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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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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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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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 a little 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 the beauty of who you are, 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 documented. 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. But what if you pushed 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—starting today.

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What are you waiting for?

We hear it too often:

“I really want to do a boudoir shoot, but not now!”

When Juliette and I talk about our photography work, people often express the desire to have a boudoir shoot done. They share about the fact they have been wanting to do it for a long time, that they are waiting for the right moment to do it, but never seem to know when it is.

The truth is, the perfect moment to do a boudoir shoot doesn’t exist! Of course, there are a couple of factors to take into consideration such as time and money (time because you need to be able to dedicate a good chunk of your day just for yourself, and money because a boudoir shoot is a little bit of an investment), but for the rest, it is mostly fear that makes people keep pushing back the idea of doing a boudoir session.

Yes, boudoir photography can be intimidating. But it is such a transformative experience and trust us when we say that the more you wait, the more you are missing out on something extraordinary!

Celebrate Your Present Self

If you feel proud of who you are right now, then celebrating yourself with a boudoir shoot is a really great idea! Maybe you got out of a toxic relationship, or you changed carrier for something more fulfilling, or maybe you are turning a certain age and feel fabulous, then you deserve to treat yourself for all the hard work you had to do to in order to be where you are today.

It takes a lot of courage to make the changes we need to be happier in life, so we hope that you can see how strong and badass you are! A boudoir shoot is the perfect gift to capture that strength 💪

Reconnect To Your Body

So many of our clients dislike their body, and every time it breaks our hearts to hear how they talk about themselves:

“I hate myself!”

“Ugh, I am so ugly!”

“I am fat, it is awful!“

“I wish I could have a different body!“

For way too long, society has taught us to see our body as an enemy by creating beauty standards, and conditioned us to make them our reality. It is so deeply rooted that every part of ourselves that don’t follow those standards became “imperfections” that have to be destroyed. The result is that we are now so disconnected from our body we forget that without it, we will not exist. We focus on what we believe we “should look like”, completely put our sensuality on the side, and replace it with bitterness.

Doing a boudoir shoot is an important step to reconnect with your sensuality, and start loving your body for its natural beauty. So if this resonates with you, then this is the right moment to do it!

The Middle Finger You Sometime Need To Give

There is no better sweet revenge than doing something that makes you feel super confident other people find scandalous. There is a moment in life where we get tired of people’s judgment and being pressured to live a life that isn’t what we truly want. When you reach to that moment, your inner rebel takes control and encourages you to do stuff that make you feel proud of yourself.

When you do a boudoir shoot, you try an experience that allows you to become your own sexy and sensual version of yourself, and this is so freaking liberating.

It feels like giving an empowered middle finger to all the shitty things people have told you and done to you. You don’t want to wait forever to feel this way 😎

Life Is Unpredictable

This is going to be a big cliché, but there is so much truth there: life is too short to be waiting for the perfect moment!

I, Fanny, lost my aunt last year, and it was very sudden. She was young, she was travelling with her husband, and she died. Her death was a sad reminder that you never know when it is time for you to leave this earth, and it feels like a slap in the face. Either it is death, an accident, or any other life's uncertainties, there may never be a "right time" to embark on this journey. The more you wait, the more you take the risk that it never happens.

If you want to try boudoir photography, stop overthinking it and just do it! You will never regret having a boudoir shoot done, but you might regret not doing it.

As you can see, the beauty of a boudoir shoot isn’t in waiting for the ideal version of yourself; it’s about celebrating exactly who you are today. Every curve, every scar, every feature tells your story, and that story deserves to be honoured. Boudoir photography is about embracing your present self with love and courage, because you are already enough, already beautiful.

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What You Think You Have to Do During a Boudoir Shoot (But Really Don't)

There are many things people seem to believe are expected during a boudoir shoot. It can be related from the nudity aspect to the outfits options, and many more in between. You may be surprised to learn that, in fact, everything is optional.

So if you are feeling curious about doing a session but have been holding back because you are not sure what is "required," let us gently clear up a few things that are not mandatory—unless you want them to be.

You do not have to be naked.

That is probably the biggest point we remind everyone we speak to: you are always in control of what you wear and how much you reveal. Yes, full nudes are beautiful and empowering—but they are absolutely not mandatory.

In our case, we always make a point to start your session with the outfit that covers you the most to give you the time to get comfortable with your surroundings and our directions. After that, we remove some layers as we go.

We also walk you through any ideas we may have that involve some sort of nudity and always have a back-up outfit in mind if you aren't feeling it. Your session will reflect your level of comfort. We will never ask you to do anything that does not feel right for you.

You do not need to know how to pose.

Please take this pressure off your shoulders: you do not need to show up with any experience in front of the camera. It is our job to guide you every step of the way—down to the tilt of your chin or the placement of your hands. You do not have to “perform” or “act sexy.” You simply have to be yourself, and we will take care of the rest. Keep in mind however that the boudoir poses can feel a bit odd, but turn out wonderfully natural looking. It's part of the magic, trust the process!

You do not need to wear lingerie.

Lingerie is one of many options. Some of our favourite images have come from more unexpected outfits—like a fancy dress, a denim jacket, a button-down shirt, a bodysuit, or even just bed sheets. What we are looking for are those pieces you know you feel beautiful and confident in and we will bring a boudoir twist to anything.

You also don't have to stick to one theme. Our photos are thought to capture different facets of your personality, because that's how human beings are. We are not always edgy and sexy, or soft and romantic. We are a mix of everything, and we encourage every person stepping into the lens to bring outfits that reflect that too!

You do not need to look a certain way.

Boudoir is not about fitting into a mold. There is no ideal age, size, or body type for this experience. Every person who walks through our doors brings their own story, energy, and beauty—and that is what we love to capture. This space is for you as you are right now, not a version of you that the world expects.

You do not need to be someone else.

This experience is not about becoming someone you are not. It is about reconnecting with the version of you that often gets hidden under daily responsibilities and expectations. Whether you are bold and playful, quiet and dreamy, or somewhere in between, your session will be designed around who you truly are.

What is actually required?

Just one thing: that you show up for yourself.

There is no checklist. No pressure. No “right” way to do boudoir. Our goal is to create a space where you feel safe, celebrated, and completely in control. Whether you want to go all out or keep things soft and subtle, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Curious about what your version of boudoir could look like? Let us show you. It might just be more freeing—and more you—than you imagined.

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Why we love celebrating women over 50

Over the past 8 years, we have had the privilege of photographing women of all ages, backgrounds, and stories. But lately, we have noticed more and more women in the 50s, 60s, and even 70s passing our studio doors and we truly stepped into an even more powerful boudoir experience we cannot get enough of. It got us wondering why we were feeling this deep fire during those sessions, and we just had to share it with you.

Our boudoir work has always been around slamming doors on expectations.

This has been our motto since day 1: yes, boudoir is an artistic experience, but it is so much more than that. When you sign up for it, you make the choice to detach yourself from judgement, expectations, the pressure round what you do and look like. Instead, you choose to focus on your relationship with yourself and your body.

Why does it feel evem stronger for women over 50? Because we firmly believe it takes more courage for women over 50 than for us, women in our 30s, to jump onto that train of embracing your body the way it is.

Different generation and much more body shame.

For many women over 50, body shaming wasn’t a passing comment — it was a way of life. It was baked into their everyday existence: in school, at home, in magazines, on TV. The message was loud and clear: your body must be thin, firm, young, and perfectly polished in order to be “good.” And if it wasn’t, you should fix it, hide it, or stay quiet about it.

Things like stretch marks, wrinkles, softness, and aging were treated as flaws to be covered up or corrected — not celebrated as part of a life well-lived.

Compared to the body-positive movement we see today - which still has a long way to go, let’s be honest - the messages these women grew up with were harsh, unforgiving, and deeply damaging.

And for many of them, that conditioning still lingers — even now.

Sending power back: Our way to say thank-you.

So much of what women in our generation get to enjoy — the growing conversations around body positivity, the normalization of self-love, the ability to express our sensuality without shame — is thanks to the generations who came before us.

Women over 50 have lived through decades of change. They have witnessed cultural revolutions, shifting beauty standards, and the slow, painful tearing down of deeply rooted expectations. They have fought , often quietly and thanklessly, for rights, recognition, and the ability to take up space — not just in society, but in their own lives.

While we are producing changes of our own, they have paved the way for us on many levels. Having the chance to show them how to reconcile with their bodies, celebrate their sensual side and feel powerful not despite their age, but because of it, is a true honour for us.

It is our way to send some power back on something they couldn't really focus on despite being very important in a woman's journey. And it is often incredibly healing.

Their no-F***-Given attitude is everything.

The women over 50 we are lucky enough to photograph all have one thing in common: they are done with the people-pleasing. Done with trying to fit into boxes. Done with waiting for permission to feel good in their skin. The kids are grown. The careers have evolved. The need to perform or chase external validation starts to fade.

There’s a boldness and a softness that coexist in the most beautiful way. They don’t need to prove anything to anyone and that confidence is magnetic. For some of them, this feeling is loud and obvious, and for others, it is more subtle. But the latter doesn't mean it is not as strong as the former.

To the Women Who’ve Carried So Much — We See You

To every woman who’s spent decades putting others first. To those who were told to be small, quiet, and modest. To those who believed that their worth faded as the years passed — we see you. We celebrate you.

There is no deadline for falling in love with yourself. There is no “too late” when it comes to feeling empowered, beautiful, and whole. You deserve to feel proud of your body, your story, and your strength. You deserve to be photographed not just for how you look, but for who you are.

And we’re so damn honoured to help you see it.

If you are curious about doing a boudoir session, just know you will be welcome in our studio with open arms. We are just one consultation away.

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Boudoir over 50, we highly recommend!

Earlier this year, we had the pleasure to photograph a fabulous woman, Madame M, who reached out because she was finally ready to try boudoir photography. In her initial inquiry, she mentioned that despite being 61 years old, she wanted to continue to feel empowered with her body and sensuality.

Since it was her first time, she was very nervous about her photoshoot. She shared with us that while she was on her way to our studio, she had kind of a panic attack to a point where she was very close to turn back and give up on this experience. Boudoir photography has been in the back of her mind for a long time, yet some little voices (fed by social norms and fear) were almost stronger than the excitement of finally doing her boudoir shoot. But she managed to stay strong and showed up for your photoshoot!

We are so glad she didn’t give up. She posed so well and her photos are beautiful! She truly deserved to experience boudoir photography. Her story, as well as all the other wonderful women who posed in front of our lens, inspired us to write today’s blog, hoping it can help women to take that step as well 💛

Women and ageism, it’s time to stop that BS!

Most women over a certain age do not dare to try boudoir photography, and how can we blame them? The stigma against aging women is brutal, and boudoir photography doesn’t help the cause! There are so little representations of women over 50 years old in the boudoir industry because society still believes that beauty equals being young. In society’s eyes, women lose value as they age, but they also become those sexless beings who lost touch with their sensuality. Because of those stereotypes, most fashion and boudoir photographers have over time prioritized younger women for their artistic projects, giving no room to people not fitting in these criteria.

Boudoir photography isn’t an easy experience, especially for first timers, as it can make people feel quite vulnerable (not everyone can easily pose in their underwear in front of a stranger!). Most of the inquiries we receive are coming from people who want to regain confidence, and learn to like their body the way it is. So for a woman who might be lacking body-confidence and has been told by the media that because she passed a certain age she is now worthless, doing a boudoir shoot can be extremely difficult!

Meeting those women who want to try boudoir so badly but stop themselves because they feel like they are not good enough breaks our hearts, and we wish mentalities could change faster! Thankfully, more and more people in the industry, us included, fight to change those social constructs. It is taking some time, but things are evolving. Now we need more brave people to try boudoir and share their awesome pictures with the world so they can inspire more people to do the same (honestly, that is the faster way to create a change)!

Fight those negative voices that are stopping you from doing a shoot!

But how can someone find the strength to give it a try even though they might feel really anxious about it? Well, if you are reading this blog and recognize yourself in those words, know that you are not alone! Many people are curious, yet afraid, by boudoir photography. And our main advice would be to first find the perfect photographer for you! Choosing the right person for the job is the most important step, as you want to make sure you will feel comfortable during the process. Then, just do it instead of overthinking the whole experience. The more you think about something that stresses you out, the more excuses you will find to not do it.

And 👏shut👏those👏voices👏down👏. If you are excited about doing a boudoir shoot, but you suddenly start thinking that you are too old, not thin enough, not muscular enough and whatnot, think about something else or keep focusing on the joy you get from doing a shoot.

Please believe us when we say that you are perfect the way you are! The beauty industry makes millions of dollars, selling us products we don’t need and making us believe we have to look a certain way to be worthy and desirable. There should not be any beauty standards to begin with, but unfortunately it is what it is. What we can do on our side is fight this nonsense by accepting our natural beauty and celebrate our body.

And what better way than a boudoir shoot to do so !

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