Boudoir photography is a unique and intimate art form, and learning to pose for this type of photography is an art in itself. You could probably study how to pose boudoir for years and still have more to learn! Fortunately, with a few simple tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to capturing some stunning shots for your client (ahem, and your portfolio). Here’s what you need to know about posing for boudoir photography.
Before you begin
Consider their comfort level
Boudoir photography is most successful when both the model and the photographer feel comfortable and confident. Before you even begin posing your subject, do what you can to make them feel comfortable. Boudoir photography is all about empowering your client, and that starts with establishing a safe environment where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Take a few minutes to talk with them and get to know them better; this helps you to establish a relationship with your client while also gaining an understanding of what they’re looking to get out of this experience and their ultimate photo goals.
Once they’re feeling comfortable, it’s time to start posing!
Collaborate beforehand
In boudoir photography, empowerment is a result of the experience as a whole, not just the final photos. Invite your client to get creative and collaborate with you by adding their favorite poses to a saved shoot on the Unscripted App. This will not only provide all the inspo you need for the shoot, but it’ll also give you an idea of their comfort level and expectations.
Emphasize natural curves
One of the most important things to remember when posing for boudoir photography is to emphasize the natural curves and lines of the body.
Have your subject arch their back slightly, elongating their neck, and positioning their limbs in a way that creates interesting angles and shapes.
As you’re posing them, remain clear, gentle and direct. Unless they have a very specific request, steer clear of overly-sexualized poses.
Utilize props (but not too much)
From a simple piece of jewelry to a fluffy coat, props can add a touch of glam to your photos, and can also help your subject feel more comfortable and confident. However, it's important not to overdo it. Remember: the focus of boudoir photography should be on the subject only! So, choose (and use) your props wisely!
Get endless boudoir posing ideas
Learning to pose for boudoir photos can be overwhelming, but remember that it’s all about creating a safe environment for your subject to feel empowered AF. Emphasize their natural curves, have some photography poses ideas ready to go and utilize props where it makes sense. It also helps to have the Unscripted App up your sleeve. You’ll have endless boudoir posing ideas right in your back pocket, from classic poses to more creative and unconventional inspo. So get ready to book those boudoir shoots – you’ve got this.
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FAQ's
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Shoot poses in the same group
The Unscripted App groups boudoir poses into Sitting, Standing, and Laying. Plan a seamless shoot by grouping all of your poses in the same category together. Keeping your client in the moment ensures top-tier results, and lets them focus on doing their thing (feeling comfortable and being sexy AF) with minimal disruption and tinkering.