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.

We are always one call away if you want to start your boudoir adventure. In the meantime, don’t hesitate to join our newsletter for more content like this!

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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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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