Is Boudoir Photography Safe?
Boudoir photography is growing in popularity at an exponential rate, with more and more women hiring photographers to take shots of them in intimate settings. As a photography genre, there generally is no physical or mental harm associated with it. However, because the boudoir photography style is intimate, sensual, and revealing in nature, it can make a woman feel vulnerable and unsafe when working with members of a photography team.
A boudoir photography session is going to involve minimal clothing and body coverings, sexy and revealing poses, and rushed outfit changes — not to mention a highly sensual atmosphere that takes place in a private setting. The nature of boudoir makes it important to hire the right people to work with, i.e. a legitimate photographer and their team that makes their clients feel safe throughout the experience.
Tips in Finding a Boudoir Photographer
You want your boudoir photoshoot to make you feel empowered, not frightened or vulnerable. So you should do your extreme diligence when selecting a boudoir photographer to work with. Their portfolio or experience are not the only things that you have to consider — their personality and character matter just as much (if not more).
Take a Glimpse of Their Portfolio
Of course, when hiring a boudoir photographer, the first criteria is their past work. Most boudoir photographers will have a website or social media page where they share photos they have taken. Take the time to browse these platforms as their portfolio can give you a peek at how comfortable you will be working with them. Do you think that their posing style or motifs are things you will be okay with or do they look too risque for your liking?
Another thing to consider is the originality of their work. Unfortunately, it’s easy for a stranger to steal shots and pass them off as their own. Make sure that you are reaching out to a legitimate photographer. Some tell-tale signs that they are boudoir photographers by profession are:
Matching editing styles
Similar props or backgrounds (in-studio shots)
Identifiable creative slants
Meet in Person
A sure-fire way to know if a photographer is legitimate is to meet them in person before your photoshoot. Not only that, but it will also help give you an idea of their personality and professionalism by how they conduct themselves around you. Throughout your meeting, ask yourself if you feel comfortable with them or if there are red flags that you should be paying attention to.
If something about the person you’re meeting feels off or makes you feel unsafe, don’t hesitate to find another option. There are various boudoir photographers out there, and you’ll surely find one who aligns with you and you feel the safest with.
Investigate
Before hiring a boudoir photographer, it’s a good idea to do some detective work and find out as much as you can about them. Go online and peruse testimonials and reviews from people who have worked with that photographer in the past. Look for insights not only about the results they can yield but also about their character and professionalism. You might find some information that will help you decide whether or not to work with them.
Scout the Location
The safest place you can hold your boudoir photo shoot is in your home, accompanied by your partner or other housemates. However, some photographers will have studios or other settings in mind, such as a hotel or even their homes.
It’s a good idea to visit the location of the photoshoot beforehand. Does this place make you feel safe or would you rather your photoshoot be held somewhere else? If you decide to move forward in the photographer’s chosen location, it’s standard practice to let someone know where you are.
Ask to Bring a Friend or Companion
If it will make you feel safer, you can ask your boudoir photographer if your partner, family member, or friend can tag along in the shoot. Having a companion can ease your worries significantly. However, it’s worth noting that some photographers don’t allow guests or have certain restrictions on who can be in the studio during the shoot. Ask about any special rules as well.
A boudoir photo shoot is supposed to be a safe space for women to celebrate their bodies and feel as intimate and sensual as they desire. In order for that to be possible, do your due diligence and hire the right photographer who makes you feel safe, secure, and empowered.