Empowering Photography for Unapologetic Women,
Sensual Boudoir Photography, Portraits, Glamour & Art Nude Photography. London, UK & beyond.
Sensual Boudoir Photography, Portraits, Glamour & Art Nude Photography. London, UK & beyond.
Blog Post
How joyous it is to be thoroughly you.
Patrick Falaniko • 23 August 2020
I'm happy if my job as a boudoir photographer helps women undo years of being made to feel ashamed of their bodies or sexuality. That's where I think boudoir and burlesque have a lot in common.
Pictured: boudoir inspired sketch for @bollyditz.dolly
Burlesque and the Boudoir
. People call different images to mind when they hear the word ‘burlesque’. Some think of Natalie Wood as famous stripper Gypsy Rose Lee. Others think of big feather boas and Mae West one-liners. For others still, the word may only ring recent bells, if they’ve taken it upon themselves to watch the 2010 film of the same name, starring Christina Aguilera and Cher.
Whatever springs to mind for you, amongst the many varied women who may treat themselves to a boudoir photography shoot, you will almost certainly find burlesque performers dotted amongst them.
In many ways, this is unsurprising: you’d expect burlesque performers to be comfortable enough with their bodies for such a shoot, and they may well need portfolio material for the modelling side of their careers. But there is another, purely empowering side to both burlesque and boudoir.
For those of you unfamiliar, here’s a potted history:
The word “burlesque” initially meant ‘to mock, satirise or make fun,’ and is recognised as a theatrical trope since ancient Greek times. It was a long road to get from there to the Dita von Teeses of today! While the satirical burlesque of ancient Greece and Europe was still bawdy, the striptease element of burlesque came more by way of America.
Burlesque arrived in USA in the mid-1800s via the Victorian music halls of England and an enterprising lady by the name of Lydia Thompson and her British Blondes.
USA had been familiar with “leg shows” since the Civil War, but this was something different. From there, producers such as Florenz Ziegfeld (whose Follies you will doubtless have heard of, if only from Twenties/Thirties themed birthday parties) and the Minsky Brothers capitalised upon and adapted this controversial art form.
As you can imagine, the backlash was huge, and eventually drove burlesque out of public spaces and favour. It wasn’t until the 1990s that what is thought of as “neo-burlesque” arrived on the scene. Neo-burlesque took the vintage ‘cheesecake’ striptease, and gave it the punk power of the Nineties’ Riot Grrrls and much more besides. Whereas early burlesque performed femininity, Neoburlesque interpreted and interrogated it. Loads of subsets and different styles emerged, borrowing from all realms of pop culture.
Nowadays, burlesque dovetails into many ‘scenes’, from the BDSM and kink community, to cosplay, to “burlesqercise” classes at your local gym.
The modern-day understanding of burlesque is also infused with inspiration from ‘la belle epoque’ and the Moulin Rouge (the famous Parisian nightclub and the film!).
It’s impossible to give only one answer as to why burlesque made quite the comeback that it did, and why many women are now just as likely to go see a burlesque show as their male counterparts. A lot of performers are attracted to tasting burlesque for themselves because of the old movies they loved watching growing up, or the vintage ‘pin-up girl’ fashions, or retro music. Others love the expressive musicality and personality, something good burlesque choreography does very well.
One reason which unites many new performers, is that they want to undo years of being made to feel ashamed of their bodies or sexuality. It’s this point where there is huge cross-over between burlesque and boudoir photography. In a good boudoir session, women are given permission to be who they always were: sensual, wild, untamed, creative, expressive, and whole. The wide and diverse range of burlesque you can see in your local theatre allows women to be all of these things too. Modern burlesque also prides itself on being a welcome space for every size and shape of woman – just like the Goddess Studio!
One big misconception is that boudoir and burlesque have to be sexual. This is not the case, although both are usually sensual in one way or another by nature of the art forms. Both boudoir and burlesque also have a performance element, though no one audience is specified. Boudoir and art nude photography and burlesque performances can often be for the ‘performer’ themselves, an audience of one.
Importantly, burlesque and boudoir photography at the Goddess Studio both have this one other factor in common: JOY. Celebrating yourself, celebrating your body through movement (no matter what it looks like), celebrating the strong and divine in you, and hopefully reminding you of how joyous it is to be thoroughly you.
You don’t have to be a pin-up starlet or burlesque babe to be welcomed at the Goddess Studio boudoir! One of my great privileges is working with clients who are brand new to boudoir, who are ready (even if they’re still nervous!) to make the commitment to loving themselves through the experience of the shoot. Of course, aspiring Teases are more than welcome too – I’ll look forward to chatting hair and makeup with you as you get ready for a shoot you’re guaranteed to love!
Increasingly I get bookings from professionals, I am also experienced in glamour photography, including artistic and tasteful work with nude or semi-nude models. And you're very welcome, our studio is open to all women.
The Goddess Studio is a judgement free zone and safe place for women to express themselves and we happen to create beautiful boudoir photography, portraits & body love art nudes too. If you'd like to book a shoot, it's only a £120 reservation. or click on the email icon below.
Clients are invited to submit their favourite Goddess Shoot images and a guest blog to our Goddess Life Blog/Magazine absolutely free.
If you like what we're doing here and would like to support us why not buy me a coffee. Thank you.
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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 newfound sense of confidence and freedom. If you’re a woman embracing this second era of your life, a boudoir shoot might be the perfect way to celebrate your journey. Embracing Your Second Act By the time you hit your 40s, you know who you are and what you want. Whether you’re experiencing a sexual re-awakening or simply feeling more comfortable in your own skin, boudoir photography offers a unique way to express yourself without apology. Our home-based London boudoir studio provides a personal, intimate setting where you can explore your sensuality with confidence. As your photographer, I’ll work with you to create images that reflect your personal journey, whether you’re interested in a classic boudoir photoshoot or something more artistic like nude glamour photography. Celebrate Your Body, Your Rules At our studio, we believe that every age, body type, and background deserves to be celebrated. Whether you’re posing in lingerie or exploring nude photography, we’ll create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel free to be yourself. Our very first clients were all women over 40, in fact we had a few in their 50s and 60s. Interestingly they have also inspired a whole new generation and our under 30 client base has grown as well, so yes you can celebrate yourself and inspire, we love that. Women over 40 have featured extensively in our Body Love group days and charity calendar shoots too. From lingerie to erotical pictures (erotical, an olde English term from the 1600s pertaining to love :)) you are truly stepping into your power, Yay! Our clients, ranging from 20 to 70, all share a common desire to embrace their bodies and express themselves through photography that feels joyful and liberating. So whether you’re stepping into a boudoir or an erotic studio for the first time or you’re continuing a journey of self-discovery, we’re here to capture the beautiful, confident, and unapologetic woman that you are today. This is your time—make it unforgettable with a boudoir and nude photography session that celebrates the real you.
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
Every so often when the need arises (or when an ambassador retires) I'll put out a discounted ambassador/model call. In this particular case the super enthusiastic whirlwind that is Lucy answered the call, and she's never looked back. A few boudoir photo session or three and quite a few artistic nude images later. Like many of our Ambassadors that came in for a taster session, she's stuck around and has featured many times. This is her story in her own words. There will never be enough words of praise, admiration or gratitude for Patrick and his studio! I have been an ambassador for Goddess Studio for 2 1/2 years and it has been one of the best decisions I have ever made and one that I never questioned from the moment the opportunity arose.
If you don't know what to wear for your session, look at this list for ideas.
Some poses, especially the spicy nudes can be quite challenging for the fuller busted woman, especially for keeping everything in place and not flying everywhere :). I've worked with a few hundred larger busted women over the last few years and for perkiness we've developed a few tips and tricks and poses to help things along. At the end of the day it's just not possible to recreate the bounce of plastic. And obviously we encourage everyone to embrace what they are blessed with. When it comes to lift and separation, great fitting bras and lingerie really helps with that. I've bought a few pieces from Curvy Kate including their Dear Scantilly Range. So far, a great service, pieces are well made and a perfect fit for women up to 38 K, so I'm totally happy to recommend. More and more I see sheer, natural or structured bra's that can add a variety of looks, and excitement, to your photo sessions. Their story. Curvy Kate's journey began with a launch through three small lingerie stores in and around London, specializing in plus-size fittings. Focused on providing the best D plus brands, the team faced challenges in offering the desired choice and fit to their customers. In 2006, a passionate team of bra enthusiasts at Curvy Kate decided to take matters into their own hands. They embarked on designing and producing a range tailored specifically for fuller-cupped individuals who sought something fun, fashionable, and, above all, beautifully fitted. Devoted to making women feel fabulous about their curves, Curvy Kate lives the "boob life," creating D to K cup lingerie and swimwear that curvy girls love. Their mission is simple: to make you happy by prioritizing fit, lift, shape, and comfort. The team works tirelessly to ensure your gorgeous figure gets everything it needs. Bras from Curvy Kate are rigorously tested by girls of all shapes, sizes, and curves. Only the snuggest, perkiest, and most comfortable designs earn a spot in their collection. Surprisingly, the average bra size they sell is a 34G, catering to a diverse range of sizes from small back sizes to plus sizes, including 40 to 44 backs and a variety of D to K cups. Their dedication to finding the perfect fit for all curvy bodies is showcased through the annual Star in a Bra competition, transforming one curvaceous lady into the poster girl for curvy girls everywhere. If you cherish your boobs as much as Curvy Kate does, they're here to help you discover the ideal fit! (Featured Elementary Plunge Bodysuit, Dear scantilly, Indulgence Stretch Lace Bodysuit in Ivory Cream worn by Jamie AKA @biggerbustbabe if you have any bigger bust questions, why not give her a follow) Interestingly some people think I specialise in photographing larger busted, curvier and plus-size women, but the truth is the average bust size in the UK is Double D and a size 16 so that 50% of the population DD and above. That's about the same for my client base. I just make sure they are showcased as much as everyone else :). Lingerie Spotlight: Celebrating UK lingerie designers and makers. If you have a lingerie brand or similar that you'd like to be featured, please get in touch, let's start a conversation :). Patrick Falaniko Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio
Thinking about modeling as a career? It's a hella lot more challenging than it seems, but I can guide you :). Start by assessing if you have the potential for modeling, you'll need a thick skin, determination, a professional attitude. Then, approach agencies with evidence of your credentials - here's where I come in to help!
Patrick Falaniko | Owner & Lead Photographer | Goddess Studio
Boudoir Photography London UK & Beyond
For all women 18+, body confidence photography, art & sensual nude photography, erotic nude photography, portrait & personal branding photography.
We cover Walthamstow, London and the surrounding regions of the United Kingdom.
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A Goddess Life: Catch up with the latest news and behind the scenes in our blog
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 newfound sense of confidence and freedom. If you’re a woman embracing this second era of your life, a boudoir shoot might be the perfect way to celebrate your journey. Embracing Your Second Act By the time you hit your 40s, you know who you are and what you want. Whether you’re experiencing a sexual re-awakening or simply feeling more comfortable in your own skin, boudoir photography offers a unique way to express yourself without apology. Our home-based London boudoir studio provides a personal, intimate setting where you can explore your sensuality with confidence. As your photographer, I’ll work with you to create images that reflect your personal journey, whether you’re interested in a classic boudoir photoshoot or something more artistic like nude glamour photography. Celebrate Your Body, Your Rules At our studio, we believe that every age, body type, and background deserves to be celebrated. Whether you’re posing in lingerie or exploring nude photography, we’ll create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel free to be yourself. Our very first clients were all women over 40, in fact we had a few in their 50s and 60s. Interestingly they have also inspired a whole new generation and our under 30 client base has grown as well, so yes you can celebrate yourself and inspire, we love that. Women over 40 have featured extensively in our Body Love group days and charity calendar shoots too. From lingerie to erotical pictures (erotical, an olde English term from the 1600s pertaining to love :)) you are truly stepping into your power, Yay! Our clients, ranging from 20 to 70, all share a common desire to embrace their bodies and express themselves through photography that feels joyful and liberating. So whether you’re stepping into a boudoir or an erotic studio for the first time or you’re continuing a journey of self-discovery, we’re here to capture the beautiful, confident, and unapologetic woman that you are today. This is your time—make it unforgettable with a boudoir and nude photography session that celebrates the real you.
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 :)
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