Boudoir photographs aim to make the subject look un-posed and candid, playful and provocative. Although the subject is dressed in minimal or no clothing; nudity is implied, though very rarely shown. This enables the subject to portray a very strong presence in the photographs.
One of the biggest challenges in boudoir photography is creativity. While all static items like wardrobe, setups, lighting and other props might be in place, it is posing the subject that makes or breaks the picture. Remember, the subject in the picture appears candid and un-posed. However, there is a need to guide the subject through various poses to aid the composition of the picture. Unlike glamour photographs, boudoir posing is more relaxed and subtle, as the pictures at https://www.creativeboudoir.com.au/ show. Boudoir photography is all about implying, not shoving it in your face.
One great way to understand boudoir posing is to look at the works of great painters. While each one of these artists was different in their style of painting, the poses in their portraits and boudoir art were very similar. Their work showcased simplicity in posing and yet brought out the beauty of the subject. Given below are some timeless posing tips to get your creativity on the roll.
The Curved Back
One of the most intriguing poses from yesteryears; it feels like a very private moment that the viewer is looking in at. Placing a pillow under the arm props up the subject; bringing a curvature to the spine. Knees slightly bent and a glance over the shoulder and the pose is complete. The image looks like a work of art.
Keeping the curved back theme, if your client is flexible, she can create an arch with just the feet and shoulders touching the surface. If your client faces difficulty in executing this pose, you can have her twist her hips to one side, thus getting an arched look.
Use the Floor
Use the floor to its maximum advantage. You can get your subject to pose in numerous ways, from standing, kneeling, sitting, and laying on the floor. Use the reflection from the floor to create more drama to the picture. Alternately, you could throw a rug or a blanket and get the subject to pose on them.
Posing with Chairs
Like the floor, a chair can be used as a prop for many different poses. Aside from adding color to the picture, a chair also acts as filler for the frame. The subject can pose sitting on the chair, leaning over its back, sitting on the armrest or with the legs propped up. Use the hands closest to the camera to bring attention to the lips or chest. Use an oversized sweater to add a story to the picture.
Get Leggy
Long legs always evoke killer poses. It does not matter if the subject is tall or short, some poses will make the legs look elongated. Have your subject sit on the couch or chair with one leg pulled up. This creates a curve on the hips. Place the arms on the knee of the lifted leg and have the subject roll a little to the side in a direction opposite to the straight leg. Take a shot from above to create the impression of long legs.
Get Into the Details
It is all in the details. Hands placed in a way that leads to the legs, chest or eyes will create a classy look to the image. Hands lifting hair creates drama and emotion in the picture. Focus on things like the wedding ring or engagement ring to add that personal intimate touch. However, make sure that the hands are not clenched tight.
Use Props
The focus of boudoir images is the subject and their emotions. Too many props can take the focus away from the main subject and make the picture look ordinary. However, there are other ways to use props that do not take the focus away, rather enhance a different kind of emotion in the picture. Shooting through thin muslin or sheer curtains or a reflection in the mirror can bring a sultry look to the picture. You could use the mirror in different ways – against the wall, on the floor or even above the subject. Each position will give you a different look and evoke a different emotion.
Over the Head Shooting
Another favorite pose is the overhead look. Shooting the subject from this angle leads the viewer’s eyes from the eyelashes to the chest and finally to the legs in a smooth flow. An arched back and chin further add to the allure. Let the subject breathe out slowly with lips parted and move their hands down the body line. This adds motion to the picture while evoking intimacy and naughtiness at the same time.
That Final Look
This could be the last picture that you shoot with your subject. Keep it simple. Have your subject lie on a white sheet with another white sheet propped up like a tent over their head. The subject could bring her face on her arm. However, make sure that the face is not resting on the arm as that can cause her cheeks or eye to push in. The subject could look serious, pouty or have a smile on her face. You could get the subject to laugh thus creating a light-hearted last shot.
The Nude Pose
This is a shot that not everyone would want. While many clients would state their choice in the beginning, some clients would like to decide on the day of the shoot. This indicates that they are not against a nude shoot, but want to check out how comfortable they are about it. After the last lingerie shot, you could ask the client if they wish to try a nude or implied nude shoot.
Be Inspired
Every photographer develops their signature pose over time. However, try to incorporate subtle variations in the pose to keep things exciting. This will bring a rush of inspiration and allow your creative side to flourish.