Booking a boudoir shoot is an exciting and empowering decision, but let’s be honest—it's also one that can come with a lot of nerves. At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, I’ve worked with hundreds of women who walked into the studio feeling a little unsure, but they walked out feeling confident, radiant, and so glad they took the leap.

Let’s address some of the most common fears clients have before their boudoir session and how you can overcome them.

Fear #1: "I’m Not Photogenic"

One of the most common things I hear from clients is, “I’m just not photogenic.” But here’s the truth: being photogenic isn’t about having model-like features—it’s about feeling comfortable, confident, and guided by the right photographer.

How to Overcome It:

• Trust me! With over 15 years of experience and having photographed over 2,000 boudoir clients, I know how to pose, guide, and coach you every step of the way.
• Remember, it’s my job to make you look and feel incredible—it’s not your job to know how to pose.

Fear #2: "I’m Not in My Ideal Shape/Size"

We all have insecurities, and it’s easy to let them hold you back. But boudoir photography isn’t about waiting for the “perfect body.” It’s about celebrating yourself right now.

How to Overcome It:

• Boudoir is for every body—every size, every shape, every curve.
• I use flattering lighting, expert posing, and thoughtful angles to highlight your best features and help you see yourself in a whole new light.
• Confidence isn’t a size—it’s a feeling, and a boudoir session can help unlock it.

Fear #3: "I Don’t Know What to Wear"

Choosing outfits for your boudoir session can feel overwhelming. Should you go for lace? Silk? Casual? Sexy? The good news is—you don’t need a massive wardrobe to look incredible.

How to Overcome It:

• Bring outfits that make you feel good. Whether it’s lingerie, a cozy sweater, or even your partner’s shirt, confidence starts with comfort.
• I’ll guide you through outfit choices during your pre-shoot consultation, and we’ll make sure everything fits your vision.
• Remember, it’s not about the outfit—it’s about how you feel in it.

Fear #4: "I’m Nervous About Being Vulnerable"

A boudoir session is an intimate experience, and feeling nervous about being in front of the camera is completely normal. But vulnerability can also be incredibly empowering.

How to Overcome It:

• Know that my studio is a safe, judgment-free space where you’re celebrated for exactly who you are.
• I’ll guide you through every pose and every detail—you’ll never be left wondering what to do.
• Take a few deep breaths, focus on having fun, and remember: you’re in control of your experience.

Fear #5: "What If I Don’t Like My Photos?"

The fear of not liking your photos can hold many women back, but I promise—you’ll be amazed at what we create together.

How to Overcome It:

• I’m here to make sure every image showcases your beauty, confidence, and personality.
• Every photo you see is carefully selected and edited to highlight your best self.
• Trust the process. So many clients are blown away when they see their final images.

Fear #6: "I Don’t Want My Photos Shared Publicly"

Your privacy is incredibly important, and sharing your images is always your choice.

How to Overcome It:

• At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, your photos are never shared without your explicit permission.
• Many clients choose to keep their images private, and that’s completely okay.
• If you do want to share a few images, you’ll have full control over which ones are shown.

Fear #7: "I Don’t Know How to Pose or Look Sexy"

Posing can feel awkward at first, especially if you’ve never done a professional photo shoot before. But here’s the secret: it’s my job to pose you!

How to Overcome It:

• I’ll guide you into every pose and expression, from the tilt of your chin to the curve of your back.
• There’s no “right” way to look sexy—confidence and comfort are the most attractive things in any photo.
• Don’t worry about being perfect—just focus on having fun.

Fear #8: "What If I Don’t Feel Confident During the Shoot?"

Confidence isn’t something you have to bring to the session—it’s something we’ll build together.

How to Overcome It:

• Play your favorite music before your session or even during your shoot to loosen up.
• Take a moment to remind yourself why you’re here: to celebrate you.
• Trust me to guide you—you’re in good hands.

Fear #9: "Is It Worth the Investment?"

A boudoir session is an investment—not just financially, but emotionally. But the confidence, empowerment, and self-love you’ll walk away with are truly priceless.

How to Overcome It:

• Think of this as an investment in yourself. You deserve to feel celebrated, beautiful, and empowered.
• These photos will become cherished keepsakes—a reminder of your strength and beauty.

Fear #10: "Will I Regret Doing This?"

Almost every client who’s walked through my studio doors has said the same thing: “I wish I’d done this sooner.”

How to Overcome It:

• Focus on why you booked this session in the first place—to celebrate yourself.
• Remind yourself that fear is temporary, but confidence lasts a lifetime.

Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before your boudoir shoot—but remember, you’re stepping into a space designed to make you feel celebrated, beautiful, and empowered. At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, I’m here to guide you, cheer you on, and help you see yourself the way the world sees you: absolutely stunning.

Are you ready to face those fears and step into your power? Let’s create something extraordinary together. Contact me today to book your boudoir session—you deserve this moment. 💖✨

Lighting is one of the most powerful tools in photography, and in boudoir photography, it plays an essential role in setting the mood, enhancing your natural beauty, and telling a story. At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, I use lighting to create stunning, intimate, and flattering portraits that make you feel confident and empowered.

Whether it's the soft glow of natural light or the drama of moody shadows, lighting transforms every image into a piece of art. Let’s dive into the key lighting styles in boudoir photography and how they can shape the mood and feel of your session.

1. Natural Light: Soft, Dreamy, and Timeless

Natural light is a favorite in boudoir photography because of its softness and versatility. Sunlight streaming through large windows can create a dreamy, ethereal feel. This type of lighting works beautifully for Light and Airy styles, where the focus is on brightness, softness, and a romantic atmosphere.

Benefits of Natural Light:

• Creates a soft, flattering glow on the skin.
• Perfect for capturing a romantic and timeless feel.
• Ideal for lighter color palettes and airy setups.

Best For: Clients who love a soft, feminine, and bright aesthetic.

2. Studio Light: Precision and Control

With studio lighting, I have full control over the intensity, angle, and direction of light. This allows me to sculpt light around your body, highlight your best features, and create shadows where they’re most flattering.

Benefits of Studio Light:

• Precision control over lighting angles and intensity.
• Perfect for achieving Dark and Moody styles.
• Versatile enough for both soft and dramatic effects.

Best For: Clients who want a bold, cinematic look or a controlled lighting aesthetic.

3. Shadows and Contrast: Drama and Depth

Strategic use of shadows can create mystery, intimacy, and drama in your boudoir photos. Shadows highlight curves, create visual interest, and add an emotional layer to the images. This style often pairs beautifully with Dark and Moody themes.

Benefits of Shadow Play:

• Adds depth and richness to your photos.
• Highlights curves and natural body shapes.
• Creates an intimate, sultry atmosphere.

Best For: Clients who love bold, artistic portraits with a sense of mystery.

4. Backlighting: Romantic and Ethereal

Backlighting involves placing the light source behind you, creating a halo effect or a soft glow around your silhouette. This technique adds a sense of romance, elegance, and sometimes even a little mystery to your images.

Benefits of Backlighting:

• Creates dreamy and romantic silhouettes.
• Adds an ethereal glow to the subject.
• Enhances softness and intimacy in the photos.

Best For: Clients who love soft, glowing, and slightly mysterious portraits.

5. Window Light: Intimate and Natural

Using natural light from a window creates a gentle and authentic feel. The light wraps softly around your face and body, adding a natural glow without feeling overly staged. This is a popular choice for creating intimate, cozy images.

Benefits of Window Light:

• Creates a natural and organic atmosphere.
• Softens skin tones beautifully.
• Feels intimate and relaxed.

Best For: Clients who want images that feel cozy, warm, and effortlessly natural.

6. Silhouettes: Subtle and Suggestive

Silhouettes are an artful way to create intrigue while leaving some details to the imagination. This style uses strong backlighting or side lighting to outline your figure, creating dramatic and eye-catching shapes.

Benefits of Silhouettes:

• Highlights your body’s natural curves.
• Adds a sense of mystery and elegance.
• Creates timeless and artistic imagery.

Best For: Clients who love creative, subtle, and suggestive portraits.

Choosing the Right Lighting for Your Session

At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, we don’t believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach to lighting. Your session is tailored to match your personality, vision, and the story you want your images to tell.

Light and Airy Vibes:

• Soft natural light
• Bright and glowing aesthetics

Dark and Moody Vibes:

• Controlled studio lighting
• Deep shadows and rich contrasts

Mixed Lighting Styles:

Why choose just one? Many clients love to experiment with multiple lighting styles in a single session. We can start with soft, romantic light and transition into moody, dramatic shadows for a full range of stunning images.

The Magic Happens in the Details

Great lighting isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s about creating an experience. It’s about making you feel confident, comfortable, and beautiful in every shot. Every flicker of light, every shadow, and every angle is intentionally crafted to make you shine.

Are You Ready to Step into the Light?

At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, lighting is one of the tools I use to tell your unique story. Whether you dream of soft, glowing portraits or bold, sultry images, I’ll create the perfect lighting setup to bring your vision to life.

Ready to book your session? Let’s create magic together. Contact me today and let’s plan your dream boudoir experience! ✨

I recently completed a neon lighting mentoring session with another local photographer to learn more about shooting with neon lights for boudoir. I'm in love with the results and excited to shoot more neon sessions in the studio.

One of the biggest worries many women have before a boudoir shoot is, “What if I don’t know how to pose?” Rest assured, posing is not something you need to stress about! At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, I’ll guide you through every pose, every angle, and every little detail to make sure you look and feel absolutely stunning. That said, a little preparation can go a long way in helping you feel confident and relaxed. Here are my top tips for posing like a pro during your boudoir session.

1. Trust Your Photographer

First and foremost, trust me—I’ve got you covered! With over 18 years of experience and thousands of boudoir clients photographed, I know exactly how to position you for the most flattering angles and poses. From the tilt of your chin to the arch of your back, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Pro Tip: Relax and listen to the cues I provide. The more you trust the process, the more natural your poses will feel.

2. Pay Attention to Your Posture

Good posture is one of the easiest ways to elevate your photos. Straighten your spine, roll your shoulders back, and elongate your neck. This not only makes your body look more elegant but also adds a touch of confidence to your images.

Pro Tip: Think about creating space between your limbs and body. For example, slightly lift your chin, or keep your arms relaxed rather than pressed against your torso.

3. Arch Your Back (But Not Too Much!)

A gentle arch in your back can add shape and definition to your figure, especially when seated or lying down. Whether you're standing or reclining, a slight curve in your lower back creates beautiful lines.

Pro Tip: If it feels exaggerated, it’s probably perfect on camera!

4. Don’t Forget Your Hands

Hands can make or break a pose. Soft, relaxed hands look elegant and feminine, while stiff hands can look awkward. Let your fingers gently graze your face, neck, or thigh, or rest them softly on your hip or the bed.

Pro Tip: Imagine your hands are made of feathers—light and delicate.

5. Engage Your Core

Engaging your core helps maintain good posture and creates a more defined waistline in your photos. Even if you're lying down, a subtle core engagement keeps your body looking poised.

Pro Tip: Take a deep breath, pull your belly button slightly toward your spine, and exhale naturally. This keeps your body relaxed yet firm.

6. Facial Expressions Matter

Your face tells a story, so let it shine! Whether you're going for sultry, playful, or soft and romantic, facial expressions can make your photos come to life. Relax your mouth, soften your gaze, and let your personality shine through.

Pro Tip: A soft “almost smile” often looks incredibly natural and beautiful. Think of something that makes you happy—it shows in your eyes!

7. Move Slowly and With Purpose

Boudoir poses are all about subtlety. Small movements, like tilting your head slightly, shifting your hips, or turning your shoulders, can make a big impact. Don’t rush from one pose to the next—slow, fluid movements photograph beautifully.

Pro Tip: When in doubt, just breathe and let your body settle naturally into the pose.

8. Communicate Your Comfort Level

This is your session, and it’s important that you feel comfortable and confident. If a pose feels awkward or unnatural, let me know! I’m here to make sure you feel safe, relaxed, and empowered.

Pro Tip: Speak up if something doesn’t feel right. Open communication helps us create the best experience for you.

9. Play with Angles

Sometimes, a simple change in angle can completely transform a pose. Tilting your head, shifting your hips, or turning slightly to the side can create flattering shapes and add interest to your photos.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment. If it feels a little silly, it probably looks incredible on camera!

10. Most Importantly: Relax and Have Fun!

At the end of the day, your boudoir session is about you—celebrating your beauty, confidence, and strength. Take a deep breath, trust the process, and enjoy every moment. The more relaxed and comfortable you feel, the more natural and radiant your photos will be.

Pro Tip: Think of your session as a fun, empowering experience rather than something to “perform” for.

Final Thoughts

Boudoir photography isn’t about being a model—it’s about being you. Whether you’re nervous, excited, or somewhere in between, know that you’re in great hands at Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography. Every pose will be tailored to highlight your best features and tell your story.

Ready to step in front of the camera with confidence? Let’s capture stunning images you’ll treasure forever. Contact me today to book your boudoir session—you deserve this moment!

When it comes to boudoir photography, the style of your shoot sets the mood, tone, and overall vibe of your final images. At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, we specialize in two distinct styles: Dark and Moody and Light and Airy. Both styles are equally stunning, but each tells a unique story and captures a different essence of beauty and emotion. Let’s dive into the details of each style to help you decide which one feels most you—or maybe you’ll discover you want a mix of both!

Dark and Moody: The Art of Drama and Intimacy

The Dark and Moody style is all about depth, rich tones, and a touch of mystery. This style often incorporates shadows, contrast, and moody lighting to create sultry, cinematic portraits. Think velvet textures, dim lighting, and an intimate vibe that feels like a scene from a timeless romance film.

Who is this style for?

• You love dramatic, bold aesthetics.
• You want your images to feel intimate, mysterious, and emotionally charged.
• You prefer deep colors, moody backdrops, and strong contrasts in your photos.
• You’re drawn to a sophisticated, sensual vibe.

Outfit Ideas for Dark and Moody

• Black lace lingerie or bodysuits.
• Deep jewel tones like emerald, burgundy, or navy.
• Silky robes or sheer fabrics.

Why Clients Love It

The Dark and Moody style creates images that feel timeless, romantic, and powerful. It’s perfect for women who want to channel their inner goddess and embrace their bold, unapologetic sensuality.

Light and Airy: The Glow of Elegance and Softness

The Light and Airy style is soft, romantic, and dreamy. It features bright, natural light, neutral color palettes, and an ethereal glow that feels effortlessly beautiful. These photos have an airy, delicate vibe that captures femininity in its purest form.

Who is this style for?

• You love soft, bright, and natural aesthetics.
• You want your photos to feel fresh, romantic, and timeless.
• You’re drawn to soft colors, flowing fabrics, and natural light.
• You want a more delicate, playful vibe.

Outfit Ideas for Light and Airy

• Soft pastel or neutral lingerie sets.
• Flowy robes with lace details.
• Oversized white button-down shirts or cozy knit sweaters.

Why Clients Love It

The Light and Airy style feels effortlessly beautiful and refined. It’s perfect for women who want their photos to capture a softer, more delicate side of their personality while still feeling confident and radiant.

Why Choose Just One? You Don’t Have To!

At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, you don’t have to limit yourself to just one style. Many clients love starting their session with Light and Airy photos for a soft, romantic feel and then transitioning into a Dark and Moody vibe for a sultrier finish. The beauty of boudoir photography is that it’s all about you—your style, your story, and your vision.

How to Decide Between Styles

1. Think about your personality. Are you bold and dramatic, soft and romantic, or a mix of both?
2. Consider the purpose of your photos. Are they a gift for a partner, a personal confidence boost, or a celebration of a milestone?
3. Trust your instincts. Which style excites you the most when you imagine yourself in front of the camera?

Let’s Create Your Perfect Boudoir Experience

Whether you’re drawn to the mystery of Dark and Moody or the softness of Light and Airy, at Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life. You deserve photos that reflect your unique beauty and personality, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Are you ready to book your dream session? Whether it’s one style or both, let’s capture images you’ll treasure forever. Contact us today to reserve your spot and start planning your unforgettable boudoir experience.