Boudoir Photography vs Intimate Portraiture: What's the Difference???
Boudoir Photographer orrrr?
So I am naturally lumped into the Boudoir photography category because I’m not sure there’s really another widely known category that I fall into (fine art nude? portraiture?). But of course, I’d say there are some notable differences between my work (that I’ve affectionately named Intimate Portraiture) and the more straightforward Boudoir Photography. There are also some pretty clear similarities so I figured it was a good opportunity to get to expand a little on the differences and similarities of boudoir photography and intimate portraiture.
First, I’ll outline a few differences (of course there’s always exceptions to the rule, this is just a loose collection of thoughts).
Intimate portraiture
Pulls inspiration from the editorial and fine art nude world. It is more studio focused and often uses artificial lighting to create a mood and sculpt the body.
Wardrobe is simple, effortless, “casual sexy”
The editing process is a bit more extensive than with boudoir photography, so while I provide the gallery to my clients the same day, their final images have a longer turnaround time.
Boudoir photography
Is mostly natural light and in an atmosphere that feels a bit more “lifestyle” in nature.
Wardrobe is usually more ornate, lacey and “overtly sexy”
Same day turnaround
Similarities
First the biggest one– both intimate portraiture and boudoir photography are an absolute empowering experience. Whether a woman sets out to do a boudoir photoshoot for her husband/partner as her motivation for booking the shoot, it is clear that the real gift was to herself all along. That is identical to how my clients feel after an intimate portraiture session as well. All of my clients leave empowered with a new sense of self.
Second, well this one is obvious. We both shoot various forms of undress/nudity. The tactics, lighting, even atmosphere may be different but you better believe you’ll be almost nude (or fully nude) in both experiences. We all love the body in all its shapes, forms and sizes and squeal inside (and outside) when you start feelin’ yourself!
Third, we all generally encourage our clients to print their images in beautiful heirloom albums. I think it is just the most beautiful way to display such an intimate and vulnerable collection of images of yourself and usually all boudoir photographers feel the same.
In both cases it’s a full experience. Hair and makeup, wardrobe, the photoshoot, the album. From start to finish, you’re a queen for a day and you get more than just images out of it– you get a whole once in a lifetime experience (or maybe not just ONCE since I’ve had many clients come back again and again!).
What it comes down to at the end of the day is you and your overall style. Most of my clients come to me because they share the same love of subtlety as I do. If you’re drawn to a less obvious approach to sexuality, it’s usually me you’ll be contacting.
If you are drawn to more traditional boudoir, you’re better off seeing some of my friends.
Katie at KB Boudoir. www.kbboudoir.com
Brianne at Satin Dauls Boudoir. www.satindaulsboudoir.com
Firas at Boudoir by FJ. www.boudoirbyfj.com
Let me know your thoughts in the comments!