Boudoir photography for women by female photographers only?

Boudoir photography for women continues to be popular and a number female boudoir photographers – not necessarily boudoir photographers in Kent – understandably make a point that this should only ever be something that female photographers do. Some say “who wants to take their kit off in front of a man you don’t know?”. I’d go further and say that for some, taking their clothes off in front of a man they do know can also cause anxiety.

I make a point of working with exclusively female teams for this sort of boudoir photoshoot in the same way that I do with lingerie shoots. It just makes sense. The way I photograph it stems straight from my editorial and commercial work. It is art / fashion in origin using lighting to enhance or hide. I believe that the beauty side of boudoir lies in being able to create a safe, comfortable and fun environment in which to express yourself. It’s not a makeover that makes you unrecognisable.

Should it be female only photographers? Men do have something positive to contribute in photographing women but you need to be where you feel most comfortable. But as is the case in studios and location shoots every day, male photographers are working together with wonderful female stylists, make up artists and wardrobe assistants to create images which celebrate women’s strength and beauty rather than exploiting it.