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Womxn of Color in Boudoir – Part 2
How might boudoir photography sessions be tailored to cater specifically to the needs and experiences of women of color?
Boudoir photography is dominated by White cisgender women. These women need to understand the differences in WOC. We are not all the same and all of our stories matter. They need to have a makeup artist and hair stylist that can work with all textures and complexions. They need to leave their bias at the door and meet these womxn exactly where they are as clients and people. They need to understand our history and have an understanding of how white supremacy creates beauty standards that a majority of WOC cannot meet.
Are there any cultural considerations that boudoir photographers should be mindful of when working with women of color?
A big cultural consideration I have witnessed as a boudoir educator, particularly with white photographers, is changing their speech when photographing Black clients. Some will take on a “Blackcent” and it is not needed. Also working with clients that bring in costumes that are a part of the heritage and legacy of another culture.
How might boudoir photography contribute to an overall improved sexual health experience for women of color?
Boudoir photography is about acceptance. You are accepting your body as it is now. You are given permission to love your body as it is now. You get to be in control of your boudoir experience and make decisions on what is comfortable or not based on your needs and wants. The boudoir experience is just a day, but for some people, it is a major moment of courage. That same courage that can allow you to speak up in the bedroom when something does not give you pleasure. Or as I call it the orgasmic yes!
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Womxn of Color in Boudoir – Part 1
How can boudoir photography be a tool for promoting body positivity and self-love among women of color?
Boudoir photography can be a tool for promoting body positivity and self-love among WOC because representation matters. Many of the WOC we see in media have a certain look that doesn’t represent the vast majority of people of the Global Majority. The beauty standards are based in white supremacy. The lighter and thinner you are the more desirability you have. Boudoir helps WOC change the narrative on their own terms by celebrating their bodies and individuality.
In what ways can boudoir photography help women of color feel more empowered and confident in their own skin?
Boudoir photography can help WOC reclaim what has always been ours, our sensuality and sexuality. We are able to have body autonomy in a world that has always shown us that our bodies can be used for pleasure, but nothing more. Especially for Black womxn who have always been deemed as less feminine.
Can boudoir photography serve as a means for women of color to reclaim their sexuality and challenge negative stereotypes about their bodies?
Boudoir can help start a conversation that builds a community. A community where we share the stories of our bodies and how we have reclaimed them. When we are able to tell our stories without shame we can heal ourselves and our sisters. We won’t need validation from outside our community because we will be all the validation we need.
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3 Boudoir Myths Debunked
- Boudoir is centered around the male gaze!
I would have to say that there are more womxn boudoir photographers than men boudoir photographers. Many photographers see boudoir as a way to empower their clients. Contrary to society, women love to celebrate their bodies too. Yes, some women do a boudoir experience to keep the fire burning in their relationships or for a groom’s gifts. But overall my clients have been in a major life transition and want to celebrate this new version of themselves. That has nothing to do with men.
- Only people with fit bodies should do a boudoir experience.
This is simply not true at all! All bodies are welcomed and encouraged to do boudoir experiences. Boudoir like sexy has no damn size! How ever you show up with your beautiful body is exactly what it should be. This is a time to celebrate you as you are.
- Only people who have modeled before should do boudoir experiences.
WHAT, no! That is why you hire professional boudoir photographers. A professional boudoir photographer will understand what poses are flattering for your body. They will also guide you by showing you the poses first and make sure you are comfortable.
- Boudoir is centered around the male gaze!
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Top 5 Reasons Why You Can’t Do A Boudoir Session
Having your own boudoir experience is not just brave, but it can boost your confidence by 1,000%! In this video, I am going to give you all the reasons people have told me why they are hesitant to do their own. Do you hear one you have given in the past?
- I AM TOO OLD
Who told you that? There is no age limit on having your own boudoir session. I know photographers who have captured women well into their 70’s. I often think of boudoir as a legacy you get to pass down to the younger generation. You get to show them examples of loving all parts of you.
- WHAT IF SOMEONE SEES THE IMAGES OTHER THAN ME
One of the reasons you work with a professional photographer is because our contracts protect you, the client, and us the professional photographer. That contract should state that written permission from you has to be given before any images can be shared. Your privacy is one of our top priorities.
- I DON’T WANT TO WEAR LINGERIE
And you won’t! Boudoir clothing can be much more than barely there lingerie. You can wear tank tops, caftans, t-shirts, or even a sweater. You can wear whatever makes you feel comfortable because there are no rules. Only the ones you make when it comes to what you want to wear.
- MY FRIENDS, FAMILY, OR CHURCH WOULDN’T APPROVE
The only people that matter when it comes to your boudoir session is you. You get to decide if you will share this experience with others. You get to decide how your images are showcased in your home. Everyone can have an opinion about you and your life, but its up to you to live your life as you want. You don’t need approval from anyone to do anything that can bring you joy and make you feel empowered. Period! - I AM TOO SCARED TO DO THIS ALONE
You will not be alone. Your photographer is your personal hype person for the day! That is why it is so very important to find a photographer that you vibe with. Check their social media pages, look at client testimonials and set up a phone or video consultation.
- I AM TOO OLD
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4 Things To Share With Me
There are certain things that are helpful and important to help me make your boudoir experience be as comfortable and fun as possible. My client’s pre-experience questionnaire has all these questions and more.
- Do you have any challenges with mobility.
Boudoir photographers want to make sure you are comfortable in the poses we place you in. You may have some discomfort with poses, especially the back bend, but no poses should bring about pain.
- Your pronouns & the name you like to be called.
Celebrating you as you want to be celebrated extends into calling you by your name.
- What music makes you feel empowered and sexy.
Music helps set the mood. Moving to a sensual sound can help you release your inhibitions. Certain lyrics can make you feel empowered.
- Your level of comfort with nudity.
Wearing lingerie in front of a person you barely know can be very unnerving. A photographer’s ultimate goal is to make you feel comfortable, seen and heard. Some people do not mind getting naked in front of others, some are completely opposite. Let your photographer know what feels right for you.
- Do you have any challenges with mobility.
