Boudoir can be a hard thing to explain. When someone who has never heard of it asks what it is, my simple answer is "Sexy pictures of a woman, typically as a gift to her husband, boyfriend or herself."

Girl smiling before a LA boudoir photo shoot

Some people think it's the seductive poses, some people think it's about photoshopping you until you look pretty, and some people think it is about being vein. It is about more than all of those things.

I had a client come in recently who assured me we would not be able to get enough good pictures of her for an album.

"I know it's a bit short notice but I'm thinking of doing a little photobook or something for my husband for his birthday in March. I've never done anything like this and I hate having my picture taken in general usually, haha! Your photos on your website [are] amazing and having someone do my hair and makeup is perfect since... well again... I'm a bit of a tomboy and I just epic fail and girly things. I actually really like the fact that you're a man because you'll know what men want to see."

She kept telling me, "I'm sorry you have to shoot these of me, I really appreciate you putting up with me." It is always hard to hear someone criticize themselves, but I hear it everyday. "I'm not pretty enough, I'm not one of those girls. I don't have a sexy bone in my body" I criticize myself about my pictures, where I'm at in life, and compare myself to others just like the rest of us.

Los Angeles boudoir model laying on a bed

Her shoot was amazing and she came back for her ordering session nervous. Viewing the photos she was quiet and calm and I didn't quite know what to make of it until she wrote me this email.

"Michael,

I just have to say thank you and apologize for yesterday. I've had a really horrible last few weeks with the shoot being one of the only highlights. I'm worried that I came off wrong; I think I was just so floored and shocked I didn't know what to do or say. I literally feel more comfortable and decisive with people dying in front of me (she is a nurse) than seeing myself apparently. It is weird to be faced with the idea, for the first time really, that maybe you aren't completely without merit physically.

I really, truly liked all of the photos. Many of them I really liked a lot. Please forgive my fail/shocky reaction, your work is absolutely lovely and I honestly could not be happier with the pictures.

I can't thank you enough for your patience, understanding and kindness. It brings tears to my eyes."

Los Angeles, CA boudoir model laying on a bed

Boudoir is more than just a photoshoot. Boudoir is permission to be sexy. Boudoir is the realization that you are beautiful inside and out. Boudoir is the acceptance of yourself.

Women think, once I get more confidence I'll do one. Confidence is what you leave with. Come in and find out.