Boudoir Props: The Ultimate Guide

Props to consider for a boudoir photoshoot

boudoir propsBoudoir photography is a type of photography that is typically done in a private setting and is an expression of personal taste and comfort levels. At Revealed, we see boudoir photography as the ultimate fun and empowering way to express your sensuality and get out of your comfort zone a little. 

While props are not necessary, they can be a great way to personalize the experience. This is your chance to express your personality. If you’re nervous, know that you’re in good hands. We’ve sure seen our fair share of creative propping, from the more racey, including leather zipper thongs, bondage rope, wipes, and blindfolds, to the tamer options, like books, glasses, and cooking utensils. 

Things to keep in mind

When choosing props for your boudoir shoot, remember a few things. First, consider the overall style of your shoot. Are you going for a classic, romantic look, or something more edgy and modern?

Second, think about the type of body shape your client has. Some props will work better for certain body types than others. For example, a client with a curvy figure might look great in a flowing gown, while a more slender one might look better in a more form-fitting dress.

Finally, choose props that are comfortable for your client to wear. The last thing you want is for your client to feel self-conscious or uncomfortable in front of the camera.

boudoir props whipHere are some of the most popular boudoir props:

  • Lingerie: Lingerie is a classic boudoir prop. It can be used to create different looks, from sexy and sultry to elegant and sophisticated.
  • Stockings: Stockings are another great way to add a touch of sexiness to your boudoir shoot. They can be worn with or without heels and can be used to create various looks.
  • Heels: Heels can help to elongate the legs and create a more glamorous look.
  • Feathers: Feathers are a great way to add a touch of softness and romance to your boudoir shoot. They can be used to create a variety of looks, from ethereal and angelic to playful and flirty.
  • Fur: Fur is another great way to add a touch of softness and romance to your boudoir shoot. It can be used to create a variety of looks, from luxurious and sophisticated to cozy and intimate.
  • Flowers: Flowers are a beautiful way to add a touch of color and life to your boudoir shoot. They can be used to create a variety of looks, from romantic and whimsical to elegant and sophisticated.
  • Candles: Candles can help to create a more intimate and romantic atmosphere for your boudoir shoot. They can also be used to create exciting lighting effects.
  • Mirrors: Mirrors can be used to create a sense of depth and dimension in your boudoir photos. They can also be used to create interesting reflections and patterns.
  • Bondage items: handcuffs, whips, ropes, and blindfolds are all welcome in the studio. 
  • Sports swag: hats, jerseys, and socks are all popular props for boudoir pictures.  

When using props in your boudoir shoot, it is important to use them sparingly. Too many props can clutter the image and make it look busy. Instead, focus on using a few key props to create a cohesive and visually appealing look.

Propping can be a great way to add interest and creativity to your boudoir photography. By choosing the right props, you can create stunning images that will capture the beauty and sensuality of your client.

 

Limited Time Only – Mini Boudoir Session

Mini Boudoir Session — Perfect for Valentine’s Day, or a simple a chance to treat yourself!

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. Thrill your special someone with the gift of intimate photos. Not tied down? Why not take this opportunity to celebrate your independence with a mini boudoir session.
 
For a limited time, we’re offering a mini package that includes one outfit, professional hair and makeup, and a 5″ x 5″ album.
 
Interested but looking for a different product or digital files? We’ve got plenty other options for you and even a discount on our web ready digital files.
 
Call us at 773-273-9063 or contact us here to learn more. Book by January 31st to receive your album by February 14th, 2018.

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The Value of Boudoir Photography

What IS the Value of Boudoir Photography

In a world full of aspiring photographers and surplus of options, it’s hard not to wonder, what differentiates one boudoir photographer from another? Well first of all, let’s get this out of the way. Boudoir photography can range in pricing. Big time. In doing research, we’ve found packages going up all the way to $28,000 (yes, seriously! I mean, it did include a round trip ticket to Paris. Which doesn’t sound so bad to me) and on the flip side, others that started closer to mid hundreds.

the value of boudoir photography

So what makes one boudoir experience more valuable than another? We’ve thought a lot about this. Providing an incredible experience to our clients matters to us. A lot. Here are the things we take into account when pricing our packages.

Experience matters. You don’t just want someone with a nice camera, but someone who knows what to do with it.

Experience: Boudoir is an intimate and often, once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s so important to have someone with plenty of experience. Having a great camera and nice location is great. But in the end, it’s what you do with that camera, in that location, and with that person that makes the difference. Understanding how to pose all sorts of body types matters. Knowing how to shape lighting to contour a figure, camouflage skin texture, and create a mood matters. Having an understanding of angles, lens choices, and camera settings matters.

Being in this field for the last six years, we’ve developed a deep understanding of how to make all women look their best. Not only that, but we’re always eagerly learning and pushing for more.

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(Insider tip: Check out a variety of portfolios and a photographer’s instagram account to get a sense of their experience level).

Retouching is a fine art. It involves both taste and skill to make skin look naturally flawless.

Retouching: Have you ever seen a picture that just looks way over photoshopped? Like, the skin looks a bit plasticy? Yeah, I’m sure you all know what I’m talking about. We believe in approaching retouching on a much more micro level, versus using an all over blur filter. Keeping natural texture in skin, while removing blemishes, bruises, cellulite, red bumps, etc is a fine art. It takes a lot of practice and learning. We’ve taken many classes from master retouchers and processed thousands of images over the years that have brought us to a place of beautiful, natural results.

(Insider tip: Ask your photographer to share their philosophy and approach to retouching).

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Feeling comfortable and confident to relax and really let go is invaluable.

The Vibe: This is a very subjective area when it comes to the value of a boudoir photoshoot. In our minds though, it’s one of the most important elements in our work. Imagine going to a session where the photographer makes you feel uncomfortable. Where you don’t feel like you can let your guard down. Where you question whether you should be there at all.

From the moment you reach out to us, we try to be encouraging, informative, and approachable. We want clients to feel like they’re among friends, ones who also happen to know exactly how to make them look amazing. At the same time, we want you to feel special. This day is all about you. From start to finish, we’re invested in giving you an experience you’ll cherish for years to come. It’s the little things that count…help selecting an outfit, interest in your vision, confidence in direction.

the value of boudoir photography
(Insider tip: Read client testimonials and schedule a phone call or in person consultation with the studio you’re interested in).

“Maggie and Kelly were SO comfortable to be around for this type of adventure! I had no qualms or hesitations because they made everything so easy! They put my outfits together and were so encouraging and made me feel beautiful! They told me what to do, how to stand, where to go – I didn’t have to think! Just followed their direction!”

Photographer’s work in a variety of locations. Choose one that not only wows, but feels professional.

Location: Boudoir photography is done in all sorts of places, from people’s homes to hotel rooms. Over the years, we’ve photographed in a variety of locations, but we love now having our own studio space. We’re able to cultivate the energy we want for our sessions, whereas when shooting in a hotel, you’re privy to elements you can’t control (artwork on the walls you can’t remove, small spaces that limit your range of shooting, and in general, the feeling that you’re in a hotel). There’s also something wonderful about knowing what to expect in the space you’re shooting in and the freedom to create your own scenes.

the value of boudoir photography(Insider tip: Check out pictures of the studio on their website or instagram account, or ask the studio to describe where they shoot).

The little things that make a difference.

Other Considerations: All the factors above attribute to the value of the final package. When people ask why the session fee doesn’t include free digital files or products, it’s because it’s accounting for all the factors above as well as a few others–the time and investment it takes to be an accomplished photographer, the equipment costs to create beautiful imagery, the cost of the space rental, the staff you’re working with (talented and versatile makeup and hair stylists, a responsive and timely owner or studio manager), software for processing images, and even more.

We really believe a boudoir photoshoot is so much more than the pictures at the end of the day. It’s an investment in yourself. It’s taking the time to tap into your feminine and even sensual side. The goal is to not only leave you with gorgeous photos, but also a sense of self-actualization that you can take with you in your personal life. That is priceless.

Forget the flowers, she’ll cherish this gift forever

Mother’s Day Portrait Sessions

Hey, did you hear? Our sister company, Revealed Portraits is offering a Mother’s Day Portrait Special to celebrate the unique love between mother and child.

The Perfect Gift for Any Mom in Your Life

This is a wonderful opportunity to make any mother in your life feel special. Whether a new mom or grandmother, let her feel seen and appreciated this year. These portraits will be treasured keepsakes to share for generations to come.

mother's day portraits

Mother’s Day Photo Shoot Includes:

Time for mom individually and with child(ren)
Complimentary matted 8 x 12 fine art print
$199

Optional Hair and Makeup
$75
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Celebrate Her this Year

“The natural state of motherhood is unselfishness. When you become a mother, you are no longer the center of your own universe. You relinquish that position to your children.”
Jessica Lange”

mother's day portraits

Gift Cards Available

Purchase your gift card today or book your session by contacting us at [email protected] or call 773-273-9063

mother's day portraits

Welcome to the World, Theo!

Bringing home the baby…

Congratulations to Maggie on the birth of her baby! On February 19th, Maggie and her husband welcomed their sweet baby boy, Theo, into the world! Maggie and Theo are both happy and healthy, and judging by the big smiles on both their faces today, they are both settling into their new lives quite well.baby theo

I’m so happy for Maggie, and so happy that she finally gets to hold this little guy, who she couldn’t wait to meet for the last 9 months. Maggie is currently enjoying her much deserved maternity leave, but we’re looking forward to welcoming her back in May. We’re also looking forward to spending some quality time on the job with this little nugget.

Click here to see Maggie’s own maternity shoot. 

The Power of Boudoir Photography

WHAT BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY MEANS TO US

You might have heard about boudoir as a sexy gift for your special someone. But we see it as so much more. Boudoir is an empowering experience that can be incredibly transformative.

empowering boudoir photographyEveryone comes into the studio with insecurities. Everyone. It’s so normal and understandable. So hearing someone’s disbelief and joy in their pictures, well, that is what fills my heart to the brim. We could all use a little more self-love. Especially us ladies.

boudoir photography

Why IS boudoir so empowering?

I’m sure to some people, what we’re doing at Revealed is something akin to glamour shots, but to us, boudoir photography is more than just taking pretty pictures. It’s about encouragement, healing, embracing the now. It’s about letting go of fear, self-criticism, and comparison and coming into the best version of yourself and no one else.

boudoir photography

 

Our wish for you in 2016

Embrace a spirit of celebration with Brené Brown‘s Guideposts to wholehearted living.

It’s 2016. A new year and a new start. Our wish at Revealed is that you begin again with a spirit of celebration. Not just acceptance, but real celebration.

What’s your internal dialogue sound like?

Consider the tone you use toward yourself. Is it kind? Would you talk to your friend, sister, or mom that way?

Realign your thinking, directing thoughts away from self-doubt and criticism.

Instead, we wish for you rejoice in the good. It’s there, we promise.

How to let go of who you think you’re supposed to be and embrace who you are.

Brené Brown is an expert in this field. She offers such great wisdom for “letting go of who you think you’re supposed to be and embracing who you are.”

If you’re struggling with this, her guideposts for Wholehearted Living are a great jumping off point.

Here’s to 2016.

Much love,
The Revealed Team

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

10 guideposts to wholehearted living

Now offering: Everyday Glow Makeup Class

CHICAGO PRIVATE MAKEUP CLASS: EFFORTLESS GLOW 

Revealed makeup artists, Jaycie Kurfess and Emily Wolf teach how to create this look in five easy steps in a private makeup lesson at Revealed Studios on Nov. 18th, 2015 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm.

Want to attend this Chicago private makeup class?  E-mail us at [email protected] to signup today!

Natural makeup look

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GLIMMER & GLOW™

First three to sign up will receive a five-piece radiant kit
($99.50 value)

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Ms. M’s Blackhawks boudoir shoot

Blackhawks Boudoir Photos, the perfect boudoir shoot for all you hockey fans out there.

Ms. M’s fiance is a native Canadian and huge fan of Chicago’s Blackhawks. So for her boudoir shoot, she opted for a look celebrating his beloved team. These Blackhawks boudoir photos are just in time for the start of the hockey season. We loved how she choose red heels to sass up the look.

We love when our clients bring jerseys to their shoots! Whether it’s their own and has a feminine vibe to it, or their special someone’s, it’s a great look for a sports lover.

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Austin, We Love You

Photos of Austin, TX – Our new favorite city

Some sneak peek details from our photo shoot trip to Austin, Texas. Can’t wait for you all to see more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Want to be the first to know about our latest photo shoots and studio info? Like us on Facebook.

Sister silliness

One night while living in New York during a college internship, I was chatting with my roomates in the kitchen when my phone ringed.  I looked down at the caller id and saw “Dad” flash across the screen.

“Hi Dad, what’s up?” I asked.

We chatted for a few minutes, until at one point, my Dad changed the subject and tone. He told me he’d fallen in love recently, and well, had proposed.  He explained how he met her in Kenya while photographing children in an orphanage. It was a brief run in, they just bumped into each other in the hallway where he asked to snap her picture.  “She had a great smile,” I remember him telling me.

A month later, he received an e-mail from the woman, Caroline, asking for the picture.   Gradually, through e-mail exchanges and long distance phone calls, he fell for Caroline.  Before anyone knew what had grown between them, he proposed.  (I attribute my adventurous, hopeless romantic nature to my Dad. )

She said yes!

After two years of visa paperwork, a trip back to meet her family, and tons of hoops to jump through, she finally arrived to Nebraska with 9-year old Jasmine in tow. Our family suddenly grew from three to five, a year and a half later, a new addition arrived.  Her name, Neriah.

There is 22 years between Neriah and me and 12 between Jazz and me, but our bond, which includes our older sister Katie, is solid.  When we’re all together, silliness always ensues!  I never imagined ten years ago that I’d have two new sisters, nor that despite our age differences, we’d all be so close.  I’ve always been the baby, which in my family meant I doing “favors”  for my older sister, asking for advice, and getting it even when I didn’t ask, and the one with the least experience. All that has changed.  Last week I had Jasmine up to visit. I realized it was now my time to treat, tease, and teach her.  What a gift! On Jazz’s last day, my Dad and Caroline came to pick her up with Neriah.  With a lump in my throat, I snapped these pictures below.  I love them so much and feel lucky as can be to have three great sisters who bring me all this joy.

At Revealed Studios, we love celebrating women, and especially sisters!  If you’d like to book a session with your sister, call us at (773) 273-9063 or e-mail to [email protected]

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In this nine-by-nine below, my little sister, five-year old Neriah, shows me her many different faces.

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My sister Katie and I in our kitchen back in Lincoln, Nebraska.

How to look great on camera

Tip #1:  breathe through your mouth

Quite often, Laurie and I have clients say to us, “I’m so awkward on camera!” To them we answer, “that’s totally normal!” We are real women, our clients are real women, not professional models. Laurie and I have totally been there. In fact, we pose for each other often enough to remember what it feels like to be on that side of the camera. We want to connect and relate to our clients, and know the right tips to help bring about a natural unfolding.  Like pie crust, it takes a certain touch to create a sense of complete confidence and comfort on camera. Eventually there is a change that happens, when tension is released and a spirit shines through.

We have 10 tips that help our clients look their best on camera, and we want to share them with you.  These tips don’t just apply during a professional photo shoot, they’re get guidelines for selfies or party pics during a night out with your girlfriends.  Each day we’ll release a new tip on our twitter and facebook page. Follow us to have special, daily access to these tips, before we release the full list, right here on our blog, in two weeks.

(Self portrait of me “trying to illustrate this…”

So back to Tip #1: Breathe through your mouth

So we all have vicemouth syndrome.  Our lips are press together so firmly, there’s no way a single sliver of air can escape. It happens when were nervous, stressed, or focused. We want to hold in our stress, swallow it down, so it doesn’t overcome us. Just as every yoga instructor would tell you, breathing helps release that tension.

At the start of each session, this is one of the first tips we share. breathe through your mouth. The whole time. Not only will it naturally help you relax, but it looks great on camera by curing vicemouth syndrome. Suddenly your mouth is free to smile, tease, pucker. Try it out! Let us know if it works for you.  Here are a few examples from our shoots showing, beautiful, relaxed lips. Chicago boudoir photos (3)Chicago boudoir photos (1)

 

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