Well let’s consider that Boudoir is actually the French word for “Bedroom” but it has gained a reputation now for being associated with intimate, saucy photos of women and men. I am here to tell you that even though Boudoir may mean bedroom, it certainly does not limit you to the bedroom for locations.
1.) Kitchen
I know it seems odd but hear me out a moment. How much time do you spend in your kitchen? Cooking, baking, and cleaning? I’ll wager it’s a huge chunk of your day. Why not use the Kitchen to your advantage and incorporate it into a Boudoir Shoot? The counters are stunning leading lines, the kitchen sink as long as it’s clean can add an element of playfulness to a shoot. Imagine wearing just an apron and doing a few dishes, saucy right? You can blow bubbles towards the camera and it enhances the fun vibes. The kitchen table and chairs can be great props as well. Use your playfulness in the kitchen and I am sure you’ll be surprised at the results.
2.) Bathroom
Besides the obvious bubble bath or milk bath a Bathroom can add an extra set to your session if it’s used properly. Adjusting your hair in a mirror is a stunning shot and can change the perspective of the subject. Adding an acrylic sheet that has been sprayed with water in the bathtub can add a creative element that you weren’t planning on and even peeking through the doorway can give you an incredible shot, as it can be backlit and used for silhouette shots.
3.) Living Space
This one again seems obvious but the couch, chair and floor of a living room can serve as stunning props that can elevate your session to another level. We are most comfortable in our own environment, so I tend to utilize either my entire home or a client’s entire home with permission of course to get the most unique and different shots. A fireplace can add drama and a great chair or couch can add a sense of comfort and familiarity to your sessions. Add a textured throw for a cool effect on the floor and arch those backs up. The couch has so many uses in Boudoir poses so I definitely recommend you try some out; a client will be pleasantly surprised.
4.) Backyards or Green spaces
Moving a Boudoir themed shoot outside can be tricky as you have constant changes in light and conditions but the backyard is private and comfortable, and can add natural backdrops to your session. If there is a breeze that day, take advantage of the movement for the hair. Garden gloves, and a pair of rain boots mixed with a basic bra and panty set can add cheeky flair to your backyard shoot. If you have a green space close by, try adding a picnic theme to your session. You can bring wine glasses, a blanket and some tasty treats, all while bringing out the elements of a bold and possibly public location. Just keep it a bit more PG so onlookers aren’t caught off guard.
5.) Cars or Trucks
I do not know anyone who doesn’t like to look at someone stunning next to or in a great car or truck. Try playing with angles and depth of field for these types of locations as you do not have a clear shot of your subject all the time, especially with a closed door. You can add some fuzzy dice, and a bold lingerie choice to accent the vibes you are working with. For men, I always push for a button down shirt, left open and a pair of great fitting jeans, add some sunglasses and these choices add a badass vibe to a men’s boudoir session. As a bonus Men often like showing off their cars and trucks so they are usually more than happy to use these as a location.
1.) *Bonus Location*- The Garage
I know it seems dirty and cold but hold on a second. This is an obvious location for a men’s boudoir session but it can be just as fun for women. You have tools, work benches and garden tools. These can be added as props or even the focal point to your fun session. The only limit on this location is your imagination.
Boudoir doesn’t have to be restrained to just the bedroom and if you are willing to venture outside the expected norms for these types of sessions you will be pleasantly surprised at all of the amazing photos you can get that are unique, and off the perceived ideas of where Boudoir shoots should take place. I challenge you to think outside the box when considering a location for a Boudoir shoot, as just like adding non-traditional props and elements can aid in something more personal yet totally fun!