I’m sure that most people have heard of Boudoir Photography although many aren’t sure exactly what it is or, where it came from. Let me explain…

Boudoir defined:

The word “boudoir” has been used throughout history as the name for various rooms (or parts of rooms) used by women. The boudoir is always related to the bedroom and is regarded as a private space. It has been used to refer to a dressing room, a traditional bedroom or a sitting room within a bedroom.

Boudoir is derived from the French word “bouder,” which means “to pout.”

Boudoir Photography defined:

Generally the subject is in some state of undress, whether wearing something revealing such as a dressing gown or even partially nude, perhaps obscured by an object in the room or hidden by the angle of the camera. As such, many boudoir photographs play on the idea of teasing the subject, suggesting more than is actually shown. This is an important distinction from erotic photography, where the emphasis is very much on the reveal.

Boudoir photography is often set in an idealized environment, such as an elegantly decorated bedroom or naturally beautiful outdoor space. Boudoir photography is often commissioned by the subject as a gift for a lover or spouse, so commonplace personal environments (such as the subject’s actual bedroom) are common as well. In todays boudoir photography many of the settings are actually simulated in a photographer’s studio in order to ensure privacy.

The history of boudoir photography:

Although the term came into being later, boudoir photography is as old as the earliest photographic processes. It draws on elements of sensual painting and printmaking that were distinct from–yet related to–erotic art.

Boudoir photography became popular with the onset of new commercial printing methods in the 20th century and was a major part of the pinup craze of the 1940s and 1950s.

Todays boudoir photography:

Today, like many other industries and art forms, boudoir photography has evolved. It has traditionally been an art form that many women looked toward to commission as an intimate gift for a spouse, fiancé, or lover. Today women are having intimate photos taken for themselves also. Boudoir photographs are now more common to celebrate a recent weight loss, a significant time in a woman’s life ( birthday or divorce etc. ). More and more women are posing for a boudoir photographer just to boost their self image.

I hope that clears some things up for everyone. Todays boudoir photography is a tasteful yet seductive or playful way to express yourself in a timeless art form. It may be for a special gift or for a way to celebrate life and beauty.

Read more: Definition of Boudoir Photography | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/about_5052661_definition-boudoir-photography.html#ixzz13xQf7B2b