Exploring the Art of Sultry Boudoir Photography
For many women, the idea of doing a boudoir photo session is inspired by their significant other. Boudoir albums are often given as a gift for special occasions; ranging from weddings to anniversaries and birthdays to various holidays. Without sounding too biased, they truly are the best gift and one that keeps on giving (all puns intended). Especially for that partner who is impossible to buy for. But as thoughtful as this gift is... why is it always an afterthought to give to yourself?
A recent photo session with loyal Vixen client Ms. L reminded me yet again how transformational these sessions can be. After her very first shoot with Tamara, she recognized that the experience transcended the gift for her husband and spoke to her own needs. As a nurturer in her family structure, her well-being required more than just relaxing in a hot bath with a glass of wine. It also involved reconnecting with her inner confidence and taking the time to bask in her beauty. Which is why the next shoot would be solely for her. And after that second shoot with us, she understood on a soul level that self-care was not just a buzzword spread around social media, but an essential part of her life.
Ms. L returned to The Vixen Society for a third time to explore this art form all over again, but this time with a distinct purpose. It was time to take the celebration of sensuality and turn it up a notch. As a boudoir photographer who LOVES blurring the lines between tasteful intimacy and the allure of erotica, I was eager to push the boundaries of her previous sessions. During hair and makeup, we discussed that she wanted her images to feel enticing and sultry, while maintaining the elegance and tastefulness we always aim to deliver. Together, we commenced on a creative journey to bring those devious desires to life.
Starting with wardrobe, we selected two lingerie pieces that were both sophisticated and seductive. Our first outfit was a simple black lace that allowed the focus to be completely on Ms. L. The second outfit is one of my favorite pieces in the entire client closet; the handcrafted Italian couture set from Cristina Aielli. The design alone allowed a symbiosis with her skin that brought the garment to life without taking away from her essence.
As always, there was an importance of prioritizing a safe and professional environment for Ms. L once we started shooting. Although you would never be able to tell by looking at the finished photos, we were talking like best friends and giggling every chance that we got. Especially when my ecstatic screams of getting "the perfect shot" would ring through the studio. During the process, she completely let go and let me experiment with lighting and posing as I pleased. This allowed me the opportunity to play with highlights and shadows to add depth and intrigue. It also allowed me to go beyond the soft and romantic aesthetic and emphasize more provocative gestures. Doing this is a balancing act that I do not always get to dive into during a typical session, so it was exhilarating to explore. It was essential to create undeniably sensual images, but leave it all to imagination. With my client’s trust and careful composition, we were able to collaboratively achieve a harmonious fusion of elegant boudoir that flirts with the allure of erotica.
Ms. L reminded me that exploring the depths of our desires is just as crucial to self-care, because it allows us to listen to our body and mind in a multitude of different ways. As a boudoir photographer at The Vixen Society, I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of my client's journey toward self-discovery and empowerment through the art of sultry boudoir. And I don’t care what inspires you to come create with us… as long as your heart is open to the idea that you are a piece of fine art.
Xo Emma Jaye
