I get it, boudoir can feel both exciting and daunting. With so many questions swirling in your mind, I created answers to your most-asked questions about Chicago Boudoir Photography.

Chicago boudoir photography provides a transformative experience, blending artistry with personal empowerment. Whether you're celebrating your upcoming wedding or an important milestone, a Chicago boudoir shoot is a special capsule in time and a unique gift for yourself or someone special. Amélie’s luxury boudoir photography studio in the Chicago Northwest near the metro and downtown Chicago is a top, private pick for you to consider. If you have any additional questions, please email me at hello (@) amelieboudoir.com.

“Your most-asked questions about Chicago Boudoir—all in one place. This boudoir guide details the questions and answers most women are asking ahead of booking their Chicago boudoir photography session. Feel free to ask your own in my inquiry form if you have additional questions or want to dive in further.”

- Maritza

Many women wonder about everything from wardrobe choices to comfort levels during the shoot. This guide aims to answer the most commonly asked questions, helping to demystify the process and unlock the powerful potential of boudoir photography. Let’s navigate through the nuances of this empowering journey together so you can feel confident to experience a truly unforgettable moment in your life.

Basic Discovery Questions

When should I book?

My clients usually book boudoir within 4 to 6 months of their wedding day or special event. Some clients book a year-in-advance, while others only a few weeks ahead of the big date they are celebrating. I try to accommodate most schedules, but if you want my special boudoir magazine/s we need about a one month and a half to be safe as I can’t guarantee manufacturing and shipping dates. Last minute boudoir is a very REAL THING (as seen HERE, especially for Chicago brides) so don’t be afraid to reach out to me at any stage.

How do I choose the right boudoir photographer for my style?

Look through Chicago boudoir photographers image galleries and see who’s work aligns with your vibe the best. Be mindful of taste, posing, lighting, and overall aesthetic. Amélie Boudoir’s approach is super feminine, romantic, light, airy, and with a playful French girl vibe. My photography is very recognizable as it’s shot from the female gaze. It’s sexy with a sensual vibe. I don’t do stale or raunchy. Never overdone. Soft and natural ease boudoir photography with a feminine, French POV is how I like to describe it to my clients.

What’s the difference between natural light vs. studio-lit boudoir?

I shoot in my natural light boudoir studio (often during daylight hours) because the light is so exquisitely beautiful. I often accompany shoots with soft studio-lighting to enhanced features and play with brightness and shadows. Both natural light and studio-lit boudoir offer beautiful results. It’s just a matter of preference. I find natural light can be more forgiving, often very soft and sensual. If I shoot after 6pm-ish, I shoot with studio-light so that’s an option for you as well.

Can I see full galleries before I book?

I don’t show the full galleries of others as their photos are private. I have a pretty full representation of my work in the portfolio section of my website. Let me know if there’s a particular style of image you are looking for, and I can provide further samples of my work. The style of boudoir photography you see on my site is representative of my work and style.

Are your boudoir photos edited or retouched?

I provide soft edits via Lightroom so you look like the best version of yourself, while still looking like yourself. I typically mask cellulite, discoloration, unflattering lines, etc for a soft airbrushed effect to smoothen things out and enhance your appearance. I understand the complexities of being a woman. I typically don’t do overly (dated) airbrushed boudoir photography images. My clients tend to lean more towards modern, fresh, bright, and airy photography. Often connecting with my photography because of it’s a soft, casual, feminine vibe. If you’re seeking something a little more retouched, please do let me know in advance.

How do I make sure my boudoir photos look classy and not cheesy?

My boudoir style is sophisticated first and foremost. I photograph from the feminine gaze so I don’t pose you in unflattering ways or use dated backdrops, editing, styling, etc. The French classy boudoir style you see on my site, is what you get.

What makes The Amélie Boudoir studio unique?

The Amélie Boudoir studio is a modern boudoir photography studio in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. It has tons of ethereal, natural light and every corner is set up so you feel like you’re in a boudoir studio apartment in Paris. Decor elements, accessories, wardrobe choices, and staging feels fresh, feminine, and distinctly you.

Boudoir Photos Meaning

What is boudoir photography and why do women in Chicago do it?

Boudoir photography is a style of intimate portraiture that celebrates beauty, sensuality, and confidence. It’s typically done in a private studio and captures women in lingerie, delicate robes, or even everyday pieces that make them feel alluring and empowered. Unlike fashion or glamour photography, boudoir is less about perfection and more about personal expression—it’s meant to highlight someone’s unique femininity, personality, and inner prowness.

For women in Chicago specifically, boudoir photography has become especially popular for a few key reasons:

Self-empowerment – Many women book sessions as a way to embrace their bodies, boost confidence, and see themselves in a new light. The busy, professional, and often high-pressure lifestyle of the city makes a boudoir shoot a special opportunity to slow down and celebrate oneself.

Bridal gifts – Brides-to-be often book boudoir sessions as wedding gifts for their partners. Chicago’s vibrant wedding scene makes this one of the top motivations, especially in the months leading up to a big day.

Milestones & transformations – Women in Chicago use boudoir to mark birthdays, anniversaries, personal achievements, or life transitions (such as after a divorce, career change, or fitness journey).

Luxury experience – Chicago offers a range of high-end boudoir studios, many styled with elegant décor, fine-art aesthetics, and professional hair and makeup. For many women, it’s a pampering experience as much as it is photography.

Personal keepsakes – Beyond gifting, women love having timeless images that remind them of their beauty, strength, and individuality—something they can treasure long after the session.

Where can I get classy boudoir photos taken in Chicago?

I’d humbly say Amélie Boudoir is the boudoir studio for those seeking an elegant, feminine, sensual (with a touch of modesty) luxury boudoir experience in Chicago.

My top 5 tips for choosing the right boudoir studio for you:

Decide on your desired style and outcome: Do you prefer a classic look, a fashion/editorial vibe, or something more you?
Consider convenience & privacy: An easy-to-access studio and comforting vibe makes a world of difference and aids in relieving any stress. My studio for one offers a ton of privacy without the hassle of the city, downtown frustrations, or expensive parking.
Check included services: Many top studios offer hair/makeup as an add-on with the ability to purchase prints and albums. Make sure your package includes the services you want most. Amélie Boudoir offers custom, all-inclusive packages for this reason. Stay informed and ask questions.
Look at client reviews & portfolio: Trust your gut and comfort—see how photographers handle posing, mood, and client experience. Look for real, authentic reviews. Do the published images feel like you? If so, go with that artist.
Set your budget: Packages at Amélie Boudoir start at $697 with customizable options. I pride myself on offering a luxurious boudoir experience for Chicagoland women at attainable prices. Other luxury studios will offer varied pricing based on services and products. Do your research but at the same time, go with your gut. It’s not something you need to ponder at length. Your heart will immediately tell you whose the boudoir artist for you. The images need to fly off the screen—that’s how you know you’ve found the right boudoir photographer.

Are there more affordable boudoir photographers in the Chicago suburbs?

Boudoir Photography tends to be more affordable in the Chicago suburbs. Things to look out for if you’re more budget-conscious include:

Look for Independent Boudoir Photographers: These pros often offer lower session costs and let you customize add-ons like prints or albums later. Also, they can pass on savings to their customers because they are not paying higher city rents.
Look for mini-sessions or specials: Quick, budget-conscious options can often appear during off-peak times or holidays.
Look for customizable boudoir packages in Chicago: Don’t shy away from asking if you can tailor a package based on your needs and budget. At Amélie Boudoir, I do just that!

What makes a boudoir shoot feel comfortable and not awkward?

Because the idea of stepping in front of a camera in lingerie (or even less) can definitely feel intimidating at first. What makes a boudoir shoot feel comfortable, empowering, and not awkward really comes down to a few key factors:

A Photographer Who Guides You:

Look for a warm and thoughtful boudoir photographer who doesn’t just say “pose.” Ensure your boudoir photographer will direct you and hold your hand throughout the experience.
Understands how to pose you in the most flattering ways. From where to place your hands, how to tilt your chin, and even how to breathe for the shot.
Clear direction keeps you from worrying about “what do I do with my body?” and helps you slip into a natural rhythm.

Professional Hair & Makeup:

Having a glam team makes you feel pampered and “photo ready.”
It gives you confidence that you’re going to look your best, and that alone takes away a lot of self-consciousness.

The Studio Atmosphere:

Comfortable, private settings with flattering natural light and curated music go a long way.
Vibes and styling. Look for a boudoir photographer who will set the scene with decor, candles, yummy robes, drink of choice, and a boutique-style environment that feels like a spa instead of a photoshoot.

Outfits That Feel Like “You”:

Wearing lingerie that matches your personality—whether lacy and romantic, bold and edgy, or casual with an oversized sweater—helps you feel authentic instead of “costumed.”
When you feel like yourself, confidence shines through.

Boudoir Session Planning Tips (from Beauty to Gifting)

Ask yourself the following questions and work with a Chicagoland boudoir photographer that can assist with the following. Getting answers to the following questions also removes any jitters and helps you feel prepared.

Prep Questions:

What should I wear for my boudoir photoshoot?
Ask if your boudoir photographer provides lingerie or accessories?
Can I do multiple outfits during my session?
Should I do hair and makeup myself or who does the photographer recommend? Pro Tip: Try scheduling your bridal beauty preview and boudoir session on the same day. So many benefits to this! (Money-saving, you can see how your hair/makeup will look on camera, you can try on a secondary look for the boudoir session.)

Plan for your boudoir session and your groom’s gift ahead of time by asking:

What should I wear for my bridal boudoir session?
When should I schedule my boudoir shoot?
How long do prints and/or albums take?
How soon will I receive my images?

Cost, Packages & Value

Things to consider and questions to ask before booking your Chicago boudoir session when it comes to cost.

Pricing questions to ask:

How much does a boudoir session cost?
What’s included in your boudoir photography packages?
Are digitals included or do I have to purchase photos separately?

Style, Editing + Output

Image styling questions to ask your boudoir photographer:

Are your boudoir photos heavily edited or filtered? Amélie Boudoir offers edited images to show you in your best light, while still looking like you and “NOT overly processed”. You look like the best version of YOU.
Do you offer albums? (Psst…Amélie Boudoir offers a distinct Boudoir Magazine, just ‘sayin.)
Can I get digitals from my boudoir session? If so, how many. Are they included? For Amélie Boudoir, yes you can. How many are included depends on the package but you always get digitals. You always leave with “photos”.
Do I get to choose my favorite photos? For Amélie Boudoir, yes you do when printing or putting together an album or magazine.
Can I get a digital gallery instead of prints? For Amélie Boudoir, yes you do!

Privacy, Trust + Safety

Will my boudoir photos be posted online? For Amélie Boudoir, only with consent.
Can I request that all photos stay private? For Amélie Boudoir, yes you can.
Is the shoot done by a female photographer or a male photographer? For Amélie Boudoir, you get a trusted female photographer: me.

Will you help me feel confident if I’m nervous or shy? For Amélie Boudoir, absolutely!

Logistics & Booking

When should I schedule my session (especially if it’s a gift)? For Amélie Boudoir, I work with your schedule. Although the sooner the better.
How long does it take to get my photos back? For Amélie Boudoir, days to weeks.

Let me know if you have any particular questions of your own when it comes to Chicagoland boudoir. I’ve got answers. You can reach me directly at hello @ amelieboudoir (dot) com. I have a super fast response times, too! Happy planning!