So how did I fall into boudoir and body positivity anyway?
Patrick Falaniko • 26 March 2020
Eleonora expressing her inner goddess in classic black and white.
I was born plus size.
I was raised by a strong proud woman and grew up a very happy child.
The age of four was when I first really noticed the disparity in the way people were treated, class, size and colour became increasing factors in how people grouped themselves.
I fell into advertising at 18, 30 years ago.
My first fashion client was a major lingerie company.
My second client was their plus size range, they forgot to book a model, so they did a sweep of the factory floor and my girlfriend at the time ended up cat walking for them.
That was my “real catwalk moment”. My Polynesian (Nuian) girlfriend walking, my friends and family working in the factory and warehouse and me designing the graphics and marketing. Brown, white, every size together, just amazing.
My second “real catwalk moment” was when I produced a poster campaign for a major women's rugby team, 26 women squad. Even though I was the creative director, I had to pitch in and help and apply make up to seven women. I would challenge anyone to sit opposite a woman, chat to her and apply makeup to her face and not appreciate how uniquely beautiful she is.
Roll on thirty years the industry’s a little monotonous so I took the opportunity to quit in 2017 to paint. I picked up a camera to take some reference pictures and voila.
One of my first assignments was a body positive shoot for eight women ranging from 18-70ish (I never did ask their ages) who wanted to celebrate themselves and their bodies just the way they are, no retouching or reshaping.
“real catwalk moment” number three.
There's been many fabulous, diverse campaigns and photoshoots over the years but these ones really pulled at my soul and set the tone for my work and philosophy on beauty.
I set up an art studio in wood street market for the past 16 months, I sold a lot of paintings even though it’s a very quiet market. But I did get a lot of women coming in and chatting.
And as well as telling me about their day to day stuff and health problems, identity and body crisis's, they kept mentioning they like the way I see women “as they should be seen”. So I had the bright idea to offer a photography service.
Two things then happened.
A 50 something year old grandmother Beverly posed for a body painted goddess picture and Annie wanted pictures to celebrate her 60th and that she is winning her ongoing battle with cancer in her underwear (OMG the twitter around the market was audible). This last year talking to women has almost broke my heart, but also made me more determined to work with women like Beverly and Annie. So in SEPTEMBER I quit the 6 foot studio at the market and have nearly finished building a more comfortable home studio space to do so. Finally we're up and running January 2020.
Ta dah… introducing the Goddess Studio. Essentially a safe space for boudoir and art nudes for every woman incorporating elements of fashion, pinup and art and their inner goddess.
All I have is empathy, enthusiasm and a few nice pictures, I’ve only been to my first burlesque show two months ago (totally amazing) and I've learnt about boudoir on the fly. But you know what empathy and a good heart goes a long way.
So my studio may not be the biggest or fanciest on the block, but I'm determined that no woman leaves my studio without a wonderful experience and feeling more fabulous about herself.
So I'll keep learning and refining poses and my photography skills as well as expanding my knowledge of lingerie and the arts like burlesque so your experience will be better than ever.
My offering is a bespoke photography service with hair and make up and some wardrobe. and My focus is celebrating all women, body and spirit.
That’s where you come in.
The Goddess Studio
is a judgement free zone and safe place for women to express themselves and we happen to produce beautiful photography too. If you'd like to submit a guest blog or book a shoot, click on the email icon below.
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It must be getting close to 95% or more of clients choosing to go nude, whether body love confidence or more sensual and free expression. It has been very interesting, that although clients often bring dozens of cute lingerie outfits, often they are just launching points to a freer form of expression.
There are a thousand ways to express and capture erotic themes and sensuality—through movement, light, texture, and emotion. Whether you’re drawn to the raw intimacy of nude and erotic photography , the elegant allure of boudoir nude photography , or the timeless beauty of nude photography boudoir , every session is about capturing what makes you feel powerful, free, and uniquely yourself. When I launched as a photographer Sensual photography quickly became one of our most popular requests and we set up a page especially here .
Our unedited boudoir photography gallery is our most popular package add-on! Women love having a record of their day pre-edit. Honestly, some days I feel like I could be a completely Photoshop-free photographer—especially when it comes to body love photography.
One thing people don’t always realise about boudoir sessions? They are not all serious affairs. There is a LOT of laughing, unexpected moments, and the very rare wardrobe situations. They are celebrations of you, and especially birthdays, often there’s cake and balloons and the occasional glass of Prosecco too.
We always love it when clients share their stories and experiences. "I couldn't have been happier with my photoshoot experience, and I highly recommend working with Patrick. From the moment I arrived, he created a comfortable environment and took the time to understand what I wanted from the session.
Reaching your 40s is a powerful milestone, often bringing with it a deeper sense of confidence and freedom. If you’re a woman embracing this era of your life, a boudoir and nude photography session can be the perfect way to celebrate who you are—bold, assured, and unapologetically yourself. (The images above are just a selection of women in their 40s, 50s & 60s who have graced our lens) Owning Your Power By the time you hit your 40s, you know what you want and what truly matters. Whether you’re exploring sensuality in a new way or simply feeling more comfortable in your own skin, one thing is clear—women only grow stronger with time. Boudoir nude photography offers a beautiful way to express your confidence, sensuality, and joy in a space that is entirely yours. Our home-based London boudoir studio provides a relaxed, intimate setting where you can explore your unique beauty with ease. Whether you’re drawn to a classic boudoir session, an artistic nude photoshoot, or something with an erotic or spicier vibe, every session is tailored to reflect you. Your Body, Your Rules We believe that beauty and sensuality have no expiration date. Whether you’re posing in lingerie or embracing the power of nude photography boudoir, your experience is about celebrating yourself on your own terms. Our very first clients were women over 40—some in their 50s and 60s—who set the tone for everything we do. Their confidence and self-expression have even inspired a new generation, with our under-30 client base growing as well. You never know who you might inspire simply by owning your moment. Women over 40 have featured extensively in our Body Love group days and charity calendar shoots, stepping into their power in every way. From elegant boudoir portraits to bold nude and erotic photography, this is about you—your story, your beauty, your rules. This Is Your Time Our clients range from 20 to 70, all with a shared desire to embrace their bodies and express themselves through photography that feels empowering and liberating. Whether you’re stepping into a nude erotic photoshoot for the first time or continuing a sensual journey of self-expression, we’re here to capture the confident, radiant woman that you are today. Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together We have become known for beautiful studio nude photography, but what truly sets us apart is the personal connection we build with each client. This isn’t just about creating stunning images—it’s about creating an experience that leaves you feeling strong, radiant, and truly seen. Ready to book your own boudoir and nude photography session? Head over to our Contact Form – let’s make it happen, whether at my home studio in Walthamstow or on location in London, the Southeast, or beyond. Patrick Falaniko Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio
Motherhood is an incredible journey, but it’s easy to lose touch with your own sense of self in the midst of caring for your family. If you’re a mum looking to reconnect with your body and reclaim your confidence, a boudoir photoshoot could be the perfect way to do just that. Rediscovering Your Sensuality At our home-based London boudoir studio, we offer a personal, welcoming space where you can rediscover your sensuality on your own terms. A boudoir shoot isn’t about fitting into a specific mould—it’s about embracing the unique beauty that comes with your life experience. As your photographer, I’ll work closely with you to create an environment that feels comfortable and supportive. Whether you choose to wear lingerie, opt for a nude photography session, or something in between, the focus is on capturing the real you. This experience is about more than just photos—it’s about reclaiming your body, your confidence, and your sense of self. Embrace Your Body, Your Way Every mum’s body tells a story, and every curve, line, and mark is part of that narrative. Our boudoir and nude photography sessions are designed to help you embrace your body as it is, creating beautiful images that celebrate your journey. Whether you’re interested in a traditional boudoir photoshoot or want to explore something more daring like an erotic nude photoshoot, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our clients, who range from 20 to 70, all share a common desire: to celebrate themselves through joyful, free-flowing photography. This is your time to focus on you and celebrate your own beauty. We love celebrating women at every stage of their lives, We also provide maternity portraits , and of course once the little darlings fly the nest? We can talk about Unapologetically You: Boudoir Photography for Women Over 40 :)
Your 20s are a time of exploration, self-discovery, and making memories that last a lifetime. As you embrace this vibrant period of your life, what better way to capture your confidence and sensuality than with a boudoir shoot? One caveat here, we get many young women who want to explore modelling. Boudoir is not lingerie modelling, fashion or glamour modelling, at least as far as we and our clients are concerned it is intimate and sensual form of self expression. If modelling is your goal, we can discuss and provide you with the appropriate package. Right! let's get back to boudoir photography sessions :)
So what happens if you really only require one or two images? Yes, I get do get many inquiries for actor and modelling online applications, and Linkedin and Business Profile images, the Ice Breaker session is ideal for you.
Of course you can treat yourself to a luxurious and empowering experience, simply because you deserve it. Here's a few more wonderful reasons to book a boudoir photo shoot or photo session with us... 1. Self-Love: Take time out to embrace self-care and celebrate your own unique beauty. 2. Empowerment: (Re)discover your confidence and an inner strength you may have not realised you had all along. 3. Milestone Celebrations: Whether it's turning 30, 40, or 50, any significant milestone, a boudoir session can serve as a beautiful reflection of your personal growth, strength, and resilience. 4. Body Positivity: Embrace and appreciate your body just as it is. 5. Love Letter to Yourself: Create a visual reminder of self-love and acceptance. 6. Pre-Wedding Confidence Boost: Feel stunning and confident before your big day, Before you say "I do," treat yourself to a boudoir session as a reminder of your beauty, confidence, and the amazing journey you're about to embark on as a bride. 7. Anniversary Surprise: Gift your partner an intimate and meaningful surprise. 8. Post-Baby Rejuvenation: Celebrate your journey into motherhood with a revitalising session. 9. Relationship Refresh: Reignite the spark and create beautiful memories together, there's nothing like sending a boudoir photo (or two) to your lover. 10. Empowering Gift: Surprise a loved one with a unique and empowering experience. 11. Bachelorette Party Fun: Enjoy a memorable and empowering activity with your closest friends, hey girl! up for a boudoir photo shoot?. Ask about our Refer a Friend and Share a session vouchers. 12. Body Transformation: All our photo shoots can be transformational, if you're ready to celebrate your personal fitness milestones or body-positive journeys, just type in 'boudoir shoot near me' and let's take that first step :). 13. Boosting Self-Esteem: Enhance your self-esteem and see yourself in a brand new light, with beautiful boudoir nude photography to take home . 14. Embracing Vulnerability: The most courageous things you can do, when you feel the fear, get up and do it anyway. Overcome insecurities and embrace your vulnerability. 15. Channeling Your Inner Goddess: Tap into your fierce, empowered, and feminine energy, I love this sooo much, you are goddess, it's time to roar. 16. Personal Reflection: Capture a moment of 'close your eyes and feel the sunshine' sensation of pure joy. Slow and sensuous movements and poses is a wonderful opportunity for self-reflection and personal growth, go deep and stir your soul. See it shine out through your boudoir photos. 17. Embracing Sensuality: Reconnect with your sensual side and embrace your femininity, from fine art nudes to spicy mama vibes, love yourself in your own way. 18. Overcoming Body Image concerns: Challenge and overcome those negative body image thoughts, let's draw them out & pop them in the trash. 19. Just Because: Treat yourself to a fabulous and empowering experience, simply because it's so much fun. 20. Forever Memories: Create stunning and timeless images that you can cherish for a lifetime. How did we do, did we mention any you resonate with? I'd love to hear your reasons for doing a goddess session. Why not fill out our questionnaire and let's have a chat. Patrick Falaniko Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio | Boudoir Photography London, UK & Beyond
