Why I Shoot Boudoir Photography
I come from a long line of artists; people who have struggled to fit in to a social norm, yet see the beauty around them and have felt the need to share their point of view. Ever since I was little, I have been fascinated with people and the amazing energies they carry with them day to day. This has developed over the years, as I have discovered more and more about myself. From my early days, writing poetry and plays, later as an actor and director, I always focused on the dynamic moments that make the passions of life worth living. Those fever pitch nights out with your friends or early morning discussions over coffee about philosophical uncertainties. I love making moments and I love taking people on that journey with me.
As a photographer, I have found a way to bottle those dynamic and dramatic moments. The camera allows me to bring the theatrical into a more intimate and personal space. Many of the elements are similar: the lights, costumes and sets. There is a thrill and excitement that I get to bring to our guests as we take them on that personal journey and capture their image in a unique way that also embodies their spirit through shape and light.
Years ago, I accidentally bought a boudoir book on my kindle. I was horrified as I was teaching in a High School at the time and I didn’t want to accidentally open a book with pictures of women in lingerie. At the time, I thought, boudoir was synonymous with underwear commercials and that didn’t have any appeal to me. It seemed flat, uninteresting and I didn’t see how it could evoke a powerful reaction. Yet, as I continued my path as a portrait artist I realized that I was wrong; my thinking had been limited.
Boudoir is actually one of the most dynamic and dramatic portraiture I have encountered. Of course, there is room for images that showcase lingerie, but the nature of boudoir is to empower and inspire. It begs for a dramatic flare that not all other photography calls for.
In Boudoir photography, all of the elements need to work harmoniously to create a comfortable and vibrant environment. Using light, we are able to focus on the beauty of shape, color and texture. We can bring out your best qualities and help you to see how beautiful you are.
As a male boudoir photographer, I know that my job is a bit more of a challenge. It’s already a big step for anyone to make the decision to book a boudoir session and for many women, the idea of posing or being vulnerable in front of a man makes things feel even more uncomfortable. My background as a director and teacher has helped me to step back, listen and meet people where they are. By nature, I am not a pushy or dominant person and I have found that my softer nature helps my guests feel at ease, relaxed and willing to open up while working with me. All of that said, my wife is an active participant in the process and with the two of us, you get both the male and female perspective during your shoot.
My mission is to create a safe, supportive and liberating space for the women who I work with. I am not your typical male, though I have my moments. I have spent my life surrounded by women; providing a supportive ear and helping them to build confidence in themselves. My wife jokes that my mother trained me well.
My goal as a photographer is to help you discover your full potential; to help support you in your journey to greatness. Boudoir is my passion because I see the power it has to transform and heal. Allowing yourself to be photographed in such a vulnerable state is liberating and life changing. It’s a statement to the universe that you are putting yourself first with no apologies. I love being able to provide a space for you to feel comfortable enough to say, “F&^@ it! This is me and I am amazing as I am.”
I am so grateful to be able to provide this unique experience and I thank you all for taking the time to get to know me. I look forward to meeting you in the future.