New Orleans boudoir photography
Boudoir photography in New Orleans.
A complete guide to the experience, investment, and most common questions about a session at NOLA Boudoir Studio.
The studio
Portraiture built around the person in front of the camera.
Every session is photographed by Marc Pagani, a New Orleans photographer with more than three decades behind the camera and a background in the city’s burlesque community. That experience is relaxed and fun and focused on portraits that reflect who you are. Your comfort determines the pace, the clothing, and studio locations.
The studio offers professional lighting, backdrops, bedroom scenes, and natural-light setups, allowing one session to move through several distinct looks without changing locations.
What it costs
Boudoir packages at NOLA Boudoir Studio begin at $500. Every package includes the session itself and a private online gallery of finished images. Preset and custom packages are available, along with flexible payment options and add-ons for professional hair and makeup, extra session time, additional looks, prints, books, and albums.
Who books a boudoir session
Brides. Bridal boudoir is a popular reason to book — an album handed over the morning of the wedding or the night before. Schedule six to eight weeks ahead when ordering a printed piece.
Couples. Couples sessions bring two people into the frame and work beautifully as an anniversary gift or simply as a record of your connection.
Milestones — and no reason at all. Birthdays, a divorce, a fitness goal, a body that has carried you through something hard, or simply wanting photographs of yourself at this age. No occasion is required.
Plan what to bring.
The wardrobe and preparation guide covers outfit ideas, fit, colors, grooming, and a simple packing list.
What to wear and how to prepareFrequently asked questions
Everything you want to know.
What is boudoir photography?+
Boudoir photography is a genre of photography that involves subjects in suggestive or sensual poses, usually not fully clothed. It’s photography that focuses on the beauty of a subject and, though adventurous and sensual, it is distinct from erotic photography in its emphasis on the aesthetic qualities of the subject and the craftsmanship of the photographic process over the sexually stimulating nature of the image.
Where do the New Orleans boudoir photography sessions take place?+
The images shown on this website were all shot in my 3000 square-foot home New Orleans Boudoir photography studio. I have a dedicated studio/office where I shoot the images that are lit with studio lighting, and the rest of the images are shot in various parts of the home studio using natural light. That said, I could also shoot on location at a spot of your choosing, as long as it is generally free from background clutter.
May I bring a friend to my boudoir photography session?+
Yes, you may, as long as it’s understood that the friend will not distract or interfere with the session. Also, if you choose the makeup artist/hairstylist option, you may request that she be present during the shoot, as well.
How do I receive the boudoir photography images?+
To ensure the utmost in privacy, your images will be available only to you via a password-protected gallery that is hidden from the rest of the galleries on my site. You can purchase prints from that site if you’d like, and books are also available.
Do you offer photo retouching (i.e. removing scars, blemishes, etc.)?+
Retouching is included with every session. I remove scars, acne, blemishes, stretch marks and cellulite as requested, in addition to bruises and other random marks on the day of your session. Please note: I do not do extensive “body reshaping” as part of my retouching, but I work with clients to find the most flattering poses for their shape during their session, which makes this unnecessary.
How do I prepare for a boudoir shoot?+
A little prep goes a long way. Get a good night’s sleep, drink plenty of water, and avoid tight clothing or socks for a few hours before your session so your skin is not marked. We will plan your wardrobe together ahead of time so you feel confident in every outfit. If you are doing your own hair and makeup, keep it a little more dramatic than everyday—soft lashes, defined brows, and a matte lip photograph beautifully. Most importantly, arrive with an open mind: I will guide you through every pose, angle, and expression, so you do not need to know what to do in front of the camera.
How do I pose for boudoir photos?+
You do not need to arrive knowing how to pose. During the session I guide you through every position, from the angle of your chin and shoulders to the placement of your hands and feet. I will tell you each pose first and coach you through it so it feels natural (I might even do the pose, which is usually pretty hilarious). Most clients are surprised how effortless it becomes once we get into a rhythm.
What should I wear to a boudoir session?+
Wear whatever makes you feel confident. Many clients bring lingerie, a favorite bodysuit, an oversized sweater, a partner's shirt, heels, jewelry, or a robe. We will plan your wardrobe together before the session starts so every outfit feels intentional and flattering.
Do you tip a boudoir photographer?+
Tipping is never expected, but it is always appreciated if you feel the experience exceeded your expectations. Many clients choose to leave a gratuity when hair and makeup, extra time, or special accommodations were involved. The best compliment you can give is a referral or a thoughtful review.
Will my photos be shared online or kept private?+
Your privacy is my priority. Images are never shared publicly or used for marketing without your written permission. You are welcome to share images yourself, if you choose. I only ask that you give photo credit on social media.
Ready when you are.
Tell Marc what you have in mind and he’ll walk you through dates, packages, and wardrobe.
Plan your session