what is the point of boudoir photography?
The shorter answer…EMPOWERMENT.
When you Google “boudoir photography” this is the first question that pops up. It’s ALSO a very common question that I’m asked as a Boudoir Photographer.
So, what is the point of Boudoir Photography?
The shorter answer…EMPOWERMENT.
Empowerment to be comfortable in your own skin.
Empowerment to look at yourself with love.
Empowerment to romanticize your life.
Empowerment to see yourself in a completely new light.
The longer answer…the point is whatever you want it to be.
Who said everything in life has to have a productive “point” in order to be worthwhile?
Maybe your weight changed after you turned 30 and you’re tired of picking yourself apart in the mirror. You feel it would be refreshing to see yourself differently. Boudoir is for you.
Maybe you want to gift an album to your loved one so you can both enjoy your beauty together. Boudoir is for you.
Maybe you’ve been struggling with medical issues that are making your body feel transactional and disconnected from you. Boudoir is for you.
Maybe you’re just looking for something FUN to happen in your life. Boudoir is for you.
Maybe you’re realizing that you have no photos of yourself and that feels strange, given how much life you’ve lived. Boudoir is for you.
Maybe you had a baby at some point in your life and since then you’ve only been a Mom. It’s a beautiful thing…but you want to do something selfishly for you. Boudoir is for you.
Some of the most amazing experiences in life happen without a “point.” Boudoir is not for everyone, but maybe it’s for you?
Your Baltimore Boudoir Photographer,
Christine
she said yes!
Rob reached out to me secretly about a month away and asked if he could propose at the beginning of the session. Of course, I said yes!
Every session is special…but this one was a little bit extra special.
Lexi reached out to me to book a Boudoir Session and asked if her partner Rob could be in a couple photos with her. Of course, I said yes.
Rob reached out to me secretly about a month away and asked if he could propose at the beginning of the session. Of course, I said yes!
Rob and I played it so cool as the session started. After a couple of warm up poses I had Lexi turn her back to him. I told her I wanted a shot of Rob approaching her…she was like “yes! approach me!”
While her back was turned, I said to Rob “Pop one knee out to the side” while motioning him that it was go time! He quickly grabbed the stashed ring and got down onto one knee.
I grabbed a couple of shots on the camera and then asked her to slowly turn and look back over her shoulder.
Rob asked her “will you marry me” and of course, she said YES! (
If you want to see how it happened, visit this reel I made with BTS of the whole thing!)
This was my first Boudoir Session Proposal…but hopefully not the last!
Now booking proposal sessions anytime forever! Reach out on my CONTACT PAGE to talk about booking the session of your dreams.
Your Baltimore Boudoir Photographer,
Christine
How “I will eat you alive” changed me
In the first 20 minutes, I knew this play was for me. I felt every sentiment shared by the actors- from dieting talk, to internal monologues, to references to weight loss routines and calorie counting. This was a life I knew! It was satire and the audience was laughing. I smiled and laughed along with it but I was starting to feel emotional. This message was so universal…and it was my own story…and it was the story of so many others.
In February of 2024, a friend bought me tickets to a play debuting in Baltimore called “I Will Eat You Alive.”
It was written by Katie Hileman and performed by 3 absolute badass femmes, Meghan Taylor, Betse Lyons and Vicky Graham. All I knew going into it was that it was a commentary on body image and societal standards of beauty.
It changed me.
How did a play that wasn’t more than 90 minutes long leave me feeling both incredibly seen and called out?
For reference, I’m a cis white, non-fat woman with a history of sexual assault. I have historically not felt very body-positive due to how I was perceived and talked to (and about) growing up.
This was an interactive play and I went all-in. I sat at a dinner table, under the spotlight, with the 3 actors and about 10 other audience members.
In the first 20 minutes, I knew this play was for me. I felt every sentiment shared by the actors- from dieting talk, to internal monologues, to references to weight loss routines and calorie counting. This was a life I knew! It was satire and the audience was laughing. I smiled and laughed along with it but I was starting to feel emotional. This message was so universal…and it was my own story…and it was the story of so many others.
I don’t want to give too much away, because it’s a must-see for you if you know anyone with a body. I will say though, that as the play went on, and as I sat at the table under the lights, I cried. (And everybody saw me.)
I cried because a story of assault touched my own story so closely. I cried because I saw the humanity in each actor and felt how it touched my own. I cried because I realized how afraid I’ve always been of gaining weight. Because with each pound I’ve gained, I’ve worried that it’s diminished my worth in this world. I cried because I realized I was afraid of the boldness of the actors in this play- standing proudly in their skin, absolutely GLOWING with passion. It made me feel like there was another way to live. Like I’ve been doing it wrong- playing by the wrong rules and regulations. I wanted to be like them.
Since seeing “I Will Eat You Alive” I’ve begun giving myself a little more grace and allowance to be human.
I’m a Boudoir Photographer and after going through this experience, I wanted to give back in some small way. This play needs to be seen. This playwright and these actors need to be celebrated. So I invited the cast to do a Boudoir Session with me and they said yes. I invited Katie, Betse, Vicky and Meghan out…and they were amazing.
Sexy, beautiful, gorgeous, stunning, sultry, etc…
You can be any adjective for “beautiful” at any size. You are worthy. You are ALIVE. You are an indulgence. You deserve to indulge yourself.
“I Will Eat You Alive” is streaming online until this Sunday, March 31st. This play said everything I wanted and needed to hear and I can’t wait to see how it changes countless other lives. WATCH IT HERE
Follow IWEYA on Instagram for live show updates coming up!
Learn more about IWEYA and Interrobang Productions.
If you’re ready for a Boudoir Session of your own…Contact me. <3
can i use a sheet as an outfit for my boudoir session?
Implied images are typically images that show off enough…but not everything. They use angles, lighting and posing to “hide” our more scandalous regions.
This question comes with a resounding YES from me!
In fact, I will have multiple sheet options available for you when you come to Baltimore for your session. (You don’t even have to bring one in!)
In the Boudoir world, sheet sets are defined as “implied nude.”
Implied images are typically images that show off enough…but not everything. They use angles, lighting and posing to “hide” our more scandalous regions.
Why do we love them?!
This will vary from person to person, but I love how beautiful we are as humans without clothing restricting our bodies. I love that a sheet will just hang off of you, making you look Effortless and regal all at once.
The sheet set with Effortless Boudoir is a grand finale! I bring it out when we’ve used all of your lingerie and you’re warmed up and comfortable with me as your Photographer. Typically I’ll let you know we have time for one more set and ask if you’d like it to be a sheet. Almost always…my clients say “I’m here! Let’s do this!” (Becoming absolute supermodels!)
So yes, a sheet is an AMAZING Boudoir outfit! If you’re ready to become an Effortless Babe, reach out on the CONTACT PAGE to begin planning your dream session!
Your Baltimore Boudoir Photographer,
Christine
a 40th birthday celebration
Meet E! She came in to the studio to celebrate her 40th Birthday! She arrived to her session ready to go with her hair clean and dry and her face clean and moisturized. Already a beauty, she got the Babe treatment from our expert hair and makeup artist and we were ready to go!
Birthday Boudoir Sessions are IN!
Meet E! She came in to the studio to celebrate her 40th Birthday! She arrived to her session ready to go with her hair clean and dry and her face clean and moisturized. Already a beauty, she got the Babe treatment from our expert hair and makeup artist and we were ready to go!
Right out of the gate, she was smiling and excited to get her session started! Even in her first outfit, she exhibited so few nerves I was SURE she had done this before. (She had not.)
By the time we got to her second outfit, she was giving me emotion like a professional model. (If this is the confidence that comes when you turn 40, count me IN!)
And then at outfit number 3…I brought out the Birthday goodies! The first one is a beautiful bouquet of flowers that I then took apart and placed around her on the bed. (Fresh flowers are one of my favorite props. They’re so dreamy!)
And of course…cake and candles!! Sometimes it’s a slice of cake, sometimes it’s a cupcake. It’s always cute and there will always be candles!
I love the action.
Her final outfit was nothing but a plain white sheet! This is definitely one of my favorite looks for this genre of Photography! Look at how classy and beautiful she is! This particular image ended up on a 20x30 metal print that she said she wanted to hang in her bedroom. What an amazing reminder of your beauty!
And at the end of E’s session, we went all out with the smiles! Ending her gallery with the same energy she arrived with and starting 40 off on the perfect note!
Fun fact: She then wore this makeup out for her Birthday dinner with friends and family and it held up for the whole night!
If you’d like to book your own Birthday Boudoir Session; or a session for any reason at all, reach out on the CONTACT page to get more info and start your journey!
Thank you for celebrating your Birthday with me, E!
Your Baltimore Boudoir Photographer,
Christine
who is boudoir for?
…For those who do feel drawn to doing a session, it can be a transformative experience. It's an opportunity to embrace your beauty, celebrate your body, and create stunning images that capture your story.
Boudoir photography is an art form that celebrates the human body and vulnerability. It's a genre that often evokes feelings of sensuality, empowerment, and self-expression. But who is boudoir for, really?
At its core, it’s is for anyone who wants to celebrate their body in a safe and supportive environment. It's for individuals of all genders, shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. Whether you're a woman, a man, part of a couple, or identify somewhere in between, we welcome you with open arms.
However, it's important to acknowledge that boudoir photography may not be for everyone. Despite a genuine desire to make everyone feel comfortable and celebrated, we recognize that individual preferences and comfort levels vary, as well as life experiences; including past trauma. Boudoir requires a certain level of vulnerability and openness that some may not be ready for. (We’re here for you when you are though.)
For those who do feel drawn to doing a session, it can be a transformative experience. It's an opportunity to embrace your beauty, celebrate your body, and create stunning images that capture your story. Whether you're commemorating a milestone, exploring your sensuality, or simply treating yourself to a moment of self-care, boudoir can be a powerful form of self-expression.
So, who is boudoir for?
In short, it's for anyone who feels called to explore their beauty, sensuality, and self-expression through photography. It's for those who seek empowerment, celebration, and self-discovery in a supportive and affirming environment.
Reach out on our CONTACT page if you’re ready to begin your journey.
Your Baltimore Boudoir Photographer,
Christine
what is a boudoir album?
What I’m really passionate about are the albums! I’ve made it my mission to find the most beautiful albums I could to compliment your dreamy, gorgeous, Boudoir images.
Let me tell you all about them.
Oftentimes referred to as “photo books,” an album is a collection of your favorite images from your Boudoir Session, neatly bound into a beautiful book that will withstand the test of time.
Many people love Boudoir albums because of how gorgeous they are, AND because they can be neatly tucked away when company is over.
Let me tell you all about the ones we offer.
When choosing an album we’re going to start with the size. The ones in the image above are all 10x10 (it’s the client favorite) but you’ll have the option to go a little smaller (8x8) or a little larger (12x12). It’s completely up to you!
8x8 - starts with 20 images
10x10 - starts with 30 images
12x12 - starts with 40 images
Once we’ve decided on an album size and how many images will be in it, we’re going to take a look at aaaaallllll of the different cover options available! There are so many for a reason. Everyone likes a different aesthetic. While I have my favorites, your album style should ultimately reflect your style as you’re the one who will look at it for the rest of your life!
Lastly, we’re going to choose a gorgeous gilding option to go with your cover. (If you don’t know what gilding is, it’s the design on the edges of the pages shown above.)
There are 30+ options to choose from including plain white, black, or gold, and specialty designs as shown above.
Once you’ve made your decisions and paid for your product or Collection, I’m going to design your album for your approval before it’s sent to be printed at an all-female album company.
Do you have any questions? Or are you ready to book your Boudoir Session? Feel free to fill out the short form on our CONTACT page to schedule a complimentary consultation call.
I can’t wait to hear from you!
Your Baltimore Boudoir Photographer,
Christine
behind the scenes at a baltimore boudoir session
Let’s set the scene! It’s session day and you’re excited! You’ve arrived on time and you have with you 3-4 different outfits. Your nails are manicured, your hair is dry and your face is clean and moisturized. Perfection!
What’s next?!
Ever wonder what exactly goes on at a Boudoir Session?
Let’s set the scene! It’s session day and you’re excited! You’ve arrived on time and you have with you 3-4 different outfits. Your nails are manicured, your hair is dry and your face is clean and moisturized. Perfection!
First things first! When you arrive, we’re going to get to know one another a little bit, go over expectations for the day, and then we’re going to take a look at all of your beautiful outfits! You’ll pull them all out of your bag and I’ll say things like “oooh” and “cute!”
We’ll then talk about which one you’d be most comfortable in to begin with and come up with a game plan for the rest based upon that answer. (This way you’re not starting the session in your most revealing outfit. Let’s get to know one another first so you’re more comfortable.)
As we’re talking and going over outfits, our Hair and Makeup Artist will be getting everything set up to pamper you! I like pulling outfits out first so that we can coordinate your makeup to match your looks if necessary.
Let your transformation begin! Virginia Wilkens Beauty is our go-to artist and she is going to help you feel like the absolute Queen that you are! She’s so great at accentuating the beauty that you already possess. Even though you’re done-up, you’ll still feel and look like you.
Once your hair and makeup is complete, it’s go-time! I’ll be posing you from your head to your toes and coaching you through facial expressions so you look Effortlessly Beautiful.
Have any questions about the session process? Or are you ready to get your session scheduled?! Reach out on our CONTACT page and we’ll schedule a call to go over all of the details together.
With love from your Maryland Boudoir Photographer,
Christine
boudoir hair and makeup 101
When you get to your hair and makeup appointment, we want you to have the language you need to ask for the perfect boudoir look. One that fits your personality and wardrobe. Below, you’ll find your options for makeup as well as recommended hairstyles.
Hellooo Beautiful! You must be about a month out from your Boudoir Session if you just received this link in your inbox. I hope you’re as excited as I am to create magic together!
Just in case you missed it, YES! Professional hair and makeup is included in your session retainer! This means that all you have to do on your session day is make sure you have your outfits with you as you walk out your door with a clean, moisturized face and clean (preferably day old) hair.
When you arrive to the studio and sit for hair and makeup, I want you to have the language you need to describe to our stylist exactly what you’re going for. Below, you’ll see how to best describe the makeup look you’d like to go for, as well as recommended hairstyles.
If you’re someone who feels like this is out of their wheelhouse would like to “leave it to the professionals," I can assure you that our stylist will find the perfect balance of glam and natural beauty so you don’t have to stress it. We’ve got you!
makeup guidance
When it comes to choosing a makeup look for your upcoming boudoir session, you’ll want to decide whether you’d like a “soft glam” look or a “full glam” one. (Both looks come with lashes for your appointment!)
Soft glam is one step up from a natural makeup look. You’ll get lighter, less dramatic tones that match and compliment your natural skin tone. This look will make you glow on camera!
Full Glam is a step above soft and takes just a tiny bit longer to complete. Full glam is characterized by bold colors, maybe some sparkle, and dramatic eyes. It’s for the person who wants to really pop!
Below are some examples of makeup from the studio! (All done by Virginia Wilkens Beauty.) Our clients tend to land somewhere right in between soft and full glam, but you can always ask to go more in one direction than the other. We always consider what you’ll be wearing when deciding on your look, too.
If you’re like us and want to see more, we did the research for you and created a couple of Pinterest boards for you to explore as well:
Soft Glam Examples
Full Glam Examples
hair style guidance
Hair is so unique to everyone. While there’s no one-size fits all when it comes to how you wear it for your session, there are a couple of guidelines that will help us create dynamic photos together.
The rule of thumb for longer hair is that if your hair can be let loose, let it loose! This can mean wearing it in long braids, wavy, curly, natural, straight, etc. Wearing your hair down allows for us to play with it in photos for an extra seductive look. It also will allow you to do the more advanced poses such as lying on the floor and arching your back! (Really hard to do with a ponytail.)
If you’re thinking about getting your hair cut or colored before your session, be sure to do it at least 3-5 days before your session so you can get used to the changes and so any dye left on your scalp has time to wash out.
We put some of our favorite styles from the studio below and have a pinterest board available for you here for further inspiration:
Boudoir Hair Inspiration
“what if i’m a man or more masc presenting!?”
I’m so glad you asked! Pampering is included in your session fee, too! It will include hair styling and minimal makeup application to cover any blemishes. While this is optional, we guarantee that if you do it you’ll feel more confident, which will help you look more confident on camera!
IF YOU don’t have a session booked yet and would like to learn more…
Reach out on our CONTACT PAGE
If you’re already in touch with me…just shoot me an email with any questions or inspirational photos you have for your upcoming Boudoir Session! I’ll see you in a month!
Talk to you soon!
Christine
PHOTO OF THE WEEK (july 27th, 2023)
Photo of the week for July 27th!
”We got it PERFECT on the second try!”
I have a ton of experience shooting Boudoir at this point, but I’m still and will always be learning.
I want to thank this Effortless Babe for asking to try this pose. I let her know in the session that I had an idea of how to execute it but that we may or may not get it. She was down to try anyway!
The first time through, she posed, I tried to tweak, we got a few shots. But in my heart, I knew we could do better!
The second time, I asked her to release her arms out and slink downward. We then just worked on her feet and VIOLA! We got it PERFECT on the second try!
This photo is also magic in black and white, which you can find at the green button!
As always, thank you so much to the Effortless Babes who allow me to share their photos. You do NOT need to share your images in order to do boudoir with me. I’ll always honor what feels best for you.
PHOTO OF THE WEEK (july 20th, 2023)
Photo of the week for July 20th!
”On Instagram, there are 3 photos of her in this one pose. I want my clients to work smarter, not harder.”
Okay, I can’t possibly tell you how much I love this portrait. I definitely don’t think it got as much love on Instagram as I thought it would.
To me, this is what confidence looks like. She looks completely Effortless and natural in this pose, even if in the moment it felt strange.
On Instagram, this post contains 3 different images that I got of her while she stayed in one pose. Something I’m passionate about in my work is being sure that my clients are able to work smarter, not harder. Check them all out below.
As always, thank you so much to the Effortless Babes who allow me to share their photos. You do NOT need to share your images in order to do boudoir with me. I’ll always honor what feels best for you.
PHOTO OF THE WEEK (july 13th, 2023)
Photo of the week for July 13th!
”I challenged myself to only use available light.”
This week’s featured photo comes from a hotel room in Baltimore where I challenged myself to use only the available light in the room. In this case, it was one lamp to her left and the one you can see behind her.
On Instagram, I shared this photo in both color and in black and white. Be sure to check it out there to see the color version as well! I’m actually not sure which one I love more and chose the black and white here at random.
As always, thank you so much to the Effortless Babes who allow me to share their photos. You do NOT need to share your images in order to do boudoir with me. I’ll always honor what feels best for you.
PHOTO OF THE WEEK (july 6th, 2023)
Photo of the week for July 6th!
”In the comments, I had people vote for which they loved more and it was almost unanimous!”
This week’s featured photo comes from the Effortless Boudoir Instagram account! To date, this photo has the MOST love on it out of almost anything I’ve shared so far. Thank you so much if you were a part of helping that happen! It means the world.
On Instagram, I shared this photo in both color and in black and white. Be sure to check it out there to see the black and white version as well! In the comments, I had people vote for which they loved more and it was almost unanimous!
As always, thank you so much to the Effortless Babes who allow me to share their photos. You do NOT need to share your images in order to do boudoir with me. I’ll always honor what feels best for you.
headshot day recap
In case you missed it, I hosted a headshot day in June! Spoiler alert…everyone chose to go sexy! Learn more…
In case you missed it, I hosted a headshot day in June! Sessions took place at the gorgeous Blue Room Studio and clients were given the option to come out for either Professional OR Sexy Headshots. Spoiler alert…everyone chose to go sexy!
These little sessions were only 20 minutes long. With that short time, I was able to provide each person with over 20 unique images to choose from at their ordering appointment only a couple of days later.
Sounds like fun, right?! This is an AMAZING way to dip your toes in and to get to know me before you book a full session. Check out some favorite sexy headshots below (shared with permission) and be sure to follow @EffortlessBoudoir on IG to learn about the next one!
