A Guide to an Outdoor Boudoir Session

For a while now, I considered offering the outdoor boudoir session and decided to pursue it last summer. It’s a really fun genre of boudoir photography, though not for everyone, and that’s okay.

By the way, scroll all the way to the end for a special offer code when scheduling. AND here’s the scheduling link.

Outdoor boudoir doesn’t make sense?

When I first considered photographing my boudoir clients outside, I thought to myself, this doesn’t really make sense. Why would anyone wear lingerie outside? But then I thought, who really cares? Who’s making the rules? If we want to photograph lingerie outside, let’s do it. Boudoir photography is whatever the creator(s) decide it is. These outdoor boudoir photos are beautiful, the light is gorgeous, and I get to get out of the studio in the summer to enjoy the beautiful weather!

What should you wear to these sessions?

A big question I get asked, and one I thought long and hard on, was what should clients wear to these sessions? Although you will be photographed on my farm in Southern Illinois, this isn’t something for which you need to dress super “country.” If it suits you, your style, and your personality to dress more western, then definitely go for it, but if you are a city girl at heart, then dress the way you want. Honestly, I think you can wear as much(or as little) as you want. Implied always works SUPER well for outdoor boudoir sessions.

My clients from this month all chose very different styles! Maddie chose a few bodysuit outfits and a few dresses. Vi is a little edgier and chose more implied outfits and then a dress to finish the session out. Madi wore some lingerie and a few off the shoulder shirts that were a little more country with her cowboy boots. Stephanie went for a more lingerie style outdoor boudoir session. I literally love every single outfit that was chosen and think it fits each woman’s personality to a tee.

So, where do these Outdoor Boudoir Sessions take place?

My family has a farm in Anna, IL, about 20 miles south of Carbondale, Illinois. where we raise cattle and train horses. One of the pastures is super secluded, PERFECT for an outdoor boudoir session. There is a very cute creek with little waterfalls, grass, trees, and the most beautiful flat rocks ever!

Seriously, would you ever think this image was taken in Southern Illinois?

Right outside of this little area, there is a pasture on top of a hill, which has GORGEOUS light and beautiful green grass. We usually start the session at the creek, and finish on the hill in the pasture.

Can horses be in the photos?

For liability reasons, I am not allowing my horse or the farm horses in the photos or around for the session. You are more than welcome to bring your own horse for your outdoor boudoir session, though. The photos are amazing when you throw in a beautiful horse!

Precautions

Remember, we will be out in the woods in the middle of the country. Things you may encounter are ticks, snakes, bugs, etc. Come prepared with walking shoes, bug spray, and bags to carry your outfits!

How to book your outdoor boudoir session?

I am now booking outdoor boudoir photography sessions in Southern Illinois. St. Louis clients, I hope you decide to make the trip down! I promise it will be MORE than worth the 2 hour drive.

To book, simply click this link. It will take you through the booking process. As a thank you for booking, use the coupon code OUTDOOR for 10% off the session fee. 🙂

Hair and makeup is included, most likely by the amazing Fringe the Salon in Carbondale, Illinois, but possibly through another HMUA.

One week following the session, we meet for an ordering session(online). More pricing information is found here. Also, check out the reason I am anti digital files and prefer albums here.