5 Fun Boudoir Photography Poses My Clients Love | Brooklyn Boudoir Studio

As a boudoir photographer, I have worked with countless women of all ages and body types. One of the things that never ceases to amaze me is how empowering boudoir photography can be. It's a way to celebrate your body and your femininity, to feel confident and beautiful, and to capture that feeling forever in photographs. One of the questions I get asked most frequently is about poses - what are the most flattering, what are the most popular, and what are the most fun? So, today I'm going to share with you five fun boudoir photography poses that my clients love.

The Floor Pose

Our floors at Brooklyn Boudoir are kind of famous. In fact, along with the floor to ceiling windows they were what drew me to the studio in the first place. It’s no wonder that the "Floor Pose" is my #1 most request pose from my clients. It’s versatile and one of the most universally flattering boudoir photography poses. And while it isn’t comfortable to be laying on a hard, cold, polished-concrete floor, there is a LOT of variety we can get get here, resulting in about 10 unique shots. All of these reasons add up to the floor pose being an absolute must-try pose for any client looking for edgy and captivating shots that highlight their curves and beauty.

One of the reasons why this pose is so popular is the sheer number of angles you can capture. Everyone looks good stretched out on the floor, and there are tons of angles you can capture - from the front, side, back, and even from above. Moreover, the reflective nature of the concrete floors creates a unique and edgy look that's sure to turn heads.

Even if you have movement limitations, this pose is still doable. You can bend one of your legs, stretch out, or lie on your side to create different looks and angles. It's a versatile pose that works well for all body types.

However, I must warn you that this pose can be uncomfortable, especially if you're lying directly on the hard, cold floor. But, trust me, it's worth it! The results are always stunning, and the discomfort is temporary. Plus, as a photographer, I will do everything in my power to make you feel as comfortable as possible during the shoot.

Sitting Cross-legged

The "CrissCross Applesauce" pose is a perfect choice for those clients who are looking for a pose that's both comfortable and easy to execute. Many clients feel nervous when they're asked to pose in their lingerie, but this pose can help ease those nerves. It's a familiar position that we sit in every day, which can make the client feel more at ease during the shoot.

It's natural to feel self-conscious during a boudoir photoshoot, but it's important to remember that the camera sees things differently than we do. This pose can show as much or as little as you want it to. As a photographer, I have a trained eye to capture the best angles and lighting, which can enhance your beauty and make you look your best. So, even if you're feeling a bit nervous or self-conscious, trust me when I say that you look amazing.

Laying on Your Tummy

Laying on your tummy is an excellent pose to start with if you're feeling a bit hesitant or self-conscious. It can be a bit more comfortable since you're not as exposed, making it a perfect way to ease into the session. However, don't let the less revealing nature of this pose fool you - it's still incredibly versatile and can capture a wide range of moods. From a sultry, come-hither expression to a playful, flirty smile, laying on your tummy can showcase your personality while still maintaining your comfort level.

What's more, this pose is an excellent opportunity to play with your hair, whether you choose to let it cascade down your back or pull it up in a messy bun. As a boudoir photographer, I love capturing shots where my clients interact with their hair, adding a playful or seductive touch to the final images.

Arms Above the Head

This pose offers versatility in terms of style. You can make it look more pinup-like or more natural, depending on how you position yourself. If you touch your hair, it can create a natural look. And if you raise your arms up it will lift your breasts, which works well for both larger and smaller busts.

Additionally, there are plenty of ways to vary the composition of the shot by focusing on different parts of your body. For example, you can frame your eyes with your arms, emphasize the curve of your waist, showcase your curves by positioning your body to highlight your booty and side body, or play with your hair and back. You can also incorporate your hands into the pose to add a graceful element to the shot.

Legs Up on the Bed

Although this pose may not be the easiest to get into, once you're in it, it's a breeze. It may take some time to find the perfect angle, but it's totally worth it. One of the best things about this pose is that it can highlight your legs or statement shoes, which is perfect for those who love to show off their footwear collection. It elongates your legs, which can make them appear slimmer and longer, creating a stunning look that will leave you feeling confident.

Apart from the legs, this pose can also capture artistic, anonymous shots that still show off your body head to toe. It allows you to play with angles, creating a unique and captivating composition.

In conclusion, these are just five of the many boudoir photography poses that my clients love. The key to a great boudoir session is to trust your photographer and to have fun - after all, this is a celebration of you and your body. So don't be afraid to try new things and to embrace your femininity. And if you're still feeling a little nervous, just remember - what the camera sees is totally different than what you are seeing. You are beautiful, and you deserve to feel confident and empowered.

5 Must-Have Bodysuits for Stunning Photoshoots

Get ready to amp up your style game and make a bold statement during your next boudoir photoshoot. I'm talking about the power of bodysuits. It’s no secret I am a huge fan of bodysuits - I recommend them to nearly every client I have. These versatile and oh-so-flattering garments are a must-have in any fashion-forward wardrobe. Today, I'm thrilled to share with you five fabulous bodysuit options that will take your shoot to the next level. From luxurious designs to comfortable classics, we've got you covered. So, let's dive right in!

Thistle and Spire: It's All About Seduction

Model Samantha Rose wears Thistle and Spire’s Cornelia Bodysuit, purchased at Sugar Cookies Lingerie

Let's start with Thistle and Spire, a brand that effortlessly combines sensuality and sophistication. When it comes to bodysuits, Thistle and Spire knows how to create pieces that make you feel like an absolute goddess. With intricate lace details, sumptuous fabrics, and flattering silhouettes, their bodysuits are a true work of art. When I slipped into one of their designs, I instantly felt a surge of confidence and empowerment. It's amazing how a single garment can transform your entire mood. Thistle and Spire bodysuits are not only visually stunning but also incredibly comfortable to wear. The attention to detail is evident in every stitch, ensuring a perfect fit that accentuates your curves in all the right places.

You'll be delighted to know that these gorgeous bodysuits are available at Sugar Cookies Lingerie. They understand the importance of offering high-quality and exquisite lingerie to their customers. By curating an impressive collection of Thistle and Spire bodysuits, they provide an opportunity for fashion enthusiasts to experience the magic of this exceptional brand.

Commando: Softness Meets Luxury

When it comes to bodysuits, sometimes less is more, and that's where Commando excels. Their bodysuits are the epitome of comfort and elegance. When you wear a Commando bodysuit, you feel enveloped in a cocoon of softness that feels absolutely luxurious against your skin - it’s pretty much all I want to wear. The fabric they use is incredibly soft, and it feels like a second skin. It's one of those garments that you never want to take off. But what truly sets Commando bodysuits apart is the attention they give to different necklines. They offer a variety of options, from classic scoop necks to plunging V-necks, allowing you to find the perfect neckline to complement your shoot's aesthetic. This attention to detail ensures that you not only look fabulous but also feel your best during your boudoir shoot.

Skims: Shape Your Way to Perfection

If you're looking for a bodysuit that doubles as shapewear, Skims has got you covered. Cofounded by the iconic Kim Kardashian, Skims bodysuits are designed to enhance your curves and accentuate your best features. The moment you put on a Skims bodysuit, you instantly feel a boost of confidence as it hugs and contours your body in all the right places. The secret lies in the thoughtfully designed shaping technology that smoothens and sculpts, giving you a flawless silhouette.

But what's even more impressive about Skims is their commitment to inclusivity. They offer a wide range of sizes and shades to cater to all body types and skin tones. It's truly empowering to see a brand that celebrates diversity and ensures that every individual feels represented and beautiful. Skims bodysuits not only provide shaping and support but also act as a stylish foundation for your entire outfit.

Wolford: Luxe All the Way

Prepare yourself for the epitome of luxury with Wolford bodysuits. This prestigious brand knows how to create bodysuits that exude sophistication and style. The moment I laid eyes on a Wolford bodysuit, I was captivated by the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. The lines on their designs are impeccable, creating a visually striking silhouette that enhances your natural curves. It's the kind of bodysuit that makes you feel like a true fashion icon.

And here's the exciting part: Wolford bodysuits are currently on sale at Sugar Cookies! Yes, you read that right. Now is the perfect time to indulge in the luxurious world of Wolford and own a piece from this renowned brand. Trust me, when you slip into one of these luxurious creations, you'll feel like you're walking the runway of your own shoot, radiating confidence and style.

Maison Close: Temptation at Its Finest

Last but certainly not least, let's talk about Maison Close. This brand invites you to explore the captivating realm of temptation with their thong bodysuits. Maison Close embraces delicate fabrics, intricate designs, and an alluring aesthetic that embodies seduction and confidence. Maison Close understands that true beauty lies in the details. Their designs feature intricate lacework, strategic cutouts, and tantalizing silhouettes that leave a lasting impression. The craftsmanship and attention to detail are simply exceptional.

To explore the captivating world of Maison Close and find the perfect thong bodysuit that resonates with your unique style, head over to Sugar Cookies Lingerie website.

Bonus: Go for the Unexpected with a One-Piece Bathing Suit

If you're feeling adventurous and want to add a unique twist to your shoot, why not consider a one-piece bathing suit? These beauties can be surprisingly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different textures, patterns, and silhouettes. Whether you choose a vibrant tropical print, a sleek and sophisticated black design, or a retro-inspired polka dot number, a one-piece bathing suit will definitely make a statement. Pair it with a flowy cover-up, a wide-brimmed hat, and some statement accessories, and you'll have a jaw-dropping ensemble that showcases your confidence and individuality. Don't be afraid to break the mold and embrace the unexpected. Your one-piece bathing suit might just steal the show and make your shoot a true masterpiece.

In conclusion, choosing the right bodysuit for your photoshoot is crucial to create stunning and impactful images. Whether you opt for the seductive elegance of Thistle and Spire, the luxurious comfort of Commando, the shaping power of Skims, the timeless beauty of Wolford, or the tempting allure of Maison Close, these bodysuit options will undoubtedly make you shine like a star. So, go ahead and rock that shoot with confidence, and let your bodysuit be the ultimate expression of your personal style. Happy posing!

Wardrobe Ideas for your Boudoir Shoot: The White Shirt

Boudoir outfit inspiration

Your upcoming photoshoot is a big deal, so naturally the outfits you choose are important to plan carefully. After you book with me, I will send you a very comprehensive prep guide to help plan your looks. But in the meantime, I am starting this series of ideas for you to wearing during your boudoir session. Starting with …

The White Button Down Shirt

Ahh, the white shirt. Classic, classy, sexy, and already in your closet! There are so many ways to style a white shirt, and it’s always in style. Plus it looks good on EVERYONE, so naturally it’s one of my favorite pieces to photograph.

What style of white shirt should you choose?

I always recommend you choose a white button down without patterns, logos or details that could date the photo or be distracting. I personally love a shirt that it’s a little large (not too huge on you) and more summer weight - in other words, not too thick. A little sheerness is oh so sexy and a lighter material will move well when you do. I have a version of this kind of shirt in the studio if you don’t have one that you love.

Should I wear by partner’s shirt?

It’s always so fun to sneak your partner’s shirt out of the closet - so many of my clients do this and it always gives their partner a fun surprise. I would just call out that you don’t want the shirt to be TOO big on you-we still want to see you underneath it!

How should you wear a white shirt in your boudoir photoshoot?

There are SO MANY ways to wear the classic white shirt:

• Wear it over lingerie, choosing how many buttons are closed to tailor the level of “edge” to your comfort zone.

• Wear it completely undone, draped off the shoulder. My clients always love a “taking the shirt off” pose. Bonus if the shirt is a little sheer so we can get a peek of your silhouette underneath.

• Wear it totally buttoned up with no pants

• Wear it frumpy and wrinkled for a “just woke up like this” flavor

• Hike it up to catch a glimpse of booty.

• Styled with “his” accessories for a masculine-sexy feel

• Tied up to show a little extra abs and give a ore fashion-forward feel.

Remember, you can be as revealing as you want to be during your boudoir shoot - from totally NSFW to completely covered up - and a crisp white button down gives you the flexibility to do just that. It also gives us tons of options for posing, gives you something productive to do with your hands, and is a classy, classy look that will never go out of style.

Need more Boudoir wardrobe inspiration? Keep checking out my blog posts for more!

xoxo,

Stephanie

Everyone is Nervous at First | Brooklyn Boudoir Photography | Client Spotlight

This gem....THIS gem of a woman! We had been in "talks" about a boudoir experience for some time. Eventually, Ms. S pulled the trigger before her wedding as a gift to her new husband and herself. She had such a cool demeanor about her and a great attitude despite her nerves. in fact, even though she told me several times that she was nervous, you never would have known it once she walked through the doors of the shoot.

Said Ms. S:

I had a very smooth, positive, fun experience and I'm very glad I decided to book this. While I was super nervous to do it I felt very mentally prepared the day of.

This comment made me chuckle because 100% of my clients are nervous about their boudoir experience in the days leading up to it. Of course you are! You are about to have your photo taken, which many people already feel uncomfortable doing, much less in your underwear! But trust me when I say, we’ve got you covered! My hair and makeup artists are great about putting you at ease — you get to sit, relax and get pampered by a professional for an hour which will definitely start to settle your nerves. And then I take over. And I REALLY take over. There isn't much of a chance for you to feel unsure about what you're doing because I tell you EXACTLY what I want you to do. And I show you. All you really have to do is be there with me, and follow along! 

Also, I help you prepare, in all the ways you will need, mentally and otherwise! We can chat on the phone or Skype before your session to get to know each other better. I send you prep guide with tips on skin care, wardrobe, dos & don’t, how to cultivate sensuality in phones (and in life!) … whatever you want to talk about before hand, I am there for you and will guide you before, during and after your shoot in getting the best images for YOU.

And about those nerves: within the first 10 clicks of my shutter, I witness my clients transition from deer in headlights to a state of relief, and soon after, to a woman who is having SO much fun and is SO at ease that she forgets that she's not wearing much. Truly - no exaggeration!  We talk, we laugh, you might wonder how I am getting anything that looks sexy because the experience really isn’t a “sexy” one. It’s much more like 2 girlfriends handing out/a therapy session than anything else.

I don’t mean to be flip about this. I know that you probably have a hard time standing in front of the mirror naked and REALLY taking a good look at yourself. I know that you cringe every time you lean forward and see what gravity does to your boobs and belly. I know that, because I experience it myself. And I know that most of my clients do as well. We're women, and unfortunately that's pretty typical for us. 

Know that I take all of this into consideration. Even if I don't see the flaws on your body that you do, I know that insecurities exist. I don't write them off as my client just being "blinded by insecurities." 

But here’s the thing: I am REALLY good at making people feel comfortable. Really comfortable. Like "oh, I forgot I was in my birthday suit" comfortable.  Second to that, I understand women's bodies and their insecurities. I know how to pose women of all shapes and sizes. I know how to use light strategically to make you look your absolute best. 

Also know that I'm not a stranger. From the second you send me that first e-mail that starts with "I can't believe I'm finally emailing you about this....", we are friends. I care about you, I take my job as your photographer very seriously and I will want to stay in touch with you long after I’ve delivered your album. I can’t help it. I love my clients, take interest in them, and that doesn’t just disappear after your shoot.

So, thank you to Miss S for being a firecracker during her photo session, for overcoming her nerves, for delighting me with stories of her wedding & wedding gift and for allowing me to share her photos. And also for telling me there was a “Hamilton” app which lets you enter the lottery by cell phone - genius!! (What can I say, the musical theatre geek in me will never die).

xoxo, Stephanie

Nervous to reach out? Let’s chat and let me put your mind at ease.

How to Shop for Lingerie | Tips for your Boudoir Shoot | New York City Boudoir Photographer

So excited for my purchases!

I was transitioning my closet from spring to summer recently when I noticed that all of my “lingerie” (and I use that word in quotes) were, well, tired.  No scratch that, they were beyond  tired, they were exausted, old, torn up, stained basically in an unacceptable starte for any grown woman.  How long had I had these pieces?  Honestly I don’t remember but suffice it to say it was before I had a baby and everything about them was wrong. My body is different post-baby and my underwear hadn’t gotten the memo.   But where to start when looking for a total lingerie refresh?? I knew I needed help!

Enter lingerie blogger Melissa AKA The Lace Appeal.  I photographed her this past winter and I knew she was the perfect person to ask about rejuvinating my lingerie wardrobe.  If you haven’t checked out Melissa’s site or insta yet, do yourself a favor and do so.  It’s a blog dedicated to all things lingerie, specifically helping women find products that make them feel beautiful.   She’s got amazing recs on boutiques all around the country (east coast, west coast and everything in between), lingerie & activewear reviews, on top of being completely real and relatable.  Her blog is full of fun reads and no topic is taboo - from period boobs to briefs that won’t give you a wedgie, she’s not afraid to talk about it all.  In her words, The Lingerie Appeal is a place for women to explore topics of their bodies freely, sans judgment.   Basically, she’s got the point of view on lingerie as I do on boudoir photography!  I was thrilled that she agreed to take me shopping. 

We met at Sugar Cookies - an amazing ligeerie boutique in Chelsea, which just celebrated it’s 10th birthday this past weekend!  I must admit I was nervous!  I, like so many other women, had never been properly fitted for a bra, and I am (as I’ve written about before) essentially flat chested.  The store is filled with tons of beautiful lingerie options, but would they have anything that fit me?  

Beautiful Sugar Cookies Lingerie Boutique

The amazing Monica took my measurments and brought me pieces to try on.   This was KEY.  She was endlessly patient and had a sixth sense about what would work for me.  We tried on a LOT of different options and through good old fashioned trial and error I ended up getting a completely new lingerie wardrobe.  Here are some tips I picked up between Monica and Melissa:

Get fitted by an expert

Monica helping me select the perfect piece of lingerie

Melissa told me that a shocking 80% of women were wearing the wrong size lingerie!  This seems insane given that most of us wear bras every single day (side note, I’m noticing more and more young women going sans bra these days… but that’s a blog post for another day…)  Many women are surprised to learn what their actual bra size is.  There’s no need to guess or to awkwardly try to manuever a measuring tape around yourself — take it to an expert.

Don’t get bogged down by the sizing.  

Once you do get messured, give yourself some sway in either direction.  Just like with clothing brands, different lingerie brands fit differently.  I was a a 32A in most brands but a 34B in bras from The Little Bra company.  I never would have treid on a B cup bra in the past, but the thing is, you never know unless you try.  The key is to keep an open mind.  Another trick I learned was to aim for a bra that fastens on the loosest hooks, that way as the bra stretches out over time, you’ll have the tighter hooks to compensate for the stretch. 

And speaking of “ I never would have,” don’t limit yourself based on preconceived notions!  

That’s actually good advise for life in general isn’t?  But when it comes to bras, I never would have tried on an unstructed, unlined piece, becuase, well, I feel as if I need some extra oomph.  but when I tried on the Lise Charmel Splendeur Soie No Wire Bra, a silly smile came over my face.  I just felt fantastic and sexy and THAT is what good lingerie is all about.  So try it all on and choose what makes you feel GREAT - you’ll know it when you find it.  

Bring outfit pieces with you.  

If you’re looking for lingerie to go with a specific outfit, it’s a good idea to bring those pieces with you when you go shopping. This way you can match colors and textures together, and see how certain combinations look. Show your outfit or accessories to a store clerk to give them inspiration. They will know the store’s product lines and may be able to help you find the perfect piece to pair with your outfit.  If you’re looking for an every day bra like I was, bring a smooth tight tee shirt or whatever type of top you normally wear to be sure the bra works with it. 

When you find a brand you like stick with it.

I have a hunch that I am the ideal client of “The Little Bra Company,” so I know I can probably count on them for bras and other pieces alike.

Ladies, lingerie is all about confidence.  Try to go when you’re feeling good about yourself, eat a little something to keep your blood sugar up, and give yourself time to sift through the options. If you’re having a hard time, try to remind yourself that we are always our toughest critic. Your partner will think you look amazing no matter what you choose so be sure to be true to yourself and get pieces that give you swagger.   You’ll be really happy you did.

Look at the big goofy smile on my face — I am one happy customer!

Here are all the pieces I picked up at Sugar cookies (from top to bottom):

The Little Bra Company Lucia Push Up Bra in black and nude, with matching thongs

Cosabella thong

Lise Charmel Splendeur Soie No Wire Bra

The Little Bra Company Sascha Smooth bra in nude

BlueBella Carmen Basque - just for fun, and because the lace couldn’t be more beautiful.

And a bonus My Bra Kitty, which Melissa turned me on to — the perfect way to pack your bras without them getting squished & misshaped.  

How sexy is that Faux Croc?

Have any other questions i can help answer? What tips do you have for lingerie Shopping? Share them below!

xoxo, Stephanie