What Does Boudoir Mean?

Boudoir in French means a woman’s bedroom or a dressing room.

Boudoir photo sessions, meanwhile, are about expressing yourself in a bold, new way. They encompass a much broader subject.

Doing boudoir is a big step that many women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s are embracing.

The focus of boudoir photos is not nudity but self-expression. Our goal is to help you show your strength and confidence so that you remember who you are.

At Ella Gagiano Studios, our mission is to empower you.

About Our Boudoir Photo Experiences

Ella’s boudoir photo experiences combine the main features of glamour, portrait, and art photography.

We do much more than simply help you find the right pose; we create moments that cause you to fall in love with yourself all over again.

Our expert use of lighting and setting is there to accentuate your beautiful features.

What Are Boudoir Photos Used For?

Self-expression is our #1 priority. Every woman wants to feel strong, bold, and beautiful.

The truth is, you are these things and much more.

That makes our job clear. We are here to show your inherent qualities to the world.

Beyond this, your boudoir experience could be the perfect gift for your partner, or you could use it as a memento of a very important time in your life.

How Long Does A Boudoir Photo Session Take?

Your average boudoir photo session will last 1-3 hours, depending on what studio you work with and the experience of the photographer.

If you work with us, we never try to rush you through your session and create different time slots for different needs.

Do You Offer Pregnant Boudoir Photo Sessions?

We certainly do!

Our maternity boudoir sessions focus on showing off your pregnancy glow and spotlighting that special WOW factor.

We also use these experiences to help you express your vulnerability and tell a story about your journey of motherhood, your emotions, and even the challenges you’ve faced along the way.

Vulnerability and Self-Expression

Maternity photos are a big step, but they are so worth it.

So many of our clients feel a sense of being understood, especially once they are able to express their journey in such a meaningful way.

To learn more about how we handle your maternity session, visit our Contact page.

The Best Time for A Pregnancy Boudoir Session

The best time is around the 7th month.

Of course, this is all very individual and depends on how your pregnancy is progressing.

Sometimes mothers who are this far along suffer from shortness of breath, lower back pain, and other concerns.

If you’re inspired to do a maternity session with us, keep us updated about how you feel so that we can gauge the exact best time to take your photos.

What To Wear During Your Boudoir Photo Session

Popular clothing items for your boudoir session are as follows:

• Light lace lingerie
• Light dressing gown (négligée)
• A see-through bride’s dress
• Maternity boudoir dress
• White t-shirt
• An oversized sweater
• Something stunning – Your favorite jeans, seductive shorts, a miniskirt, or underwear
• Something masculine – Your favorite sweater, tie, sports equipment, or uniform
• Wedding items – Jewelry, garter, and/or wedding veil
• Fantasy items – Mermaid costume, secretary, nurse, etc.
• Additional items –  Shoes, panties, or stockings

Cute Boudoir Accessories

Some of our favorite boudoir accessory add-ons include bracelets, earrings, faux furs, and laurels.

Of course, accessories are just the icing on the cake. The real focus is on you and your natural beauty.

What About Shoes?

We suggest wearing stilettos.

Got Other Ideas For Your Boudoir Outfit?

We’d love to hear your ideas for boudoir outfits!

If you want to wear something not listed above or go fully nude, these are certainly viable options. Send us a message and tell us your thoughts.

We can also supply props of different kinds. Just add some details about the props you’d like to use.

Poses During Your Boudoir Photo Session

There are plenty of rules when it comes to striking the right pose, but we don’t want to bog you down with a million extraneous details.

The biggest thing you want to remember is to relax and be creative while we give you pointers during your experience to maximize your artistic expression.

The job of a master photographer is to help you show off your intriguing and irresistible side, which sometimes means experimenting with different poses that your partner will absolutely adore.

Using Props During A Boudoir Photoshoot

You only need a few props for boudoir photography.

In fact, the fewer items you have in the frame, the better the result since many props detract from the subject.

To enhance your image, you only need a few basic things, such as a chair, couch, sheets, a veil, a tasteful rug, and curtains.

Other objects like wine glasses and books also work well when appropriate.

We always choose props that fit your personality.

Some Specific Poses For Your Boudoir Photo Session

Although we stand by what we said (we don’t want to bog you down with too many technical details on this post), here are some tips you may find helpful when searching for the right pose.

Body Position

When lying down, try turning your head to one side and either lifting your arms to your sides or raising an arm above your head to embody a feeling of openness and vulnerability.

For standing shots, try bending one knee slightly forward and cupping your breast nearest to the camera in a position of strength and empowerment.

Bending your leg forward is a power pose that represents confidence and helps create an elegant angle for your leg.

Other poses include but are not limited to:

• The tease. This is where you lie on your stomach with your back slightly arched and your hips elevated.
• The inverted poise. This is where your body is turned away from the camera while you look over your shoulder.

To learn more about the poses we suggest, call us anytime and ask for details!

About Ella Gagiano Studios

Our passion at Ella Gagiano Studios is celebrating your best moments and bringing them to life with an exceptional level of quality.

Our goal is to bring your photos to life and help you present your best self.

Personalized Experiences

We offer a range of different photography styles and excel at creating bold, sensual, and elegant experiences personally tailored to you.

Our clients tell us frequently how empowered and thrilled they are to be able to branch out on a limb and try something so exciting.

However, before you decide to work with us, it is important to know some basics about who we are and what to expect during your session. This is the purpose of this post. We hope you’ve found it helpful.

Owner

Our studio was started by Ella Gagiano, who doubles as the photographer and owner. Nothing runs, however, without the help of our amazing Studio Manager Sammy.

Together, we operate a high-level studio that specializes in client experience, dramatic storytelling, and flash photography.

Now that you’re here, the next step is to schedule a free, no-pressure consultation with Sammy to see if we are the right fit for you.

Florida Location

We’ve recently moved from Las Vegas, where we operated for 10 years, to Florida.

If you have any questions and want to learn more about what we offer, especially as it pertains to your boudoir photo session, contact us today at 702-340-5505 or email us at info@ellagagianostudios.com.

PS We have substantial experience traveling to various countries and doing photo shoots for destination weddings. Inquire for details.

Further Reading: Boudoir Photography FAQs

1. Can You Tell Me More About Why People Take Boudoir Photos?

Boudoir sessions are empowering and reveal your strength, creativity, and self-confidence.

A big motivation is to express what you’re feeling during an important time in your life, such as before you get married, during pregnancy, or after a career change.

Boudoir photos are revealing, vulnerable, and brave. They are a learning experience for women who have never tried to show skin on camera before.

2. Can You Tell Me More About The Atmosphere At Your Studio?

Absolutely! We are very friendly and inviting and work hard to make you feel comfortable!

To get the most from your experience, confidence is key, which is why we encourage you and guide you through the correct poses every step of the way.

Fun and Playful Environment

Our photo sessions are designed to be fun and playful so that we can help bring out your genuine self.

There are many reasons why people take boudoir photos. Sometimes it’s just about trying something new and being experimental.

We certainly encourage you to call us if you have questions about boudoir photography, what it entails, our prices, scheduling, and more.

One Final Note On Our Atmosphere – Going With The Flow

Our boudoir sessions are relaxed and flexible.

Although we certainly follow a defined structure, we don’t have a rigid one. Our sessions are more about synching with your rhythm and vibe.

You might consider turning on some music or even drinking champagne to help you relax.

You can also rehearse your poses in advance with us to give you more confidence. Nothing is rushed.

We like to think of boudoir photography as a type of artistry. After all, boudoir photos are a celebration of human expression.

3. Will My Boudoir Photo Session Really Last 3 Hours?

Our photoshoots usually take around 2 hours, partly because we spend time doing your hair and makeup.

We also take some time to set up any props you may want, arrange accessories, clarify what kind of poses you are comfortable with, and go over other details.

4. Should I Get My Nails Done For A Boudoir Shoot?

It certainly can’t hurt!

While boudoir photography focuses mainly on your physique and your lingerie, every detail you can add to express yourself will only enhance your photos.

5. Should I Wax Before Boudoir?

You certainly can. You’ll just want to make sure you don’t wax three to four days before your session.

The reason why is that waxing your hair can agitate your skin and cause it to become bumpy and red.

You’ll want to wax or shave far enough ahead of time so that your skin will have its regular appearance during your experience!

6. Do You Wear Shoes To A Boudoir Photo Session?

You can, but it’s not necessary.

If you’d like to wear shoes, stylish heels are a good option, and we can certainly recommend some brands and styles that work great for boudoir.

Going barefoot or wearing socks are also perfectly viable options.

7. How Many Outfits Do I Need For Boudoir Photos?

Your number of outfits depends on how many photos you want and what range of concepts you’d like to explore.

Our photo shoots can accommodate more than one look if you’d like to schedule a longer session.

Generally, one look will take us half an hour to photograph, after which you can change if you’d like to explore something else.

8. What Should I Eat Before Doing Boudoir?

Our recommendation is to bring healthy snacks that give you energy and aren’t too heavy on the stomach.

You will also want to avoid anything that’s sticky.

Good choices for snacks include mixed nuts, an apple, bananas, and crackers.

9. What Should You Not Do Before A Photoshoot?

The main things you’ll want to avoid are:

Spray tanning, staying up all night and coming to the session tired, eating messy food during your experience, and waxing or shaving too soon before you show up.

10. Who Will Be Taking My Photos?

Yours truly, Ella Gagiano.

There is also a good chance you’ll see Sammy too, so you’re most likely going to be interacting with more than one person during your session.

11. Do You Retouch My Boudoir Photos?

This is a fair question.

Retouches can alter your photo greatly, depending of course on how much you decide to change.

Light retouches are usually preferred since we want to make the most of your natural look. But how much we retouch your photos is ultimately up to you.

Call us, and we can have a conversation about this.

12. Can A Friend Come To My Boudoir Photo Session?

If you feel comfortable, then they certainly can. Just remember, boudoir photo shoots are an intimate experience.

So, if you think you’ll be nervous having other people watch you taking intimate photos, you’ll want to come alone.

As for your significant other, there is a greater chance that you’ll feel comfortable with having them around than having a friend.

But:

You might be taking boudoir photos as a surprise gift for your SO, in which case you would still want to come to the session alone.

13 Should My Partner Come To My Boudoir Photo Session?

They are more than welcome to come! It’s up to you.

14. Do You Take Photos The Same Way For Everyone?

No, we work hard to add variety and spice to all our client photos.

While we certainly follow certain rules and best industry practices, we don’t do things the exact same way for all our clients….Unless our clients want us to copy the style of our past work.

15. Why Wouldn’t A Man Take Boudoir Photos?

Apparently, this question is going around.

The truth is that men, in fact, do take boudoir photos, especially when it comes to couple’s boudoir.

Many poses suitable for women, however, need to be altered for men.

As such, male boudoir photography is unique and comes with its own challenges.

Are you curious to know how to do a male boudoir photo shoot correctly?

If so, our main tips are (1) figure out why you want to take masculine boudoir photos.

Maybe you want to show off your new physique after achieving a fitness goal. Or maybe you want to express your desire and passion for your lucky lady or man.

(2) Visualize your preferred look. Men who are new to boudoir might not be familiar with baring their skin on camera, so work with your photographer to figure out what kind of clothes make you feel comfortable wearing or not wearing.

You can wear an unbuttoned shirt or tank top with jeans. You can also get creative with your attire – wrap yourself in a towel or a sheet or wear a kitchen apron.

By the way, remember the outfits you often see in men’s calendars!

If you dress up as a fireman or police officer, it can make for a very interesting experience. Roleplay is valid and a form of expression.

The Future of Men’s Boudoir Photography

Men’s boudoir photography is becoming more and more popular.

We anticipate it will continue to spread as more men try it out!

16. How Do I Find the Right Boudoir Photographer?

The main thing is to do your “homework” before you hire someone for boudoir photos.

It’s important that you feel comfortable with your preferred photographer and trust them completely, given the nature of boudoir.

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Florida Boudoir Photo Experience

Are you ready to have an empowering Florida boudoir photo session with one of the top photographers in Florida?

Come See Ella Gagiano

Ella has 20 years of experience providing uplifting and transformative photo experiences that reveal your inner confidence and the real you.

She has traveled across the world doing boudoir photography, women empowerment (strong woman), sports, fashion, and more.

Quick Note About The Meaning of the Word Boudoir

Not everyone is familiar with boudoir or what it means, so let’s define it.

Boudoir, which appeared in the late 18th century, has French roots and refers to a room, specifically a bedroom or dressing room for women.

What Is Boudoir Photography Then?

Boudoir photography is an empowering blend of fashion and glamour photography with strong sensual and romantic elements.

Keep in mind that boudoir photography is MUCH more than just taking photos in lingerie.

It’s about acknowledging your inherent beauty and courage and embarking on a journey of self-discovery.

Is Boudoir Photography In Demand?

Yes, it definitely is. More men and women are enjoying the boudoir experience today than ever before.

What Are Boudoir Photos Used For?

The purpose of our Florida boudoir sessions is to give you a medium through which to convey a message or discover something new about yourself.

Many of our clients come to us to convey feelings of love and tenderness for their SO or for their baby who is still on the way.

Florida boudoir makes an excellent gift for your partner or acts as a very meaningful memento that freeze-frames a big moment in your life.

Self-Empowerment

There are also other reasons for doing boudoir. Self-empowerment is a huge one and is very central to what we do and care about at our studio.

Who Takes Boudoir Photos?

At present, boudoir is most popular among women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s.

If you’re part of this demographic and are reading this, you might be wondering if Florida boudoir is something you can or should do.

The answer is absolutely!

Many of our clients are in their 40s, 50s, and 60s.

In fact, women in this age range are our specialty. 🙂

Other Ideal Candidates For A Florida Boudoir Photoshoot

Professional models, brides before their wedding, married women, and those who want to experience something new are all ideal candidates for a Florida boudoir shoot.

Participating in boudoir sessions for most people requires that they get out of their comfort zone. So, if this is something you’d like to try, call us today.

Self-Expression Is Priceless

Let us clarify that a boudoir-style photoshoot is NOT about nudity. Nudity only plays a secondary role.

It’s about expressing your feelings, your story, and an important part of yourself, which is priceless.

Many of our clients find their boudoir experiences to be……transformative, inspiring, and thrilling.

How To Prepare For A Boudoir Session

Here are some tips that will enhance your experience with us:

1. Bring more than one outfit. Why settle with one when you can try multiple? We’re creative and flexible. Your boudoir experience is about having fun!

2. Bring your favorite lotion and pamper yourself. Our atmosphere at Ella Gagiano Studios is designed to help you relax.

3. (Optional) Shave or wax a few days before your session. Many women agree this increases their self-confidence, but it’s certainly not necessary. We encourage you to do what makes you feel bold and empowered.

4. Stay away from spray tanning. This will help with your skin tone in the photos. We can always retouch as necessary.

5. Get plenty of rest the night before. It’s amazing what a full night’s sleep can do for one’s appearance and mood, so make sure you get plenty of R&R before you come to see us.

PS Don’t forget to bring some snacks and drinks with you. There is nothing like a delicious treat to lift your mood and delight the senses during your session.

The Atmosphere At Ella Gagiano Studios

Our atmosphere is warm and inviting, and our Florida boudoir sessions are relaxed and open to your lead. After all, it’s your experience!

What we do is act as professional guides to add structure to your session and use our experience to illuminate your natural, gorgeous qualities.

Rather than try to change you, we recognize that you ALREADY are a beautiful, strong, and capable woman.

We Offer A Range of Boudoir Experiences

We are able to convey all sorts of feelings and nuances in our sessions, whether you want to tell a story about your past, venerate your pregnancy, explore aspects of your personality, or try something else entirely.

We cover a broad range of concepts, so message us with your ideas on our Contact page.

To see our boudoir portfolio examples, check out our Instagram.

Where Do You Provide Boudoir Sessions?

We offer boudoir at our studio, which is located at 3175 US-1S, Saint Augustine, FL 32086.

Boudoir photo sessions can be done almost anywhere that is private, although we suggest coming to the studio and benefitting from our sets, props, lighting, and cutting-edge equipment.

The best place for a boudoir photoshoot is undoubtedly inside a professional photo studio.

The benefits of using a photo studio include:

• Proper lighting
• Professional sets
• Access to thematic props that will help you enhance your photos
• No distractions, i.e., no extra people

How Long Do Florida Boudoir Photoshoots Take?

Florida boudoir photoshoots usually take about 3 hours, as they require preliminary work on your hair and makeup before the session begins.

Can You Tell Me More About What To Expect During A Boudoir Photoshoot?

Certainly.

You can expect to be treated with respect from start to finish.

From the moment you walk into our studio, we greet you warmly and help you prepare for the session by covering some photography basics.

We’ll show you around the studio, show you the dressing room, then once you’ve changed, take you to our boudoir set.

The Session

During the session, we only do what you’re comfortable with, so in this respect, it’s no different than any other photoshoot.

What sets your boudoir session apart is exploring an entirely new side to yourself and having an unforgettable experience. How much you want to explore is always determined by you.

Pre-Session Phone Call

We also want to note that before your session, we have a phone call or Zoom meeting with you to discuss the details of your session and write down what is most important to you.

That way, when you arrive, we are aligned with your wants and needs.

During our pre-session phone call, we also explain more about the boudoir experience, address scheduling concerns (if any), and expand upon our list of how to prepare for your boudoir session.

Call Us Today To Schedule A Session

Unlocking a new side of you has never been safer or easier. Call us today to schedule a time to come see us.

Further Reading: How To Make Your Boudoir Photography As Good As Possible

There are certain key ways to enhance your boudoir photography. Read more to learn what they are.

1. Choose The Right Boudoir Photographer

To find the right photographer, ask these questions:

-Why do I want a boudoir photoshoot?

Perhaps you want a new experience, to embody unfamiliar aspects of your personality, or to honor your femininity.

-Who do I feel comfortable taking photos with?

This is a good question to ask. At Ella Gagiano Studios, we are an all-female team, which might be exactly what you’re looking for.

During your session, you’ll be working with Ella and our lovely Studio Manager Sammy.

The Power of Portfolios

Choosing the right photographer gets a lot easier when you can look at examples of their work.

If there is one thing we recommend, it’s looking at your preferred photographer’s portfolio to see if their work resonates with you.

You can find numerous work examples from us on our website and our Instagram profile to see if we’re the right fit.

Find A Friendly and Helpful Photographer

You’ll also want to pick a photographer who is friendly, helpful, and communicative.

A good indicator of the quality of your preferred photographer is whether they answer your phone calls and respond to your texts.

Remember:

How your photographer treats you before your session is how they’ll treat you during your session.

At Ella Gagiano Studios, we always treat our clients with professionalism, respect, and prompt communication! We love hearing from you, so if you have questions, feel free to text or call us anytime.

Side Note:

It’s also helpful to read what your preferred photographer writes and posts on social media. This will give you an idea of how they communicate with their clients, followers, and audience.

Photographers that are friendly, punctual, and helpful are always the right choice.

Your Photoshoot Consultation

Once you’ve found a photographer who seems right to you, your next step is to call them for a consultation.

During your preliminary conversation with them, you’ll want to discuss all the details that matter to you.

Whatever questions or concerns you have, that’s ground you’ll want to cover.

Private or Public Photos

Definitely tell your photographer whether you want your photos to be public or private.

At Ella Gagiano Studios, we always ask what your preference is. That way, your photos won’t be published anywhere without your express approval.

Picking A Time That Works Best For You

After an hour or so of taking photos, you might feel a little tired, especially if you are doing maternity boudoir and have a little one on the way.

For this reason, we advise you to pick a time for your session that works best for your internal clock—some people work better in the morning, for example.

2. Provide Examples To Your Photographer

During your consultation, show your photographer some example photos that inspire you. Include details such as the clothing, set, concept, makeup, and hairstyling.

You can use Instagram and Pinterest for this purpose. Both are great resources.

10 to 15 concept examples should be enough for a skilled photographer to take inspiration from and creatively expand upon to make a unique photo session for you.

Regarding your clothing during the boudoir session:

Our advice is to wear what you like and what feels comfortable.

Boudoir photos don’t just mean lingerie. They can work with a nightgown, pajamas, a robe, etc.

It’s common for women to wear clothing other than lingerie items, as not everyone feels ready to wear these in front of a camera, and not everyone needs to.

Excellent photos can be taken in a lace shirt, a beautiful robe—you name it.

Creating A Digital Mood Board (Optional)

If you’ve never thought about using a mood board, they are a helpful and convenient tool that you can use to share ideas with your photographer.

You can create a digital mood board on Pinterest.

3. Prepare For The Session In Advance

Ideally, you’ll want to prepare for a couple of weeks before your photo session and get a manicure and pedicure, wax, and keep a good sleep schedule.

Also, avoid tanning beds and spray tans if you can help it.

Loose Clothing Can Be Helpful In Some Cases

Lingerie and elastic band marks stay on the skin for some time, which can change the direction of your session.

This is why we advise you to go to your photoshoot in clothing that is loose enough not to leave marks.

Following these recommendations will help you show up looking and feeling your best on the day of your photo experience.

Makeup and Hairstyling

If you need an excellent makeup artist and hairstylist, we’ll give you our referrals.

We know the best artists in Florida who will enhance your experience, increase your confidence, and have you feeling like a Queen.

4. Relax and Have Fun During Your Photo Experience

The most important thing when doing your Florida boudoir photoshoot is to enjoy yourself.

Art is fun, and intimate photoshoots are an art form that expresses your beauty, which is something to be honored and revered.

So, take this as an opportunity to let loose, have a blast, and learn more about yourself as you add to your experiences as a woman.

Achieve A New Mindset With Boudoir

In our experience, the more you acknowledge your qualities, the more your self-confidence increases.

As you grow in your confidence, this improves every area of your life, helps you develop as a person, and seize new opportunities.

Are you ready to go to the next level by trying something as exciting as a boudoir photo session?

5. Follow Up With Your Photographer

“How long do I have to wait for my photos?” is a good question to ask your photographer.

I advise you to discuss this with your photographer before you begin the photoshoot so that you don’t get upset and say to yourself something like, “Well, it’s September, and my summer photos are still not ready.”

Usually, photographers have deadlines of one to two months.

If you like a photographer’s work but they need an extended deadline, we suggest having them produce 2 to 3 photos quickly.

Later, the photographer can finish developing the rest of the photos.

Our Technical Concept

Teasing The Audience During Boudoir Photography

For boudoir photographs, we suggest not showing every intimate detail and instead teasing the imagination of your audience.

We will coordinate with you to add all the special elements that work to cultivate your highest self.

Making You Comfortable

One of our most important tasks is to make you comfortable. We can’t overstate how much it helps when you feel welcomed and safe.

You’ll be happy to hear that we have years of experience creating a safe, uplifting environment for our clients.

Close-ups During Your Boudoir Photoshoot

Close-ups have great power in photography and are very good at showing aspects of yourself that few others get to see.

In our experience, to make close-ups good, you want to show the real you.

Although we encourage the use of makeup, we do tend to keep it to a minimum so that the true beauty of our clients can shine through.

Boudoir Photography For Your Wall Art

We also offer wall art to those who would like to use photos from their Florida boudoir sessions as decorative pieces for their homes.

Ella and Sammy will work with you closely to create superb pieces with meaningful messages that beautify your space.

Boudoir Photography As A Wedding Gift

Boudoir photos also make the perfect intimate gift for your partner.

If you’d like to surprise your SO before, on, or after the big day, contact us.

After your Florida boudoir session, we’ll give you some gift wrapping and packaging ideas and also guide you on how to turn your session into a gorgeous handheld wedding album so that your photos will be the perfect surprise.

 

Ever wondered what is the best gift to give your guy? Have you been married and you are running out of ideas this Christmas? Well we have the best idea for you for this years Christmas gift and we know he is going to LOVE it! Book a boudoir photography session at Ella Gagiano Studios and surprise him this Christmas with beautiful and stunning photos of you.