5 tips to get ready for your boudoir shoot

You gathered your courage and finally booked your boudoir shoot? Yay, congrats!
So… now what? Do you just wait until your date and wing it?
Well, you can, but you can also do a few simple things to make the most out of this experience and enjoy it even more.

The shoot itself is an amazing experience, but preparing for it is also as much fun! Thinking about your favourit outfits, the props you want to bring, or even the type of makeup you want to go for with our makeup artist is a huge and important part of this boudoir experience. It builds up the excitement, gives you some butterflies, and help you to feel less nervous.

Here are 5 tips on how to easily get ready for your photoshoot and avoid feeling rushed:

1) Look online for inspiration

Chances are, you probably did that before even inquiring about our budoir sessions and if so, keeping looking for more inspiration doesn’t hurt.

But, in case you haven’t yet, it is time to get some Pinterest out of you! Grab your favourit beverage and get browsing! Search what boudoir means to you, think about some atmospheres, themes, poses and lighting you like and pin away! Not only it is a super fun process, but it is helpful for us as well as photographers to know what makes your heart sing. If Pinterest is not your cup of tea, you can find inspiration anywhere else such as Instagram, our website, Google search, or any other online platforms, and you can screenshot things that catch your eyes.

Extra tip #1: Don’t worry about finding people who look like you, this is a vibe we are looking for, not photos to copy and paste. Try to ignore the poses as well, a lot of the ones we find online are performed by super bendy people and often edited in post.

Extra tip #2: It doesn’t have to be all boudoir. It can be anything from the aesthetic of a movie scene you like, to a fun music album cover, or even the pose in a painting or sculpture you love.

2) Start working on your posture

Yep, time to straighten that back! Not only for aesthetic reasons, but also because adjusting your posture makes you stand tall and brings up confidence. Boudoir is all about making that confidence shine, so let's take it everywhere we can! But don’t worry, we will remind you during your boudoir shoot as we know it is not really natural to think constantly about posture. So get ready to hear a lot of: “Straighten your back!“ and “Point your toes!“ sentences 😀

Extra tip: No need to overthink it, simply practice bringing your shoulder blades closer together and picture a thread pulling you from the top of your head. Et voilà!

3) Plan your outfits

Oh this is a goodie. Contrary to popular beliefs, you don't necessarily need to wear standard lingerie for your boudoir shoot. If anything, we are more looking for outfits you feel amazing and beautiful in, as it is very easy to bring a boudoir twist most clothes.

Any outfits can be turned into a boudoir one. What matters is what makes you feel like YOU. That's what we want to capture. So if you want to rock some lace, by all means, go for it, but if you are feeling more of a joggers/loose t-shirt vibe, then it is awesome too. Go crazy! From your favourit jacket, to pieces you bought once but never got the chance to wear ever since, this is the perfect opportunity to be creative and have fun with it.

Extra tip: Plan a top 3 of your favourite outfits and bring extra, even some bits and pieces you aren't sure what to do with. Chances are we may see something you haven't. If you need more inspiration, we wrote a blog post about the 5 best props we've seen on shoots, you can read it here.

4) Prep a playlist

It is no secret that music leads the mood. It helps you relax and makes you feel like the main character in your story! Our studio has a speaker ready to connect with your device, so have fun creating a playlist that makes you feel like the badass and sexy being you are!

Extra tip: check out our Scandaleuse playlist on Spotify! We have a bit of everything to get those good vibes out of you.

5) Practice in the mirror

If you have a full length mirror at home, it is time to put it to use! Take a moment to try on your outfits, see what poses you like, check what your favourite parts of your body are and even if you have a preferred side. This little exercise, especially if boudoir is a bit challenging for you, will only make your session easier.

Extra tip: If you feel like you would just be hard on yourself, then ditch this step, focus on the others tips we gave you and just follow our lead the day of. For some of us, it can be difficult to face ourselves and keep it positive. We will do it for you!

Now you have all the tools you need to get fully ready for your boudoir shoot! Enjoy this pre-shoot process as much as you can, it is a big part of your experience and it would be a shame to miss out on it! And in case you need extra motivation, some of our past clients have a message for you here 😉

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Step into our shoes as boudoir photographers...

Most of our newsletters and various posts are written for you, boudoir-curious person, to give you advice and explanations regarding our boudoir world. What to expect, how to get ready, things to consider before you start your shoot… 

But today, we wanted to try something a little different and… trade places. 

No, you are not gonna photograph us , but you are going to step in our shoes and learn everything that goes on in our brains during your photo and video shoot, as photographers and artists. Hop in, it's a thrilling ride!

Our creativity starts from the moment we meet you online.

We always host free online meetings to anyone interested in potentially working with us. Of course, it is a way to get to know each other but it is also when we take preliminary creative notes based on everything you say. The majority of people are blank canvas when it comes to their shoot, and truth is, we are firm believers that our job is to do the heavy-lifting for you when it comes to ideas. 

During those meetings, we too, ask you questions. And we listen but also observe. Does your demeanour change when we mention a specific idea? Is a smile sneaking through? Are your eyes sparkling a little more or on the opposite, is what we are saying taking you a bit too much out of your comfort zone? We read between the lines and can very quickly see what your session will look like. And in over 8 years in business, we are proud to say that we've never been wrong once.

Your outfits say a lot more than you think.

The first 10 minutes of your sessions are always used to go over the outfits you brought. We go over your favourite pieces, whatever you feel your best in, if you brought any meaningful props with you. We then suggest combinations of outfits you may have not thought of. Your outfits say a lot about what your comfort zone is and whether you are considering stepping out of it. At this stage, in our heads, it is brewing: your different sets and poses are already forming in our minds.

Then we execute. 

The mental gymnastic officially begins! 🤸🏼‍♀️ Whether it is for photo or video, not only do we focus on guiding you through the ideas, we also see how you process our direction and react to them. Are you okay with full guidance or do you need more freedom to move? How is your body language when we demonstrate poses? Are there parts of your body you want to show more than others, or on the contrary, parts you want to cover as much as possible?

All of this is essential to build trust. And to give you the best experience possible and, as a result, the best photos or video, we need to make sure you can completely rely on us.

Last but definitely not least, we think of the final image as a whole. Is the composition interesting? Will the image read well? What is the mood of it? And we get to building! We re-arrange the furniture, add external lighting if need be, think one step ahead so you never end up in front of the lens without any direction or ideas of what's going on.

For 2 hours, it is constant thinking, adjusting, creating, all while making sure you feel safe and have fun.

You think it is over? Let's talk post-production.

It is safe to assume we shoot about 400 to 500 images combined during your session. It includes our tests shots, doubles and variation of poses. We remove the first two and trim through the last one so you have enough to choose your favourite angles and poses, but not too much so it doesn't feel overwhelming during your reveal session. In average, you will see about 100 images, each of them carefully pre-edited so you can get a close version to what your final image would be. 

In video, we comb through all of the footage, analyze your best interactions, the best angles, the creativity of the lighting… We look for the perfect song to match your taste but also the vibe of the video. We then time it accordingly so you can get a final video that you will want to watch over and over again.

The entire process, for both photo and video, is absolutely fascinating. Watching you let go and enjoying the moment is priceless, and we love seeing the evolution already between the first photo taken compared to the last one (usually, there are a lot less clothes on the latter! 😉)  

We hope this blog brought you a new and fun artistic perspective and that it will comfort you in how taken care of you will be during your experience. Our "Choose your own adventure" offer is still valid until the end of February, with 10% off our video or photo package for couples.

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The Magic of Motion: Couple Edition

Boudoir photography for couples is and always will be a powerful way to celebrate yourself, and your relationship if you do it with the person you love. Using your bodies to create art that is all about you, is something to try at least once in your life. Now, imagine if you could see it in motion: You and your partner stepping into your own movie, become the main characters, and having this reminder of how truly connected you both are. Sounds beautiful isn’t it?

Well, it is with a lot of excitement to announce we are now officially leading the way as the firsts to offer boudoir videography in Toronto. Readers, welcome to this wonderful world!

Trust us when we say: “Doing a boudoir video with your partner is a decision you won’t regret.”

1. A beautiful way to capture and spice up your intimacy

While photos capture beautiful still moments, video brings your chemistry to life and showcases the unspoken energy between you.

For the time of a session, you step out of the ordinary and into something thrillingly intimate together. As you move through the shoot, guided and supported, you’ll find yourselves connecting in new way, sharing laughter, excitement, and tenderness. It's a chance to celebrate your relationship from a new perspective while creating something daring and beautiful.

2. The power of sensuality in motion

As we mentioned previously, a video captures the fluidity of your movements and your energy. From the gentle sway of your bodies, to a playful glance at each other, or even the sensual touch you give to your partner, a boudoir video brings your session to life, letting you see and feel your intimacy from a new perspective.

The final film becomes a sensual love letter you’ll cherish forever, one that reminds you of your bond and allows you to relive your connection time and time again. Whether soft and romantic or bold and fiery, it’s a story of you, your love and your passion.

3. An even stronger story-telling approach

We always craft our sessions around you and your story with props and atmospheres tailored to your relationship. Having the option to have those stories actually move takes it up a notch. With thoughtful editing and music, or even a recording of your voices, we create an artistic masterpiece you’ll cherish for years to come.

4. A less "posey” experience

While we do our best to make sure you don't hold the poses too long during our photoshoots, you do have to hold them nonetheless. They could then feel a bit less “natural” and some people may appreciate the fluidity of doing an action. It could also feel easier to get into a “character” and have that lovely playfulness that could feel hard to act out and therefor convey in photos.

5. A tastefull new adventure

Like with boudoir photography, it can be easy to fear that the result would be close to pornography. But don’t you worry, boudoir is far away from this type of content. Yes, it showcases sensuality due to showing some skin and the touches you can give to your partner, but there are never any sexual acts. It is all about the tenderness and love you both have for each other.

You also decide of the vibe you prefer for the video. Some people love a cozy and cute atmosphere (like for example waking up a Sunday morning and having coffee and croissants in bed), while other couples want a moodier and darker vibe to their video (could be for example coming back from a fancy soirée and removing your clothes slowly). There are so many possibilities based on what you and your partner like, always done in a tasteful way and never pressured.

We highly recommend giving it a try, and to celebrate the launch of this new videography service, we created a February special with 10% off on two different packages: one for photography only if you prefer a traditional photoshoot, and one for videography only you feel like trying something unique. They are both the same price and same level of care 🥰

Click on the button below to find out more:

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How to choose your boudoir photographer

Bonjour vous !

If you are a first timer on our website, welcome to the Scandaleuse family 😀. If it is not your first time reading one of our blogs, know it is nice to have you back here! In both cases, we hope you can find some answers here if you are looking to do a shoot.

When it comes to boudoir photography, you want to make sure you find the perfect photographer to shoot with. Maybe it will be your first time trying boudoir, and perhaps you feel a bit anxious about it… Nothing to worry about, this feeling is normal! For many people, it is already challenging to have their pictures taken, so the idea of posing half naked in front of a stranger can be even more nerve-racking even if they really want to try it.

To make sure you get the most out of your boudoir experience, and you feel 100% at ease the day of your shoot, it is essential you find the perfect match: AKA your dream photographer!

Do not necessarily go for the cheapest

Of course prices are important, and we understand not everyone have a big budget for boudoir photography since it can be quite of an investment. But if it is something you really want to treat yourself with, there are other factors to consider.

If you go with the cheapest professionals, obviously you will get lower prices, but on the other hand you will sacrifice things that are important and can make your shoot go smoothly. For example, you might get:

• A shorter shoot and be rushed to pose.

  Which can cause you a lot of stress, and you might end up looking tensed on the final pictures.

• A photographer who is new in photography or not really confident in their work.

  The risk is that this person might not be able to pose you properly nor find the best angles during your shoot. An inexperienced photographer might also not know how to guide you and can easily use the wrong words that sometimes can be misleading or not really appropriate!

  They might also not be able to give you what you are looking for if you have specific ideas in mind.

• A lack of quality with the final pictures.

  Such as unbalanced colours and lighting, which affects the colour of your skin and intensifies your skin’s texture (including pimples, bruises, cellulite, …). Or a poor editing process. Even if we believe photographers should never change someone’s body (we are not plastic surgeons!), when we edit your pictures we make sure to unify your skin tones or soften tan lines if you have some.

• Low-resolution pictures with the photographer’s watermark.

  This means that you would not be able to print them the size you wish and will end up with the photographer’s signature on all of your pictures. If you are looking to have clean prints or a beautiful album in the future, that might be an issue.

Those are a few pointers among other ones. Like anything in life you want to purchase, if you go for a low price, you know you are not going to get the best product or service. In our opinion, it is not something you wish to experience with boudoir photography. A cheap shoot is never worth the struggles and disappointment you might get in return. If you really want to treat yourself with a boudoir session but don’t have the budget yet, it is better to wait a bit longer rather than rushing into it.

Also know that payment plans can be an option. We don’t know about the other studios, but on our end we are more than happy to be flexible with payments so you can access the beautiful world of boudoir photography more easily.

Safety first

We wrote a full blog about this very important topic here as we heard some horrific stories happening to some people. We highly suggest reading it or watch the video below:

First impression always matters

Trust your instinct! We mentioned it in the video above, but we want to write here as it is primordial:

Always listen to your guts!

It does not matter what detail triggered that little voice in your head telling you there is something not working with this photographer, just listen to it. Our body usually picks up on people’s energy before our brain does, especially as women (we have a natural protective instinct). So if you feel it is not gonna work out, it probably will not. It is always better to find someone else!

Values are important

Like in any relationships, either it is professional or personal, sharing the same values is important to make the most out of the time you will spend together. Since boudoir can be an experience that makes you feel vulnerable, feeling 100% comfortable around the person who is guiding you during your shoot is a must.

If you don’t relate to the message the photographer is sharing through their branding, or you cannot really “recognize” yourself in their work, it is usually a sign this is not a good match.

Contract and privacy release

Even if we love being able to share our clients’ pictures to inspire other people to do a shoot and show the diversity in our clientele, we understand that privacy is important. When choosing a photographer, make sure they have a release option to sign, so they keep your pictures private if you wish to.

Also, you want to make sure to sign a contract that summarizes all the details from the shoot and what you are supposed to get. This is to avoid any unpleasant surprises such as change of pricing, hidden fees or any other clauses you were not aware of.

Your vibe should match their style

Every photographer has a personal artistic style, so what you see on a photographer’s website is most likely what you are going to get. Before hiring your photographer, you want to make sure they can give you what you are looking for.

For example, if you are looking for a homey vibe with a nice decors and plants for your pictures background and atmosphere, you don’t want to go for a photographer who mostly shoot in a simple studio on a white background.

Everything has to be crystal clear

Your boudoir experience, from meeting the photographer to getting the finale product (with everything in between), should happen smoothly, and you should not feel confused about the process. Never hesitate to ask questions (as long as you respect your photographer’s time) or ask for extra clarification if needed.

Once again, if you feel the photographer you contacted isn’t being really responsive, you might want to look at other options.

The recap:

• Avoid Kijiji or Craiglist.
• Always meet with your photographer(s)
• Check the company's reputation with reviews or referrals.
• Have a contract signed and the details of the session laid out before the day of. Everything has to be crystal clear.
• Bring someone with you or let someone know where you will be and when you'll be done.Boudoir is a life-changing experience, and we cannot wait for you to try it!

Your boudoir shoot is about you and yourself only! So when you find the perfect photographer that will make you feel like your most badass, sexy, confident, or whatever-else-you-wanna-feel self, you are going to have a wonderful experience.

And speaking of meeting your photographers, we are doing an open house at our studio, and we would love to see you there, it is happening on January 31st at 2.30pm. This event is for all women who are curious about boudoir photography and want to meet us in-person. We will have tea/coffee/juice & snacks for you, will give you a tour of the studio, walk you through our boudoir process, and answer any questions you might have. Cherry on top, you get a $100 credit towards your future boudoir shoot! It is free and perfect for people tired of Zoom meetings, you can even bring your friend or partner if you like!

You can find all the details below:

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The gift of boudoir for people you care about

Looking for the perfect gift for someone special is never easy. You want something meaningful that gives them joy and warm their heart.

What if we told you that gifting a boudoir photoshoot is the ultimate solution that will blow the mind of that special someone? Either it is for your partner, a family member, or a friend, a boudoir photoshoot is a gift like no other. It’s more than a present, it’s an experience, a celebration, and a lasting reminder of how much they mean to you.

Here are five compelling reasons why gifting a boudoir photoshoot is the ultimate way to show love and appreciation for someone special in your life.

A Celebration of Confidence

Boudoir photography is about embracing and celebrating anyone in front of the lens in their most authentic form. Whether it’s your partner, a close friend, or even yourself, a photoshoot like this is a powerful confidence booster.

By gifting this experience, you’re saying, “I see your beauty, strength, and uniqueness, and I want you to see it too.” It’s a profound way to remind someone how amazing they are and help them reconnect with their inner badassness.

A Gift That Lasts Forever

Unlike material gifts, the images from a boudoir shoot hold timeless value. Each photo is a piece of art that captures a moment when that person felt empowered, beautiful, and celebrated.

For many years to come, they will be flipping through their album or looking at a framed print, and remembering not just how they felt, but also the thoughtfulness behind your gift.

A Unique and Personal Gesture

Let’s face it: the best gifts are the ones that show you’ve put thought into them. A boudoir photoshoot is personal, customized to the person’s style and comfort level.

It’s a gift that shows you care about their journey of self-love and that you want to give them something that’s uniquely theirs. It’s not just an experience, it’s a statement of love and appreciation.

A Bond-Strengthening Experience

If this gift is for your partner, the experience becomes even more intimate. Not only does it give them a chance to feel pampered and special, but it can also enhance your relationship. Seeing someone you love rediscover their confidence and self-worth can deepen your connection and foster a new level of appreciation for each other.

You can even consider doing a photoshoot together!
If you feel like your partner has been itching to try such an experience but could use extra support, going for a couple photoshoot is a great way to go! Not only will you get to experience it together, but you will have beautiful memories to look back on.

A Gift of Self-Discovery

For many people, a boudoir shoot is a transformative experience. It’s a moment to step outside their comfort zone, embrace their vulnerabilities, and see themselves in a new light.

By gifting this experience, you’re not just giving photos—you’re giving them the chance to fall in love with themselves. And there’s no gift more empowering or meaningful than that.

Of course, we are biased as we are deeply passionate about the boudoir photography world, especially after seeing its beautiful effect on people over the years. To us, this is something you can go all out on, but there are however some important things to keep in mind to have the right approach.

The Dos and Don’ts of Gifting a Boudoir Photoshoot

DOS

✅ Consider their personality and comfort level.
This is a deeply personal experience, so think about whether your loved one would enjoy it. Do they embrace creativity and self-expression, or might this feel too outside their comfort zone?

✅ Focus on their empowerment.
Make it clear that this gift is about celebrating them, not about your preferences or desires. It’s about how they feel and their confidence.

✅ Present it thoughtfully.
Instead of just handing over a gift card, create a special moment when giving the gift. Write a heartfelt note explaining why you think they’re amazing and why you chose this for them.

✅ Offer to support them.
Let them know you’re there to cheer them on, whether it’s helping them pick outfits or just being a source of encouragement.

DONT’S

❌ Don’t pressure them.
A boudoir shoot is a vulnerable experience, and they should feel 100% comfortable with the idea. If they’re hesitant, respect their feelings and don’t push it.

❌ Don’t make it about you.
Avoid framing this as something you want them to do for your benefit. The focus should be on their self-love journey, not your desires.

❌ Don’t spring it on them unexpectedly.
Surprises can be tricky with something this personal. Make sure they’re on board with the idea before booking anything.

They will step into a safe space

One of the main priorities we focused on when we opened Scandaleuse Photography was to create a safe and judgment-free space for people to express themselves freely. From the moment your loved one walks through our doors, we guide them through every step of the process to ensure they feel comfortable, confident, and celebrated.

Ready to give the ultimate expression of love and appreciation? Let’s create something unforgettable together!

What happens during a boudoir shoot?

If you haven’t done a boudoir shoot yet you might wonder what’s going on during the session. Today, we are sharing with you everything that is happening the day of your shoot!

But before we dive in, let us explain what is Boudoir in case you are not familiar with this term:

A boudoir shoot is a type of photography in which people are showing more skin than traditional portrait photography. The photos are usually intimate, sensual, sexy (but can also be in a more cosy vibe for those who prefer this than being sexy). People have different reasons to do a boudoir shoot, but the most common one is to increase self-confidence (we wrote a blog here that explains it more in details).

Now that you are a bit more familiar with boudoir photography, let’s dive into what actually happen during a boudoir shoot with us:

• We put your favourite music on!

Either you have a playlist you love or favourite songs on your phone, we let you connect your phone to our speaker so you can put yourself in the mood before starting the boudoir shoot. Music is a powerful tool to help you relax and have fun.

• You start with makeup & Hair

If you decide to keep the hair and makeup services included in our photoshoots, then you will sit with one of our makeup artists to talk about the look you want. She will follow whatever you have in mind, from keeping it natural to something more creative. And in case you have no idea what could look good, she will help you figure it out. Having your makeup done by a professional is a nice way to get pampered and relax before the shoot itself.

• We look at your outfits!

When we meet you on Zoom prior to your boudoir shoot, we suggest bringing a suitcase full of different outfits and props. Before we start shooting, we spend the first 10 minutes going through what you brought, to select your top 3 outfits, and help you mix and match or find ideas for the other pieces.

Seeing your outfits and props is what makes us create scenarios and the different sets we are going to pose you in.

• Let the shoot begin!

This is usually the moment most people are nervous about, especially when they are first timers. Most people don’t know how to pose, and that is normal. It is our job to pose you and guide you through the entire session, and make sure the poses are adapted to your body type and flexibility level. Since you will focus on following our directions, you will forget about the fear of feeling award, and will have fun instead!

You will see that time flies very quickly during your boudoir session. Since both of us are on the shoot, one of us is always setting up for the next set when the other is shooting, which makes the session flows nicely!

Now that you know the “technical” stuff of what is happening during your shoot, we want to talk to you about what happens to your body and mind!

• You let loose!

Most of the people who contact us to book a session always tell us they are not photogenic and feel very awkward in front of a camera. That is one of the reason they can feel nervous with the idea of trying boudoir photography and can be tensed at the beginning of the shoot. But since we create a fun vibe from the start and take the time to demonstrate the poses, you start to relax and enjoy being photographed. You forgot about not being photogenic and start to rock those poses 😎.

• Your sensuality starts to kick in.

It is not easy for a lot of people to embrace their sensuality, or even dare to think of themselves as sensual beings. Boudoir photography is very powerful for that because it allows you to show the amount of skin you want, let go of people’s judgment, focus on yourself, and be more in touch with your body. All of this combined helps your sensuality shines!

• You unlock your confidence.

During your boudoir shoot, we also show you how to improve your posture, and this is something you take with you in your everyday life! We will tell you to straighten your back, bring your chest up, make yourself taller, and walk like you own the place. All of those little adjustments help to increase your self-confidence, and you remember it for years!

On top of that, you will embrace all of your personalities during your boudoir experience. During your 2 hours shoot, you can go from a cozy vibe to having a badass attitude, and truly showcase your most fearless, sexy, confident, cute, or whatever else you want to showcase-self 🔥.

Are we going to see you in front of our lens soon?

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What we do to make you comfortable during your boudoir shoot

It is not a secret that a boudoir photo shoot can feel intimidating. After all, even if we had a pre-booking consultation together, we don’t truly know one another and yet, you are about to be in front of us with more or less revealing outfits. There is a lot of trust the process in our field and there are many things we do in order to make you feel as comfortable as possible, so you can have fun and let loose during your session.

The prep before the photoshoot

Some of us like to jump into something without overthinking, and others like to prep as much as possible in order to calm the nerves. There isn’t one way better than the other and to give you options, there are a few things that we provide prior to your photoshoot, once you have secured your session.

First of all, you will be sent tips & tricks with outfits ideas, makeup & hair tips, wardrobe tips and more straight in your inbox, to review in your own time.

If you chose to keep the hair and make-up services, you will also be introduced to your make-up artist and have the freedom to communicate with her and share some ideas or concerns you may have.

We also encourage everyone to send us any inspiration images if they wish, as it is always helpful for us to see what catches your eye. Last but not least, we also suggest to put together a playlist if you feel like having your own soundtrack will help you get into the mood.

Those little things do make a difference to alleviate the potential photoshoot jitters.

The heavy lifting is done for you the minute you pass the doors of the studio.

At no point during our sessions will you be left wondering what you have to do next. We will go through your wardrobe options, check what your favourite pieces are and style the ones you love but don’t know what to do with. We will then be guiding you through each sets thought just for you and every single pose, demonstration included.

The fact that there are 2 of us on every session is a huge advantage: it brings extra energy, makes the session flows very nicely on top of having an additional pair of eyes for little details. You are free to completely let go and rely on us to look great, we do the thinking for you.

We always start with the outfit that covers you the most.

Whether you would like to experiment with nudity or not, we always start with the outfits that has the most layers. It gives you the chance to get comfortable with your surroundings, our directions and just the vibe in general. It is an excellent warm-up that will lead you to feel more confident by the minute.

Communication is key.

You will never be left in front of the camera in a vulnerable position and without direction. We make a point to walk you through our ideas before posing you and explain what it will look like and what will show. We always have back-up ideas in mind to suggest so you have the choice to either go for it or ask for adjustments, such as being more covered up for example. This is essential for any shots involving more nudity.

Nudity is never mandatory.

Posing nude or semi-nude is a decision that is 100% yours to make. Many of our clients chose not to do any kind of nudity, wither it is partial or full, while others want to focus on it. This is completely up to you and our job is to follow your level of comfort. Just like we tend to start with the outfits that cover you the most, we tend to do partial or full nude shots towards the second half of the session, if you want them.

The photos involving nudity tend to be suggested, meaning that no private parts and nipples are showing, unless you want them to.

As long as you are ready to trust us and allow yourself to be seen like the masterpiece that you are, there are no wrong or right way to do boudoir. Your photos need to reflect you and your personality, so you can look at your photos with pure happiness and confidence and hold the memory of it close to your heart. And we are here to give you just that.

If you would like more information or have questions, you are welcome to book a complimentary chat with us here or email us here.

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Your boudoir images will blow your partner's mind

Spooky season is officially over (Sadly! Yes, Juliette and I are Halloween lovers 🎃), but on the other hand the Holiday season has begun, and you know what that means: hot cocoa, snow, cozy sweater, and your partner’s mind being blown away by your boudoir photos!

Be the main character

If you have been following us for a while, you might be thinking:

“Wait, I thought you ladies said boudoir should be a gift for ourselves first!”.

We still stand by this! A boudoir shoot should definitely be done for yourself before anything. It is such a unique and empowering experience that gives you the chance to reconnect to your body, highlight your sensuality, and celebrate your beautiful-self without anyone judging you. It is the me-time you finally deserve, it is fun, and it provides a long-lasting boost of confidence that feels so good.

Now, if you feel like in a sharing mood, gifting your special someone with sultry images of yourself is a great extra bonus 😇

Show your partner another version of yourself

You know how easy it is to get stuck in a routine when you are in a couple relationship, especially when you've been with someone for a long time and have built a life together. The longer you have been with a person, the less there is to discover about them, and them about you. So showing your special someone images of yourself in a boudoir setting is a sexy surprise they cannot not love!

It is like you let them on a little sexy secret, opening the door to a part of you who has been sleeping for too long and is now ready to shine.

Or... show them the "You" they haven't seen in a while

While it is hard to find new things about each other, it is even harder to step away from your role within your family. The care-taker, the parent, the provider… you-name-it! When a routine is established, our “sexy-self” doesn’t get many opportunities to exist anymore. This is when boudoir does its magic and help you step out of your daily tasks to bring some spice back.

Either you do a boudoir shoot with your partner, or for your partner, it is the perfect experience to bring back the fire within your relationship!

Level up your gift-giving skills

If this year you are looking for the ultimate gift, then you found it. Unless you have spoken many times about boudoir photography, there is very little chance your partner will know what is coming. All of our past clients that have done a shoot for someone, told us how positively surprised their partners were.

Seeing pride (and lust 😈) in your partner’s eyes when they discover your photographs is something to experience more often! Trust us when we say your partner will lose their mind, in the best way possible, with that magnificent gift.

And speaking of celebration, what a good timing that is when we've set up the perfect boudoir deal to wrap up this year nicely: we are offering 5 complimentary polaroids for our next 5 bookings before the end of the year. All you have to do is mention this offer when you inquire for your boudoir shoot.

It is first come, first served, so don’t wait too long before reaching out ⬇️

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How to Prepare Yourself to See Your Boudoir Photos

You’ve done it: you booked the shoot, showed up, and absolutely rocked your boudoir session. Now comes the exciting part: seeing your photos for the very first time!

For many of our clients, this moment is just as transformative as the shoot itself. It is the final outcome after all! We know for a fact you will be pleasantly surprised and have no concern whatsoever, but we can also understand how intimidating it may feel. If anything, it is absolutely normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves and have a million questions popping in your head.

Here is how you can prep in order to make the most out of your reveal session and fully enjoy it.

1. Leave negative self-talk at the door

We are so used to being critical of ourselves that we sometimes forget how to simply appreciate the beauty in front of us, especially when it’s our own reflection. The biggest gift you can give yourself when you view your photos is kindness. Instead of focusing on small details you usually critique, shift your perspective. See yourself as you would a dear friend, with compassion, appreciation, and love.

2. Don’t dismiss too quickly

Sometimes the photos that challenge you at first end up being the ones you treasure the most later on.

Boudoir is about capturing your essence, not perfection. You might see sides of yourself you have never noticed before such as your confidence, your playfulness, your strength. Give yourself time to sit with each image before making a decision. What feels bold or unfamiliar today might become the picture that makes you feel unstoppable tomorrow.

3. Make space for the experience

Viewing your photos deserves your full attention. This whole experience from beginning to end is about putting yourself first for a moment, and it doesn’t stop at the photo shoot! Make sure to carve out a moment where you won’t be rushed and distracted.

Unless distance is an issue, we host our reveal sessions in person, in the studio so you can give yourself permission to be fully present, take your time and even enjoy a warm beverage and treats while you witness how great you look. It is also important to mention that you can go through the images as many times as you wish to get your ultimate selection!

4. Celebrate your courage

Remember: booking a boudoir shoot takes guts. If you only knew the number of people dying to try this and never daring to! But you did. You trusted the process, you allowed yourself to be seen, and embraced the unknown with pizzazz. You did a brave thing and it deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated.

5. Bring someone if you feel like it.

It is absolutely allowed to bring someone if you want to. Some people bring their best-friends, other their partners, and many prefer to do this on their own. Just make sure you bring a person you trust and fully supports you. Avoid anyone who might project their own insecurity and judgment on you.

Pro-tip: give them a heads-up that reveal sessions can take up to 2 hours. Not everybody expect that and it can feel long looking at someone else’s photos. Again, you don’t want to feel rushed 😉

6. Let yourself feel it all

It’s okay if you laugh, cry, or sit in awe. Boudoir images are more than just photos; they are reflections of your journey, your story, and your strength. Give yourself the freedom to feel whatever comes up and don't hesitate to be vocal about it. We are all working on making sure you leave with images you will look at over and over again with pride.

Seeing your boudoir photos is about so much more than images on a screen. It’s about witnessing yourself in a new light, unapologetically, beautifully, and authentically you. So take a deep breath, open your heart, and get ready to meet the incredible person you already are.

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Let's celebrate your kink with boudoir

One of the reasons Juliette and I love boudoir photography so much is because it is the perfect experience for people to fully express and celebrate themselves. And since it is very important for us to make our sessions inclusive, anyone can have fun with a boudoir shoot and let its magic happen, no matter their age, gender, body, or lifestyle.

Everybody has their own reason for boudoir

We opened Scandaleuse Photography 8 years ago, and we noticed in all those years that the main reason people come to us for their shoot is usually because they want to celebrate something. We had couples who wanted to try a spicy experience for their anniversary, women with past traumas who decided to own back their body, men who wanted to feel good in their skin, people who are proud of turning a certain age and wanted to celebrate it.

We’ve also photographed people who wanted to celebrate a milestone, a body transformation, a pregnancy, or simply celebrate their love for their partner. But something we have photographed only a few times is kink.

Show us your kink

It often happens that our clients ask us if they can bring restrains, or blindfolds as a prop for their sessions. Some of them even feel shy to ask, or they feel the need to apologize for having that idea, because there is still a lot of shame around that topic since it is an unknown territory for many people.

We would never feel offended if you wish to add some spiciness to your shoot! Working with people who want to focus on their kink for their boudoir shoot is very interesting. It is nice to see that some people are not afraid to celebrate a part of themselves that other people might find shameful.

If you have been following us for a while, you know that we love going against the grain, to not conform to traditional beliefs (it is one of the reasons why we opened Scandaleuse), and show through our work that people are allowed to be who they want to be by embracing their sensuality, confidence, and badassness! So, when we meet clients who want to put under the spotlight their kinky side, we are more than happy to make their ideas come to life (of course, as long as it doesn’t cross our boundaries).

What to expect for a kink-friendly photoshoot

If you want to explore and celebrate yourself through bold, artistic imagery in a safe and non-judgmental space, then we are your gals! Our sessions are all about consent, communication, and creativity. The vibe? You decide! Whether you are looking to get sensual, edgy, or provocative photographs of yourself, we are here to capture your story, and make it comes to life with intention and respect - but never in a pornographic way.

You can either choose to focus only on your kink during your session, or incorporate it in a few setups. Since our boudoir shoots are 2 hours long, it gives us the opportunity to be really creative and showcase your beautiful-self in many different ways!

If you are interested to work with us, all you have to do is reach out here, and we will meet you on Zoom prior to booking your photoshoot to make sure we are a good fit, answer any questions you might have, guide you through our boudoir process, and talk about ideas for your photoshoot. We do not accept all the inquiries we get, as we have boundaries, but we will never shame anyone on their kink. All we ask is that every person who contact us for a shoot like that to be really honest with what they want, so the session goes smoothly!

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How to Make Your Boudoir Photoshoot Fun and Pressure-Free

When people connect with us regarding a boudoir photography, it is very common for them to feel nervous. Not only does boudoir photography requires a lot of trust in the person shooting it, the majority of our clients hs also never done anything like it before. There are a few ways to make this experience as stress-free as possible, so you can make the most of it.

Remind yourself why you want to do a boudoir photoshoot.

Before letting self-doubt and fear take over, pause for a moment and consider why you’re drawn to this experience in the first place.

Is it to feel more confident in your body or to celebrate it? To learn to let loose and be more positive about yourself? Maybe you want to try something new, or perhaps you’re thinking of sharing it with a loved one? Whatever your reason, it is a beautiful one, and it didn’t pop in your brain out of nowhere. Hold on to it, especially in the early stages of your boudoir adventure.

Relax? Easier said than done!

Very true, it might not be easy to relax but lucky for you we have some tips that will help you to do so :

• Avoid planning last minute.

While we can accommodate last minute shoots, it is not something we necessarily recommend. Doing things last minute is rarely a good idea as it creates unnecessary pressure due to rushing. We suggest you book your shoot a month in advance so you have time to gather everything you need and nicely prep for your shoot.

• Find the perfect boudoir studio.

Each boudoir photographers have their own style and way of working. When you look for the perfect match, don’t stop just at the aesthetic of their work. It is very important you book a meeting (either on the phone, Zoom, or in-person) to talk about the details and see if their way of working is aligned with what you are looking for.

For example: will they make you sign a contract? How do they handle privacy? Is makeup and hair included? Are their pricing transparent and clear? Who is the actual photographer? Do not hesitate to ask questions or share any concerns you might have.

If you book a photographer you don't feel comfortable with, it will tarnish your shoot and the all experience.

• Enjoy the getting ready part.

Planning for the photoshoot itself is often overlooked but it is so much fun! Looking for ideas, thinking of the vibes you want to create, and putting outfits together.

To keep this as pressure-free as possible, dive into it with the proper mindset: do not compare yourself to anyone you will see online and don't limit yourself and your abilities to pose like a badass. Create a Pinterest board or mood board and save anything that catches your eye.

Taking the time to prep for your shoot build up the excitement and the confidence around this experience.

• Your shoot should look like you

When doing a shoot, you should not feel like you are wearing a disguise. From the outfits to the atmosphere of each set, you have to feel 100% like yourself.

Make sure to bring outfits you love and you feel good in. It doesn't have to be classic lingerie! Any outfit can be turned into a boudoir one with the right creativity. Also, go through your favourite pieces that are considered too much and give them a spin.

• Consider bringing props

Props can be a game-changer on a photoshoot. Not only does it make your session even more true to yourself, but it also gives you something "to do” if you are camera-shy. Props can vary from something as simple as your favourite coffee mug or book to some things related to a beloved hobby of yours.

• Have fun!!!!!!!

And finally when you checked all of the above, just enjoy your shoot 😘 Practice some poses in front of your mirror, create a playlist to bring with you the day of your shoot, be playful while posing, let your inner badass-self out, imagine you are in a fashion show,…

Don’t let the camera frighten you, this is just an accessory that will capture the moment you finally shine and let yourself be your beautiful you!

Boudoir photography will really help you reconnect with your body and sensuality. And it is something we all have (or had) a hard time with due to the old school fashion industry’s beauty standards and the judgment coming from others. We know some of you might be thinking: “Well I am not beautiful and really not sensual!”. Those thoughts are very common, but let us tell you something: they are also false.

You are beautiful! You are sensual! It does not matter what you identify to, your age, or the body you have, we all are gorgeous, sexy, and sensual beings.

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Why you may not be ready for boudoir (and that's okay)

Boudoir photography looks amazing. The women you see on our website and socials seem so confident, so free, so… ready. And maybe you’re here because a little part of you wants that too: you scroll through the images, you feel a spark of curiosity… and then a voice inside whispers, “Not me. Not yet.”

And that’s perfectly okay.

Boudoir is a deeply personal experience, and sometimes, the timing just isn’t right. If that’s where you are, you’re not alone. Let’s explore a few reasons you might not feel ready right now and what you can do to start moving toward that version of yourself who is ready to take the leap.

The biggest reasons why boudoir may be a bit too far out of reach.

You truly despise your appearance and your body.

Don't get us wrong, it is very rare, maybe even impossible, for anyone to be completely at peace with the way they look at all times. But we do believe that in order to enjoy your boudoir experience, you do need to have a minimum of self-appreciation.

Boudoir is about celebration. If looking in the mirror feels like a battle and if you are stuck in harsh self-talk, it might feel impossible to celebrate yourself right now.

sensuality terrifies you.

Speaking mostly for women here, since we are women ourselves. Unfortunately, the grand majority of us have been taught that sensuality is “wrong” and inappropriate. For some of us, this was instilled stronger than for others. If the thought of letting it show feels deeply uncomfortable, boudoir might seem like crossing a line you’re not ready for.

You are not in the right headspace.

Stress, grief, trauma, or burnout can make it hard to imagine opening up to an experience as vulnerable as boudoir. And that’s okay. Sometimes self-care looks like giving yourself the time and space to heal before diving into something big.

The idea of going against the grain is overwhelming.

Boudoir is a little rebellious in its own way. It asks you to take up space, to be unapologetically visible, to celebrate yourself loudly in a world that often tells women to shrink. If you don’t feel a teeny-tiny "rebellious” spark yet, boudoir may be a little too much at the moment. And it is a-okay! This feeling is very different from one person to the other, and it may show up in unexpected ways.

How to Start Moving Toward “Ready”

In case it crossed your mind, no, you are absolutely not a lost cause. The majority of us have needed to take a few more steps in order to get into this feeling ready pool. Here are a variety of ideas for you to explore:

Practice self-kindness.

Notice your inner dialogue and practice replacing negative self-talk one with kinder comments. For example, you can try to give yourself more compliments instead of criticism. If that feels impossible, you can also attempt to tell those negative voices to shut it and remind yourself they are not accurate. While we are here, allow us to remind you that negative self-talk comes from a lot of outside factors out of your control. There is absolutely nothing wrong with you.

Reconnect with your sensual side in private.

Sensuality is not solely about sexuality. It is a gigantic umbrella with a lot of ways to bring it out. It can be as simple as dancing in your living room, wearing outfits (even lingerie) just for you, practice a new sport you’ve been dying to try, or even journal about how you’d like to feel in your own skin. It is truly a choose your own adventure book, and your instinct will tell you what you need to do to awaken it. Now it’s a matter of listening to it and trust us, it is a lot more fun than listening to the bitchy voices from above!

Surround yourself with inspiration.

Create mood boards on Pinterest or Canva, follow boudoir accounts (like ours!) and ideally, look for people that look like you. It’s a great way to remind yourself that beauty, sensuality, and power come in every age, shape, and story and avoid falling into the rabbit hole of comparisons. Social media can be quickly toxic, but the good side of it is that you can make it your own by being careful about who you follow.

Seek support.

It is no secret that therapy or coaching with the right person can help unpack body image and self-worth struggles. There is absolutely no shame in getting outside help when everything feels too much. It may even be the best gift you give yourself.

Last but not least, a little boudoir reality check.

Here’s the secret most people don’t realize: none of our clients feel fully ready when they book.

They arrive nervous, uncertain, sometimes even wondering if they’ve made a mistake. The difference is, they have managed getting to a place where they can let go of the idea of “perfect readiness". They chose to place their trust in the process, and they allow themselves to be guided.

That’s when the transformation happens.

Boudoir isn’t about waiting until you feel flawless, fearless, or perfectly aligned. It’s about stepping into the experience as you are and discovering the strength, sensuality, and beauty that’s been there all along.

So if you’re not ready yet, that’s okay. Take your time. But when you feel even the tiniest spark of curiosity, that may be your sign. You don’t need to feel fully ready, you just need to be willing.

And of course, if you feel like chatting about our potential boudoir experience, we are always one call away!

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6 common boudoir questions people ask

Boudoir photography is getting more and more popular, yet is still a mystery for people who never tried it. So today, let’s answer the most common questions people ask about this beautiful and empowering experience.

Can I do a boudoir shoot for myself?

Is it very common for people to believe the only reason for someone to have their photos taken in a boudoir style is to gift them to a partner or a lover. Which is not wrong (it is always a nice touch to gift someone some sexy pictures, it adds extra spiciness to the relationship), but it is not the goal of this type of photography.

Doing a boudoir shoot for yourself is the ultimate experience you can treat yourself to. It is the me-time you finally deserve! On top of getting stunning photos, you also gain long-lasting benefits that you will feel in your everyday life (such as a boost of confidence, feeling sexy in your own skin, improving your posture, …).

Am I too old to try boudoir photography?

Beside having to be over 18, there is no limit of age in order to do a boudoir shoot. We often receive inquiries from women who are 50+, who called themselves “mature”, and tell us that it might be weird that they want to do a shoot at their age.

Of course, it is not weird! And we wished more people who are past a certain age could treat themselves with this life-changing experience… Feeling fabulous is ageless 🤩

Is boudoir only for women?

If you type boudoir photography in your browser, you will see a big majority of images showcases women, but don’t let it fool you… boudoir is for everyone!

Either you are a man who want to explore his softer side, a trans person who want to fully embrace what they now identify as, a non-binary person who wants to break gender stereotypes, or a cross dresser who want to express themselves fully, boudoir photography is the perfect opportunity to celebrate your badass-self the way you want it!

I don’t know how to pose, can I still have a boudoir shoot done?

Absolutely! We never work with professional models, and most of our clients are first timers (some of them never even had their photos taken for anything). Both Juliette and I, Fanny, are on your shoot, and it is our role to guide you through each pose and set (we always demonstrate the poses so you can have a visual).

If you feel really nervous with the idea of posing, it is normal, but we promise it is fun if you let yourself be guided and trust the process.

Do I have to pose nude?

This is a question that comes back often when we have meetings with clients, and the answer is “absolutely not!”. You do not have to do anything you are not comfortable with. Yes, in a boudoir shoot you show more skin than in a regular portrait session, but it doesn’t mean you have to do some nudity (you don’t even have to wear lingerie if it is not your style).

We created Scandaleuse as a safe space for people to express themselves using boudoir photography, so you will never be forced to do anything! It is also a decision you can take during the shoot, if at some point you want to give it a shot, even if it is suggested nudity, you are welcome to do so.

Should I lose weight so I can look good in my photos?

We are going to steal one of Nirvana’s song for this one, but here is what we tell people:

“Come as you are.”

Your natural body is beautiful, you are beautiful… 👏 yes 👏 you 👏 are 👏

One of the reasons we opened Scandaleuse Photography back in 2017, was to make boudoir accessible to anyone, no matter their shapes and sizes. Boudoir is a mindset, not a beauty contest! It is about helping yourself to reconnect to your sensuality, your self-confidence, & your sexiness, and making you love the body you have 💛

We really hope this blog will help you take the decision to finally do that boudoir shoot you deserve! We would love to see you in front of our lenses. As usual, if you have questions, feel free to reach out here!

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