Boudoir Photography Ideas
As a Chicago boudoir photographer, I’m often asked about Boudoir Photography Ideas. My boudoir shoot themes tend to lean towards an attainable Parisian aesthetic because Chicago-meets-Paris Boudoir Photography is super fun and timeless.
French Pharmacy Boudoir Photography Idea
Coming up first, this French Pharmacy Boudoir Shoot was inspired by my love Paris and Parisian Apothecary. I chatted with Nicole, the owner of the 5-star tanning Glo Up Salon in Oak Brook. She loved the idea and agreed to be my muse for a French Pharmacy Boudoir Shoot. What followed was about two hours of pure girl bliss. Want to treat yourself to the same? Contact me and let’s make some magic happen. P.S. Nicole is super sweet and a real girl’s girl. She’s an extraordinary female entrepreneur and I highly recommend her business and services. Genuine people are the real movers and shakers in this world. Surround yourself with them.
I consider myself a boudoir stylist first and foremost. This was a super fun shoot to put together that I can replicate for your boudoir session. The theme included French laundry hooks, dreamy tulle, a fun fashion rack to supplement your wardrobe—with touches of Chanel and Louis Vuitton.
Photography, set, styling , and updo by @amelieboudoirchicago
Hair by @gloupchicago / @styledbylia_
Makeup and tan by @gloupchicago
What happens when you blend the elegance of Parisian apothecaries with the intimacy of boudoir photography? At Amelie Boudoir in the Chicago suburbs, I’ve created a curated boudoir experience inspired by the old-world charm of French pharmacies, where vintage beauty meets effortless sensuality.
This dreamy concept isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about helping you step into a version of yourself that feels both powerful and poetic. Think: antique perfume bottles, soft light filtering through vintage glass, and a color palette of soft creams, sage greens, and petal pinks. Here's what makes this unique Chicago boudoir experience so unforgettable.
Why French Pharmacy-Inspired Boudoir?
French pharmacies have long been symbols of understated beauty, skincare rituals, and timeless self-care. Instead of glam and glitz, they radiate soft elegance, practical magic, and effortless allure. That’s exactly the energy I bring to this shoot.
My French-inspired boudoir studio in Bloomingdale, just outside Chicago, transforms into a chic little corner of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. You’ll be surrounded by vintage vanity mirrors, delicate lace robes, heirloom beauty bottles, and apothecary-style props that make you feel like the muse of a classic French film.
A Look Inside the Shoot
Your session begins in my softly lit studio, where you’re welcomed with French music, calming scents, and gentle styling. Hair and makeup is romantic and relaxed—think undone buns, flushed cheeks, and natural, glowing skin.
During the session, I’ll guide you through poses that feel more like storytelling than modeling. Imagine lounging in a silk robe slipping from one shoulder, or applying “lipstick” with a wink while soft tulle drapes around you. It’s intimate and uniquely feminine.
For Francophiles in Chicago
This shoot is perfect for women who love romance over risqué, all-things-Parisian, and softness blended with sultry. It’s made for the bride looking for something timeless, the girl obsessed with French girl aesthetics, and Chicago women who want to celebrate themselves for a little indulgence. Perfect for women working in service industries (doctors, nurses, teachers, therapists, etc) who now want to be pampered and taken care of themselves.
Whether it’s for your wedding, your birthday, or just because—you deserve to feel adored.
Additional Boudoir Photography Ideas
Here’s a list of wedding boudoir ideas to inspire a stunning, romantic, and meaningful shoot. I’d love to work with you on any of these.
My Lady of Leisure Shoot: One of my favorites to date.
Classic Wedding Boudoir Shoot: Lingerie + Veil. A sheer veil paired with bridal lingerie creates a soft, ethereal look.
His Shirt or Jacket: Wearing your partner's dress shirt, blazer, or tie adds personal meaning.
Boudoir in Your Wedding Heels: Show off your wedding shoes and give them their own moment in the spotlight.
Old Hollywood Glam: Soft waves, red lips, and a satin slip dress or robe scream vintage glam.
All-White Room or French Boudoir Setting: Timeless backdrops, ornate chairs, and dramatic lighting = high-end aesthetic.
Tulle Overlays or Gloves: A sheer tulle skirt, cape, or gloves adds elegance and dreaminess to any look.
Bridal Luggage/Travel Theme: Think honeymoon vibes with lingerie, passport, sunglasses, and a packed suitcase.
Pin-Up Bride: A retro-styled shoot with curls, bold makeup, garters, and playful energy.
Something Blue: Lingerie, accessories, or heels in soft blue shades for a cheeky twist on tradition.
Bridal Gown Recap: A soft undressing or “almost dressed” moment featuring your gown and under-pinnings.
Posing + Styling Tips
Use soft, natural lighting for a romantic look.
Include your wedding accessories (rings, perfume, garter, etc.).
Bring a mix of lingerie styles—bodysuits, two-pieces, corsets—for variety.
Think about emotion: sultry, playful, dreamy, or all of the above.
Create a Pinterest board or mood board to show your photographer your vibe.
Why Choose Chicago Boudoir Photos at Amélie Boudoir?
At Amélie Boudoir, I specialize in themed, editorial-style boudoir that goes far beyond the typical. My Chicago boudoir studio is designed for immersive experiences, with each set and session styled to feel like a movie still or the pages of an artful beauty magazine.
Amélie Boudoir is located just outside Chicago, serving suburbs like Naperville, St. Charles, Wheaton, Schaumburg, Geneva, and throughout Chicagoland. And while the studio is close to home, once you step into the studio, you’ll feel worlds away—in a place where every detail is curated to make you feel beautiful.
Ready to Step Into Your French Beauty Era?
Amélie Boudoir is now booking limited French Pharmacy Boudoir Sessions. Each session includes custom styling and access to a vintage wardrobe collection. Many Chicago brides choose to upgrade their session to include my signature Bridal Boudoir Magazine, styled with your top 100 edited images.
Book your session today.
It’s time to be a girly girl > Contact me HERE.
