Many people think of boudoir photography as being the province of the younger woman…..sexy, glamorous and sometimes a little daring. It’s probably not for ladies who have matured a little and developed a more sophisticated approach to life…….
Well, at Mike Lester Photography, in Leeds, our experience is just the opposite. We regularly provide shoots to ladies who have put their twenties, thirties…..and even forties behind them. They’ve often left the frivolous years of their youth behind and have successful careers and families. They’re often at a time in their lives when most things seem common place, routine and life is lacking excitement. The idea of a Boudoir shoot might seem odd…..but to may women, it’s a revelation.
So why a Boudoir shoot?
Customers give many reasons for their shoots……
The most common reason is Confidence…..women want to feel good about themselves; enjoy being the centre of attention; feel the thrill of doing something different and exciting; allow themselves to ‘break the rules’.
Many women comment on how empowered they find the experience of a Boudoir shoot. Liberating is another frequently used term….And most of all Fun. Some quotes from recent customers:
“I enjoyed every minute of the afternoon and wish I had done it years ago. It certainly achieved my object of feeling better about myself…Think it should be in everyone’s top 100 things to do before you die.”
52 year old manager
“Had someone told me 2 years ago that I’d pose nude for a stranger to take photo’s, I’d have fallen over laughing! The sense of achievement is amazing & I just want to tell the world, I didn’t think I could but I did & I love the results.”
44 year old sales executive
“I think especially for women of a certain age (!) its nice to feel sexy womanly etc, it probably only happens once for most of us. “
52 year old senior manager.
So…..what can you expect from a Boudoir shoot?
First…..get to know your photographer.
Ask questions and see his/her work. Check their references. I always try to arrange to talk with my customers prior to the shoot, answer any concerns and try to settle any nerves.
Second….Nerves!
It’s not every day you disrobe in front of a photographer……Being nervous is natural, as the excitement that goes with it. The important thing is that You are in control and can reveal as much or as little as you like. Your photographer will help you settle down gently easing you towards the styles you hope to achieve.
At Mike Lester Photography, I usually start shoots at a very gentle pace with some standard clothed, portrait shots….moving gradually to lingerie and, if requested, nude. It’s quite common for customers to start the shoot having said they’ll go up to lingerie or topless. Many women also like the idea of achieving a look similar to the images on How to look good naked, which is a key feature to many of my images
……The majority do however find the shoot so enjoyable that nearly all customers decide to have at least a few shots nude. The main thing is that you feel relaxed and comfortable at the shoot and, as a result produce the images you desire.
Third…..’My body’s not my best feature’
A skilled photographer will help you achieve poses and through use fabrics and props, accentuate your most positive features……moving interest away from those areas with which you are uncomfortable. And, there’s always a little extra help in editing the images so that you look your very best. If it’s good enough for celebrities, then it’s good enough for you.
Lastly…..A Boudoir shoot is something very special and personal to you.
Choose a photographer who will give you plenty of time for your shoot, someone who will work with you on the day to evolve images which reflect your personality and sensuality. A slow, gentle approach is far better for your confidence and nerves than feeling rushed and pressured. Taking your time and allowing for you to consider options as you go along, means that you’ll be far more relaxed…..and get better pictures as a result.
About the Author
Mike Lester is a studio based glamour and boudoir photographer in Leeds, West Yorkshire offering a range of photography styles from 1940’s glamour to lingerie, classic nude and boudoir for couples.
See more examples of Mikes boudoir photography work at: www.mikelesterphotography.co.uk/special.htm