By John Waller | Natural Exploration LLC
When most people think of boudoir photography, they often picture lingerie or nude portraits. Those are beautiful options, but you don’t have to take off anything for a boudoir photo shoot.
At its core, boudoir photography is about capturing you in your most natural, comfortable form. That might mean being fully clothed. It might mean being nude. And for many, it’s something in between.
Boudoir is about suggestion, not requirement. It’s about implication, softness, and intention — not necessarily how much skin is shown. The sense of intimacy, vulnerability, and confidence can shine through whether you’re in lace, flannel, jeans, or nothing at all.
What to Wear
For simplicity, lets groups outfits into fully clothed, partially clothed, and nude. You are welcome to switch between outfits and styles during a photo shoot. Use the examples below to get an idea for what you are looking for in your photo shoot.
Fully Clothed
When fully clothed, you’ll notice poses that imply you are taking the clothes off (without actually removing anything).
Partially Clothed
When considering partially clothed, think about images showing the action of removing clothing or outfits that are very revealing. Some examples include jeans and a bra or bikini top, lingerie, sheer clothes or covers.
Nude
Nude images can be completely nude or nude with some other covering. It’s common to use props, posing, or surroundings to obscure sensitive areas from the final image.
Start With What You’re Comfortable In
The best place to start is by asking yourself:
- How comfortable am I with showing skin?
- What feeling or message do I want these photos to express?
- What parts of myself do I want to highlight — physically or emotionally?
For some, that means a cozy oversized sweater. For others, it means their favorite hiking boots and unzipped fleece with a hint of lace underneath. Some choose bold lingerie sets, while others opt for nothing at all. Each choice is personal and captures a moment of self expression uninhibited by others.
Layering to Build Confidence and Tell a Story
Layering is a great way to tell a story in your photos. Starting with more, and shedding as comfort builds can help you setting into the photo shoot and show the transition from how others see you to how you see yourself. That transition becomes part of the emotional arc of the session. You don’t need to show everything all at once. Sometimes, the process of undressing (or the suggestion of it) can be more moving and empowering than the final frame.
Many of my clients begin sessions in trail-worn hiking gear, a reflection of their adventurous side, with lingerie peeking through — a blend of rugged and soft. As the session unfolds and they feel more at ease, layers are slowly removed until they’re in lingerie, or nude, or somewhere along that journey. This kind of visual storytelling beautifully reflects the duality many of us carry: a strong outer shell, and a soft, radiant self beneath.
Think Beyond Lingerie
There are no “boudoir rules” when it comes to what to wear. Here are just a few outfit ideas that might inspire your session:
- Favorite T-shirt or button-down shirt (especially meaningful if it’s your own or a partner’s)
- Swimsuit or bodysuit
- Hiking clothes or outdoor gear
- Dresses or skirts with movement
- Sheer robes or shawls for layering
- Nothing but a blanket, book, or hat
- Accessories that reflect you – like boots, hats, scarves, or jewelry
- Sports gear, uniforms, or instruments if they reflect a passion or identity
The key is to wear something that feels honest — something that reflects not just how you look, but who you are.
Let’s Talk About It
Choosing what to wear can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. A big part of my job is helping you feel seen, heard, and supported — starting with something as simple as picking the right outfit.
During your free consultation, we’ll talk through your comfort level, personality, and reason for booking. Together, we’ll come up with outfit options that help you feel grounded, confident, and beautiful throughout your session.
Ready to start planning your boudoir session?
Call or message me today for a free consultation. We’ll talk through your vision, comfort level, and how to make your session feel as powerful and personal as it should be.
Natural Exploration 