What is boudoir photography?
Strictly speaking, "boudoir" means a lady's dressing room or bedroom. Boudoir photographs are pictures of an intimate nature which can be playful, suggestive, saucy, teasing, romantic or sultry. Whereas pin-up is more playful and cheeky and glamour can be more editorial and magazine-like, boudoir photos are meant to be sexy. Whichever style you prefer, the most important thing is to have fun!
What should I wear?
Most boudoir photos involve lingerie of some kind: a nice matching bra and panty set, a bustier and garter belt, stockings, high heels, etc. However, the wardrobe can range anywhere from a hockey jersey or comfortable sweater to nothing at all. If you need suggestions, consider Victoria's Secret or Adore Me. You can also find branded clothing at the L'envie Photography Store if you want to incorporate that into your shoot.
Do I have to get naked?
Boudoir photography is not so much about what you can see as what you can't. Remember, it's about creating desire so boudoir photography tends to focus on either the wardrobe or on "implied" nudity. It's supposed to make you think about what happens next. The important thing is that you feel good about yourself and the experience. Of course, everything will be discussed ahead of time with more discussion during your session.
Do I have to know how to pose?
Absolutely not. The women on this site are not models. I like the sessions to be organic and flow naturally so I may demonstrate a basic pose and then give verbal instructions to achieve the most beautiful results. You can also find plenty of posing ideas on sites like Pinterest.
What about props?
Props are encouraged. I have a "toy box" with masks, rose petals, a fur rug and other props which I can use for images. One of my favorite shoots used a soccer ball. You're welcome to bring other things that you would like to incorporate. Maybe your significant other is a golfer and you want to pose with his golf bag. I'm open to whatever ideas you may have. However, no firearms. No exceptions.
Where will the shoot take place?
Depending on the type of session, I can shoot at my house, your house or at various locations around southeast Michigan. For non-boudoir, Sterling Heights has two parks within a half mile of our location. I also have favorite photography spots on the east side and west side.
So your house is a studio?
I have set up studio space in many rooms, including backdrops. There is also a private flower garden and a garage in the back. I like to take advantage of as much natural light as I can and I specialize in finding unique backgrounds in limited spaces.
Where is L'envie Photography located?
L'envie Photography is located in Sterling Heights, MI, near Clinton River Rd and Schoenherr.
How far will you travel?
Pricing is set for a maximum of about an hour of drive time. I will travel farther for an additional cost. While searching for rare bird sightings, I've been all over Michigan and well into Ohio.
What else do you shoot? Do you shoot weddings?
I shoot couples, engagements, families, children, maternity, special events like birthdays, communions and baptisms. I do specialize in portraits but occasionally, I will accept a wedding. I was in the wedding business for over twenty years. I recommend contacting me with any wedding inquiries.
Do you edit the pictures?
Depending on the package you choose, you will receive a certain number of edited photos, both full-sized and 4X6 resized. I do a basic retouching to remove blemishes, scars, bruises and stray hairs. I also tend to retouch a single image with multiple effects so you may get color, black and white, sepia, spot colored, etc.
Do you shoot in black and white?
I can but with digital photography, there really isn't any need. Plus, it's a lot easier to make a color photo black and white than it is to make a black and white photo color.
Do you have more examples?
There are some different photos on L'envie's Facebook and Instagram pages. I also post a daily story on Instagram. Also, if you want to schedule a consultation, I have a tablet with additional images.
What is the next step?
If you have any other questions or if you are interested in talking about a sitting or an event, you can contact me by e-mail, text or phone for a phone consultation. We will discuss what you are looking for and either schedule a session or a one-on-one meeting where we can talk further about details.
