Sexy Curves: Plus-Size Boudoir Photography Techniques

by Tammy Warnock (Photographer)

“Boudoir” photographs are intimate images created of a woman in a private (read intimate) space. The term “boudoir,” in translation, means “bedroom,” and images created in the boudoir style—whether they are indeed created in a woman’s boudoir or in a makeshift bedroom within the walls of a photographic studio—are strictly feminine. The subjects may be adorned in fine lingerie, or perhaps may be shown in the act of dressing—or undressing. The images are sensual, flirty, and always beautiful.

Clients book boudoir sessions to celebrate their sensuality and femininity. For some, the goal is to document a special phase in life or simply to find a new way to see herself. Other women seek to book a boudoir session with the goal of providing a significant other with a highly personal and perhaps playful gift. Regardless of her motivation, her expectation is that her photographer will be able to amplify her assets, minimize any perceived figure flaws, and create a beautiful, evocative work of art.

In order to meet—and exceed—her clients’ expectations, photographers must have a wealth of technical knowledge (just which camera angles, exposure settings, lens selections, and lighting patterns will create the desired look?) and a facility with coaxing form-flattering poses that lengthen legs, whittle waistlines, enhance the bust, and somehow look and feel natural, not contrived. The expression that is elicited must suit the mood of the image, too. And, of course, there are fragile egos at play. Yes, working with a scantily clad subject under the scrutiny of a lens is a tall order. Sadly, each of those concerns can seem magnified when working with the plus-sized boudoir subject.

In this book, Tammy Warnock presents a tangible, easy-to-follow recipe for creating va-va-voom images of plus-size clients that celebrate every sexy curve. She introduces readers to 60 real-life subjects and investigates the intricate details of conceptualizing and crafting a sensational plus-size boudoir session. For each session presented for review, readers will learn about the client’s objectives (Why did she book the shoot? What was the mood or feeling or theme she had in mind?). Tammy will share the strategies she used to create rapport with the client, boost her confidence, and ensure a positive, praise- (and referral!) worthy experience. The artistic elements of the shot (backdrops, props, and styling) and corrective posing and lighting strategies are detailed as well, culminating in an inspiring and instructional framework that readers will rely on whenever any boudoir subject calls for services.

128 pages, Paperback

First published July 20, 2015

Reviews

[Sasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the variety of poses she has in this book. She makes it look super easy to pose curvy women in a flattering way. Which after reading her tips I hope I find it that easy in the next session I do. Her tip for hand placement so a large bust doesn't move toward the face was super easy but very effective and one that I will file away for future use. I think overall this was a great read for those pursuing this niche.

[Christopher Jonathan Ramirez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good photography tips for plus-size subjects

This book has a lot of good tips on posing, lighting, prop use and clothing choices. A lot of repetition in the book keeps me from giving it a higher score. But overall it gives some good advice on photographing plus-size women.