8 Truths No One Tells You About Boudoir Photography
- Calgary Boudoir Photographer | Laura Paige

- Sep 17
- 3 min read
If you’ve never stepped into a boudoir photo studio before, there are a few things that might shock you and no one really talks about (until now).
Whether you’re booking a photoshoot for yourself, as a gift, or you're just curious, here are the surprising truths about boudoir photos that every woman should know:

1. Feeling Nervous Is Normal (for 2 seconds) 😂
Walking into the studio, most women feel nervous and that's okay! You're doing something new, exciting and outside your comfort zone. (Those butterflies are reminding us we're alive).
Once we start chatting, the champagne is flowing, the music is on and the laughter starts... those nerves melt away. After you see those first sneak peeks on the back of the camera, you're a believer.
2. Lingerie Is Optional 👗
Boudoir isn’t about what you wear (we'll make you look gorgeous, no matter what), it’s about celebrating and capturing you. Bring items that represent you, your personality and style. Some of the most stunning boudoir photos are taken in an oversized shirt, a partners' sports jersey, a symbolic guitar or simply wrapped in white sheets (or nude). You don’t need a drawer full of lingerie to create something unforgettable.
Pro tip: Bring meaningful items that you want to see in your photos 10, 20, 30 years down the road.
3. Makeup Magic💄
Photo makeup isn’t the same as everyday makeup. Our makeup artists know how the camera sees light, detail and shadow, so they create a look that enhances your natural beauty. Make those eyes pop! Think flawless, not overdone.

4. Your Favourite Boudoir Photo Will Surprise You ✨
Many clients think they know which shots they’ll love the most, then end up falling for something totally unexpected. The angles, lighting and emotions captured in the moment often reveal a version of yourself you haven’t seen before. Spoiler: you’ll love her.
You Might Cry (the happy kind!) 💧
Seeing yourself in this new light - strong, beautiful & confident - can unlock feelings you didn’t know were there... Happy tears are totally normal and frequent in our studio.
5. You Don’t Need to Know How to Pose 📸
One of the biggest myths about boudoir is that you have to show up knowing exactly what to do with your body. Nope. That’s our job, we actually prefer it! We guide you through every movement, every pose, right down to your toes. All you have to do is breathe, trust the process, and let us do the rest.
6. The Confidence Boost is Real 💃
Every woman who leaves our studio is leaves with a new strut, smiling ear to ear with a new found sense of empowerment. I mean, c'mon you just conquered something you were nervous about.
Honestly... if I didn't see it before my own eyes time and time again I wouldn't believe it either. Clients have told me how their photoshoot and legit changed their lives... 1 client had the confidence to start dating and met her husband a month after, another finally got pregnant, the stories are endless...
7. Your Photos Come To Life in Print 📚

Digital files are great and convenient - hello digital world we currently live in, but nothing compares to holding a luxury boudoir album in your hands. Your photos truly come to life and flipping through your portraits is an experience that makes the whole session feel real and unforgettable. Don't even get me started on the power of gallery wall portraits - wowza!
8. Boudoir Photography Isn’t Just “Sexy” 🔥
Yes, boudoir can be sultry, but it’s also playful, fun, and even empowering in ways you don’t anticipate. Some of the best shots are the candid laughs in between poses, or the strong, confident stares that feel like you’ve finally owned your power.
Final Thoughts
Boudoir photography isn’t just about beautiful photos - it’s about rediscovering yourself. From the unexpected emotions to the surprising favourites, it’s an experience designed to show you how gorgeous, confident and powerful you already are.
So if you’ve been waiting for the “perfect” time, body, or reason to book - here’s the truth: there isn’t one. The only thing missing is you taking the leap.
✨ Real stories, expert tips, and everything you need to know about boudoir photography. At Boudoir By Laura Paige, we make sure every client walks away with stunning boudoir portraits and a new level of confidence that lasts long after the shoot.
















