In the world of personal portraiture, two styles often steal the spotlight—glamour and
boudoir. While both celebrate beauty, confidence, and individuality, they approach it
from different angles. Think of glamour photography as your red carpet
moment—glossy, fashion-forward, and meticulously styled. Boudoir photography, on
the other hand, feels more like an intimate love letter to yourself—raw, soft,
empowering, and deeply personal.
While it’s easy to blur the lines between the two, understanding what sets them apart
can help you decide which style resonates more with your vibe. Whether you’re after
that editorial, cover-girl glow or a soulful, sensual reflection of your truest self,
knowing the differences can make all the difference.
Let’s unpack these two empowering styles and help you discover which one will best
tell your story through the lens.
The History of Glamour Photography
Glamour photography rose to fame alongside the golden age of Hollywood in the
early 20th century. With starlets like Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth setting
beauty standards, the camera lens became a stage for elegance and fantasy.
Glamour was all about capturing allure—silky waves, sultry stares, and sweeping
gowns lit to perfection.
Photographers like George Hurrell turned this into an art form, using dramatic
lighting and expert retouching to immortalize Hollywood’s most iconic faces. As
decades passed, glamour photography became a staple of fashion magazines and
ad campaigns, evolving with cultural trends while maintaining its signature polish and
sophistication.
Today, glamour photography continues to draw inspiration from the worlds of fashion
and film. The goal? To create striking, confident imagery that makes you feel like a
star in your own story.
The Evolution of Boudoir Photography
Boudoir photography may have softer edges, but its roots run deep. Originating from
intimate portraiture in the Victorian era, boudoir imagery has always leaned into the
private and personal. Back then, it was all about subtlety and modesty. Fast-forward
to the 1940s and 1950s, and the playful allure of pin-up girls ushered in a bolder,
flirtier version of boudoir.
But today’s boudoir? It’s all about empowerment.
Modern boudoir sessions are built around self-love. Whether soft and romantic or
fierce and edgy, the focus is on capturing your inner glow in a way that feels
authentic and freeing. Many choose boudoir photography to mark a personal
milestone, a journey of self-discovery, or simply to feel amazing in their own skin.
It’s not just about beautiful photos—it’s about the experience. A great boudoir
photographer (like the team at Intimately You Boudoir ) works with you to create a
space where you feel safe, confident, and celebrated.
Key Differences Between Glamour and Boudoir Photography
While both glamour and boudoir photography highlight beauty and confidence, their
approach differs in tone and intent.
Aesthetic:
Glamour photography tends to have a polished, editorial look—think sleek hair,
dramatic makeup, and high-end fashion. Boudoir is more organic and personal,
featuring natural light, soft textures, and intimate details like lingerie, silk robes, or
even your favourite oversized shirt.
Setting:
Glamour shoots often take place in studios or curated outdoor locations with
elaborate setups. Boudoir, by contrast, typically unfolds in private
spaces—bedrooms, boutique hotel rooms, or cozy home settings that help bring out
your most relaxed, sensual self.
Purpose:
Glamour photography is often designed for public display—portfolio pieces,
professional branding, or magazine-style shoots. Boudoir images are usually more
personal. They might be a gift for a partner, but most often, they’re a celebration of
self. It’s about documenting how you feel as much as how you look.
Styles and Techniques in Glamour Photography
Glamour photography is all about crafting a stunning visual fantasy. Lighting plays a
major role—soft boxes and beauty dishes help sculpt the face and add drama, while
post-production editing ensures every image is smooth and radiant.
Styling is often elevated, with a team that might include makeup artists, hairstylists,
and wardrobe consultants to create a cohesive, high-fashion feel. The poses are
deliberate and strong, designed to showcase elegance, symmetry, and power.
The final images? Think magazine editorial—bold, beautiful, and timeless.
Styles and Techniques in Boudoir Photography
Boudoir thrives on intimacy. Natural light, soft shadows, and warm tones create an
inviting and dreamy atmosphere. Golden hour shoots or cozy indoor setups make
you feel like you’re in your own little world.
The magic of boudoir photography lies in its personal touch. Poses are guided but
fluid—nothing too stiff or staged. It’s more about movement, emotion, and presence.
Props like books, blankets, or meaningful accessories can add a touch of personality
to each frame.
At Intimately You Boudoir, for example, the experience is tailored to who you are.
Whether you’re drawn to soft romance or a bolder expression of your sensuality, the
goal is always the same: to help you feel seen, empowered, and beautiful.
Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Needs
Finding the right photographer is key—especially when you’re choosing between
glamour and boudoir photography. Start by exploring portfolios. Do their images
make you feel something? Does their style align with how you want to be seen?
Also consider their approach. Boudoir photography, in particular, requires trust and
vulnerability, so you want someone who can make you feel completely at ease. Look
for specialists—like Intimately You Boudoir—who are not only technically skilled
but emotionally tuned-in to the boudoir experience. Their focus is on comfort, safety,
and creating a collaborative space that reflects your unique essence.
Don’t be afraid to book a consultation. A good photographer will want to hear your
ideas, talk through your vision, and help you feel confident from start to finish.
Preparing for a Boudoir Photoshoot
Your boudoir session starts long before you step in front of the camera. Begin with
outfits that make you feel amazing. Lingerie is common, but it’s not a rule. A silky
robe, your partner’s shirt, or even nothing at all—choose what feels right for you.
In the days leading up to your shoot, drink lots of water, get good rest, and pamper
your skin. If you plan on waxing or tanning, give your body a few days to settle. You
might also want to practice some poses in front of a mirror or jot down a playlist of
confidence-boosting songs to set the vibe.
Most importantly—relax. You don’t need to look or act a certain way. Boudoir
photography is about embracing the real, radiant version of yourself.
Common Misconceptions About Glamour and Boudoir Photography
There’s a myth that you have to be a certain size, age, or level of confidence to book
a glamour or boudoir shoot. Not true. These styles are for everyone. Boudoir,
especially, is about celebrating your body and spirit exactly as you are—not some
photoshopped ideal.
Another misconception is that boudoir photography is inherently sexual. While it can
be sensual, it doesn’t have to be. It’s about intimacy, not explicitness. You set the
tone—whether it’s romantic, flirty, edgy, or playful.
And boudoir isn’t just for women, either. People of all genders and orientations are
turning to boudoir as a way to connect with their bodies, tell their stories, and see
themselves in a powerful new light.
If you’re ready to explore either style—or still figuring out which one’s for
you—remember this: your photography session should reflect you. Whether it’s the
drama of glamour or the vulnerability of boudoir, the right photographer will help
bring your vision to life.
And if you’re leaning into boudoir, Intimately You Boudoir is a perfect place to start.
