WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF BOUDOIR?

Curvy woman of color sitting on the floor in lingerie. Boudoir photoshoot in San Francisco Bay Area.

On textbook boudoir is as a french word that means a “private room at home for a woman to retreat to. This could be a bedroom, dressing or sitting room.”

Don’t speak french? The pronunciation: buuːˈdwɑːr


When I tell people I’m a woman’s boudoir photographer, their first reaction is followed by one of two: a brief moment of silence or genuine “oooh!” curiosity. Those who react with a brief silence, are either uncomfortable because they have a generalized idea or because they don’t know much about it. Most people recognize boudoir as a style of photography of women wearing lingerie, or in some form of nude. But in today’s world, boudoir is more than this.


First of all, the purpose of boudoir is not for mens pleasure. Sorry not sorry, men. For years, boudoir has been catered towards men. Women in provocative poses that appeal to men. Poses than aren’t sensual or truly celebrating a woman’s femininity and sensuality.

Full figured woman of color in lingerie standing against the wall. Best Bay Area boudoir photographer.
Plus size woman of color sitting on a chair in black lingerie, looking at the camera. Tasteful boudoir photographer in San Francisco.


Ok, then what’s boudoir photography about? Boudoir is a personal and unique experience for the woman being photographed. It’s a form of art through sensual expression. Some do it to step in to their feminine energy & sensuality. It’s a way to celebrate a journey or chapter. A form of self acceptance & love. An experience that’s all about them and for them—the woman in front of the camera.


The purpose of boudoir is unique to every woman. But one thing that’s for certain is that it’s a powerful experience for women. It’s about being brave and breaking away from social, religious, familial norms of how a woman should be. It’s a way to feel free while embracing their perfect imperfections. It’s a form of feminine expression for every woman & every body.

Curvy woman of color laying on a bed during her boudoir photoshoot. Best bay area boudoir photographer for women.


All in all, boudoir is an experience that leaves every woman feeling proud & empowered. For some, it’s a stepping stone that takes their confidence to the next level. The gift of seeing themselves with love & “oh my gosh, is that really me?”. A boost in confidence because what they did is brave. For some, it’s a rare opportunity to express their sensuality in an intimate, private & safe setting that’s free of any judgement.

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HOW MUCH SKIN TO SHOW IN BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY

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4 REASONS WHY A BOUDOIR PHOTOSHOOT MAY NOT BE RIGHT FOR YOU … yet.