With over a decade of experience, C. Mae Photography (@cmaephoto) goes beyond the lens to share the details of boudoir photography, including common misconceptions, tips for loosening up in front of the camera and more.
Q: What is the benefit of booking a boudoir session prior to the wedding day?
Our goal is to make you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera, whether it's for a boudoir session or your special wedding day. We understand that stepping in front of the lens can be intimidating, which is why we offer exposure therapy through engagement sessions and boudoir shoots. By the time your wedding day arrives, you'll feel like a pro, effortlessly hitting all those perfect angles.
Q: What are some common misconceptions people may have about boudoir photography?
One common misconception is that you must meet certain physical standards to participate. We want to assure you that boudoir photography is for everyone, regardless of age, body type or imperfections. We invite you to come to your boudoir session just as you are, flaws and all. Embrace your uniqueness and let us capture your beauty in a way that makes you feel confident and empowered.
Clients in their 60s say "I wish I did this in my 50s". Clients in their 50s say "I wish I did this in my 40s." Clients in their 40s say "I wish I did this in my 30s." You get the point.
Q: What advice would you give to brides who might feel nervous or self-conscious about doing a boudoir shoot?
Embarking on a boudoir experience can feel like a leap into the unknown, but rest assured, our studio spaces are designed with your comfort and confidence in mind. We believe that every individual deserves to be celebrated through art that empowers and uplifts, reminding you of the strength and beauty within you.
Q: Without modeling experience, what can individuals expect before and after a boudoir session?
PRIOR TO THE SESSION:
All our boudoir sessions begin with a free consultation. This is a great chance to connect and ask any questions you have. The session starts with a fee that secures your photo session, location and hair and makeup (shout out to our glam squad, Jennifer Janssen Bridal Artistry). We will also talk to you about outfits, prepping for your session and what to bring to your session.
AT THE SESSION:
Arrive in the biggest, comfiest sweats you have! We will start with hair and makeup right away. While you're getting glam done, I'm asking you questions that will help me tailor your photoshoot. Each person has such a different definition of what they find "sexy", their tastes and comfort level. My top priority is the client's privacy, safety and comfort. While boudoir can be a huge step out of your comfort zone, it's important to me that you feel supported the entire way.
During the photo session, you don't need to know how to pose. I will walk you through every pose from start to finish. I am tailoring poses specific to you based on our conversation during glam.
Right after the photoshoot, we review your images SAME DAY! Talk about instant gratification! This is where you can handpick out the images you want to order and if you want an album/prints.
AFTER YOUR SESSION:
You're going to walk out of our studio feeling amazing. Within 3-4 weeks you'll have your chosen images delivered to you via an online gallery. If you're ordering prints, those take an additional 2-4 weeks to be made and shipped to you.
For brides, we suggest booking anywhere from 8 months prior to your wedding and no later than 2 months prior to the wedding to ensure final prints arrive on time.
The long-term effects of this experience are higher confidence and time capsule art that your 80-year-old self will thank you for. This is truly art that appreciates in value over time. And what better time to do it than right before your wedding?
Q: How do you help brides feel comfortable and confident during a boudoir session?
Nudity is approached with respect and professionalism, as we believe it is not inherently sexual but rather a form of artistic expression. Our goal is for you to have a great time, feel comfortable and leave with images that may positively change your self-perception. After the session, you will have the opportunity to handpick your favorite images, ensuring that you are completely satisfied with the results. We are committed to providing a safe and nonjudgmental environment where you can truly be yourself.
Don't forget the power of music to set the mood. Feel free to create a playlist that energizes you, or I can share my boudoir playlist on Spotify with you.
Q: Do you have any tips for brides to prepare for their boudoir session, both mentally and physically?
Top priority is taking care of yourself. This includes being well nourished, hydrated, and getting good sleep. Release any pressure that you need to look a certain way. This photoshoot is about celebrating you and your body in an empowering, sexy, and fun way.
Fears and insecurities may pop up. This is a natural part of the process. I promise you that I will be photographing you in the most flattering ways specific to you! Don't forget the power of music. Create a fun playlist that will hype you up. If you don't have one, I'm more than happy to share with you my boudoir playlist on Spotify!
Q: What does boudoir photography mean to you and what drives your passion for it?
Simply put, it's the most empowering, creative art I've ever created since becoming a professional photographer. I've been a professional photographer for 13 years now and have photographed every type of portrait session there is. I have not found anything that even comes close to the positive impact that boudoir has on someone (when done right). It's such an incredibly empowering experience fully tailored to the client that results in customized art that the client can cherish forever.
My passion for boudoir comes from seeing our clients tear up (in a good way) when I show them the back of my camera. They can't believe it’s them! And that's even before the images are edited. I can feel their shame, stigma and self judgement melt away. Boudoir photography allows people to see themselves in ways they may not have seen before.
Boudoir also allows you to see yourself in the way your partner does. We are all so hard on ourselves. We are often our hardest critic. Boudoir is a chance to see yourself in a sexy, empowered, fine art way.
What does boudoir mean to me? It means sending people out into the world more confident, empowered, and their head a little higher. I deeply believe the world needs more of that.
