10 Amazing Black Boudoir Photographers You Need Follow in 2021

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Who are the Black Boudoir Photographers in the industry that you need to follow in 2021? Well, we have the list for you.

We asked each of them some questions about who they are so you can get to know these amazing artists a little better. Take a look at some of their amazing work that always wows.

 

BRIA NICOLE TERRY – WWW.WOLFANDROSEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Black Boudoir Photographer example of couples boudoir session.

Where are you on your boudoir photography journey? Where are you located?

When I started my photography journey, I was kind of all over the place. I wanted to try everything. After having my son, I had a boudoir session done in 2016 with another photographer, and it was one of the first times in over 4 years that I had truly felt sexy. I felt so empowered and inspired, and I wanted to create a space to give others that feeling. I started practicing on myself and then offering sessions to my clients later that year.

I’ve spent the last few years trying to hone in on my craft, but now my focus is the business side. My goal for this year is to curate a more luxury boudoir experience for my clients. Before the pandemic, I was shooting in my home. My living room was literally my studio, but I have since decided the safest thing for my family is to rent out spaces until I can afford to purchase my own studio space. I’m currently located in Tyler, TX, but I shoot primarily in the DFW area now.

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

I personally love shooting boudoir couples. Parents are my favorite. After kids come, it’s so easy to get lost in caretaking. I absolutely love giving long term married couples an opportunity to bask in their sensuality.

Black Boudoir Photographer's work, picturing a couple embracing.

What are you most proud of as a boudoir photographer?

When I show someone their photos, and they have that moment of awe where they realize that beautiful, sexy creature was there within them all along, that’s my most proud moment. That and being told I make my clients feel comfortable.

Who are your favorite Black boudoir photographers in the industry? Why do you look up to them?

D’Artagnan Winford is for sure one of my favorites. His work is awe-inspiring. He makes black people look like renaissance art.

Would you say there is a lack of Black boudoir photographers and if so why?

I think the photography industry in general lacks space for black artists and to be highlighted. Blogs tend to share the work of people who meet standardized beauty standards shot by white artists.
Black Boudoir Photographer of a couple on a bed.

What are the barriers you face as a Black boudoir photographer?

I think one of my biggest barriers has been creating a strong client base in east Texas that consists of clients who value me as a human. I don’t feel that I have to settle for clients who don’t support basic human rights. I want clients who are anti-racist. I want clients who see me being loud about my thoughts on equality and support that, and I refuse to take anything less.

KARICE COLEMAN  –  WWW.THEBOUDIEBAR.COM

Black Boudoir Photographer portraite of a Black woman on a bed.

When did you start shooting boudoir and why?

I began shooting boudoir for my wedding clients first about 4 years ago, but just recently switched to shooting boudoir exclusively last year. I chose to focus on boudoir once I realized that it was giving my clients confidence in themselves. I began to notice women literally transforming right before my eyes, gaining self-esteem and leaving the session with a little extra pep in their step. Some would even cry (I cried with them). I realized that showing all women that there was always a Goddess within them was what I was meant to do.

Where are you on your boudoir photography journey? Do you have your own studio? Where are you located?

I have my own studio located in Atlanta, Georgia serving Atlanta and surrounding areas. But a lot of my clients travel from Alabama and Tennessee as well.

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

My favorite thing about boudoir is the fact that it allows me to express myself creatively in so many different ways. I really enjoy working with my clients to come up with different themes or ideas for their session. I love building new sets and using lots of colors and flowers and boudoir is perfect for that.

Black Boudoir Photographer's image of a woman posing.

What are you most proud of as a boudoir photographer?

I am proud of the fact that I get to give women the ability to love themselves again. Most of my clients are career women or stay at home moms who don’t have the time to get glammed up and pampered. What I do gives them the ability to feel good about themselves, reclaim their sexuality and see themselves in a way that they never thought they could.


Would you say there is a lack of Black Boudoir photographers in the industry and if so, why?

I know plenty of black boudoir photographers, so I wouldn’t say that there is a shortage. I think that there is a lack of representation in the boudoir industry. I have spoken to so many black women who had no idea what boudoir was until they found me. And when you Google the word boudoir, you only see majority white women being photographed this way. I aim to make more and more black women aware that this type of experience is available to them as well. I do this by showing lots and lots of my black clients on all of my social media platforms and all over my website.

What are the barriers you face as a Black boudoir photographer?

Similar to what I stated in the article above – representation. But I think articles like this one can be helpful.

10 Amazing Black Boudoir Photographers You Need Follow in 2021

If there is one thing you want your clients/future clients to know about boudoir, what would it be?

That boudoir is not just about taking sexy photos. It’s more about self-discovery and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone to do something that you’ve never done before. Also to black women who are considering this, you deserve this too.

DEVANTE TERRELL – WWW.SORBOUDOIR.COM
10 Amazing Black Boudoir Photographers You Need Follow in 2021

When did you start shooting boudoir and why?

I fell in love with intimate portraiture when I started photographing my beautiful wife after she miscarried our first pregnancy together. I wanted to show her how much I loved her and how deeply I admired her strength. I wanted her to love herself again. I wanted her to heal and feel whole again. I learned how to gently reflect her beauty back to her when she couldn’t see it. I’ve witnessed the ins and outs of her personal self-love journey, and it has been such a privilege to play even the tiniest part along the way. In my professional photography journey, it has been SO fulfilling and rewarding to be able to make our clients feel like a work of art.

10 Amazing Black Boudoir Photographers You Need Follow in 2021

Do you have your own studio? Where are you located?

We are located in Houston, TX and typically shoot at various studios, boutique hotels, and Airbnb’s around town. We will soon be opening our private in-home studio to our clients.

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

My favorite thing about the boudoir experience is seeing women fall in love with themselves all over again. I love seeing their reactions and expressions as they rediscover the spark they thought they had lost. I love being able to help and empower women to see themselves as a work of art.

10 Amazing Black Boudoir Photographers You Need Follow in 2021

Who are your favorite Black boudoir photographers in the industry? Why do you look up to them?

My favorite Black boudoir photographers are Mario Eugnell (@eugnell) and Tayanna Nelson (@goodbodieskc) because of how unique their styles are and how emotive their work is. They inspire me on a daily basis and are truly a breath of fresh air in such an oversaturated industry

ALI HAINES – WWW.HANDLIMAGERY.COM

Black Boudoir Photographer's image of a person's back.

When did you start shooting boudoir and why?

I started shooting boudoir in 2018. Truthfully, my first boudoir session was sooooo awkward. I didn’t “study” or research anything about photography and I was still fairly new to the photography world in general. A friend and I went out to the woods, not even a secluded area, and just “winged” it. I honestly thought she was going to hate them, but she didn’t. She felt really good about them and I was like “okaaay. I actually really like helping others feel good about themselves.” So I practiced for a while doing a few shoots here and there. I didn’t connect right away with it, I had to do a little soul searching and self-loving before it reeeeally spoke to me. But once I had that connection with myself, I loved it so much – I know helping others become in tune with themselves is something I needed too.

Where are you on your boudoir photography journey? Do you have a studio? Where are you located?

I have an in-home studio located in Spokane, Washington! I have really pushed myself this last year to reach my goal of being a full-time boudoir photographer! I am literally busting my ass working as a full time preschool teacher and coming home to work until 11:00pm on the photography side of things. I think for me, I still have a little bit of fear and “what if’s” when it comes to taking the leap but deep down, I do know I can do this. I was made for this. This has been my goal for so long so I just need to do it!

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

Oh man! I would probably say the confidence it gives my clients. As boudoir photographers, we are always faced with so many people dying to feel love for themselves but can’t do it on their own. Every time I see a client cry or tell me “oh my god! That’s me!? That’s my body?”, I know. I know that is WHY I am in this career.

Black Boudoir Photographer's image of a woman posing for boudoir.

What are you most proud of as a boudoir photographer?

I would say I am most proud of being able to help others. Being there for my clients really gives me something to be proud of.

Who are your favorite black boudoir photographers in the industry? Why do you look up to them?

Truthfully, I do not know many other black photographers.

Would you say there is a lack of black boudoir photographers and if why?

Well based on my answer above, yes, I would say there is a lack of black boudoir photographers. As to why, I cannot truly answer this question. I don’t “see” skin color, we are all human. No matter our color, gender, or sexuality, we are all human. Unfortunately, not everyone views it this way. There could be hundreds of reasons why there are not a lot of black photographers. If I had to put a reason on it, I would say the fear of not being accepted. It is 2021, but racism is very much alive. I live in a predominantly “white” area, I had my fair share of it.

Black Boudior Photographer's close up images of a woman's lips.

What are the barriers you face as a black boudoir photographer?

I have been fortunate not to have faced many barriers in my career this far. I have certainly had a few unpleasant moments and faced judgment from bystanders and even lost a client or two because of my skin tone. I’ve had a lot of those “its white people shit, you wouldn’t know” comments, or insensitive questions. Overall, I feel like barriers are pretty minimal, and I am truly lucky for that.

If there is one thing you want your clients/future clients to know about boudoir, what would it be?

That boudoir sessions are not a “one and done” to the self-love journey! Many folks come to me thinking, I can “fix” them overnight. The truth is, it takes time. These sessions are absolutely helpful and empowering BUT if you have issues with loving your body and loving yourself, it may take more than just one boudoir session.

OLESHA HASKETT – WWW.OHEXPERIENCE.COM 

Black Boudoir Photographer posing a couple.

When did you start shooting boudoir and why?

I started doing boudoir exclusively in 2017 when I needed to understand who I was as a woman. I was recently divorced and had stopped shooting for a few years. When I reinvented my business, I reinvented myself.

Where are you on your boudoir photography journey? Do you have a studio? Where are you located?

At this time in my boudoir journey, I am building safe spaces for other Black boudoir photographers and the Black womxn who come to us. 

My studio is located right outside of Washington D.C in Prince George’s County, Maryland.

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

My favorite thing about boudoir is it is my form of activism for Black and Brown bodies that are not always seen as beautiful. It is also very healing for Black womxn to see themselves as beautiful.Black Boudoir Photographer posing a woman on a couch.

What are you most proud of as a boudoir photographer?

I am most proud of the work I do elevating other Black photographers. In September we have our very first expo and it was right on time! 6 Black womxn educators and a panel of more Black womxn spoke and gave insight on what it means to be in the business of boudoir. 

Who are your favorite black boudoir photographers in the industry? Why do you look up to them?

My favorite Black boudoir photographers are Toni Black because she is truly tapping into the soul of Black folxs when she is behind the camera. Celeste Patrice because she makes our skin glow from within! I recently did a session with her and it was amazing. 

Would you say there is a lack of black boudoir photographers and if why?

There is a lack of Black boudoir photographers in this industry because of cultural challenges and lack of educators who are Black.  Representation matters. Black Boudior photographer posing a lesbian couple.

What are the barriers you face as a black boudoir photographer?

I do not face any barriers as a Black boudoir photographer because I am creating my own space and narrative. Instead of asking for a seat at the table, we are creating our own. 

If there is one thing you want your clients/future clients to know about boudoir, what would it be?

One thing my clients and future clients need to know is boudoir is for Black womxn. We deserve this luxury and should not guilty for putting ourselves first.

LEZANDRA MCGINNIS – WWW.LEZANDRAPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

When did you start shooting boudoir and why?

I started shooting boudoir when I was studying to be a sex therapist in college. I ended up starting my photography business at 19 and nearly 11 years later, here we are! Boudoir was the perfect blend of art and sexuality. I find that our sessions are like sex therapy and I love that I have been able to blend my two passions.

Black Boudoir Photographer showing posing skills and use of unique lighting.

Where are you on your boudoir photography journey? Do you have your own studio? Where are you located?

I am located in Norfolk, Virginia! I recently moved into a 4,500 sqft studio that I renovated during the start of the pandemic. I don’t recommend it. Hahaha! It has been a labor of love but I have loved transforming this historic building. This is my third commercial space, but I started in my living room.

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

Literally EVERYTHING. It really is the coolest job!

What are you most proud of as a boudoir photographer?

The ability to encourage and promote independent, sexually liberated women that aren’t afraid to speak loudly for what they believe in because they are fueled by confidence and backed with self love.

Black Boudoir Photographer posing a couples session.

Who are your favorite Black boudoir photographers in the industry? Why do you look up to them?

Ore Adesina’s work continues to blow my mind. I love her creativity and the life that she infuses into her images. I love Korin of Wonderland Boudoir’s work! She has such a great ability to express emotion and power in her images.

Would you say there is a lack of Black boudoir photographers and if so why?

We don’t see diversity throughout the photography industry as a whole. I feel that POC are underrepresented in photography, and boudoir is no exception. I could go down an entire rabbit hole on why I feel so strongly about this but I will save that rant.

What are the barriers you face as a Black boudoir photographer?

I have personally experienced racism in our industry and it turned me off from connecting with other photographers as a whole.  At times it does feel as though we have to work extra hard for the same amount of recognition.

Black Boudoir Photographer's example of work with a clients swinging on a sex swing.

If there is one thing you want your clients/future clients to know about boudoir, what would it be?

Trust the process and trust your photographer. You have already made the most important choice: choosing to honor YOU. Allow yourself to fully express yourself during your session without shame, fear, or hesitation. You are worthy and deserving of it!!!

 

SHANNEL STALLWORTH – WWW.BOUDOIRBYSHANNELMONIQUE.COM

Black Boudoir Photographer's image of a woman in bright red.

When did you start shooting boudoir and why?

I started shooting boudoir in 2017 after searching for a more purposeful line of photography. I connected with a few women through a model call and once I saw how their attitudes towards themselves changed during viewing and ordering, I knew then I would be shooting boudoir for the rest of my life.

Where are you on your boudoir photography journey? Do you have your own studio? Where are you located?

I have been shooting boudoir exclusively for almost 4 years now. I own a boutique studio in downtown Summerville, SC

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

Being able to connect with women of all different races, ethnicities, backgrounds, sizes, shapes, and ages all while showcasing how we are all different but all so beautiful.
Black Boudoir Photographer's image of a woman posing on a bed.

What are you most proud of as a boudoir photographer?

That I have the power to empower so many women with just my personality, talent, skills, and camera.

Who are your favorite Black boudoir photographers in the industry? Why do you look up to them?

Myesha Williams and Celeste Jones. They both have unique styles and amazing personalities that not only allow them to be amazing photographers who create amazing images, but they are amazing businesswomen. I’ve watched their businesses grow as a part-time gig, into their full-time career. They additionally are moms and juggle everything with so much grace, while encouraging other photographers like myself to also be the best we can be.

Would you say there is a lack of Black boudoir photographers and if so why?

Yes, there definitely is a lack of boudoir photographers. I think part of the problem is not having many Black boudoir educators in the business right now. Educational resources are limited from people who “look like me” Thankfully we have some amazing up and coming Black boudoir educators like Olesha Haskett (BoudoirForBlackWomen), Trunetta Atwater (FancyBoudoirMasterclass), and Chanel Wells-Henderson (Branding & website guru) that are ready to change that narrative.
Black Boudoir Photographer's image of a woman by a window in lingerie.

What are the barriers you face as a Black boudoir photographer?

The biggest barrier I face is making sure my potential clients know I exist. I’ve spoken to Black women in the past, that said “I didn’t know there were “Black Photographers” who shot boudoir! Otherwise, I would have hired you…….and that’s a problem for me!

If there is one thing you want your clients/future clients to know about boudoir, what would it be?

That boudoir is for everyBODY (literally)

 

KAY LEDWELL –  WWW.KAYTAKESPHOTOS.COM 

Black Boudoir Photographer's photo of a woman in pink feathers.

When did you start shooting boudoir and why?

I started shooting boudoir towards the end of the summer in 2020. I started because I had an interest in learning lighting techniques. I did a self shoot after purchasing my first lingerie set and I felt so beautiful and empowered. They ended up coming out beautiful and my confidence boosted so much from it. I knew that I wanted to empower and show other women that they too can feel beautiful and confident.

Where are you on your boudoir photography journey? Do you have your own studio? Where are you located?

I’m still a newbie but I have booked 2 clients because they saw my work on instagram. I do not have my own “professional studio”, but I use my home and the home of my clients as a studio space. I am located in Columbia South Carolina.

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

I love using lighting and shadows to produce artwork. Also stylizing the set to bring forth a vision or mood.

What are you most proud of as a boudoir photographer?

I love the empowerment and confidence each session gives my clients. I love when my clients see their inner beauty come out in their photos.
Black boudoir photographer's example of work.

Who are your favorite Black boudoir photographers in the industry? Why do you look up to them?

As of now I admire the work of Marco Ibanez and also recently  Toria Germain. I look up to them not only for their work, BUT they are willing to help educate other photographers in this field.

What are the barriers you face as a Black boudoir photographer?

I would say yes, because when I started the process of learning boudoir it was not a lot of educational tools compared to other styles of photography. I would say that the only barrier that BBP face is the demographic. I haven’t been a boudoir photographer long BUT where I live, the demographic makes BBP compete against one another vs working together.
Black Boudoir Photographers example of a posing woman.

If there is one thing you want your clients/future clients to know about boudoir, what would it be?

I would want my clients and future clients to know that the experience they will get from their session with me will empower and wow them. They will find a new love for themselves so that they can build or maintain the confidence in themselves, so they can love the skin that they’re in.

ELAINE L. JOHNSON – WWW.POSITIVELYBODIEDBYELJ.COM

Black Boudoir Photographer new to the boudoir community.

When did you start shooting boudoir and why?

I completed my first boudoir marathon July 13-14, 2020
 

Where are you on your boudoir photography journey? Do you have your own studio? Where are you located?

I am currently building up my portfolio, trying to create the perfect experience and identifying my ideal client. At the moment I do not have a studio, but I rent out when needed. Otherwise, sessions have been at a client’s home or hotel. I am located in Charlotte, NC.

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

It’s the joy that comes over the client’s expressions once they have loosened up and are comfortable in front of the camera.
Black Boudoir Photographer posing a black woman on a bed.

What are you most proud of as a boudoir photographer?

Being able to empower women and allowing them a free space to be expressive.
 

Who are your favorite Black boudoir photographers in the industry? Why do you look up to them?

At this time, I have no favorite Black boudoir photographer, I’m still fairly new and learning. No one in particular stands out.

Would you say there is a lack of Black boudoir photographers and if so why?

Compared to any other group, I’m sure there is a lack. But I believe it’s growing, maybe like me there’s always the fear of getting into this genre and how risky it can get.

Black Boudoir Photographer portrait of a Black woman

What are the barriers you face as a Black boudoir photographer?

It’s a touchy subject, having the conversation with women has been hard. Women have insecurities that are unknown until it’s time to show them. A woman’s body image has always been criticized so to tell a woman that she’s fine the way she looks is a task.
 

If there is one thing you want your clients/future clients to know about boudoir, what would it be?

Boudoir is self-care.  This doesn’t have to be a gift to a loved one but a gift to yourself.  It’s your chance to appreciate your body and uniqueness. You may start nervous but once complete this will be the thing you’ll always remember.  The experience is everything.  

 

JAIME PATTERSON – WWW. HIDDENEXPOSUREPHOTOGRAPHY.COM 

Black Boudoir photographer example of work of a plus size client near a window.

When did you start shooting boudoir and why?

I started shooting Boudoir in 2009 and it really was a way to serve a client need.

Where are you on your boudoir photography journey? Do you have your own studio? Where are you located?

Right now I am located in Richmond Va (with some shoots in Toronto Ontario) and I am focusing on plus size bodies. I do not have a studio but do work out of various locations.

What’s your favorite thing about shooting boudoir?

I love allowing my clients to see themselves in a different light

What are you most proud of as a boudoir photographer?

Advocating and showcasing plus size folks and coming up with a style that is focused on the individual and what their desires are for the sessions.

Black Boudoir Photographer's example of work, woman posing standing up on wall.

Would you say there is a lack of Black boudoir photographers and if so why?

Toni Black, Ore Adesina, and Tay Nelson. I love how they showcase varieties of bodies and also speak a lot about confidence and your own personal journeys embracing your exact body.

Would you say there is a lack of Black boudoir photographers and if so why?

I think there is a lack of attention paid to Black photographers especially in the boudoir realm.

What are the barriers you face as a Black boudoir photographer?

For me it’s the necessary exposure to let folks know I work with Black folks especially plus size bodies.
Beautiful portrait of a woman taken by a Black Boudoir Photographer.

If there is one thing you want your clients/future clients to know about boudoir, what would it be?

This is a celebration of you. More than anyone else in this world you deserve to celebrate your body in all of its uniqueness and beauty.

 

 

 

If your looking to take Boudoir images to the next level don’t forget to check out the hottest boudoir ideas for 2021! You will love them!