Every body is beautiful, and boudoir photography is all about celebrating that truth. If
you’re a plus-size person looking to explore this intimate and empowering style of
photography, the first thing to remember is: confidence is key. And confidence often
begins with preparation—knowing what to wear, what to expect, and how to pose.
Whether you’re stepping into a studio for the first time or planning a bold second
shoot, here are some essential tips and flattering poses to help you feel your most
radiant self in front of the lens.
Wear Something That Shows Off Your Figure
Start by choosing outfits that make you feel amazing. This isn’t about squeezing into
something uncomfortable or trendy just because you saw it online. Instead, pick
lingerie, robes, or even oversized shirts that flatter your curves and let you move
confidently.
New to taking boudoir photos? Go for something that makes you feel comfortable
and confident—think super flattering high-waisted underwear for that vintage look,
bralettes, oversized shirts (the boyfriend shirt) or flowy bodysuits. And always check
that you’re comfortable with coverage; the last thing you want is to be worrying about
a wardrobe malfunction mid-pose.
Practice in Front of the Mirror
Lots of people feel self-conscious in front of a camera, especially when trying
something new like boudoir photography. Fortunately, Intimately You Boudoir are
incredibly supportive and will guide you every step of the way. But before your
session, it’s worth standing in front of the mirror and experimenting with some poses.
See how your body moves, what angles you love, and get comfortable making eye
contact with yourself.
Pose Inspiration: Flattering Poses for Plus Size Boudoir Photos
Here are some poses we have compiled, designed to showcase your curves, exude
confidence, and help you fall in love with your reflection.
Crossed Over Legs
Sit on the ground with one leg tucked in front of you and the other bent at the knee,
foot on the floor. Use one hand to support yourself and the other to play with your
hair or rest under your chin. This pose creates elegant lines through your body and is
perfect for highlighting curves in a relaxed, natural way.
Front-On Bed or Couch Poses
One of our favourites! Sit on the edge of a bed or low couch, point one leg straight
and bend the other to accentuate the hips. Lean back slightly and let your arms
drape over the backrest or use them to support your torso. Move your arms or legs
around gently until you find a shape that makes you feel powerful and sexy.
Booty Shots
For that ultra-feminine silhouette, kneel with your body angled away from the
camera, knees apart, and back arched. Look over your shoulder and play with your
hair or smile softly at the camera.
Or, with a bedsheet behind you, scoop the sheet underneath your bottom, holding
the sheet at the front of your body, showing the lace or satin of your lingerie and
shape of your asset to its best vantage.
Side-On Boudoir Photography
A side-facing armchair is perfect for this. Sit sideways and turn your upper body
toward the camera, either looking softly over your shoulder or straight into the lens.
Or kneel on the seat and arch your back for a flattering shape. This pose shows off
your side profile and highlights natural waistlines and hip curves beautifully.
Boudoir With Your Favourite Shoes
Whether it’s wedding shoes or your favourite heels, show them off! With one foot on
the ground and the other on a stool or bench, angle your hips toward the camera so
you are drawing the eyes to the line of your curves. Lean your body weight slightly
back while running your fingers through your hair or placing a hand on your hip. This
pose draws the eye to your natural curves and your stunning footwear.
Lying on Your Side
Lie on your side, propped up on one elbow with your other hand softly draped across
your waist or playing with your hair. Extend your legs slightly and bend the top knee
just a little. This is a go-to for plus-size boudoir photos because it highlights your
gorgeous curves and keeps the pose relaxed and feminine.
Highlighting lushes locks
Want to create a truly glamorous moment in your boudoir photography session? Try
lying on your back near the edge of the bed, letting your hair cascade freely over the
side. Extend one leg out flat, and bend the other slightly to add gentle curves through
your lower body. Arch your back slightly to elongate your torso and add definition.
Place both hands in your hair for a bold, dramatic look—or try resting one hand softly
on your tummy while the other plays with your hair. This pose is perfect for showing
off long, voluminous locks while giving your whole body a soft, sensual shape. Play
around with small adjustments to find what feels most natural and beautiful to you.
Draped in Fabric
A soft robe or sheer piece of fabric can give you something to play with during your
shoot. Drape it loosely over your shoulders, wrap it around your waist, or let it slip
down one arm. The movement adds interest to your photos and can highlight
specific parts of your body, like your shoulders, neckline, or waistline, in subtle and
artistic ways.
Final Thoughts
Boudoir photography isn’t about changing who you are—it’s about celebrating
yourself as you are, right now. The curves, the softness, the strength—it all tells your
story. Plus-size bodies are just as worthy of beautiful, sensual imagery as any other,
and the right photographer (like the team at Intimately You Boudoir) will make sure
you feel safe, empowered, and radiant.
Bring along your favourite playlist, wear what makes you feel fabulous, and don’t be
afraid to take up space. You deserve photos that reflect your true beauty, confidence,
and personality.
