I must be completely honest and tell you that I never saw myself shooting boudoir. The majority of what I have seen is over edited, overly… sultry and maybe in one word: plastic. Although the person being photographed might’ve loved their photographs–I personally have found very few examples of work that I would be comfortable producing or better yet as a woman posing for myself.
So when a friend asked for help with a boudoir shoot for her friend, I was really hesitant, but met with the girls anyway…because lunch and conversation with a friend and friend-of-a-friend always go a long way, especially mid-week!
Fast forward a few weeks later and the three of us, lingerie, and my gear are at a swank hotel in the Houston Galleria.
The first thing: shooting at a hotel. At first, I worried it would feel…tacky? I travel often for work and didn’t see any place with an ice machine down the hall being glamourous. To my surprise, the vibe was colorful and trendy. There was gorgeous lighting and thoughtful themed decor. Already, my opinion shifted positive. There were neat chairs, textures and a clean layout. All the things you collect, set up and/or rent as a photographer… with {bonus} Fiji water were included with the stay.
The next thing: my client baring all. I know that being in the buff is one thing, but doing it in front of a camera and a friend-of-a-friend is another. We discussed what she wanted and agreed that I definitely wasn’t there to Photoshop her into something unrecognizable- something too plastic. She was at ease and super thrilled to gift her husband something personal and different from the everyday. Creating imagery with this sentiment made all the difference for me. I think women get lost in the everyday of being caretakers, mothers, and peacemakers. This was a wonderful chance to celebrate beauty,allure and to do it honestly. This is what our shoot was about.
Lastly: a friend to guide the process was a mega plus. With her background in dance and gymnastics: posing, instructing, inspiring and suggesting throughout the afternoon came to her naturally. She was so creative and well aware of lines, proper placement and how to best accentuate the curves we were after. It’s like being trained RAD;after years of examinations, you never forget certain things…even at 30. She is also a visual artist, so together we were able to compose truthful, stunning images that I am so pleased with. They turned out beautifully. (See what I did,there?)
Boudoir photography…it can be such a positive experience.
I am so happy to be able to produce something meaningful and with tact.
I am delighted to create graceful, genuine imagery and happy this experience opened a new door to express and create from behind my glass.I look forward to repeating the experience.