Finding your style in a boudoir shoot

When I first started photographing boudoir, I remember finding tons of courses, videos, etc., from established boudoir photographers (often at a substantial fee) with titles like “My Top Ten Best-Selling Boudoir Poses.” And after following lots of boudoir photographers on social media, it was unsurprising that I often saw a lot of the same photos and poses being used with different clients.

There’s nothing wrong with re-using great poses, especially if they’re easy for clients to do and they look great. I remember for some time I loved using this chaise lounge because I could great great photos with virtually any client:

I don’t think there’s anything wrong with re-using props, outfits, furniture, or photo styles across multiple clients; very often, new clients see photos that my past clients have done and want something similar. What I want to guard against is getting too complacent and simply re-using the same poses and props every session.

There’s a lot of that in commercial boudoir, and that why I’ve been working hard not only to distinguish my style, but to also create a photography experience that is a creative collaboration with my clients - not simply running them through a series of predictable poses. I want every shoot to be a celebration of my clients’ unique personalities. Just this month I’ll be working with clients doing reflective body tape, body paint, fitness props, colored smoke, and much more. A photoshoot shouldn’t just be putting you through the motions - it should be as unique as you are.