What is boudoir photography?

The genre of boudoir photography comes from the idea that the photos are done in a woman's dressing area, i.e., her boudoir.

The viewer gets to peek inside her private space where she is often in the act of getting un/dressed. The resulting photographs often feel voyeuristic or secretive.

The subject is often photographed as though she either doesn't know the photo is being taken or she is caught off guard by the presence of someone in her private space.

Her reaction to this intrusion may be a smile of embarrassment or an expression that shows confidence in her appearance. The viewer often interprets such reactions as an invitation to join her.

That means boudoir photos often imply a story where the ending hasn't yet been written and what hasn't been shown is yet to be revealed.

Compare that to glamour photography which is strictly about looking sexy on a superficial level, boudoir photography is often considered as a sophisticated alternative.

Boudoir as fine art

There's no single definition of what is considered fine art and what isn't, but generally speaking it's a creative work made for either its intrinsic beauty or as a means to visually represent a message.

Often it's the combination of the two, such as in many renaissance paintings depicting religious stories.

In the case of boudoir photography, the intrinsic beauty is in the person in the image. The makeup, hair, wardrobe, posing, and lighting all come together to create a photograph that is beautiful, alluring, and sensual in its own right.

But boudoir also communicates a message. The subject is expressing that she is powerful, confident, and comfortable in her own skin. Not only is she those things, she also wants the viewer to know it.

So by that definition, my hope is that you'll also consider boudoir photography to be fine art. I know I do.

You can do this!

If you feel like you can't do a boudoir shoot, think again.

You're perfect just as you are

We believe everyone is beautiful no matter your age or dress size.

You don't need to wait until you lose those extra five pounds. We'll show you how gorgeous you are using poses and lighting that are flattering to every body type.

And we've photographed women well into their 70s!

Privacy is paramount

All of our shoots are 100% private with only the photographer and makeup artist present during your shoot.

Your photos are never shared with anyone except you, so your privacy is always protected. Images are stored in a secure location online using professional photography archiving services where only the photographer has access.

Why boudoir?

Having been a boudoir photographer for fifteen years, I've seen the many different reasons why you might be interested in doing a boudoir shoot.

You might have a desire to give a gift to their partner, such as your wedding day. Or you may want to give a gift to mark an anniversary of other important milestone in your relationship.

Maybe you're considering a shoot just for yourself as a way to document a specific time in your life.

Or perhaps you just want to have some fun getting made over and having some pictures taken, either as a present to yourself or as part of a party with your girlfriends.

You may also be considering a shoot as a way to give yourself a confidence boost by going out of your comfort zone to see yourself in a new way.

Most often though I've seen women do shoots for various combinations of these reasons.

Are you thinking about it? What's your why?

At home

For a home shoot, we come to you with all of our photo gear and makeup. For some shooting at home is more comfortable while also allowing you to use other areas around your house such as the kitchen and living room.

Super model

The super model shoot happens in a traditional photo studio using props at the studio. This has the feeling of being on a fashion shoot where you're the model. The shoot is still 100% private with just myself and the makeup artist.

Luxury

For those looking to make the shoot a luxury experience, we can also shoot using a hotel room or a short term rental. Here the only limitations are your imagination and budget.

How does it work?

Reach out

The first step is getting in touch with us. This is typically a short phone call to make sure we're a good fit for each other. We'll talk schedules, pricing, and your goals for the shoot. We'll also describe the process in a little more detail.

Planning consultation

Once you've booked a shoot, we do a planning consultation to talk about location, wardrobe, and logistics. We'll also show you some print and album samples to get an idea of the kinds of images that appeal to you.

Shoot day

On the day of the shoot we'll meet at the desired location, you'll go into makeup, and we'll setup any necessary lighting.

The shoot itself takes about 90 minutes, but may go longer depending on the number of wardrobe changes or makeup touch-ups.

Viewing

At the viewing appointment you'll get to see your pictures!

Once you've selected your favorites, we'll go over any print artwork you may be interested in.

Questions and Answers

How much does it cost?

Most clients spend in the range of $1500 to $3000.

Is makeup included?

Yes, every shoot includes professional makeup with an on-site makeup artist.

Are you a male photographer?

I am.

Is the makeup artist female?

Yes, all of the makeup artists I work with are female.

Does she stay throughout the shoot?

Yes, she will stay the entire shoot to do touchups and act as my assistant.

You're never alone with just the photographer during the shoot, which makes it more comfortable for some clients.

How many boudoir shoots have you done?

I don't know the exact number, but it's well over a hundred. I started doing boudoir back in 2010, so I've worked with a lot of different women over that time.

Do you shoot in color?

I've found over time that most clients prefer black and white, but I do also process images in color if I think it results in a stronger image.

Do I have to get naked?

No you do not. Most boudoir images are interesting because of what they don't explicitly show. You will never be asked to do anything that would make you feel uncomfortable.

How long does the process take?

The shoot itself can be done on just a few days' notice, but albums will take a few weeks to be delivered.

If you need something quickly for a gift, I can do a complimentary teaser print as something you can wrap.

Printed Artwork

If you would like an album or prints as a gift to yourself or your partner, we have some different options available.

Heirloom albums

We offer premium albums with a full grain leather cover with photo lustre paper. This paper is a semi-gloss that is ideal for skin tones with accurate color. It is photographically printed rather than ink jet to create the highest level of detail possible.

Albums are available in either an 8x8 or 10x10 size and a variety of colors, with the 10x10 black album the most common.

Fine art prints

Prints are available using the some lustre paper and photographic process used in our albums. Printed in the traditional way with light sensitive paper and a chemical process as is done in the darkroom.

Client Feedback

I have worked with Erik on several shoots now and am so thrilled with his work! He work is beautiful and he will make you look and feel so incredibly comfortable in front of the camera! He is professional and very talented! I am thrilled that I chose to work with Erik and will continue to work with him on additional shoots because I simply love his work!!!

Ally C.

Stowe, MA

The professionalism, quality of the pictures, and overall comfortability was second to none. From the minute I arrived, I felt like I was at home. Anything I requested or needed was immediately done. I appreciated the experience from beginning to end, and still get compliments for the way he was able to capture the photos. I couldn’t avast for a better day and highly recommend Erik.

Brandi L

Somerville, MA

The team under Erik’s vision and direction provides unique expertise which contributes directly in delivering a professional, high-quality final work product. It has been an honor to work with such a professional and exceptional team. Overall this was a wonderful experience and I am so glad that Erik Patton Photography was a big part of my birthday!!

Tina P.

Malden, MA

From the initial consultation to the photo shoot to the image selection, Erik and his team make any of your concerns a thing of the past. Just with flattering poses for your figure and soft lighting, Erik is able to capture the most beautiful images. A touch of photoshop to get rid of any little problem areas, and you’ve now been promoted to model status.

Amy S.

Melrose, MA

About Us

I'm Erik the guy behind the camera and owner of Patton Boudoir.

And Kerri is the talented makeup artist that makes every shoot a success.

Together we have done boudoir shoots for a number of years and work as a team throughout your time with us.

We understand that doing a boudoir shoot takes courage since you've likely never done anything like this before. But we'll be there to walk you through every single step.

Throughout the shoot Kerri will be a second set of eyes to make sure look perfect in every frame. She'll do touchups, help with wardrobe, and make sure your hair is in the exact right place.

Erik Patton

Photographer

Erik has been photographing people for twenty years, so he knows all the tricks to help you relax and enjoy the session. He's photographed weddings, families, and done commercial work and enjoys meeting new people.

Kerri Herlihy

Beauty specialist

Kerri has over twenty years experience doing makeup for models, brides, and celebrities in the greater Boston area. She can create everything from a natural glowing look to darker and more glamorous.

Reach out

Ready to take the next step and find out more?

Drop us a note and we'll get back to you right away. We're happy to give you a call if you prefer, just be sure to leave us you number.

We look forward to hearing from you!