What Are Wedding Boudoir Photos? Should You Consider One?

Just when you think you’re up to date on the newest wedding trends, you hear about a new accessory or activity that’s taking the world by storm.

While keeping up with the latest trends can be a bit overwhelming, even the most popular wedding traditions had to start somewhere.

Whether you consider yourself a more classic bride or find yourself on the cutting edge of cultural norms, it can be fun to research ideas to spice up your wedding day.

One of the most popular wedding activities of today is the inclusion of boudoir photos.

You may be asking yourself, “what are wedding boudoir photos?” and we can’t blame you for being a little curious.

Let’s take a closer look at this steamy trend that more and more couples are including in their wedding prep must-haves.

What Are Wedding Boudoir Photos

What Is the Point of Boudoir Photos?

The fun of boudoir photos is that they can mean whatever you want them to! Whether you use them to celebrate your sensuality or offer a gift to your soulmate, these photos can be an absolute blast to shoot.

You can take this as an opportunity to get yourself into a fun, flirty mood before your wedding day. You can also use wedding boudoir photos as a sexy wedding gift for your spouse-to-be.

There can be a lot of tension leading up to the big day, so boudoir photos can be a cute way to keep things light and fun and help the two of you to stay focused on your relationship.

When you’re both overworked and stressed out, you’ll be happy that you took the time to prioritize your romance and put love first.

What Does Boudoir Photography Mean?

Broken down to its most basic definition, boudoir photography describes sensual photo sessions with an individual or couple. In a typical boudoir shoot, you can expect one or both partners to be wearing bedroom attire or lingerie of some sort.

Boudoir photographs are usually kept private between participating individuals, the photos used for their own enjoyment. There are professional models, however, that specialize in boudoir and lingerie photography that share these images as a marketing tool or addition to their portfolio.

Boudoir photography can literally refer to romantic photos taken in a bedroom (typically in the couple’s home) or it can refer to a similarly intimate style of photography shot in a private studio.

Wherever you choose to hold your shoot, the atmosphere of passion and romance should be a consistent theme.

Who Takes Boudoir Photos?

Since they do not require specialized equipment or certification, boudoir photo shoots can be led by any photographer.

Some professionals are more experienced in shooting in this particular style, so if you’re interested in having boudoir photos taken, you may want to specifically seek out a photographer who has done boudoir shoots in the past.

Although many types of photographers may have experience in this style, specialized boudoir photographers only shoot within this particular field. While these professionals offer a higher level of expertise, it’s worth noting that this is often associated with a higher price point as well.

Of course, there are couples that may not feel comfortable taking such intimate photos with a stranger at all.

Not to worry though, DIY boudoir photos are another great option; just make sure you’ve got a tripod and a reasonable quality camera with a timer, and you’re good to go!

When Should You Schedule a Boudoir Photo Shoot?

Boudoir photo shoots can really be taken at any time in your relationship, whether you’re dating, engaged, newlywed, or longtime lovers.

If you’re scheduling a boudoir photo shoot in conjunction with your wedding, you’ll want to make sure you can get your photos back before the big day.

For a standard photo shoot, it can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months for your album to be delivered, so it is best to communicate your timeline to the photographer beforehand.

This way, you can make sure that you’ll have your photos back in time to prepare them for your spouse.

If your wedding photographer offers boudoir photo shoots, you’ll want to begin discussing this at your initial consultation. This will allow you to get the ball rolling and determine how to best coordinate this shoot with your overall wedding timeline.

How Long Does a Session Typically Take?

On average, a boudoir session can take 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the individual or couple involved. It’s also important to take outfit changes into account, as you may need additional time in the dressing room or touch-ups to your hair in between outfits.

You should never feel rushed during a boudoir shoot, especially considering that the overall theme should be sultry and confident.

This is another element that you’ll want to communicate with your photographer beforehand just to make sure that you’re given all the time you need to capture your desired shots.

Depending on your shoe selection, as well as the amount of time spent standing up or holding certain positions, you may want to take a break before continuing the shoot. Considering these elements early on will allow you to get through the shoot as efficiently as possible.

Where Should You Take Your Photos?

Since boudoir shoots are a highly intimate affair, we suggest you find a setting that you’re comfortable in to host the shoot.

This can be at a private photography studio or in the comfort of your own home, wherever you feel you can let loose and enjoy the amazing experience.

Private studios can provide a controlled environment and will likely have more space than your home, allowing for props and backdrops that you would not have been able to use otherwise.

In this clutter-free space, you can let go of any at-home responsibilities and fully focus on yourself.

Shooting boudoir photos at home, however, can provide an added sense of safety and comfort that will create an effortless experience. It’s easier to let your guard down and have a little fun when you’re already in your favorite place.

What Should You Wear?

Bedroom attire can vary widely from person to person, so it’s generally accepted that clothing for boudoir shoots should be whatever brings out the flirty, fun vibes for you.

Whether that’s satin PJs or lacey lingerie, we’d encourage wearing something that makes you feel super sexy without making you uncomfortable.

For bridal boudoir photos, you may want to wear something white or choose lingerie that falls in line with the color scheme for your wedding. You might even choose an outfit in your spouse-to-be’s favorite color as an added treat for them.

As long as you look and feel your best during the shoot, it will be evident when you get a look at the finished product.

Sure, boudoir shoots are meant to be sultry and romantic, but there’s nothing wrong with having a little fun while you’re at it.

Should You Bring Anyone With You?

Alright, this one is entirely up to you! Boudoir shoots tend to be more casual and open than formal portraits, so you’re welcome to bring as many or as few guests as you’d like to accompany you during the session.

If you’re a little more shy and reserved, boudoir photographers are happy to provide as much privacy as possible, whether that means coming to your home or closing out their studio just for you.

Some more outgoing brides might bring their bridesmaids in to cheer them on during the photo session.

While most boudoir shoots have one subject of focus, some couples enjoy taking part in these sensual photo sessions together, creating lasting memories to look back on. Feel free to invite your spouse or even a close friend to hype you up during this flirty photo shoot!

How Do You Pose for Boudoir Photos?

The good thing about boudoir photo shoots is that, although the wedding variety is becoming more popular, the style itself has been around for decades. This means that you can find plenty of inspiration for posing on Pinterest, Google Images, and various blogs.

If you’re unsure of how to pose during your shoot, you’ll definitely want to take the time to do some research and figure out what works for you.

This will give you a better idea of the overall theme you’re going for, as well as which poses will be the most comfortable and flattering for your body type.

Since a bridal boudoir shoot is typically kept between spouses, you don’t have the pressure of trying to look or feel perfect during the photography session.

So let all of your awkwardness out, make as many silly faces as you want, and enjoy making this a fun gift to reflect on with your soulmate!

What Should I Do Before a Boudoir Shoot?

Prepping for a boudoir shoot is surprisingly similar to getting ready for any other type of photo session. You want to look your best, of course, so it’s best to prepare just as you would for any formal event, such as a wedding, party, or a typical date night.

If you want to go for a natural, at-home look, you can take care of hair and makeup on your own; just be sure to give yourself enough time to get all dolled up beforehand.

For a more polished finish, you’ll want to schedule a professional hair and make-up appointment before the shoot.

In order to add a dramatic effect to the photos, you may want to invest in body glitter or try an exaggerated look to accentuate your features.

In addition to this, you’ll want to make sure that you have your outfit(s) and accessories picked out beforehand so that you can smoothly transition from one shot to the next.

What Should You Not Do at a Boudoir Photo Shoot?

Don’t be self-conscious! As awkward as you may feel in the first few minutes, you’ll be surprised at how fast your anxiety melts away when you get moving.

Don’t overthink it! The best photos will be the ones in which you feel the most natural. Instead of trying to figure out how to be sexy, just take a deep breath and focus on having fun.

Don’t doubt yourself! While you may not be modeling lingerie professionally, you have every right to feel as confident and gorgeous as any woman on the cover of a magazine.

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