How Boudoir Was Born

Have you ever wondered where on the earth the idea of boudoir photography came from let alone what the word even means? Or even how to pronounce it!?

History of Boudoir Photography

Let’s dive into a little bit of the history of the word and how it’s evolved to present day boudoir.

Boudoir – It’s French for a woman’s private bedroom/dressing room.

In the early 1920s, Pre WWII, boudoir was popular with French upper class women who were often captured in their private bedroom/dressing room. The combination of different art movements along with the rise of photography allowed the concept of boudoir to gain momentum.

Modern Day Boudoir Photography

Fast forward to the mid-1940s and 50s. Pinup girls, *whistles*, were used to attract men to join the military. They used pictures coupled with slogans like, “She’s worth fighting for” to boost enrollment in the armed forces making Pinup girls one of the most recognizable forms of boudoir photography.

Recently, the popular TV show – The Golden Bachelor – featured Theresa Nist having a boudoir shoot done for her husband bringing even more awareness to the concept of boudoir photography.

Boudoir Photography as Art

As with any type of art form, there are different styles of boudoir photography. Photographers use different lighting, settings/locations and even editing styles to achieve their signature look of boudoir photos. There are also many different styles in terms of the photographs. Some boudoir sessions and photos are similar in nature to a glamour shoot while some go all the way to the other end of the spectrum to erotica.

As with any art form, it’s a matter of what style resonates with the viewer.

My Boudoir Style Explained

Many of my clients have commented they connect with my classic look of boudoir photography. I use natural light and occasionally supplement the natural light with some off camera lighting. I choose to use minimal props keeping my clients the focus of the session. I am not a dark and moody boudoir photographer, but more light and airy boudoir photographer. I still use shadows and highlights to add dimension and depth to my boudoir images.

While there is no right or wrong in any style, finding what style you connect with is key to picking a photographer for your boudoir photos.

So there you have it, the history of boudoir explained and my boudoir style defined. The women in history have paved the way for modern-day boudoir. Boudoir is booming more than ever. So… what are you waiting for? Become part of boudoir history and book your session!