About Boudoir
Welcome to Ian McMillan Photography, where you will begin the first step of rediscovering yourself.
We all tend to lose track of ourselves once in a while. This is when I come to your rescue. If you have been craving a much-needed confidence boost, you found your man! No matter your gender, your profession, or your size, the benefit of this process is growth and discovery. You deserve to feel beautiful, because well, you are. Come on, let's get started on your newly-found confidence.
What’s Boudoir Photography? I’ll Explain.
Boudoir photography has been an artform since literally the invention of cameras. Still, there’s a bit of confusion surrounding the topic, so I wanted to take a second to dispel some myths and tell you exactly what boudoir photography is. In short: it’s a series of tasteful, artful sensual images — usually of a woman, but sometimes of a couple or even a man.
Different forms of boudoir photography exist both in terms of style/approach and level of nudity. As is the case with any photography, it’s important to seek a photographer whose style matches with your personal aesthetic. For example, some specialize is high contrast black and whites, others prefer a moody editing style, and some take a bright light and color-dense approach.
Most boudoir photographers leave it to the client to decide how much skin is exposed during the session. Some clients are OK baring all, and the images are shot in a way that’s creative, classy, and genuinely artful. Other clients prefer to do a lingerie session which can be just as provocative and sensual. Others yet prefer to go a flirty, less exposed route — maybe they wear an oversized sweater, a sport’s jersey, or her partner’s shirt. Boudoir photography runs the gamut and creating a customized experience with your photographer is part of the fun!
Loving Your Curves During a Boudoir Session
One of the most frequently asked questions I get — and it often comes across with a certain level of concern — is whether someone should “bother” with a boudoir session if they’re plus-sized or curvy. I understand that question because we’re all bombarded with a certain type of image in the media and marketing, but the truth is that every body is different, and every body is beautiful in its own way. The answer to whether you should have images taken if you don’t fit a certain stereotypical mold is YES! YES, YOU SHOULD! Of course you should — you are gorgeous.
When you’re in front of my camera, I’m 100% focused on highlighting your favorite features and making you look and feel dang good, and that’s true for clients of every. single. size. We all have some insecurities and self-perceived flaws, and that’s OK and normal, but I’ve yet to have a woman walk away from a session with me not feeling anything but stronger and more appreciative of every inch of herself.
Consider a boudoir session with me an opportunity to embrace every single curve on your body. A chance to show off your figure in a sexy something — or in some cases nothing at all! An opportunity to feel empowered in your own skin and walk away feeling more beautiful than you ever have before.
Four Tips to Rock Your Boudoir Shoot
- So you decided to dive into the deep end. Here are a few pointers to help you along the way:
- Drink up! Guzzle plenty of water before your session. Being hydrated keeps dry skin at bay, and helps fine lines appear plumper and smoother.
- If you bring personal lingerie, make sure it is comfortable. You do not want it to dig into your skin or make unnecessary bulges!
- Treat yourself before your photoshoot to a mani/pedi. Pampering yourself is the perfect way to relax and destress.
- Go to bed early and get rest. You will want to come feeling energized without dark under-eyes!
Boudoir FAQ Answered:
What type of lingerie should I buy for my session?
It is honestly a very personal choice. Start by choosing your favorite color! You want to make sure whatever you buy fits you comfortably, not too tight and not too baggy. If you have areas that you most certainly want to cover, such as your stomach, try high-waists, corsets, or a gown! If you're going to simply break the ice, bring a button down. This is one way to warm up in front of the camera. Want a boost in your chest? Find a supportive bra and panties to match. The options are endless. Have fun shopping!
Does my age or size matter?
Beauty comes in all ages and sizes. We welcome thick, thin, young, and old. We encourage you to have this opportunity to experience self-love.
Is being stressed normal? How can I calm myself down?
Absolutely! Almost everyone is nervous when they decide to do this type of shoot. It is totally expected. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable atmosphere during your session. Let's turn on your playlist and jam out to your favorite music!
Love Your Body
You don't need to look like a magazine cover or a centerfold. You are beautiful just the way you are. When you come to my studio, you will be glammed up to your liking. Natural, Hollywood glam, vintage, you name it. Let our team take over and cater to you. Take a day away from home, find a sitter for your kids, and just relax. This is all about you.
Your (Final Moments) Boudoir Session Checklist
Gearing up for a boudoir session? Girl, I’ve got you covered! I know you’ve already got your outfit planned and your makeup inspiration look pulled, but have you checked off these boxes?
- Come Up with an Empowering Mantra: Having the nervous jitters before your shoot is completely normal, but I’ve found that one of the best ways to pump yourself up is to repeat an affirmative mantra or positive phrase! Maybe it’s “I’m sexy and I know it!” or “I am grateful for all that I am,” or “May I be kind to myself today and always.”
- Make Yourself a Fun Playlist: Great music can really set you up for a killer shoot. Choose 20 to 30 of your favorite songs (I recommend mostly upbeat pieces to keep energy up) and be ready to press play the day of your shoot. No playlist? No sweat. I’ve got a few to choose from!
- Model the Heck Out of Your Outfit: Reserve 30 to 60 minutes sometime between now and your boudoir session to put on your outfits. The more comfortable you are in the outfits, the more comfortable you’ll be on the day of the shoot! Also, tell yourself how awesome you look in each one and call out your favorite physical feature in each outfit.
- Write Down Why You’re Doing This: Take a good 15 to 20 minutes to write down the reasons why you decided to do a boudoir shoot. Maybe it’s to embrace your body or you want to give a milestone gift to your partner. Whatever the reason, this session is a celebration of those reasons, and we’re going to have a heck of a time.