Over the last 3 years, we have had the privilege of photographing over 300 beautiful women from size 6 to 34. Every one of them walked into the studio with fears and insecurities, and it was amazing to see them fall in love with themselves and their body.

At our body positive photography studio, women of all shapes and sizes are not only welcomed - but celebrated!

The body positivity movement is making things better in the world of boudoir, with icons like Lizzo strutting her curves on stage and more lingerie companies expanding their size range every month, yet every week I get messages from curvy women telling me they’re “too big” for a boudoir photoshoot. It’s simply not true!

As a voluptuous woman myself, I know how tricky it can be to shop for your body shape and to feel confident in front of the camera. So to help break through those fears and misconceptions, here’s my guide to rocking a boudoir photoshoot when you’re plus size.

1. choose lingerie that fits you well

If you listen to just one of my top tips - let it be this. No-one knows what size you’re wearing! So ignore the numbers on the hanger, and choose lingerie that really fits your body.

Wearing the wrong size can hide or distort your body-shape, and be so uncomfortable too. If in doubt, you can book a fitting at your local lingerie shop - I personally recommend Bravissimo for their “by eye” approach and friendly service for anyone from 28D to 40L. They even offer virtual fittings via Zoom if you can’t get to a store.

2. don’t hide in flowy material

When you’re feeling self-conscious, many of us turn to flowy material and over-sized outfits to hide our body away. But adding extra material can actually make you look larger and hide away the beautiful curves of your body too!

So it’s best to be careful with items like baby-dolls and negligees. They can work for some poses e.g. relaxing on the bed, but try to limit yourself to just one of these outfits for your photoshoot.

3. support and celebrate your curves

Rather than hiding your curves, we want to celebrate them in the studio! Features in lingerie like underwires, boning and structural panels are great for offering you uplift and support - accentuating your shape.

For me, an underwired bodysuit is the perfect example of flattering boudoir lingerie - smoothing your tummy, lifting your breasts and yet still flexible enough for posing.

4. show your unique style

Great fitting lingerie does not need to be boring! Yes, black lace underwear is popular for a reason (it looks great!) but there is so much more to explore.

You can be adventurous with colours you love, stunning prints from polka dots to florals, pretty details like metal clasps and lacing, plus beautiful materials like silk, leather and lace. Don’t be afraid to embrace your personal style and wear anything that makes you happy!

5. layer over your lingerie

I love adding layers that can be posed with and draped to accentuate your shape and add a little bit of mystery. The obvious choice would be a robe, and you can definitely add some glamour by choosing a sheer material, lace or silk style. However, you can think outside the box here and look through your wardrobe. Denim, leather or suede jackets are great, as are kimonos, oversized shirts and cardigans for a sexy Sunday morning vibe.

If you have a partner whose wardrobe you can raid to borrow a shirt or jacket, that’s great! But don’t worry if you don’t. We have some white shirts at the studio you can borrow, plus lots of shops do oversized shirts as beachwear and shirt-dresses work well too.

6. feature personal accessories

Boudoir is all about celebrating who you are, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your accessories. You can start with jewellery and high heeled shoes and boots, but we’ve captured great images with Doc Martens, trainers and even horse riding boots too.

Then think about any passions you have in life, and what you could bring to represent them. Recent shoots have included boxing gloves, gaming headsets, dance shoes, crochet projects, and so many books. You can also bring along kink accessories like handcuffs and paddles, celebrating that side of your personality too.

7. pamper yourself

It’s amazing how much a bit of pampering can change the way you feel in your body and help you prepare for a photoshoot. It’s great to exfoliate and moisturise your whole body to give your skin some love before the shoot.

Whether that’s just something you do at home or you treat yourself to at a salon, I’d definitely recommend a manicure and pedicure. It makes a real difference to your photos, particularly for close-ups, and personally always makes me feel special. You could also give your hair some love with a mask or leave in conditioner, and relax with a face mask in the bath or in front of the TV.

8. stretch your body

A client once described her photoshoot as “surprisingly physical” and we do lots of pointing toes and arching backs to show off your shape. There’s no need to start a workout regime before your shoot, but choosing things that focus on your flexibility and controlling your body like dance, yoga and Pilates can definitely help with poses in the studio.

Doing some gentle stretches on the morning of your shoot can be a great way to “wake up” your body and help you get ready for the day too.

9. eat and drink well

I can’t emphasise this enough - you do not need to change ANYTHING about yourself for a boudoir photoshoot. Do not starve yourself! A couple of pounds really doesn’t make any difference to your photos and this is all about loving your body as you are. Weight is irrelevant!

However, drinking plenty of water on the days before your photoshoot is great for your body and your skin. Don’t skip breakfast or lunch before your shoot either as you’ll need some energy and no one wants to be ‘hangry’ in their photos!

10. go for it!

When you get into the studio, it’s time to leave your fears at the door and embrace this experience. This is all about pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone and we are here to help and guide you every step of the way.

Without a doubt, the best photos are created when you’re having fun and when you go for it!

"At 50 yrs old and a size 20, I have finally begun to feel like the confident, sexy woman I was about 30 yrs ago. And after failed relationships and being a single mum for so long, I am ready to stand tall and know my worth! So all that is left to say is.... don't ponder or worry, just do it! You won't regret it!" Clare