The Problem Isn't Boudoir. It's How Society Sees Women's Bodies.

This week, one of our Scandals (if you're new here, that's what we lovingly call our clients after they've done a boudoir session with us) shared her beautiful photos on Instagram. She was incredibly proud of herself for stepping outside her comfort zone and loved her images so much that she wanted to celebrate them with her community. Unfortunately, because social media is full of bullies, she also received some stupid comments.

Sadly, this kind of behaviour has become so common online that many people barely react to it anymore. But we care and honestly, we're tired of seeing women torn down for simply existing confidently in their own bodies. So here we are again, speaking up and dismantling old school beliefs…

"If you post online, you have to accept people's opinions."

This is one of the most common arguments used to justify online harassment. Yes, everyone is entitled to their opinion. But there's a world of difference between respectfully disagreeing with someone and insulting or humiliating them.

When people share pieces of their lives, whether it's a trip they took, a recipe they tried, a fitness journey, or a personal milestone, they're simply sharing something that brought them joy, and it is a beautiful thing that social media allow us to do. But every time we read the comments under a Reel or an Instagram post, we're saddened by how many people go out of their way to say something negative. We have never understood why some people feel the need to criticize complete strangers for living their lives differently than they would. And when women share their boudoir photos, the judgment somehow becomes even harsher 😡

In our opinion, if someone doesn't like it, they can simply keep scrolling!

"Those pictures belong on OnlyFans."

No, they don't.

Comments like these usually come from people who automatically associate a woman's body with sexuality. Because boudoir photography often shows more skin than a traditional portrait session, many assume that boudoir equals pornography.

It doesn't! Nudity and sexuality are two completely different things.

Nudity is simply the state or quality of being without clothing or covering of any kind. It is the bare skin we all have under our clothes, skin that protects our our organs, nerves, muscles, veins… Sexuality, on the other hand, is about sexual expression and desire.

Can boudoir photography be erotic? Of course it can, if the intention of the image is to arouse the viewer or if it depicts sexual acts. But that's not why most women book a boudoir session. They come to us because they want to see themselves differently. They want to reconnect with their bodies, celebrate a milestone, heal after a difficult chapter, rebuild their confidence, or simply do something that feels empowering and fun.

Their photos aren't about inviting others to look at them, they're about finally learning to look at themselves with kindness. For many women, boudoir is far more therapeutic than it is sexual.

"Boudoir is a step backwards for feminism."

No, it is not.

Some people argue that women who post boudoir photos online are simply seeking attention or catering to the male gaze, and that doing so contributes to the objectification of women. Can you see the irony? Once again, we are asking women to cover up so men can behave.

While it is true that some women do share intimate photos because they enjoy feeling attractive, they like to receive compliments, or it is their way to express their sexuality (there is absolutely nothing wrong with that), for many others they share their photos because they're proud of themselves!

Proud that they faced their insecurities. Proud that they challenged years of negative self-talk. Proud that they finally saw themselves the way their loved ones have always seen them. And often, they hope their courage will inspire another woman to do the same.

Interestingly, when a man posts shirtless photos showing off his physique, people rarely question his intelligence, self-respect, or motives. Yet when a woman celebrates her body, suddenly everyone has an opinion.

Which brings us to the classic:

"You can't be taken seriously if you post your boudoir photos."

We have heard this one countless times. Despite the progress we've made, society still tends to believe that women who show their bodies online, or who use their appearance as part of their work, must somehow be less intelligent, less professional, less talented or less capable.

But confidence and competence are not mutually exclusive:

• A woman can be a CEO and wear lingerie.

• A lawyer can do a boudoir shoot.

• A doctor can feel sexy.

• A teacher can celebrate her body.

• An entrepreneur can embrace both her intelligence and her femininity.

Showing your body doesn't erase your accomplishments, it doesn't diminish your expertise and it doesn't make your opinions less valuable. The only thing it challenges is an outdated belief that women must choose between being respected and feeling beautiful. We're done accepting that false choice. Women are allowed to exist in all their complexity. They can be intelligent, accomplished, vulnerable, sexy, funny, ambitious, powerful, and confident all at the same time. And if that makes some people uncomfortable, maybe that's a sign that the problem was never boudoir photography in the first place.

Never forget that boudoir is a celebration of yourself. You absolutely have every right to keep your photos private, but you also have every right to share them and you don't owe anyone an explanation for what you do with your own body. If a boudoir session makes you feel happy, confident, and powerful, that's enough. And if you want to share those images with the world, that's your choice too. At the end of the day, you're the only person who gets to decide what's right for your beautiful self.

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Poses named after our clients

Creating different atmospheres for each person standing in front of our lens has always been a priority. The goal of our boudoir work is to have our client say “yes, this feels like me” when they are in the moment but also when they see their images.

As a result, sometimes, some specific sets, outfits or poses get created around a client, and they truly stand out, to the point where we actually name it after them and will refer to it as much in the future.

We recently mentioned it to one of our clients after naming one after her, and she mentioned that it was pretty fun and flattering that we had that system. And it made us think: another side of Scandaleuse is not just how you inspire us, but also how you inspire others, which is just as important. After all, people, particularly women, come to us showing images from our website from someone else they could relate to. And we now have a full library of muses.

Without further ado, let us show you a sample of the Scandaleuse Muses Library!

The Claudia

This one is for all of you with great hip mobility! If you are looking to feel like a sexy dancer/spy and your body allows it, we will likely challenge you with this one!

The Melanie

This pose looks impressive while being extremely flattering on the body, while being fairly comfortable to execute. That, to us, is a winning combo. We love suggesting this kind of pose to anybody wanting to feel like a ballet dancer without strain!

The Christina

We cannot take credit for this one as Christina brought our attention to this pose. It may look simple, but it is actually incredibly bendy!

The Alexia

The Alexia has now become a lighting statement, with this heart shape spotlight to bring out her inner showgirl! You are more than welcome to stay a blank canvas when it comes to your session but sometimes, people like to explore more specific visions, which we also love. Alexia wanted a burlesque touch to her shoot and we were happy to oblige!

The Sher

Granted, the Sher can refer to a couple from her session, as we got the chance to go super creative together, but this one is ingrained in the muse library! There are many variations of this pose, which makes it easy to adapt to all body types and mobility and they are all very elegant. Always a winner!

We have so many more we could show you, but as you can expect, the majority of our clients’ photos need to stay fully private. Your session is about you, your personality, your tastes. We have created sets around Harry Potter, Marie-Antoinette, Cyber Punk, various decades, and gigantic props, and we are very grateful that we get to experiment with the lovely people in front of our lens.

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Don't be afraid to do a boudoir shoot

Did you open this blog post because you dream of doing a boudoir photoshoot but feel quite nervous about it? We're going to assume you did, so if that's the case, this blog is 100% for you 😘

In case you don't know, Juliette and I (Fanny) opened Scandaleuse Photography 9 years ago, and in all those years, we've stopped counting the number of times people have told us they would love to do a shoot but don't think they can, often for the same reasons we're going to debunk today!

We bet one of the reasons stopping you from doing your photoshoot is on this list. If not, please leave us a comment. We're very curious to learn more about your story.

Yes, you have the right body!

This is probably the #1 reason why most people feel like boudoir photography is not for them. Beauty standards are still so deeply rooted in our society that many of us see ourselves as ugly or unworthy if our bodies don't look like what the media considers "acceptable" or "normal."

What we often forget is that these beauty standards were created for marketing purposes, to sell us products and services we don't need. If we all accepted our bodies the way they are, we wouldn't be searching for magical solutions or spending thousands of dollars to look younger, thinner, or more muscular.

Unfortunately, we live in a society that focuses more on what we look like than on who we are as people. So when it comes to boudoir photography, many people still feel that it's reserved only for those with "perfect" bodies.

One of the reasons we opened a boudoir photography studio was to put things back into perspective and encourage people to celebrate their natural beauty. Your body, no matter its shape or form, is beautiful exactly the way it is. Your cellulite, your wrinkles, your scars, and yes, even your belly fat (most of our clients complain about that part of their body, but it deserves some love too 🥹) are all part of who you are. There is no need to feel ashamed of, or hide, any part of yourself.

One of the benefits of doing a boudoir shoot is learning to accept ourselves as we are and giving a big middle finger to those beauty standards!

Yes, you are photogenic!

Another common reason some people fear doing a boudoir session is the belief that they are not photogenic. Honestly, we blame school portrait photography for that!

I remember hating those photo days as a kid. Most photographers had zero patience, parents forced us to smile, and it was often a truly unpleasant experience. I believe that created a lot of negative associations with being photographed. The idea of standing still and having to smile at a camera can be nerve-racking for some people and make them feel very awkward. But boudoir photography is a completely different experience, and it's actually a lot of fun once people start to relax.

First of all, we guide you through the entire process. We show you every pose, and we even demonstrate what we have in mind by posing ourselves in front of you so you can easily copy what we're doing.

Secondly, unless you're naturally a very smiley person, you're probably not going to smile in every photo. We build the sets around the outfits you bring. So let's say you bring a lot of badass lingerie, in that case the attitude we'll try to bring out in you will be more serious, powerful, and confident. We help create that atmosphere through the poses we guide you into and by directing where we want you to look.

On the other hand, if you bring outfits that create a cozy or cute vibe, we might encourage you to give a soft smile while looking off into the distance. We'll probably make you laugh too so we can capture some genuine, candid smiles.

Nothing is ever forced. With the right guidance, your natural attitude comes through very easily.

Yes, you can still do a boudoir shoot!

"I'm too old to do a boudoir shoot!"

No, you're not! The only requirement you need in order to do a boudoir shoot is to be over 18. Beyond that, there is no age limit.

Can you guess why women over a certain age think they shouldn't try this experience? It's because we live in a world where we've been told that women only matter when they're young. That after a certain age, they lose their beauty, their sensuality, and their sexuality. What a load of BS!

Aging is a natural process that all humans go through. Juliette likes to say that aging is a privilege, and she is absolutely right. We should celebrate our bodies for all the hard work they do for us, remembering that not everyone gets the chance to grow old and that, without our bodies, we are nothing.

Getting older should not stop us from living life and experiencing everything this world has to offer.

Yes, you will feel safe!

Another reason why we opened Scandaleuse Photography was because we wanted to create a safe space for people to fully express themselves and reclaim their bodies. Some of our clients are women who have experienced abuse in their lives, and doing a photoshoot is their way of taking back control of their image and their bodies.

We also have clients from the LGBTQIA2S+ community, such as cross-dressers and gay men, who use boudoir photography as a way to express their femininity because they don't feel safe enough to do so in their everyday lives. We also photograph trans women who are looking for a way to celebrate the feminine side of themselves that they may have had to hide for much of their lives.

Scandaleuse is a safe haven for anyone who needs a space to be themselves without fear of being judged, mocked, or abused. We make it our priority to provide support and guidance to every single person who comes to our studio and to ensure they leave with wonderful memories of this empowering experience.

Yes, you will relax and have fun!

When we shoot boudoir, we love helping you showcase all the facets of your personality. That's why we encourage you to bring outfits that make you feel amazing, as well as any props you'd like to incorporate into your session so that the experience feels truly personalized.

We also play music to help you get in the mood, guide you through every pose, cheer you on, and crack a few jokes to help you relax. Will you feel nervous during the first 10 minutes of the shoot? Probably! But as the session goes on, you'll start feeling less stressed and more comfortable, and before you know it, you'll be having fun.

Our photoshoots are two hours long, but you'll see that time flies by quickly... and you'll probably wish it lasted longer 😇

You will want to do it again in the future!

Boudoir photography isn't necessarily something people do every year, as it is an investment. However, we often see past clients return for a second or even third shoot years after their first boudoir experience. Sometimes their lives have changed. Sometimes they've reached an important milestone. And sometimes they simply want to celebrate themselves again with a new boudoir session.

That's one of the beautiful things about boudoir photography: every session tells the story of who you are in that moment of your life.

We hope today’s blog will give you the extra push you need to treat yourself with the fantastic experience boudoir photography is. Sign up to our weekly newsletter to receive our blogs, speial deals and other cool stuf:

Boudoir Photography Is More Affordable Than You Think

A boudoir shoot can be an investment, but with our process, it actually could be a lot more accessible than you think! Let's dissect how a boudoir shoot is actually paid for.

1) You can pay before we meet, but you don't have to. 

There are 3 ways to book a boudoir session with us. You can: 

• 1) fill out a form on the website and have us contact you;

• 2) book a complimentary consultation, or;

• 3) you can book your date and pay directly. It's perfect for if you think you will chicken out if you don't secure your photoshoot in one go 😉 

⚠️ For the 3rd option, we will always do a pre-shoot online consultation and if for whatever reason, we are not a good fit after that, we will have a silent tear you will get a full refund. At the end of the day, all we want is your comfort.

2) You don't need to pay your full shoot at once

We actually only need a $250 retainer to secure your date, and your make-up artist. The remaining balance of your session is due the day of your photoshoot, whenever that it. You can absolutely schedule multiple months in advance to give yourself more time. You can reschedule once under certain conditions and we try to be as flexible as we can.  

3) You choose the number of photos you'd like to purchase

The way it works at Scandaleuse is that we host reveal sessions (aka when we show you your photo selection) within 2 weeks of your photoshoot. We are personally not fans of doing it the same day as it is a long time at the studio and we want to you take your time and take them all in (and avoid impulse buying!). 

We have 6 collections to choose from, all customizable, and with various budget. It starts at $580, are digitally-based and the most luxurious options also include albums you have the freedom to remove to re-adjust the cost.

4) Payment plan in the span of 3 months

We are veeeery flexible with our payment plans as we not only give you the option to divide your package fee between 2 or 3 instalments AND to pick your preferred timeline, by making a payment either every 2 weeks or once a month. There are no extra costs associated with this, we just set it up to your liking after you've made your selection.  

The only thing to keep in mind is that we cannot deliver the final images until payment is complete, so if you are not in a rush to get your photos, it's a great option! 

Hopefully, this brought some clarity in case the investment was the last thing stopping you from a finally doing your boudoir photoshoot! On top of just being super fun, we pride ourselves to make this experience as pressure-free and flexible as we can. 

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions, we are always happy to help!

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What I do to get ready for a boudoir shoot

In order to have complete freedom over the use of some images (and also because we love it), Fanny and I regularly take boudoir photos of ourselves. Over the years, I personally have developed a little pre-shoot routine to feel my most confident self so I can just focus on feeling badass and have fun the day of!

Here is a necessary disclaimer: some people, Fanny included, don’t feel the need to do anything before their session, and it is just as good! Those are little tips that help get me in the right state of mind, but none of the following is mandatory to have beautiful photos of yourself. Take what you want, leave the rest!

1) I avoid shooting during my period.

I know myself and I know my body: during my period, I am part of the team that just want to roll in a ball (and die). I definitely don’t feel like being half-naked and absolutely don’t feel sexy whatsoever. As a result, I try my best to schedule photo shoots around it. Many of our clients also apply this and we always do the best we can to work with them for those who want.

2) I adapt my workouts, and not the way you’d think

I usually work out 4 to 5 times a week, between pole dancing, weight-lifting and pilates. It has been part of my routine for over a decade now, and while I make sure to stick to it to the best of my ability before a photoshoot, I also adapt by actually making them… easier.

The reason why is because I don't want to be sore during a boudoir shoot. The more mobile and flexible you are, the more poses you can do. If I go crazy exercising, I know for a fact my body will be achy and fun poses will feel a lot more uncomfortable than usual. Moving yes, but let’s take it easy!

3) Essential trifecta: sleep, food and alcohol.

Alcohol makes me bloated and puffy. I am far from a heavy drinker to begin with but if a shoot is in the horizon, I will definitely keep it in mind and stay away from alcohol for 2 or 3 days prior.

I also tend to avoid having a big dinner the night before, more out of comfort than aesthetic. There is absolutely no need whatsoever to restrict your diet before doing your shoot! I just personally like to have a lighter dinner the night before, so I don’t feel heavy the next day.

A solid breakfast is however essential! You need energy for a boudoir shoot and food = energy. We still see too many people showing up on an empty stomach to keep it flat, and it is the best way to feel dizzy half-way through! Don't aim to not eat, just eat better.

Last but not least, beauty sleep isn’t a myth! If I am off of my sleep routine for whatever reason, I bring it back for a week before my photoshoot. Great motivation to just go to bed on time!

4) I plan my outfits.

Again, some people like to throw a bunch of clothes last minute and see what happens, and it works great for them. I am part of the “trying everything before” team. (You see the type A that I am by now I am sure :) ). My goal is to have options with me I know I feel beautiful in, so I don’t even question it when the lens is on me.

5) A little mobility goes a long way!

Boudoir tends to involve very elongated poses and it makes you work on posture and arch. Having a bit of flexibility in your back and hips does wonder. If time allows the morning of, I enjoy doing a soft mobility and stretching session for 10/15 minutes to oil the machine. We believe in this so much that we had a wonderful yoga instructor create one specifically for our clients, available in our tips and tricks sent to them. 

A reminder again that everything you just read is about getting into a confident mindset, not changing my body to look a certain way. What works for me might not work for you, feel free to adjust or remove as you see fit! Ultimately, what matters is having the most fun during your photoshoot, and make it about you, art and badass vibes.

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Boudoir photoshoot: turn your “someday” into “right now".

We all have a list of things we’d love to do “someday.” Maybe it’s traveling to a dream destination, taking up a new hobby, or finally booking that boudoir shoot you’ve been thinking about for years. But let’s be honest, how often does “someday” turn into never?

Here’s the truth: There is no perfect time. The only time we truly have is now.

Celebrating yourself as you are now.

Too often, we tell ourselves that we need to wait. “I’ll book a shoot when I lose weight.” “I’ll do it when I feel more confident.” “I’ll wait until life slows down.” But what if the key to confidence is actually doing the shoot? Boudoir isn’t about being a certain size or reaching some imaginary standard, it’s about embracing your natural beauty, right now.

Capturing the moment.

We tend to focus on the future so much that we forget to honour the present. A boudoir session is a chance to pause, appreciate yourself, and create something timeless. Whether you’re in your 20s, 40s, or 70s, your beauty deserves to be celebrated. Imagine looking back at these photos years from now and remembering how powerful, sensual, and strong you felt at this moment.

Because confidence doesn’t come from waiting, it comes from doing.

Many people believe confidence is something you need before booking a boudoir shoot. The reality? Confidence comes from stepping outside your comfort zone and seeing yourself in a new light. A boudoir session is an experience that helps you reconnect with your body, your sensuality, and your self-worth.

Stop letting fear hold you back.

Fear is one of the biggest reasons people put off boudoir photography. Fear of not looking “good enough,” fear of being vulnerable, fear of doing something bold, fear of being ridiculous. But what if you push past that fear? What if, instead of wondering “What if I don’t like my photos?” you asked, “What if I absolutely love them?” What if this experience changes the way you see yourself forever?

A gift for yourself, now and always.

Boudoir is not just about the photos, it’s about the journey of self-love and empowerment. The images become a reminder of your strength, beauty, and courage. Whether you’re doing this as a personal celebration, a milestone marker, or just because, the best gift you can give yourself is to stop waiting and say yes to the experience.

So, why wait? Why keep pushing this dream off to “someday”? You are worth celebrating now. You are beautiful now. You are powerful now. Take the leap. Do the boudoir shoot. And step into the most confident, radiant version of yourself!

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Helping Women Reclaim Their Bodies - An Interview

Early this year, we had an interview done for Le Métropolitain, a french newspaper in Toronto. The article was initially written in French, but we decided to translate it in english so more people can read it!

Reclaiming the Body Through the Lens: How Two French Photographers in Toronto Turn Boudoir Into Empowerment

Chrismène Dorme – IJL – Le Métropolitain

In a world saturated with polished images and rigid beauty standards, Juliette and Fanny are choosing to go against the tide. For these two French photographers based in Toronto, boudoir photography is far more than an aesthetic experience, it is an act of self-reclamation.

Using the camera as a tool for confidence, tenderness, and, at times, healing, they have built Scandaleuse Photography into a deeply human project dedicated to helping women reconnect with themselves.

Their story began in Paris in 2009, when they met in photography school. Fifteen years later, it is on the other side of the Atlantic that they have brought their shared vision to life through a studio devoted to boudoir photography, far removed from the stereotypes that still often define the genre.

Their mission is clear: to help women embrace their sensuality and make peace with their bodies.

“We wanted to show women that they have the right to feel sexy, without it being for the male gaze,” says Fanny.

For Juliette, the work goes even deeper. “There was an element of rebellion,” she explains. “It’s about reclaiming your image, your body, and letting go of the insecurities imposed by beauty standards.”

More than a studio, Scandaleuse Photography is designed as a space for personal expression, a place where shame and negative self-perception can be challenged and dismantled. The studio regularly welcomes women who have undergone mastectomies, as well as clients from cultural or religious backgrounds where the female body remains a taboo subject.

According to Juliette, insecurities often take root early in life. “We all grow up with insecurities imposed from the outside, family, society, unrealistic standards,” she says.

“But confidence is the most important thing. When it comes back, it unlocks so many other things. Some clients have even told us they made major life decisions after their session.”

Fanny shares that perspective. “We’ve become too disconnected from our bodies,” she says. “We forget that this body carries our life, our organs, our story. Boudoir also helps us accept our natural beauty.” Juliette adds, “Our worth should never depend on standards created by others.”

While the experience can be deeply transformative, it is never improvised. Most clients arrive feeling nervous, sometimes even intimidated by the idea of posing. “Many of them have never had professional photos taken before, not even simple portraits,” says Fanny. That tension, however, tends to fade quickly, especially once hair and makeup begin, the first steps in what has become a comforting ritual.

For Juliette, communication is at the heart of the process. “We always start with a free consultation,” she explains. “People get to know us, they know they’ll be working with women, and we also share some of our own experiences.”

Clients are encouraged to bring clothing or personal objects that reflect who they are, a guitar, a favourite book, art supplies,… Creating a highly personalized experience that sets the studio apart from more traditional boudoir photography.

The photographers are also careful about who they recommend the experience to. “We don’t suggest these sessions for people whose self-esteem is still too fragile,” Juliette says. “It can be counterproductive. Part of the healing journey needs to have already happened.”

Still, Fanny believes boudoir can serve as a powerful complement to therapy.

“It can be incredibly therapeutic, but only when people feel ready,” she says.

Some of the most emotionally intense sessions involve women from environments where the relationship to the body is highly restricted. In those cases, the photographs, often kept strictly private, can become a profound way of reclaiming both the body and one’s identity as a woman.

On Saturday, January 31, Juliette and Fanny opened the doors of their Toronto studio for a day dedicated to conversations around boudoir photography.

In a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complete with coffee, tea, treats, and open dialogue, visitors were invited to explore the sets, browse albums, and ask questions freely. “We usually do consultations over video calls,” says Fanny. “This time, we wanted to create a space for in-person connection and exchange.”

The Studio continues to evolve. Recently, the team expanded with the arrival of Pascaline, a fellow French videographer who now incorporates video into the sessions, an approach that remains rare in Canada. The addition is particularly aimed at couples, offering a new way to explore intimacy and connection.

Although attitudes around body image have shifted in recent years, both photographers remain realistic about the challenges ahead. “There was a real body positivity movement a few years ago that laid important foundations,” says Juliette. “But today, with artificial intelligence and social media, it sometimes feels like we’re moving backward.”

Fanny agrees. “Our relationship with our bodies is changing, yes, but very slowly,” she says. “AI is going to become a real issue.”

In response to a world increasingly filled with artificial and unattainable images, Scandaleuse Photography stands for something radically different: an approach that is sincere, embodied, and deeply human. It is, above all, an invitation to look at oneself differently, without filters, without standards, and, most importantly, without shame.

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Use boudoir to bring out your alter-ego

Boudoir is all about capturing who you are. You should absolutely have photos where you recognize and feel like yourself. For many it means using the least accessories and the simplest outfits possible, but for others, it also means to bring out one of their alter-ego that never gets to shine (it can also be both, no one is going to stop you here!).

Playing around with your alter-egos is not only fun, but also a great way to bring extra confidence during your session. Allow us to show you some ideas that we have seen to inspire you!

Gaming & Fantasy

This one is for all the gamers and cosplay fans! You can absolutely bring a boudoir twist related to your favorite game, movies, anything.

You can rely on our make-up artist and hair-stylist to go crazy on our look or you can also bring some strong pieces with you. We have seen wonderful cosplay pieces that were a delight to turn into boudoir outfits, so the sky is the limit!

The femme fatale

You can never go wrong with a femme fatale vibe. It can come in so many different ways, from a cocktail gown to a blazer look, with or without accessories. You can truly make it your own. It makes this theme very easy to get into and on top of that, it automatically puts you in an empowered, badass state of mind and it shows.

Dark romance (and smut)

Book-lovers, we see you! We strongly believe that the content we consume defines us to a certain level, and as avid readers, we absolutely love creating those atmospheres for you.

Whether you want to show off your hopeless romantic side or your dark romance sexy side, once again, possibilities are endless. On a sidenote, gentlemen, you can never go wrong with a “Shadow Daddy” vibe. Smut is a popular genre for a reason, just throwing it out there!

Drag & playing with gender

More and more of our clients, especially male, bring oufits varying between masculine and feminine looks, and we absolutely love it. Take this photoshoot to express yourself fully, this is a safe space for you to do so. A client of ours recently shared with us RuPaul’s famous quote: ”We’re all born naked and the rest is drag”, and we couldn’t agree more.

Step into both of your sides, and go as extra as you want. You won't regret it!

While we have many, due to privacy reason, we cannot use our images illustrate this point, but we confirm they are here!

At the end of the day, boudoir photography is an art experience, and art requires creativity. It is a great opportunity to think outside the box and have fun with it. So why not incarnate a facet of your personality that can’t be shown to the world as freely as your real self?

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Got a question regarding our boudoir shoots, find the answer here!

If you look for boudoir photography online, you will find many studios with different styles, offering different packages, and providing different information on this type of photography, which can make people feel a little bit overwhelmed when it come to taking the decision to do a boudoir shoot or not.

So, to make sure you get all the clarity you need, today's blog will be  straightforward and will answer most questions you might have in mind regarding our services, so you can finally start your new boudoir adventure 😎

WHERE ARE WE LOCATED?

We are currently based in Toronto, West of the Junction (Dundas & Runnymede) and occasionally Paris, France. 

WHO IS GOING TO BE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER?

Both of us! We noticed that shooting together makes our models more comfortable, and it also guarantees you a great variety of poses and sets during your shoot since you have two set of eyes at your disposal! We also work faster & better together.

And since we are the founders of Scandaleuse and only ones working at the business, you will always be talking to either Juliette or I, Fanny. All emails are answered within 1 business day. Our editing is also in-house and our turnaround time is in average 2 weeks for your final iamges.

WHO ARE OUR BOUDOIR SHOOTS FOR?

Everybody over the age of 18. Opening Scandaleuse Photography was our way to create a safe space for anyone interested to have a boudoir shoot done. We work with women, men, non-binary folks, trans people, cross-dressers, companions, people from all ethnicities, ages, lifestyle, and body-types. Everybody is welcome 😘

Do I need to know how to pose?

Absolutely not. Most of our clients are first-timers and it is our job to guide you from head to toes. We even demonstrate the poses for you and we make sure those poses follow what your body can do.

How long in advance should I book?

To play it safe, we suggest planning a month in advance for individual and couple sessions. If you are looking to get an album done for a specific date, then booking few months in advance is alway a better idea. We can sometimes accommodate last-minute sessions if the date you want is open on our end.

What is included in our boudoir session?

Our photoshoots are 2 hours long and include:

• professional makeup & hair (can be removed if you don’t want it);

• our stunning Parisian-Inspired studio or an outdoor location for those who want to shoot outside;

• two photographers (Juliette and I, Fanny);

• posing guidance and styling;

• full access to our prop closet;

• pre-shoot tips & tricks in your inbox;

• unlimited outfit changes;

• consultation prior to the session; and

• reveal and ordering session of your photos.

Regarding our pricing, our individual shoots are $390, and our couple shoots are $500. The session fee does not include any digital files, prints or albums. We have a variety of photo packages available for purchase during your reveal session, starting $580.

Do we offer print options?

Yes we do! Some of our photo packages include albums (they can be removed if not needed). Individual prints and polaroids are available à-la-carte.

Do we offer payment plans?

Yes! We have set up payment plans up to 3 instalments on all of our photo packages, at no extra cost and with flexile timelines of your choosing.

How do our boudoir sessions work?

First, we schedule a complimentary consultation to see what you have in mind and walk you through our process. A retainer of $250 is needed to book your date and secure your makeup artist, the rest of the balance is due the day of your photoshoot at the latest. Once the retainer is paid, we send you a contract, put you in touch with the makeup artist, send you some tips & tricks, and all the information you need for studio location and parking.

The day of the photoshoot: you start with makeup and hair first (that is done at our studio), then we go over the outfits and props you brought, and we start the photoshoot. We guide you through every poses and set, you will see you will have a lots of fun 😀

A selection of photographs will be available 2 weeks after your shoot (same day reveal sessions are also possible if you wish). This is the moment you decide to purchase the photographs you like best.

Your finale images will be send to you via a private online gallery, with no watermarks, and in high resolution.

Can you keep your photos private?

Absolutely! While we are proud of our work and would love to show you off, your privacy is more important and we understand that you may not want us to use your photos. At the end of your reveal session we will ask you if we can use or not your photos for marketing purpose and will write your answer down in your release option form.

If you are ready to start your boudoir journey or if you have extra questions, you can book a complimentary Zoom meeting with us here. Those meetings are free of charge, quick, and are a great way to ask all the questions you might have in mind. We will also walk you through our entire process, so you have all the information you need to book your shoot when you are ready.

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Things we don't agree with in boudoir

As boudoir photographers with over 10 years of experience, we have seen our field change in so many levels. Some for the better, some… not so much. Today, we would like to go over what practice in the boudoir world we simply can't get behind. This is, of course, a personal opinion and everything you will read is completely subjective.

1) The Before/Afters

This is a common practice you can see on many boudoir websites: one photo is the client without any make-up on, dressed in regular clothes and the next, she (because yes, it is always women) is fully dolled-up in boudoir. Since day 1, this has never sat right with us. It would make sense if we were make-up artists, but as photographers, this is send the message that the person in the before is simply not good enough.

Boudoir is not about looks. yes, you can get dolled up to add fun and confidence to your experience but the goal isn’t to change you and making you feel less-than.

2) The use of AI

The use of Artificial Intelligence in anything artistic is simply a nuisance in our opinion. True artists need to master their craft. We need to go through the grind to learn, improve, and nurture our creativity. We have fought way too long already to prove that photography isn't just pressing a button and doesn't depend on a very expensive camera. Now, you can create anything with a bunch of (highly polluting) prompts and to us, the value of your work is completely lost. AI, if used at all, should be used with parsimony and not be the end goal. Additionally, feeding your revealing images to AI doesn't seem like a good idea to us, especially for those worried about privacy.

3) Over-editing the skin

We are in 2026, and we still see way too many images where the skin texture is completely gone. No pores, no wrinkles, no stretchmarks, no nothing.

We have a policy of removing anything that is temporary, such as blemishes and so on so you don’t have to worry about that zit who decided to show up the day of your shoot. We may go slightly heavier on smoothing the skin if the lighting used is very contrast-y and accentuating the skin texture, but it will never be totally removed. The goal is not to make you look like a doll. Our bodies come in every shape and form, and the goal of a boudoir shoot is to love it the way it is.

4) Changing bodies in post-production

Deeply connected to the previous point: changing the shape of the body is counter-productive with boudoir photography. Why would you want images of yourself where it simply isn't you…?

We bend, we twist, we arch. We luckily aren’t stick figures and it comes with creating rolls. There is nothing wrong with that! A good boudoir photographer should be able to highlight your body with the right outfits, the right poses and the right angles.

5) Not adapting the poses to the body type.

Not everybody can do the same poses and applying cookie-cutter poses just doesn't work. Some have more mobility and flexibility than others and for that reason alone, a good boudoir photographer knows how to adapt poses. You can be inspired by a specific pose, but your body might not allow it. Luckily, there are many ways to adjust so you can still have something beautiful, in the same vein of what caught your eye in the first place, without breaking your body!

We hope you enjoyed this little list, maybe you’ve agreed with some points, or maybe you didn’t. We always love hearing from you, so don't hesitate to leave a comment below or join our Instagram to discuss it more!

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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 🥰

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