What Is Erotic Photography? Is It The Same As Boudoir Photography?

Erotic photography is a form of art that explores the erotic and sensual. It can be used to explore fantasies or create new ones, as well as for artistic expression. It's most often associated with nude photography, but any subject matter that deals with sexuality could be considered erotic--even if it's clothed. The term "erotic" in this sense means "intensely pleasurable."

So what are some elements of erotic photography, anyway? Are there any boundaries or guidelines when it comes to shooting for this genre?

When it comes to both boudoir and erotic photography, there are a number of boudoir photographers out there who have struggled to define just what constitutes boudoir or erotic photography. The same goes for any form of photographic art; it's often left up to the viewer to decide how they feel about something and interpret it in their own way.

So as boudoir and erotic photography is still evolving, it's a bit challenging to delineate between the two. That being said, boudoir photos typically focus more on one particular aspect of a woman's body rather than trying to capture her entire essence (good lighting and soft focus helps with this). It usually involves very little posing or clothing choice beyond choosing which props or outfits you want to incorporate into the shoot (and these may not even include nudity at all!). The boudoir shoot will often be a way to try out some new lingerie or boudoir outfits.

Erotic photography is less about the boudoir aspect and more about sexuality. It can involve boudoir-type poses and clothing, but it might also involve nudity (or implied nudity). There's an emphasis on sensuality, emotion, expression, and other elements that may not always be displayed in boudoir photos.

Key Elements of Erotic Photography

There is no one way to define erotic photography, but there are several elements that are common to the genre. The most obvious element is female nudity, which also often includes some form of breast exposure. However, boudoir photography--a subset of erotic photography--may still include clothing or may combine both clothed and nude shots. Some boudoir photographers offer "nude" boudoir sessions where only a G-string bottom or pasties top is allowed. These restrictions make these sessions more satisfying for clients uncomfortable with full nudity.

Another common style of boudoir photography is pinup style shots. Pinups are very popular for boudoir shoots, especially since the emphasis on boudoir is more about the female form and less about a specific pose or theme than it would be for regular erotic photography. Pinup photography is usually less about baring it all and more about being sexy while still wearing clothes. This is a style that's also gaining popularity among brides-to-be, who often want boudoir photos taken for their wedding day without fully baring it all.

Other common elements in erotic photography are props, sets (including clothing), themes or specific poses, and location. Props can range from the most basic like lingerie to elaborate outfits and toys. Sets vary based on budget but may include bedsheets, curtains, furniture and even window treatments or wallpaper. Themes may be time period (Victorian boudoir) or fantasy (nurse boudoir), as well as by color palette or set design such as body paint. Poses and location are more varied depending on the style of boudoir photography, but boudoir is often associated with pinup or retro styles that rely on feminine poses to illustrate a woman's sexuality.

The basic erotic boudoir photo tends to be very simple in composition. Shots usually focus on one side of the body and may include some soft lighting coming from one direction (usually behind). The boudoir photographer aims to highlight the individual features being emphasized (breasts, legs), rather than place them in context or as part of a more elaborate setting.

In boudoir, clients may want to express their personal tastes through posing and clothing choices in addition to exploring themes of submission, feminism or voyeurism that might appeal only to certain types of people--and also might not even include nudity at all! The choice should ultimately be up to the client provided they are open about what they want from the session.

The goal of boudoir photography is to enhance a woman's natural beauty in picture form, not to alter it like other forms of retouching. However, boudoir does run into the same issues as other genres of photography when it comes to breast size or body weight--two things that have been traditionally associated with female attractiveness. Getting boudoir photos taken doesn't mean you're trying to change yourself or shed "extra" pounds; it simply means you are celebrating your body and sexuality through art! When done right, boudoir photography can empower you to feel sexy and confident.

Different boudoir photographers will offer different sets of boudoir services, so be sure to research your options before making a choice. Most boudoir studios also allow customers to bring in their own boudoir outfits for shoots. Many people buy boudoir and pinup clothing on Etsy or use vintage clothing for the shoot. Some boudoir photographers even rent out lingerie as part of a boudoir package deal!

While boudoir photography can be a great way to feel more confident and sexy, it's also important that you like the final product. Many boudoir photographers offer a variety of boudoir packages (such as boudoir photo shoots for one hour, boudoir photo shoots for two hours or boudoir photo shoots with hair and make up styling) so customers have options to get exactly what they want from their boudoir photos.

A number of celebrities and models have gotten boudoir photos done. Kim Kardashian sparked controversy when she posed in front of a full-length mirror covered with fake money in high heels, garter belt and bra; Miranda Kerr got on all fours in black lingerie; Rihanna bared her bottom in boudoir photos. Other celebrities and models who've bared all for boudoir photography include Kate Moss, Beyonce, Heidi Klum, and Kate Upton.

Bridal boudoir is still a booming trend but is definitely not the only type of boudoir available. There are actually many different types of boudoir out there that you can try! Have an idea of your own? Reach out to a boudoir photographer to see if they'd be willing to work with you on it.

The difference between erotic and boudoir photography styles is subtle and perhaps unimportant. What’s most important is you get the look you want and have a great experience shooting!