boudoir does NOT mean naked

I recently got a predictable reaction when I was answering the question "What kind of photography do you do?" As soon as the word "boudoir" came out of my mouth, the whole tone of the conversation changed. The lady's face wrinkled in disgust and her judgemental little lips snipped the words, "Oh. So you see naked people then." Ummmm no. In fact, I have NEVER photographed a naked person. Not that I would mind, if that's how you feel sexy. (Even if I did specialize in nudity, it's nothing to be ashamed of... we're all built with the same hardware, and it's a natural beauty).

But back to the prissy retort: Boudoir summons instant images of garters, expozed booty cheeks and barely-covered nipple.

No, Ladies. Just, No. Beauty can be just as irresistable (even more so, sometimes) when you're clothed comfrotably. Seriously! Look at this lovely lady -- a vision of sexiness, conifdence, and she's wearing a long-sleeved sweater!

Don't be afraid to come to me asking if we can do a shoot in a full-length nightgown or sweater. Jerseys! Even jeans and a t-shirt. Whatever you like. Whoever you are. These portraits are a chance fo you to re-discover yourself. Don't dress like everyone else if you don't think that's who you are.

Whoever looks at you in your life, be it your girlfriend, husband, whomever, probably doesn't see you naked 24/7. They look at you in your everyday glory... sports bra and all.

I'm not saying you shouldn't put effort into looking your best on the day you come for a shoot. By all means, you won't like your portraits if you don't at least try to look nice. But don't feel pressured to adhere to the stereotype of Boudoir Photography. There's such a stigma about the industry that I aim to put a dent in. There's no rule that says you have to be anywhere NEAR naked. There's no law that says if you show less than a bikini would, you're not sexy. Don't be scared away from an empowering, beautiful experience just because you're not a fan of an open-butt teddy.

And on that note, I'll climb off my soapbox. Except not really. Because I want to help you change your mind about (or celebrate!) your self-image. Message me today! I'm serious!