When people think of boudoir photography and maternity photography, most think of two distinct and unmixable photography themes. The phrase “boudoir” is French for “bedroom.” Boudoir photography typically describes any photography taken intimately, often in the bedroom. This doesn’t necessarily mean the photographs include nudity or even lingerie, though they often do. Boudoir maternity photography is an intimate portrait of pregnancy, which can mean different things for different clients. 

As a pregnancy-positive maternity photographer, I offer boudoir maternity photography as a maternity package option. Here’s why I think it’s important, and what you should expect if you plan on turning your maternity photos into a boudoir shoot.

The Importance Of Boudoir Maternity Photography

The body goes through many changes during pregnancy. Hormone changes, new and surprising bodily functions, and, of course, the baby bump. Many love their baby bumps. But for some– especially those who struggle with their body image before pregnancy — gaining pregnancy weight and a baby bump is overwhelming.

Even those who love being pregnant may feel a disconnect from their bodies. When you’re pregnant, people can often focus on your stomach rather than on you. That can be hurtful, even if it’s just because they’re excited to meet the baby you’re currently in the process of growing. Many women struggle with people (including strangers!) walking up and touching their stomachs without asking permission, which can feel violating, almost as though you have no agency over your body.

And even if you love the way you look, it can be difficult to feel sexy because of the strain pregnancy can put on your body.

Rest assured I’ve never seen an ugly pregnant person. Truly. 

But the feeling of being an alien in your own body can be extremely real for 9 months. Boudoir maternity photography aims to help women feel good about themselves and their pregnant bodies. To put them in the spotlight just as much as the human they’re growing. That’s what I try to achieve with all my maternity photos, but boudoir photos can be extra-special when it comes to helping people get in touch with themselves during pregnancy.

What To Expect At A Boudoir Maternity Session

Maternity photography can be quite the surprise for clients, but boudoir maternity can be even more surprising. Here’s a run-down of what happens at a typical maternity boudoir session.

• Before the session, we’ll discuss any themes you might want to include in your session, your clothing choices (or no clothing at all!), and what you’re comfortable with in terms of skin exposure. Again, I believe that boudoir intimacy will mean different things to different people, so I strive to make sure I capture that in my session with you.
• On the day of, we’ll meet up in the studio. I’ll give you a few minutes to relax, and if you want to bring a close friend or partner to hype you up, by all means, do! We’ll lay out your outfits, set up the sets, and get started.
• I’ll walk you through poses throughout the boudoir session. Each pose is aimed at capturing your natural curves, getting great lighting, and highlighting your beauty. 
• You’ll receive your photos about two weeks after the photoshoot. Plan a big reveal with your girlfriends, partner, or just enjoy them yourself. 

How To Prepare For Your Session

Getting ready for a boudoir session is deeply personal. I think the most important thing you can do to prepare for the session is to pamper yourself in a way that boosts your self-esteem and makes you feel good. Maybe that means getting a manicure, or maybe that means going for a bit of a hike beforehand. Whatever you choose, make sure your preparation includes relaxation. Here’s what I recommend:

• Schedule your maternity shots well before you plan on taking them. You never know what your favorite photographer’s schedule will be like (mine is booked solid for a while!)
• Pick out any clothes you may want to wear before the session. I have several open-front dresses which work well for boudoir photos, but you may choose to wear lingerie or a piece of statement jewelry. 
• Ask any close friends or family members you’ll want by your side to save the date for your photoshoot. 
• Make sure your hair, makeup, and nails are to your liking before the photoshoot.
• Let me know anything you’d like to include in the session — a specific item, color theme, or photoshop requests are all wonderful things to give me a heads up about. 

I hope I’ve convinced some of you to take a walk on the wild side for your next maternity photoshoot. Let’s meet and chat about what a boudoir session would look like for you!