Photoshoots have become such a popular way to have fun and boost confidence for women! With photography being such a huge industry and there being so much access to different creatives due to social media, i personally know of many friends, clients and people close to me who choose to do photo sessions as a hobby. It's empowering, whether it's boudoir or not. 

The sad part about it is that I have had SO many people come to me with stories of abuse, discomfort. specifically from male boudoir photographers.

I can't even being to explain the sadness i feel hearing these stories. us boudoir photographers hold so much power in our hands to directly impact how someone feels about themselves.

 It's frustrating that i'm having to make posts like this and that these terrible experiences happen so often. It's infuriating that some men are taking an experience that has the potential to be life changing (if orchestrated in an intentional, respectful way) and turning it into something to be used as a cover for their vile motives. 

Now, before you start thinking "but not all men".... I am very aware that not every male photographer is a sick human being. I shouldn't even have to address the fact that some are going to pull the not all men card. respectful men understand how scary this can be for women. If you find yourself saying "not all men" you should be asking yourself how you can help be a part of the solution instead of jumping to the defensive. 

the reality is that this is happening way to often.  often enough that I feel it's my responsibility to speak up, educate and protect women to the best of my ability, using the expertise and perspective I've acquired from being in the industry. I work so hard to provide a safe, loving space to help all women learn to love themselves and to see a male boudoir photographer take advantage of the fact that women seeking out boudoir experiences are often looking for some kind of confidence boost, therefore taking them as a vulnerable target makes my blood boil. I fully realize that being a boudoir photographer is a privilege. It's not a tool to be used in a sick and twisted game to manipulate and assault. 

So with all that being said, here are some safety tips to consider and red flags to look out for when choosing to work with a male boudoir photographer.