Navigating the Drama: Building a Supportive Boudoir Photography Community

The boudoir photography community is a space of creativity, empowerment, and profound human connection. Yet, like any niche, it’s not without its challenges. Over the years, I’ve observed divisions within our community that stem from differences in style, approach, and values. While healthy debate can fuel growth, the rise of drama surrounding politics, body positivity photography, and competing philosophies about what boudoir should be threatens the collaborative spirit that makes this genre so impactful.

As someone who has dedicated their career to celebrating inclusive boudoir photography, I believe it is our shared responsibility as professionals to rise above the noise and focus on what truly matters: empowering boudoir photography clients, supporting each other, and advancing the art of confidence-building photography. Let’s talk about the key issues dividing our community and how we can move toward unity and collaboration.

The Divide: Politics and Personal Beliefs

In today’s hyperconnected world, it’s nearly impossible to keep personal beliefs and political opinions separate from professional spaces. Social media often amplifies these divides, with heated debates spilling into the boudoir photography industry. While everyone has the right to their views, it’s important to remember that our shared mission is to empower and uplift our clients.

I’ve chosen to approach this divide by focusing on shared values rather than differences. Boudoir photography for everyBODY is about confidence, self-love, and acceptance—values that transcend political and personal divides. I’ve created an inclusive boudoir photography studio where people of all backgrounds and beliefs feel welcome. By keeping my focus on the work and the people it serves, I strive to set an example of professionalism and respect.

As president of the Association of International Boudoir Photographers (AIBP), I uphold this philosophy by ensuring that our boudoir workshops and retreats remain safe boudoir experiences for learning and growth. We do not restrict speakers or educators based on their political or personal beliefs. Regardless of an individual’s opinions, what matters is their ability to teach the craft effectively and inspire others. Personal ideologies have no place in the boudoir photography education we provide; our focus is on empowering photographers to elevate their skills and foster their own unique artistry.

Body Shaming vs. Body Love

Another significant challenge in the boudoir photography community is the tension between those who embrace body positivity photography and those who adhere to more traditional beauty standards. Body shaming in boudoir photography—whether subtle or overt—has no place in our industry. As photographers, we have the power to shape how clients see themselves, and with that power comes immense responsibility.

For me, the mantra #BeBoldBeSexyBeYou embodies my commitment to celebrating everyBODY in boudoir photography. My work highlights the beauty in diversity—different shapes, sizes, ages, and experiences. I’ve had clients who were initially hesitant to step in front of the camera because they didn’t fit the mold of what society deems "beautiful." Watching their transformation as they see themselves through my lens is the most rewarding part of my job.

Body shaming can also occur behind the scenes within the professional boudoir photographer community. I’ve seen peers criticize others for the way they edit or pose their clients. Constructive critique is essential for growth, but it must come from a place of kindness and support. Let’s use our voices to lift each other up, not tear each other down.

Building Bridges, Not Walls

Navigating these divides requires intentional effort and leadership. Here are the principles I live by to foster a supportive boudoir photography community:

1. Focus on the Mission

Our mission as boudoir photographers is to empower. Whether your approach is glamorous boudoir photography, moody boudoir photography, playful, or editorial, the end goal is the same: to help clients see themselves in a positive light. By keeping this shared mission at the forefront, we can find common ground even amidst stylistic or ideological differences.

2. Lead with Empathy

Empathy is the cornerstone of my work with clients and colleagues alike. Understanding someone else’s perspective doesn’t mean you have to agree with it, but it allows for meaningful dialogue. Whether you’re engaging with a boudoir client or another photographer, listen more than you speak, and approach conversations with an open mind.

3. Champion Inclusivity

Inclusive boudoir photography isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity. In my studio, everyone is welcome, and that philosophy extends to my professional relationships. By embracing diversity—not just in our clients but also in our industry—we create a stronger, richer boudoir photography community.

4. Be the Example

As president of AIBP, I’ve made it my mission to lead with integrity and positivity. Whether it’s through boudoir mentorship, professional boudoir photography workshops, or public speaking, I strive to model the behavior I want to see in the industry. That means addressing conflicts professionally, avoiding gossip, and focusing on solutions rather than problems.

A significant part of this mission is advocating for boudoir as a legitimate genre. For years, high-level photography conferences dismissed boudoir as either a fleeting trend or something that blurred the lines of professionalism. Through my work with AIBP and boudoir mentorship, I’ve fought to ensure that boudoir industry advocacy recognizes boudoir for its artistry and professionalism. By raising the genre’s profile at photography education conferences that often focus on fine art or wedding photography, we’re opening doors for boudoir photographers to be taken seriously and for clients to see boudoir in a new light.

5. Educate and Empower

Boudoir photography education is one of the most powerful tools for bridging divides. Through boudoir mentorship, I’ve had the privilege of working with photographers who have vastly different styles and philosophies. These exchanges remind me that there’s no one "right" way to do boudoir photography—there are countless ways to make clients feel seen and celebrated.

A Call to Action To ALL Boudoir Photographers

The boudoir photography industry has incredible potential to change lives—not just for our boudoir clients but also for each other. To realize that potential, we must shift our focus from competition to collaboration, from criticism to encouragement. Let’s create a space where all voices are valued, all bodies are celebrated, and all boudoir photographers feel supported.

Together, we can navigate the drama, celebrate our shared mission, and elevate boudoir photography as a powerful art form that empowers everyBODY.