“I don’t have any of that. I’m married,” she said as way of explanation. I was stunned. This woman is gorgeous and sexy and thin—a perfect model. If I looked like her, I would have an endless supply of sexy lingerie. 

Because we are close friends, I dug into my own tiny sexy stash and outfitted her with a few basic pieces. Her current lingerie, I informed her, was not going to do the trick. When I search the web for boudoir pictures, I have yet to find a professional picture of a model wearing granny panties. That is not the fantasy.

My next friend to model for me is a sexy redhead with a bottom Kim Kardashian would envy. She came more prepared, though we did hit a few stores to buy something more exotic than a matching bra and panty set. Our shopping foray opened my eyes. Lingerie is expensive! A pass through the basic “secret” stores can cost more than the average grocery bill.

On a mission, we began scouring the popular discount stores and their clearance racks. The good thing about those, besides the excellent and affordable price, is that lingerie of all sizes can be found, not just “eensy”, “tiny”, and “small.” Yes, I might have to mend a small tear or pre-wash a makeup stain, but if it is 80% less, I don’t mind. After all, I need to make a profit!

Online auction houses came next. Important “one-size” accessories are a MUST in boudoir photography. Most women don’t have opera gloves, boas, fans, facinators (fancy hats) or gobs of rhinestone jewelry and pearls at their disposal. Online auctions often premiere manufacturers from China, and before dispersions can be cast, let me point out that when I can buy a lacy mask for $1 or a corset for $8 (including shipping!) I must make the prudent choice. Is my budget $20 or $200? Since I am not charging a cool grand for a boudoir session, then I am going to have to settle for the former of the two budgets.

A word of warning: in China, one size does NOT fit all, or even many. Since the average size of an American woman is 12 and the average size of a woman in China is evidently a 4, shopping these sites can be tricky. They are getting much better about posting size charts, but if you are a man and possibly unaware of what the U.S. sizes are, then employ the services of a woman to help you! Typically, they run 2-3 sizes smaller, so an XL is actually a medium.

Finally, my mother introduced me to thrift stores. Yes, it requires patience and infinite sifting through some pretty sketchy stuff. But great gems can be discovered in the most unlikely places. I once stopped at an independently-operated store and it was “75% off all clothes Friday.” I collected 4 pairs of retro heels, 4 pin-up retro dresses, a corset, 2 wine glasses, a satin robe, a satin duvet cover, and a pretty nightie for less than $20. The bonus? The two young clerks asked what I was going to do with these things and when I told them, I had two more potential clients. I practically skipped out of there, and texted my friends pictures of my find as if I were a hunter that had just bagged the trophy buck. (That analogy is quite relevant in my part of the country.)

The Wardrobe

“What do I bring?” is always the first question I am asked after a booking. Because I now have a collection of accessories, lingerie, and costumes, I give them the “basics.” Naturally, I encourage them to bring anything they would like, the more the better so we have options, but I send a list of the bare minimum they need for a successful boudoir session.

Client Minimum:

• Black and white panties (lacy or sexy versions)
• Matching bra and panty set
• Two sets of heels and 1 set of boots (cowboy or heeled)
• Man’s shirt or sport shirt (for husbands/boyfriends)

Photographer’s Boudoir Wardrobe:

• Corsets in a variety of sizes (Since they lace up, once size can fit 2-3 sizes.)
• Assorted lingerie (These can be simple, but I advise finding unique pieces as your client will probably bring more “vanilla” pieces.)
• Extra thongs and lacy panties in both black and white, and special unique panties with holiday themes, bows, ruffles etc.
• Gloves (e.g. opera, gothic, fancy)
• Fancy fan (These can be found for a $1 at hobby stores and online.)
• Feathered boas
• Fancy heels (I always end up supplementing these to match a wardrobe.)
• Hats (e.g. top hat, floppy sun hat, western hat, fascinators with netting or feathers)
• Jewelry, especially rhinestones and pearls (many strands of different lengths and black and white in color)
• Parasols (fancy and Asian in style)
• Thigh highs (e.g. seamed, fishnet, and decorative in a variety of colors in regular and plus-sizes)
• Garter belts (adjustable and in black and white)
• Robes (decorative or satin for photos, and 1 as a “modesty” robe for clients between set-ups)
• Faux fur or retro vintage fur coat/wrap/stole (These add a classy touch and can hide problem areas for clients. Look for stunning discounts at thrift stores and garage sales!)
• Variety of cloths ranging from colored satins, velvets, and faux furs.

Sound expansive and expensive? I purchased this entire list for the cost of one session investment. These can be purchased over a span of time and be written off your taxes!

https://firerockphotography.wordpress.com/2016/02/22/boudoir-finding-your-inspiration/

What made you go into boudoir photography?

A few weeks ago, one of my clients asked me that question which startled, and ultimately, prompted me to discover my motivation. Now my friends will tell you that I tend to scoff at such blatant artisan rhetoric. (I have too much of my mother in me!) Generally, if something needs to be done, I just do it. Toss in a few words of praise, and you’ve got yourself a winner. Task accomplished.

But this was different. I know, because I find myself constantly looking at new ways to portray a model. I rifle through countless thrift stores and garage sales always looking for vintage props or unique costumes. Pinterest pinning has consumed my data plan. I plot and design, and research and dream pin-up and boudoir sessions. On actual shoots, I actually look forward to the sessions and at the end of the day, exhausted and staring at a computer screen of images waiting to be processed, I am still smiling.

So what inspired me to take a leap and start such a risqué business in an otherwise conservative locale?

My grandmother.

My answer startled myself as much as my client, but for different reasons. I hadn’t realized the part my grandmother played in my motivation until then. My college roommate had been the first one to suggest the possibility and then had gone on to support my work. But the passion for the boudoir and vintage came from some place more deeply embedded in my memories and, yes, my heart.

My grandmother was unlike any other grandmothers I knew. While my friends’ grandmothers baked cookies, my grandmother slathered cake frosting on a cow patty and brought it to parties. Other grandmothers knitted or crocheted delicate blankets or toilet cozies. My grandmother sewed elaborate, bedazzled dance costumes. Other grandmothers either worked in the garden or ranch; my grandmother owned and ran a bar and dance club. She laughed and flirted, and schemed her share of mischief and I adored her.

She also collected mermaids and 50s comedic porn. Her house was a veritable shrine to the mythical siren and her antiques and collectibles represented an era of glamour and war, wealth and hardship. She had lived through the depression and canned every summer, but she owned 8 silver or crystal punchbowls. She had stunning antiques, closets full of bejeweled heels and colorful clothes, and more costume jewelry than the local store. This collection provided hours of entertainment for an only child who loved pretty things.

One of those antiques was a red velvet chaise lounge that came out of a local brothel. She used to call it her “hussy couch.” I was too young to know what a hussy or brothel was, but it sounded like a wondrous place if it had furniture such as this! I kept that impractical piece after she died, before I knew my passion for photography, before I even owned a stick of furniture of my own. I now use it for my sessions and often think how proud she would be that it once again has a purpose.

The infamous "hussy couch" is now one of my main boudoir props. She once shared with me her scrapbooks where she had collected pictures of Hollywood stars she admired and pinup art she liked. It was filled with 40 years of her passion for the glamorous life she had coveted, and in many ways replicated to the best of her ability. As her fingers lovingly turned the brittle pages, I was struck, even at a young age, at the fascination she held for what she considered elusive and exotic people.

Today, I think back upon my childhood days spent with her and realize that I am a lot like her. Only, while I love replicating the era, I also enjoy discovering the beauty in all women and making them the stars in my personal scrapbook. These clients are extraordinary in their own way, and they put their faith and trust into my hands to peel back the taint of the everyday life to reveal in an artistic and graphic way, how very special they are.

And always present is my grandmother, watching and criticizing, approving, and loving the business of the art form she so very dearly cherished.

Get-to-Know-Her:

Most photographers have a very strict time limit. After all, time is money. However, in boudoir, rushing a client through a session can result in an uncomfortable, and worse, unproductive session. So in order provide a positive experience, harvest some beautiful work, and garner that most coveted word-of-mouth business, I advise setting aside 2-3 hours so that neither of you feel rushed. It will be rewarding for both of you as you stretch your creativity and create an enjoyable and relaxing environment.

The first step I generally take is to go through the wardrobe the client brought with her. The wardrobe will tell you quite a bit about your client’s style and even bravery level. Are there a lot of soft pastels and modest sets? Does she have wicked heels, boots, and a plethora of black lingerie? Whatever she has, this will be her comfort zone.

As I go through and “shop” through her belongings, I start to put together outfits and mentally decide which setups these outfits best belong. I also go through my own stash and supplement with accessories such as fans, boas, gloves, jewelry, masks and other props. Once we have decided on 4-5 outfits, I send the client to change into the first outfit which, based on our casual chat, feels the most comfortable for her.

The Set-Up:

I shoot all boudoir sessions in my home, mostly because I have the privilege of living in the country and having several rooms for optimal light and staging. It allows maximum  privacy, and houses bins of lingerie, accessories, and shoes that are not easily transported. I also have special pieces of furniture dedicated for boudoir, both indoor and out.

The first set-up usually portrays a nervous client. And the most surprising aspect I have learned? Regardless of age or body shape, every woman has insecurities. I have been told about “bad sides”, body issues, and strictly forbidden position instructions from a variety of women. My goal is to start with the basic poses, generally the ones meant to hide whichever insecurity has been highlighted to me. The bottom line is that all women have a beautiful side and it is your job as a photographer to do the best to emphasize it. Some positions will work, and some won’t. If one appears to be an epic fail, it is your fault, not hers. Take the picture and move on, knowing you won’t use it later.

The Progression:

As you work with the client and change up the wardrobe, make sure you are not just taking pictures. Part of your job is to establish a rapport with your client. Some of the poses can feel pretty silly to the client, and it is okay to laugh about it with her. Making an “O” face on command while hugging a stucco wall can seem ridiculous! Often, it leads to the client exaggerating the pose and that can produce some stunning results.

Laughter is an amazingly effective way to push your client out of her comfort zone. By costume change 3 or 4, I hand her a lingerie combination that is opposite of her preference. This is often met with murmurs of protest and some doubtful expressions, but honestly, many of these have become my absolute favorites in post-processing. Hence the appeal of Halloween and cosplay—people want to step out of their daily role and personality once in a while. After all, the women haven’t changed from their childhood role of playing dress-up—just the costumes have.

Finding The Line:

Every woman has her line. It’s invisible and not articulated, so watch her reactions and know where to stop so as not to turn a positive experience into something awkward. This is about what she wants, and if you want unlimited creativity, hire a model. The client’s needs always comes first.

See my latest blog here:

https://firerockphotography.wordpress.com/2016/03/07/boudoir-the-shy-…bold-and-naughty/

Potential clients have many questions and concerns about boudoir photography. As a photographer, I believe my job is not just to provide them ample information; it is HOW I present it. As I have mentioned in previous posts, boudoir photography, when done properly, is a classy art form, but the line can be blurred in perception. Women are cautious about what I advertise and what I might actually do, and although I am woman, too, it does not automatically recuse me from nefarious intentions. Being respectful of that lens (pun intended!) is necessary and I take no insult. I am actually relieved that clients are doing their due diligence.

I usually provide a brief summary of my professional background and references, and even direct them to the local chamber of commerce link. It is tempting to make a joke about being seedy, but don’t do it! Until you know your client, you shouldn’t risk turning them off with what they may consider offensive humor.

I also encourage potential clients to bring a spouse or friend with them to the session. This goes a long way to alleviate their concerns as well as have a second “eye” when we are staging the poses. One of my favorite sessions was when a client brought her best friend.  She was helpful and funny which caused the client to relax and produce beautiful results. As an added benefit, I gained another client and some wonderful word-of-mouth advertising.

Assigning Homework

I remind myself constantly not to make assumptions, yet I am still pleasantly surprised at how many clients have prepped themselves for the session. Some clients are natural models and I barely get the instructions out of my mouth and they instinctively respond to with a picturesque pose. Others need more coaching, and this is where providing resources of poses, examples, clothing, and style are important. I direct them to my boards on Pinterest (linked on my website) and I also e-mail a document of some ideas. I advise them to look over these resources and select a few ideas they would like to try or a style they wish to emulate. This can be a good starting point since they have something visual to reference at the session. From there, we go into the natural flow and experiment, but having some example to fall back on is always a great way to incorporate their preferences with your own photographic style.

After that first “costume” set-up, I often have a feel for their style and we choose outfits that both complement and contrast their personality. Putting a simple country girl in a fancy outfit or a tough girl into something simple and soft make for some very dynamic pictures! After the initial set-up, most clients really enjoy being eased out of their comfort zone and into something that taps into a different look or self-perception.

Finalizing the Deal

Always let the client know what to expect. You should provide her with a list of items of both what she should bring and what she might consider.

Here is a brief check-list of information you may want to include:

• Approximate session duration
• What the fee/package includes
• Contracts and release forms
• Platform/media delivery to client
• Retouching, filters, any additional services and fees
• Hair and make-up options
• Session outline/setups/props etc.

I have found the more information the client has, the more smoothly the session flows. Ultimately, your presentation and personality will finalize the deal. If you are not outgoing, find a way to connect to your clients, because you are not just selling them pictures, you are selling them an experience. (More on that later!)

Prepare Your Location

Set up an area or areas in your studio or home that are tested and true spots for the boudoir. Considerations include natural lighting (or places to set up lighting) headboards, windows, bare walls and large area rugs. Check for distractions such as lamps, pictures, knickknacks or TVs.

Outdoor places are also good. Incorporating a swing, chair, tree, or garden can add great value but check for privacy! If you have neighbors or live on a busy street, be wary of inadvertent displays.

Build up your prop collection. Thrift stores and Asian vendors on Ebay are amazing resources. I found burlesque costumes, feather boas, opera gloves, Japanese umbrellas, rhinestone jewelry, fascinators (fancy hats), robes, masks, and nightwear for a few dollars apiece. I was fortunate enough to have a red velvet antique chaise lounge I inherited from my grandmother (she would seriously LOVE that I was using it this way!) but I also have found a few Victorian chairs and stools for extremely cheap in junk stores. You may have to be willing to do some sanding or slight mending, but the payoff is worth it.

When I first decided to try boudoir photography, I called in favors from a variety of girlfriends and we experimented with props, furniture, poses, and areas of the house that looked promising. Once I had some success, I then advertised for a few willing models for a free session and pictures in exchange for some more practice and photos for my portfolio. Once I saw consistency of quality in my shots, I started advertising.

Set Your Priority (and we are not talking modes)

In shooting boudoir, the absolute first priority is that the client is comfortable and enjoys the process. That is also the most difficult task to achieve. Women have been raised on the horror stories of unscrupulous photographers who have taken advantage of young women and exploited them. Couple that with intrinsic body issues every woman seems to harbor, and you have a very reluctant and nervous client!

Soothe, Compliment, and Joke

I find that humor goes a long way. I tend to be an extrovert, so chatting casually with a client and making light jokes with her is natural to me, but not every photographer has that type of personality. No one expects a Grammy-award winning comedian, but introduce casual chatter or questions. When it doubt, get her talking about herself or her hobbies.

Professionalism must be maintained at all times. Not just for her sake, but yours as well. I always warn a client that I am going to straighten or adjust something before I touch her. I ask for her input on some things which generally makes her feel like she has some control of her situation. You do not want to have any of your motions or words misconstrued as anything else but professional.

Soothe, soothe, shoot. Yes, it’s very much like it sounds—calming an anxious baby or animal, but there is a reason why that works so well. I also work to not show negative or alarmed expressions when I “chimp” or check the image. The client immediately jumps to the conclusion, correct or not, that she is causing a negative reaction when it is most likely something I have done, like forget to adjust the ISO or exposure. I don’t always compliment because it becomes meaningless, but after a mini session of the same pose/location, I murmur “beautiful” or “you look ravishing.” If you are doing your job, this is not pandering—it’s the simple truth!

As for chimping, show your client an exceptional image of them once in a while throughout the photo shoot. You don’t want to show her everything, but a few great ones here and there go a long way to boost that confidence that makes the picture even better.

There are a hundred details or more in boudoir shooting and I will be posting a Part II and possibly a PART III in the coming weeks. I hope you found this helpful and I welcome comments or questions!

This entire process has been incredible; I cannot articulate the feelings I get when working both behind the camera and later in post processing. I feel like I have finally found that creative media that feeds the right-brained child I stifle in my day job. Quite simply, I love photography. I realize I came into the field a little late in life, but it has been life-changing for me.

For those of you whom I have already met and photographed, thank you, thank you for helping me realize my passion and refine the craft. For those of you whom I am yet to meet (but hopefully, you will take the plunge one day!) I look forward to revealing the beautiful person you are inside and out.