How to Start in Boudoir Photography

Set up the area where you will be taking photographs. This might be a set in your home and it may be an actual bedroom. The bed and other furniture, such as a dressing table or a chaise lounge, are pieces of furniture that are suitable for this type of photography. If you aren't setting up using your own items, you can work with what's available in the bedroom you use as a set.

Hire a model or find a friend that is willing to model while you practice. If you hire a model, you will need to pay. You may be able to get around this by taking pictures for a woman who is getting into modeling and needs portfolio shots. Work out a deal with her. You get your boudoir shots and she gets professional portfolio shots.

Set up soft, yellow lighting or use natural light coming through the window. Use the flash on your camera at the same time. The object is to keep the room well lit without harshness. Set lighting on both sides of your subject to evenly light the scene. Since lighting can get hot, take breaks to allow your subject to freshen her makeup. You don't want sweat or runny makeup in the photos.

Pose your model wearing sensual or sexy clothing, but keep it from being dirty. This type of photography is more artistic and characterized as much by what isn't shown as what is shown. Ask your model to pose stretched out on the bed, lying on her side, sitting at her dressing table and brushing her hair or standing at the window, looking out contemplatively. Take as many shots as you can without directing too much. Let your model find her natural flow.