Colorful Thoughts

Sorry for the long break in posting. No excuses, I was simply too busy with other things to sit down and write out anything that would be worth reading, and I don't believe in doing something if you are not going to give it a full try. I will be sharing some of the work I have done over this period of silence, as well as a story that can help newer photographers based on my own simple mistakes.

Today we will be discussing color theory. I understand that this has been mentioned many times previously; but today I will be breaking down what exactly it means and how to use this knowledge. All of this is in an effort to help you with your color choices for clothing or accessories before a photography session and when thinking about how to edit an image in your post-work.

This is the color wheel. I know it appears to be just a bunch of colored wedges, but this diagram is actually one of the best tools ever invented for artists, designers, and fashionable dressers the world over. It is also one of the few “non-photographs” I have hanging in my studio. A clear teaching/working print hangs over my desk along with post-it notes stuck all over the place giving insight on using the colors in some dyes, editing programs, and how to white balance to best take advantage of a color if it will appear often in a session. Actually, the one I use is a bit more complex, but just as effective:

If you think back to primary school, we learn there are three primary colors. We remember that red, blue, and yellow are the basics and from those all other shades and combinations are born. Now, look at the wheel. Do you see only thee colors? Do you see just six colors? No. Even in school we learn that there are at least three more colors we can make by using the primary three; from red and blue we get purple, blue and yellow give us green, and yellow with red brings us orange. Those are joined by white - the sum of all colors, black – the absence of color, and brown – the muddled combination of three primary shades in unequal parts.

Here is what we don't learn in kindergarten... some colors make others appear brighter or stronger just by being near them. Now that I've dropped that bombshell on you, I would like to refer you back to the color wheel image above. Notice what colors are opposing on the wheel. If you draw a direct line across the wheel you will find the polar-opposite is based on that theory.

Fantastic, there are opposite colors... now why do you need to know this? Well, I am getting to that part. But first I'll give you a task: Draw a line from GREEN, across the wheel to the color it most “sets off”. What do you find there? You should be looking at RED. Yes, red and green are opposites here too. Actually, that is exactly why they are used on traffic lights in that way. Now run you finger or eye around the wheel counter-clockwise and find the “mid-point”. Now does it make sense why we use YELLOW as the “slow down” signal?

By now you are sick of me talking about traffic lights and want to know what, if anything, this has to do with your photography. Well, think about hair and eye color. Blue eyes look wonderful when the skin around them as a slightly bronzed look. Make-up companies have been using this fact to sell “color kits” for years, so why not make the same connection in your work?

One benefit of photography as a medium is that color theory can actually be applied very simply. We can coordinate with a model, make-up artist, wardrobe director, or any other person who will have input in the shoot based on a simple formula. Think of it as color algebra. You take the two colors from the wheel and select the actual unique tone that will make the highest impact to create exactly the image you seek.

( RED + GREEN ) = BEAUTY
TONE

For now I will leave you this real-life example, flaws an all. The model in this photo from over my recent break has a lovely tan and it is set off even better when posed against the rolling waves on the beach. We both felt that the chilly water and my soaked jeans were well worth the beauty of this natural and emotive atmosphere, and the colors agree perfectly with a little tweaking. In fact, I am still in the process of choosing my final modifications.

Boutique Beauty in the Boudoir

This weekend is a big event for Akelis Studios. I am excited to see how things go, but also wanted to help out some of those who are new to boudoir photography by suggesting some ideas for choosing the perfect outfit. I'm to here to tell you what to wear every day, how to find the perfect bra based on your cup size, or any of the thousands of things that fashion bloggers have made a living doing. However... I can tell you what I know works for those not familiar with, or comfortable in lingerie beyond a simple bra & panties. 

 

At the risk of letting you all into more of my person life than needed, I will share this fact with you now; until Thursday of last week, I had not owned “sexy” lingerie of my own since about 2004. I help women feel beautiful in it every day. I am an avid fan of many companies and watch fashion shows and hungrily await new collections to be announced every season. If this is all true, why would I not own anything for my personal life... well, you can assume it has to do with my personal shopping choices and spending priorities. Having shoes that would be comfortable for walking and wearing at shoots and good quality jeans to take the abuse of kneeling or crawling in any number of muddy and nasty conditions for the perfect shot just ranked higher.

I am not going to say you should only shop at the stores mentioned here, or that you absolutely have to buy the exact items I mention; that never works out for everybody because each woman's personality and figure is a little different.  I  do not own any part of and am not getting paid to advertise these items/designers.  What I will suggest are the places (and they may surprise you) where I have found some of the most flattering things in my own collection or that my clients have brought with them for our shoots. I often will stop a client before they leave and ask where they found a piece if it is something truly striking, and that is how I built this list.

Frederick's of Hollywood:

Back before I was even out of high school I was a huge fan of Frederick's. I love that they are always willing to try something daring in their designs and color choices. Right now, I think that they have some of my favorite pieces for a fuller figured model. These are items that are great for women who might not feel secure about their stomach and hips.

Full figured ladies might want to look at these great options:

 Hollywood Heartbreaker Chemise Audrina Chemise

Hollywood Satin Pajama Set

Victoria's Secret:

I watch their yearly fashion show like an addict waiting for her next hit. It is true my favorite part is always getting a chance to see the beautiful wings they dream up for each collection. It is also true that I find their designs more flattering for smaller busted women. They have some wonderful designs for bra and panty sets that make people gasp when they get to see the full impact in the mirror or photos.

Confident Brides might want to look at some of these cute ideas:

VS Logo Lace Halter Babydoll

Floral Babydoll

VS Satin Gown  - this only comes in one color, but if you look good in red, you can get a real "Jessica Rabbit" look.

Fashion Bug:

I know, you're now thinking I have lost my grasp on reality. In all honesty, this is exactly where I found some of my favorite items over the years. They cater to a wide range of sizes and their bra selection has a fantastic choice of patterns and colors. I also suggest them for hair accessories and unique jewelry. A good boudoir look should consider all elements of beauty and fashion, and being able to find a fantastic necklace or pair of earrings will add real flair to a simple set of under-things. 

 

Much of their collection is bra & panties, so I'll share a successful look that can come from their store:
Pink Satin & Embroidered Set

Octagon Onyx Jewelry Set

Peep Toe Heels 

Pin-up Girl Clothing:

This is one of the few companies I have never bought anything from, but that will change shortly since I have selected my new bathing suit from their collections for this summer. They have a great selection for all parts of vintage styling, and the photography on the site reflects the popular photography styles of the era. I would almost classify this as “costume” wardrobe, save that I have a good number of models who are party of the modern revival of rock-a-billy fashion.

They have a number of lovely things, but these stand out for certain because they are classic accessories: 

Cuban Heel Stockings   -  back seam stockings are vital for vintage boudoir

Ruffle Panties  -  fantastic for women a little self conscious about their bottom line

Lolita Pump Shoes  -  go for a bright bold color or print like the one shown here, and remember you pedicure too!

As you might guess from my comments in the links, having a complete look is vital.  Models often come in with a great negligee, hair and make-up and the look is incomplete because they wore sneakers but forgot to bring heels or get do a little bit of pedicure work.  I also remind women that just like in daily life, a fantastic necklace or killer set of kitten heels is a great way to get noticed for your best features.

Color choice is also essential.  You should remember that pinks and reds don't look as fantastic on women who have a strong natural blush to their skin.  My favorite models have been the ones that choose something to complement their eyes or hair to best advantage.  I have green eyes and red hair thanks to a little helping henna; so my choice are greens and blacks because they don't clash with my very light skin and make the features I want to show off work for me.  

The two photos on this page are snapshots of some of the choices women might have when they  are going through their own dresser.  The one below is a tossed together idea that would work perfectly with a basic pair of heels and a sultry smirk.  The blue-green of the beads in the necklace might not be a perfect match in shade, but with a little skin between them, that bra and those beads will look lovely and make a cohesive picture.

I work with women of all sizes, not just the slender models in fashion magazines. I even have serious curves of my own and a little postpartum weight left to lose. For the full figured women out there dreaming of being “thin enough” to do boudoir photos, stop dreaming and find something that flatters who you are now... because you are never more beautiful than when you are wearing a smile.

Why My Answer Is No

In the last few weeks my boudoir photography has taken off and finally had some real response.  Sadly, this has brought on the matching tide of requests from those with a less than wholesome level of intent.  I work very hard to bring out the best in boudoir.  I want to help people understand how it is NOT pornography, and is not something intended to offend.



I keep some basic rules on who I work with and what I shoot because it is part of building a legitimate business.  My models have the right to requests a shot or say no to a pose.  I reserve the right to keep my images about equal with a PG 13 rating.  I agree that the human body is appealing, but also know that not everyone has the same feelings about what is appropriate for public viewing.

I am not a difficult person to work with on a professional level.  I am not a hard person to get along with when you take the time to make conversation before, at, or after a shoot.  I even have a habit of making friends with my models.  So I want it to be known that if I ever tell "you" no about a shoot, a subject, or a request to buy images from my portfolio there is a good reason.

If I choose not to answer a question about my personal life, it is because I have that right.  If you choose not to answer something I ask, I will accept that and move on.  But please don't ever assume that my silence means your suggestive behavior or comments is something I will put up with for long.  This goes for absolutely everyone; models, potential clients, escorts, other photographers, people viewing my portfolio at public events where I market my business.  I want it to be clear that I put up with much, but a lack of professionalism is something that will see you banned from my business. 

Perhaps it is just that I have a clear set of ethics that I use as my guide, but I am not in the boudoir world to cater to creeps.  I get annoyed when my models and my work are viewed as nothing but pornography.  This is not something made for "self gratification", it is a beautiful expression of how every body can be attractive and everybody has the right to enjoy who they are.

Model Behavior

Yes. I called this “model behavior” because this is geared to understanding the rights and needs of our models... even the paid kind.

I'm not shy about the fact that I was a model years ago. I feel that time on the other end of the lens has given me insight that some photographers will just never understand. I also have been uncomfortable with my surroundings, something that every woman can tell you is all too common an occurrence when any form of even mildly sexual topic is involved. It is from this perspective that the following post was written; I am posting it in the “raw and unedited form” that I want you to witness.

In the last few weeks there has been a good deal of chatter between myself and one of my favorite models about the concept of “escorts”. No, not the kind that wealthy business partners pay for while on a trip so they can have arm candy. I'm talking about the kind that are there as an assistant and a bodyguard for the model while they are on location for a shoot. And I am going to be completely clear here... I SUPPORT YOUR RIGHT TO BRING AN ESCORT 100%.

I will ask that they take a seat in my waiting room while shooting any subject 18 and over. This is because I work in a small studio space, and there is a big risk of tripping over equipment cords or distracting the model. I keep parents in the room with children, and if the model is not there for a boudoir shoot or actively changing, the door stays open so there is no feeling of a threat. I usually suggest that the escort be the same gender so they can assist with outfit changes or even hair and make-up application in some cases.

What I do not support, is an escort that is a significant other or highly distracting friend. I will ask anyone with lewd or offensive language and behavior to remove themselves from my studio. I do this because it is my right to keep a clean and welcoming atmosphere for myself, my clients, and my landlord (and fellow renters). I will not allow an escort to sit in on a boudoir shoot because that is a very personal situation that requires the model be able to stay serious in what can often be an uncomfortable situation; but I also take the time to talk to my clients about what they can expect from a session so there is never anything they feel pressured to do.

There are behaviors I will not support from a model or an escort because they are unprofessional and speak to the lack of respect held by that person for the photographer and their business.

I do not support models or escorts who feel it their right to make a mess. I am not your mother. I have my own family to clean up after. If you or your escort want to bring a drink or a snack, that is fine. I just ask that you recycle your bottles and cans, toss your food wrappers in the garbage, and act just as you would on a job interview. Consider me your potential boss, and know that I do not give recommendations lightly. You will need to earn my respect if you want to receive future offers for work when I have paid shoots and need to find a model for hire.

I do not support having an escort come in and babble on their cell phone while in the room. Actually, I require that clients turn their phone to silent or completely off while we are shooting because it is a distraction. I have gone so far as to turn away sittings because a parent refused to turn off their phone or even put the device down. I know that turning away business seems counter intuitive, but I will do it because I believe in running an ethical and focused business.

I do not support models or escorts who feel the need to complain, argue, or generally cause problems when I am giving direction for a pose or an outfit. I have a rough picture in my mind before I ever walk into the studio. I will listen to requests for poses or image types. I will listen to a model who says that pose is uncomfortable or needs help with body placement to achieve the right look. I will never force a model to be nude, pose suggestively, or do something that makes them feel unsafe in some way.

What I will not support is a model that thinks they have the right to make things harder on others. I'll make it very clear right now, if you want to throw a fit and storm out because you are not being pampered, I will not be hiring you on as a model. Divas don't get rich just by behaving badly to those around them, they get rich because they have a look we can sell even if they make others miserable in the process. Models have to understand that the photographer knows what they are doing (or should if they are any good at their job). If we ask you to drop your shoulder, turn your cheek slightly, shift a hand up or down slightly... chances are it is because we see something that doesn't look right. We might need to make a few changes or moves before things come out just right; this means we are doing our job well.

If you want to be taken seriously as a model I suggest you keep the things I covered here in mind. Always ensure that there are specific terms and they are clearly hashed out before you ever agree to a session and/or any money changes hands. You have the right to say “no” when you are asked to do anything that violates your agree upon terms or makes you uncomfortable. You do have the right to bring an escort to private sessions, but in the case of large shoots with a crew you may want to skip it because they will end up being in the way of those working. Both the model and their escort must agree to behave as guests and respect their host's property both physically and verbally. There is much to be said for professional behavior in the modeling business... practice it and you will be far more successful than the self important divas that never took the time to learn the words “please” and “thank you”.

Uphold the Image

Today is yet another blog about editing. You can see I'm on a bit of a kick with this for the next few days. I'll have some mini posts here with more visuals to make up for the heavy things from last week. Right now I want to talk about how we identify unique things about our clients and what can be done to keep true to those features while we edit.


On Saturday I had a lovely sitting with a new model. It was our first time working together and we both had fun. She is a beautiful girl, and has a wonderful complexion with a face full of freckles to complement her red hair – that' right, “a ginger”. The lovely light tones under those cute freckles work perfectly for this lesson, so I'll warn you all right now that nasty comments about ginger kids are not tolerated on this blog.


Her eyes are a lovely light blue, so they catch the flash very well on their own already, meaning there is a chance for red-eye when using flash. In this case, I suggest a brighter setting on a fixed light source to limit blinking and reflection. I have managed to get plenty of practice with blue-eyed models because most babies have blue eyes at the beginning; and they are very prone to blinking under large flash blubs.


I love that she was willing to go very natural, nearly bare faced, for this shoot. Subjects should be proud of their unique characteristics, and freckles are something many women cover up with foundation that ends up looking splotchy or uneven under the bright and unforgiving light of a good flash. Freckles are difficult to keep natural in editing, often looking fake when a fix is applied to hide other flaws. This is where subjects should be coached by the photographer that a limited amount of editing may be the best compromise. Removing some of the larger trouble spots and leaving the integrity of the skin's natural pattern.

To emphasize this fact, I want to share both the original shot, and the finished product. This first image is exactly as it was uploaded from my camera after the shoot. I had the model stand by and go through an initial review of the images to get an idea of what she and I both liked best. We picked a few images that were not worth keeping due to blinking, blurring, and general poor composition. We also found the winners, and in general felt that this was a successful effort.


I picked this head shot as an example because I want the extent of her freckles to be most obvious. Because her make-up was still fresh and this pose allowed her hair to fall naturally, there are only three minor corrections to be made here. Some basic blemish control is used first, I avoid the healing tool in cases like this, rather getting a sample color and using the airbrushing tool on a low opacity level to control blending the areas under the eyes and on the two small marks that are most visible. Next I corrected a small flaw in the backdrop itself where a crease was visible and my perfectionist self cannot stand unwelcome seams. Finally, I brighten the eyes and teeth just a touch and sharpened the edges there while softening the rest of the face to give most attraction to the eyes. This is not a vital edit, but part of my personal style of accentuating natural beauty in place of creating a faux-finish to make a mannequin out of a model.

What I want to point out is not how exactly to do the corrections – my personal method is actually not the most popular, or the fastest. The point here is about selecting the fewest points to edit for the maximum benefit. We want to use our time well as photographers. Shooting is more fun than editing, but we all know which one can take longer. If that can be reduced by using a pattern like the one explained above, why not go for a nearly natural look that can be the best of both worlds? After all, if I can do things like this in five minutes, imagine what can be done with the 30minutes some editors can spend on a single correcting action.

Why I Do, What I Do

Trying my first posting from an alternate device tonight, we'll see how this goes.  Try to be forgiving, this is a test of my blogging skills via smarter-than-me-phone.

Aside from busily working to build a new studio location, booking sittings, and shooting weddings each week; I am also involved in work to help demystify boudoir photography. I want to help more people understand how they can express their sexy inner being without having feeling like they are posing for a dirty magazine. I have redoubled my efforts after becoming involved with an effort to put a stop to illegal posting of images taken by a fellow photographer who broke his client's trust.

I am, however, toying with the idea of choosing to make a notation that I will no longer take sittings where obvious nudity is involved. I state this as different from “implied nudity” because of the appearance of sensitive areas of anatomy. My portfolio does not suffer simply because I choose not to display genitalia or require an age filter and I feel that this should be part of what my subjects can always expect. I want them to feel no embarrassment about having a stranger – myself or my assistant in this case – see them while they are posing. More importantly, there should be pride and enjoyment when they share their final selections with others.

I believe in using intelligent composition,
not pornographic position.

Remember that quote. I have no problem with it being shared around the internet and used by anyone who ever studies the art of boudoir photography, even in passing. If I am famous for nothing else, make me famous for that one comment.

Artistic nudity has a place in the world. There is something beautiful about a newborn infant with nothing put that innocent pout on their lips. There is an equally stirring notion when a seductive bare shoulder is closely cropped into frame with sultry eyes and lips directed into the lens. It is even possible to have a tasteful image where just a bolt of silk can be wrapped around a mother to show off her growing belly and lovely legs at a maternity sitting.

There is also a place for nudity of the non-artistic genre. A good number of photographers and models make their living in a world of pay-to-view websites and adults only magazines. Before our marriage, I know my own husband had a collection of those magazines and I'm fine with that fact. He is one of the thousands of adults that has owned or viewed that type of material. It is a profitable market, and those employed by those companies are aware of the controversy that will forever be involved with their industry.

The word boudoir is a French term that refers to the chambers around a wealthy ladies' bedroom any time prior to about 1920. The boudoir was an elaborate sitting room where she could entertain her guests or romantic partner(s). This was separate from her dressing room, morning room, and bed chamber. In some less wealthy circles the term began to be used on sitting rooms or parlors – what we now call “the living room” – when the house did not contain massive suites for the adult females.

This history is important because it gives a reason for the very distinct aim of good boudoir photographers; they aim to create an intimate, romantic feeling with each pose. My own goal is to encourage a playful feeling as well as capturing that alluring gaze that seems to say “come hither”.

I use a fifteen to twenty minute consultation prior to the session as a chance to learn about my subject and get a feeling for their personality. It is not just the long lashes and soft gaze of my model but the timid girl behind those big brown eyes that should come through with every pose. For those fantastic moments when the girl in kitten heels can flirt through the lens, my goal is to let her purr come through with every wink.  I even have had male subjects prove that the kindest, nerd can become a hunk when he lets his confidence do the work.

On May 26th, I will be hosting a boudoir photography event at the new studio to help educate local women and men interested but shy about committing to a full session. The idea is to find the beauty in every body type. Women should learn to embrace their unique figure and the beauty that exists in simply being born a part of that gender. Guys can take the chance to not worry about having to put on a hyper masculine facade, they can be cuddly and still be sexy. Most of all, my goal is to make each person see that you don't have to be built like a model to make your mate “happy”. If I can still get a grin from my husband after the huge change in my figure from pre-pregnancy to almost one year postpartum... well, just trust me when I say the most sexy part of the body is the brain... followed by the eyes!

The Art of Seduction (Visual Lesson)

In the words of Jessica Rabbit, “I'm not bad, I'm just drawn that way.” I believe that this could perfectly describe the reputation of boudoir work; remember that this is not pornography even though there is an influx of those images. Just as the famous burlesque dancers and performers of old vaudeville are a class above today's topless pole dancers... boudoir is not soft-core, but in a class all of it's own.

Now I will take a moment to talk to the models and brides out there who might be reading this before we go any farther...

Please, please, please... visit every one of the sites I have listed and remember to do your own research before you shoot or pose. As a client, you must be absolutely comfortable with your photographer and your settings. Expressions will not come across the same and shoots will fall apart if there is no flow between photographer and model. Never agree to a session if you feel pressured or have that “creepy” feeling. I say this with love and experience, you must put your emotional and physical safety first, and remember that this is meant to be a fun experience.

Long before I was a photographer, I worked as a model. On one occasion while I was in college, I took some paid work doing photos for a company promoting a new night club opening up near the school. Thankfully the shots were clothed and had a good group of models and assistants. But there was one particular assistant photographer that gave off that unsettling vibe. Everything was professional and perfect, but I would never have stayed to shoot if it had been a smaller crew or a private session with him.

All of the photographers I listed in this posting have a record of professionalism, and so do most of those who continue to get work. You should look for a studio or a person with good reviews and who is willing to communicate with you before the session so that you can get a feel for them and their business. And remember that you always have the right to say no.

Boudoir Photography has an undeservedly bad reputation thanks to the common mixture of explicit poses and obvious pornography that are often passed off under that label. For this reason I am going out of my normal pattern by using images found through a search on Google simply using the key words “boudoir photography poses”. Here again I state that this is an adult topic and should not be shown to those under age because of the suggestive nature of some of the images.

Each image has a credit to the photographer and a link directly to their site for those interested in their work. I am not affiliated with any of these sites or photographers, and have made all effort to credit them under the requirements of fair use. Remember that doing your own research on each of them is highly encouraged because no photographer knows everything, but we can learn much from the work of others. I have only included images that are clothed or implied nudity, but remember that this is all about seductive pose and tasteful expression.

Blinkabella

Notice the lovely lines and curves in this pose. Though the model's face is not included, the whole image just flows with seduction. This studio actually has a lovely comment about making sure that shots are not completely contrived, but rather have a bedroom feeling through the thought put into backdrop and the use of natural window light. Visit them in San Diego, I would if I could!

Persimmon Images

Here I find that color and flow are just lovely. This pose lets the eye find points of sharp focus on the beautiful blue eyes of the model even while the brilliant red draws you deep into the frame. Bravo for a lovely outfit selection on this entire set, but this red works wonderfully to get the point across even while being beyond the focus point. This studio is located in the Seattle, Washington area; look them up for weddings, portraits, and boudoir!

Simply Bloom Photography (Blog)

I adore the classy feeling of leg and shoe images and this blog is rife with them. The use of space and spread are wonderful in these shots. Again I must complement the lighting and angles, wonderfully creative while clearly done without contortion acts on the photographer's part. I suggest their services to anyone in the Savannah, Georgia area and their blog to everyone who adores beautifully shot photography. These are some masterful works.

Raw Photo Design

As I have said many times, nobody knows everything, but I wish I had even half the talent and color knowledge that appears in some of the fantastic work on this blog. If you are in the Hartford, Connecticut area, these are the people you want shooting your scintillating sessions. The image above is one of my favorites, not for color, but because it is just a perfect example of the flirty feeling that can be captured when model and photographer have that moment of perfection and coordination.

I know there are just a tiny sample of studios and poses here, but to place everything I love on this blog would take a year. Do your own searches and remember that there is no substitute for experimentation. Thanks to all of the studios listed here for having been an inspiration for some of my work, and for their contributions to the artistic world as a whole.

The Art of Seduction

Today I am going to post on a new topic, but I will be updating with the second half of the last visual lesson in the next two days, as well as this weeks visual aids.

Today is a post on a particular pet peeve of mine. This is also the very first time I will be placing an 18+ warning on anything I make public. What I am talking about here is the blurred line between “Boudoir Photography” and “Pornography”. A tricky difference for a person who began and continues her career primarily with children as her subjects; but one that must be very clearly struck.

It comes from doing some web research of my own for upcoming shoots and finding a disgusting number of mislabeled and very workplace inappropriate images. While there is always the internet snag commonly known as “Rule 34”; I believe that a Google image search is one of the simplest ways for a budding (or experienced) photographer to collect a few new ideas on poses or props.

Boudoir photography could be loosely defined as using playful suggestion through composition elements to create a seductive feel without overt sexual images.  For legal purposes, Pornography is defined as the explicit or implied depiction of sexual behavior that is intended to arouse sexual excitement in its audience. Under this broad term, common Boudoir photography can be determined as a form of pornography, simply because the subtle suggestion in a pose is entirely intended to interest the viewer.  In general, if it could not be displayed in a corporate workplace without quickly flicking to a new page when the boss walks by... it is not in the realm of playfully seductive.

I typically draw the line between the two where an image crosses from being appropriate for all viewers, to requiring one of the age based filters used to shield younger persons from explicit material. A wonderful example of how boudoir work can quickly become pornography would be to consider the images viewable on websites that require a subscription to view full sets. In these cases, the preview images available to all viewers are clothed and posed to peek down cleavage without actually crossing the line to show any portions of anatomy which would be questionable in public. But as soon as a valid subscription or birth date check is passed, the following images pass clearly into a level of Hustler-esque inappropriateness.

Here we enter the argument of clothed vs. nude images. Under the legal rules above, an image of a shapely woman in a bikini posed in a suggestive nature could be considered pornographic. However, swimsuits are still a part of most modeling portfolios, and a staple of marketed photography for any number of products and businesses. Sports Illustrated would never have made as much money on their annual swimsuit edition, were it not for the undeniable fact that there is an obvious appeal to a shapely young woman in a bikini on the cover of anything men -and women – while still managing to be acceptable outside the bedroom. These images suggest something adult in nature, but do not cross a line of offense for the most part.

I believe that not all nude images are pornographic, and not all pornography requires nudity. When my son was born in June of 2011, I took his newborn photos and placed the order for announcement cards with one of those shots. This image, taken while he napped, shows my nude three-week old with a fedora placed over his hindquarters as a salute to one of the two people for whom he was named. In this case, it is what is called an “artistic nude” - implying no sexual behavior while still containing a subject without clothing. In fact, the majority of newborn photography falls under this title; newborns are delicate and we treat them differently because their beauty comes from inherent innocence.

Artistic nude rules are used to determine many works that involve children because of the ever-present issue of child pornography. The best way to avoid these issues is to place newborns in a pose or around props to all sensitive portions of anatomy. Girls over toddler age, about three years, really should be photographed full clothed, and boys can go shirtless so long as pants or shorts are in place. One popular type of images is a nude or implied nude child in a claw foot tub. So long as the rules on covering sensitive areas are followed, this can indeed be an adorable addition to any portfolio.

Teens and adults should be photographed with the strict rule that only those over the age of majority (18 years or older in the United States for Federal purposes) can appear nude. I personally feel it is inappropriate to use an implied nude technique on subjects under that age, even though it may not be illegal based on the views of individual courts. At all times, the suggestion of the staging must be considered. While a bare shoulder in a close up can be innocent and alluring if captured under one set of circumstances; the very same bare shoulder can be viewed in a seductive way with a simple shift in angles or lighting.

Here is the real crux of the issue. Boudoir photography is intended to be seductive and innocent at the same time. Similar to the beautiful and alluring calendar girls of the 1950's, the idea should be to entice without being lewd or blatant. A model posed with a coy wink and smile and a shifted hip to help accentuate the curve of her legs and rear can be done in jeans as easily as garters and thigh-high stockings. The meaning is the same; there is an implication of playful seduction without the grotesquely pornographic nature of an open mouth and spread legs.

I have previously shot, and have bookings in the near future, for boudoir images. All my sessions are done on a closed set, with an invitation for the model to bring a friend of the same gender to help with hair, make-up, and wardrobe changes as well as moral support for those nervous about what can be an intimidating experience. I have had models ask to pose topless, and will accommodate the request as long as the shots are kept tasteful, again following the rules of implied nudity. I also never publish images without permission or that have nudity because that is not part of my business image.

I believe that educating clients on the difference between boudoir photography and pornography is an important part of working with models. These images make wonderful gifts for a husband or partner, a great addition to an established portfolio, and can help boost confidence after achieving weight loss goals. I have even taken boudoir sessions as part of an engagement package or before the wedding, in sessions when the bride has a shoot to get specialty shots of her gown. I can be a fun flirty form of self-expression for the right person, letting the bride pose in her wedding-night outfit as part of their private wedding album.

This is a situation where pose really is everything, and so Tuesday's update will include images fresh from a Google search and open call for images from other photographers looking to promote their work.