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!

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.