Empower Yourself with Boudoir Photography on International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8^th, honors the strides women have made socially, economically, culturally, and politically. International Women’s Day also signifies a call to action regarding gender equality and awareness of the challenges women continue to face worldwide. The day itself, emphasizes the need for women in all aspects of life and allows us, as a society, to celebrate the contributions of women throughout history this far! As we commemorate International Women’s Day, it is important to explore the perception of femineity and the presence of patriarchal beliefs. As a boudoir photographer I would like to use this day to discuss how Boudoir photography is allowing us to redefine and reclaim femininity and sexuality.

Boudoir photography offers a unique perspective, as it is done for women, often by women, and without a focus on the male gaze (even when done as a gift). As Boudoir photography has evolved and become more inclusive, it does significant work in unlearning body stereotypes and helps embrace all bodies and aids women in garnering confidence.

The History of Boudoir Photography

The Evolution of Boudoir Photography

Boudoir photography was born in the late 19^th century and traditionally done in a bedroom or dressing room setting. Initially, it was popular among the upper class who hired photographers to come to the privacy of their homes. During the early 20^th century, boudoir photography evolved through pin-up culture, and gained popularity through seductive photograph of women in magazines, posters, and advertisements. And then it underwent one more major transformation in the late 20^th century/early 21^st century where it transformed and became focused on women’s empowerment and celebrating confidence, beauty, and their sensuality.  

Early Representations of Femininity

When Boudoir photography was born it often conformed to societal ideals and expectations of women’s beauty. The breadth of Boudoir photography at this time was narrow minded and did not illuminate the diversity of women and their experiences. Effectively reflecting cultural norms rather than embracing and empowering women, which were typically young, white, slender, and stereotypically attractive women.

An Overall Shift Towards Empowerment and Diversity

The last few decades have been extremely transformative for boudoir photography. Photographs, such as myself, have shifted to prioritize the diversity, uniqueness, and individuality of all women. Rather than focusing on conventional beauty standards.

Diverse Representations

Embracing All Body Types in Boudoir Photography

A major industry shift is the aim to represent all body types, races, ages, etc. in Boudoir photography. In light of International Women’s Day, this is so important. It shifts the focus away from comparing our bodies to appreciating all of our bodies and their differences.

Breaking Stereotypes

Boudoir photography is extremely powerful, dismantling stereotypes surrounding femininity. These photographs, showcase women as confident, sensual beings, regardless of how they fit societal norms and rather emphasize the natural beauty of all women. They also challenge traditional gender roles, and celebrate women’s strength and resilience. Precisely what we should be celebrating for International Women’s Day!

Celebrating Cultural Diversity

Boudoir photography is extremely fluid, as in you can incorporate almost anything into your session. This allows space to celebrate cultural diversity showcasing the richness of women’s experiences. As a whole, Boudoir photography allows for the appreciation of women from different ethnicities, backgrounds, and identities, all the while appreciating varying body types.

Empowerment Through Boudoir Photography

Boosting Self-Confidence

This is the number one reason why I love Boudoir and decided to become a Boudoir photographer. Boudoir is such a transformative experience that can significantly boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. If you want to read more about my personal experience with Boudoir, click here. Stepping outside of your comfort zone and embracing your bodies, allows you to reclaim your own body and beauty. But the experience of seeing yourself through a different lens can allow you to appreciate your body and see yourself in a new light!

Embracing Individuality with Boudoir Photographs

One of the beauties of Boudoir photography is that there is no right or wrong. You get to choose how to express yourself and embrace your own individuality. So, you can be as playful, vulnerable, and sensual as you want. All of the photographs from your Boudoir session will encapsulate who you are. This is why, I personally do not believe in editing beyond light spot removal. Because all of your scars, stretch marks, and “imperfections,” are what makes your body yours and beautiful. In my personal opinion, these are what create true, REAL, authentic beauty.

Promoting Body Positivity

Who doesn’t need some body positivity? I know I grew up being hypercritical of my own body. I used to stare in the mirror going why does my body move that way or why does my fat bunch here?? But, Boudoir photography promotes embracing imperfections, promoting self-acceptance. Because let’s be honest. Beauty standards are a load of bull and are unattainable for almost everybody, and who gives a flying f***. Your body is gorgeous, just like you, and Boudoir photography is here to help you fall in-love with your body. Beauty is not perfection, remember that. Perfection is not REAL.

Challenges and Criticisms

A Major Misconception About Boudoir Photography

There are so many misconceptions about Boudoir, but a large one is that you need to be confident before you invest in a Boudoir photography session which is crap. And secondly, despite its healing powers, Boudoir photography is still largely viewed as inappropriate and voyeuristic. Rather than viewing it for its ability to promote self-expression and self-love.

Overcoming Judgment and Stigma

I won’t lie to you and say you won’t face any judgement if you do a Boudoir photography session. But I will say that it is worth it. As a Boudoir photographer in Los Angeles, I get weird looks from my peers and fellow business owners when I say that I am a Boudoir photographer. But I do not care. The work I do is worth it and so much more important than these minor critiques. So, don’t let this deter you. The power of defying societal expectations and reclaiming your narrative is far more monumental and beneficial if you ask me.

Boudoir Photography’s Impact on Society

Inspiring Women to Embrace Their Uniqueness

Boudoir photography holds so much power. Even if you haven’t done your own Boudoir photography session yet, looking at Boudoir photographs is inspiring. And when you see women with similar body types to you, it can help inspire you to find beauty in your unique identities. And it promotes authentic self-expression, rather than trying to shift and fit some outdated mold. So, for International Women’s Day, I challenge you to look up Boudoir photographers across the world or just in your city. And appreciate how they challenge traditional expectations surrounding femininity.

Fostering Inclusivity and Acceptance

There is always more work to do, but Boudoir photography does foster a sense of inclusivity and acceptance. The representation in the Boudoir photography space has skyrocketed since its origin and become even more powerful. One of its biggest strengths is being able to showcase women from all backgrounds and promote empathy and solidarity among women.

To Conclude

So, in case you missed it. Boudoir photography offers a unique, powerful platform to redefine femininity and help celebrate the wealth of women’s experiences across the globe. So, this International Women’s Day, take a second to appreciate all the different women out there and the strength to put themselves out there and embrace their bodies and redefine their sexuality. The ability of Boudoir to help women embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their inner, authentic beauty is what makes it just so powerful. So, if you have ever thought about doing a Boudoir photography session, but haven’t taken the leap, do it this International Women’s Day.

Frequently Asked Questions: