Simplified Sets

While chandeliers, staircases, and fireplaces make for lovely boudoir settings, “You do not need to have fancy sets to shoot boudoir photos,” assures Chicago-based boudoir photographer Liz Hansen. “Boudoir photos are intimate portraits and should be more about the person than the environment they are in.” She offers tips for simple, inexpensive sets.

• Air mattress and bedding. Inflate a full- or queen-size air mattress with an electric pump then add a white king-size duvet or sheet set for a crisp look. The larger bedding set allows the fabric to drape over the bed and onto the floor. Add simple white shams or throw pillows to lean against the wall as a substitute for a headboard.

• Fuzzy rug or blanket. These are easy to find online or at a local home goods store. They add texture to a set. Look for jewel tones, animal prints, or pastels.
• Dark backdrop or wall. Paint one wall a dark gray or black, or set up a dark backdrop or seamless paper. “Having a dark setup creates a nice contrast to a white bed,” she explains. “Use a strip box to highlight just a portion of your client’s body and leave the rest up to the viewer’s imagination.”  

Amanda Arnold is a senior editor.