude boudoir. If you're considering your own session please do get in touch
Patrick Falaniko
Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio