f you’ve been searching for plus size boudoir photography in Maryland, chances are you’ve also been talking yourself out of it.
You tell yourself you will do it after you lose weight. You convince yourself boudoir is only for women with flat stomachs and toned arms, then scroll through photographers’ Instagram feeds and think, “That is not for someone who looks like me.”
Here’s the truth: boudoir photography is absolutely for women who look like you. Curvy bodies. Plus size bodies. Real bodies that have lived full lives. Bodies with stretch marks, rolls, cellulite, and curves. Bodies that are size 14, size 18, size 24, bigger.
This guide walks you through exactly what to expect from plus size boudoir photography in my Maryland and Washington DC area studio. How curvy bodies are photographed differently, what to wear, what actually happens during the session, and why so many plus size women say afterward, “I wish I had done this sooner.”
Can Plus Size Women Do Boudoir?
The Biggest Myth About Boudoir and Body Size
The biggest myth about boudoir photography is that it’s designed for one specific body type. Thin. Toned. Flat stomach. Thigh gap. That’s what social media has convinced women boudoir looks like.
But that’s not reality. That’s a highlight reel. What you’re seeing on Instagram is professional lighting, intentional posing, and strategic angles that flatter every body, not just thin bodies. The difference isn’t the body. It’s how the body is photographed.
Plus size boudoir photography uses the exact same professional techniques: moody lighting that sculpts and contours, angles that create dimension, guided posing that flatters your specific shape. The process is the same. The results are just as stunning. The only difference is that the posing is tailored to your body instead of forcing your body to fit generic poses.
Why Boudoir Is Not Designed for One Body Type
Boudoir photography is not a one size fits all experience. What flatters a petite frame is different from what flatters a curvy one. Same as What works for someone with a smaller bust looks completely different on someone with a fuller chest. What emphasizes an hourglass figure won’t work the same way on an apple or pear shape.
That’s why professional boudoir photography adapts to your body. The lighting is adjusted based on your skin tone and the shadows you want created. The angles are chosen based on your shape and what you want emphasized. The posing is guided based on your proportions and your comfort level.
Boudoir is designed to photograph real bodies in flattering ways. Not to photograph one specific body type. And curvy bodies? They photograph incredibly well when you have a photographer who actually knows how to work with curves.
What Most Plus Size Women Are Nervous About Before Booking
Stomach, Arms, Thighs, and Back Rolls
The most common thing plus size women say to me is, “I want to do this, but I hate my stomach.” Or their arms, their thighs, their back, or all of it at once.
They believe these body parts disqualify them from boudoir, so they assume they need to hide them or fix them before stepping in front of a camera, and they worry I will look at them and think, “This won’t work.” That is not what happens.
You walk in nervous about your stomach. I pose you to create a defined waistline and highlight your curves instead of your midsection.
You worry about your arms. I guide you into positions that make them look soft and elegant.
You feel self conscious about your thighs. I angle your body so they become part of your shape, not something to hide.
Every body part you are worried about is something I already know how to photograph.
That is my job.
Fear of Looking Bigger in Photos
One of the biggest fears plus size women have is that the camera will make them look bigger than they are. This fear comes from years of bad photos: unflattering angles, harsh lighting, awkward poses that don’t work for curvy bodies.
But professional boudoir photography does the opposite. Strategic lighting creates shadows that contour your body and make it look more defined, not bigger. Intentional angles emphasize your curves and create dimension instead of flattening you. Guided posing elongates your body and creates beautiful lines.
The camera doesn’t make you look bigger. Bad photography makes you look bigger. Professional boudoir photography makes you look exactly like yourself, just in the best possible light with the most flattering angles.
Fear of Not Knowing How to Pose
Plus size women often tell me, “I don’t know how to pose. I’m going to look so awkward.” They’ve seen models who seem to effortlessly move through poses, and they can’t imagine doing that themselves.
But here’s the thing: those models aren’t effortlessly posing. They’re being directed. Every movement, every angle, every placement of hands and legs is guided by the photographer. That’s what professional posing looks like.
You don’t need to know how to pose. You need a photographer who knows how to pose you. And that’s exactly what you get during a boudoir session. You’re shown exactly where to put your hands, how to angle your body, where to look, how to breathe. You’re guided through every single movement so you never feel lost or awkward.
How I Photograph Curvy and Plus Size Bodies Differently
Lighting That Sculpts Instead of Flattens
Lighting is everything in photography. The difference between an unflattering photo and a stunning one is often just the quality and direction of light.
For curvy and plus size bodies, I use directional lighting that creates shadows and highlights to sculpt your shape. Soft shadows slim the waist and create definition. Strategic highlights emphasize your curves and create dimension. The lighting wraps around your body instead of hitting it straight on, which creates depth instead of flattening you.
This is completely different from the harsh, flat lighting most people are used to in everyday photos. That kind of lighting washes you out and eliminates dimension. Professional boudoir lighting does the opposite. It creates shape, contour, and beautiful definition that makes your curves look intentional and stunning.
Angles That Create Shape and Dimension
Angles matter. A lot. The same body photographed from different angles can look completely different. That’s not about the body being wrong. It’s about finding the angles that work for your specific shape.
For curvy bodies, I choose angles that create an hourglass silhouette and highlight your natural shape. When you carry weight in your hips and thighs, I position you so those curves photograph beautifully instead of feeling like something to hide. A fuller bust requires careful angling, so I guide you into poses that flatter your shape without making you feel overexposed. If you have a rounder midsection, I use poses that define your waist and create natural contour.
Every angle is intentional. Every position is chosen specifically for your body. This is why plus size women are often shocked by their images. Because they’ve never been photographed by someone who actually knows how to work with their curves.
Why Dark and Moody Photography Is Incredibly Flattering for Curves
My photography style is dark, moody, and editorial. And it’s especially flattering for curvy and plus size bodies.
Here’s why: dark, moody lighting creates dramatic shadows that contour your body and make your curves look sculpted and intentional. The contrast between light and shadow creates dimension and depth that makes you look three dimensional instead of flat. The overall mood feels intimate and powerful instead of overly exposed.
Bright, airy lighting can wash out curves and eliminate definition. Dark, moody lighting does the opposite. It emphasizes your shape, creates beautiful contours, and makes every curve look intentional and stunning. Plus size bodies look incredible in this style of photography because the lighting works with your curves instead of against them.
You Do Not Need to Know How to Pose
How I Guide Every Movement
You are not left alone to figure out how to stand or what to do with your hands. I’m directing you the entire time.
“Turn your body to the left. Good. Now shift your weight to your back leg. Drop your right shoulder. Place your hand on your hip, but keep it soft, not stiff. Tilt your chin down just a little. Perfect. Now take a deep breath and let your face relax.”
That’s what the direction sounds like. Specific. Clear. Constant. You move slowly from pose to pose, and I’m guiding every single movement. You’re never left wondering what to do next or trying to figure out what looks good. That’s my job.
Why Posing Is About Movement, Not Positions
Posing isn’t about getting into one perfect position and holding it. It’s about fluid movement that creates natural, beautiful images.
I’ll have you shift your weight from one leg to the other. Turn your body slightly. Move your hand from your waist to your hair. Arch your back just a little. These small movements create dozens of different images even though you’re essentially in the same spot.
This approach works especially well for curvy bodies because movement creates natural curves and flow. You’re not frozen in some uncomfortable position trying to hold still. You’re moving, breathing, and the images capture that natural grace.
What to Wear If You Are Plus Size for a Boudoir Session
Lingerie Styles That Photograph Beautifully
Not all lingerie is created equal, especially when it comes to how it photographs on curvy bodies. Here’s what works beautifully:
Bodysuits are universally flattering because they create a smooth silhouette and don’t cut into your body at awkward places. Look for ones with adjustable straps and stretchy fabric that moves with you.
High waisted underwear paired with a bralette creates a vintage, pin up vibe and emphasizes your waist. This is especially flattering if you have an hourglass figure or want to create the illusion of one.
Corsets and structured pieces provide support and create beautiful curves. They photograph incredibly well because they create defined lines and shape.
Robes and kimonos work beautifully over lingerie or on their own. They create movement and flow in images while still showing your shape.
Non Lingerie Outfit Options
You absolutely do not have to wear lingerie for your boudoir session. Here are other options that photograph just as beautifully:
Oversized sweaters create a cozy, intimate vibe. Paired with thigh highs or bare legs, they show just enough while keeping you comfortable.
Your partner’s button down shirt is classic boudoir and works on every body type. It suggests intimacy without showing everything.
Silk or satin robes photograph beautifully because of the way the fabric catches light. They’re also incredibly comfortable and easy to move in.
Simple bras and underwear in black or jewel tones work perfectly. You don’t need anything fancy. Sometimes the simplest option is the most stunning.
Why Fit Matters More Than Size
The most important thing about what you wear is how it fits, not what size it is. Lingerie that’s too tight will cut into your body and create unflattering lines. Lingerie that’s too loose will bunch and not show your shape.
Look for pieces that fit comfortably without digging in. The fabric should lay smoothly against your body without gaping or pulling. Adjustable straps and stretchy materials are your friend because they adapt to your body instead of forcing your body to adapt to them.
If you’re not sure what will work, I provide detailed wardrobe guidance before your session so you’re not guessing. I’ll recommend specific styles for your body type and point you toward retailers that carry extended sizes.
What Actually Happens During the Session
Hair and Makeup
Every session starts with professional hair and makeup, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour. This isn’t just about looking polished in your photos (though that’s a bonus). It’s about giving you time to relax and transition into the experience.
The hair and makeup artist I work with is incredible at making women feel comfortable. She works with all hair types and skin tones, and she’s photographed curvy women countless times. She knows what looks good on camera and what makes you feel beautiful.
By the time your hair and makeup are done, you already feel different — more confident, present, and ready.
The First 10 Minutes of Shooting
The first 10 minutes are always the most nerve wracking. You’re getting used to being in front of the camera and trying to figure out if this is going to be as awkward as you feared.
I start guiding you through simple poses, I will talk you through it the whole time! I show you images on the back of my camera so you can see in real time that you look amazing. And within 10 minutes, the nerves start to fade.
Most clients tell me afterward, “I thought this was going to be so awkward. It was actually fun.” Because once you realize you’re being guided through everything and you start seeing yourself look beautiful in the images, the fear disappears.
When Clients Start to Relax
There’s a moment during almost every session where something shifts. It usually happens about 20 to 30 minutes in. The client stops overthinking every movement. She stops asking, “Is this okay?” She starts trusting the process. She starts moving with confidence.
That’s when the magic happens. That’s when the images go from pretty to powerful. Because she’s no longer performing. She’s just being. And that’s when her real beauty comes through.
What to Expect at a Boudoir Photoshoot
Real Concerns I Hear From Plus Size Clients in Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia
“I want to lose weight first”
This is the most common thing I hear. “I love your work, but I want to lose 20 pounds first. Can I book for six months from now?”
Here’s the problem with that: six months from now, you’ll find another reason to wait. Because this isn’t actually about the weight. It’s about worthiness. And if you don’t believe you’re worthy of celebrating your body now, you won’t believe it 20 pounds from now either.
Your body is worthy now. Not after you lose weight. Not after you tone up. Now. And a boudoir session can prove that to you in a way that waiting never will.
Do I Need to Lose Weight Before a Boudoir Session?
“I hate my stomach”
Then you’re exactly who boudoir photography is for. You don’t need to love your stomach before you book. That’s what the session is for: to help you see your body differently.
I’ll pose you in ways that create a beautiful waistline and emphasize your curves instead of your midsection. I’ll use angles that flatter your shape and I’ll show you that your stomach doesn’t disqualify you from looking stunning in photos. It’s just another part of your beautiful body.
“I don’t want to look awkward”
You do not pose yourself. I pose you.
I guide every movement so you never wonder what to do or try to guess what looks good.
The awkwardness you imagine comes from feeling unsure in front of a camera. Once I remove that uncertainty, the awkwardness disappears and you simply allow yourself to be seen.
Why Many Plus Size Clients Say This Was the Best Thing They’ve Ever Done for Themselves
Emotional Shift After Seeing Images
The reveal is when everything clicks. You see your images for the first time, and you cry. Not because you’re sad, but because you can’t believe that woman in the photos is you.
She looks confident. Powerful. Beautiful. Completely at ease in her body. And you realize: she was always there. You just couldn’t see her because you were too busy criticizing yourself.
Plus size clients often tell me they spent years believing their body wasn’t worthy of being celebrated. And seeing these images proves them wrong in a way words never could. Because there’s proof. Visual evidence that their body is beautiful exactly as it is.
Confidence After the Reveal
The confidence shift that happens after a boudoir session is real. It’s not just “I feel prettier,” it’s deeper than that.
This session is about you walking into a room differently because you know what you look like when you’re photographed professionally. It’s wearing clothes that show your shape instead of hiding it. The confidence of looking in the mirror and seeing beauty instead of flaws. It’s carrying yourself like someone who knows she’s worthy.
Plus size women tell me all the time that their boudoir session changed how they see themselves. Not just in photos, but in real life. Because once you’ve seen yourself as beautiful, it’s hard to go back to believing you’re not.
Frequently Asked Questions About Plus Size Boudoir
Do I have to wear lingerie?
Not at all. You can wear anything you feel confident in: bodysuits, sweaters, robes, your partner’s shirt, simple bras and underwear, even just sheets. Lingerie is an option, not a requirement.
Do you retouch my body?
I professionally retouch all images for lighting, tone, and skin smoothing, but I’m not changing your body shape or making you smaller. I’m not erasing your curves or making you look like someone else. The goal is for you to see yourself as beautiful, not to create a fake version of you. You’ll still look like you, just in the best possible light.
What if I am nervous?
Every client is nervous. Every single one. Being nervous is completely normal, and it doesn’t mean you’re not ready. Most plus size clients tell me afterward they wish they hadn’t worried so much because the experience was way easier and more fun than they expected.
What if I hate my stomach?
Then I’ll pose you in ways that create a flattering waistline and beautiful curves. Your stomach doesn’t disqualify you from looking stunning in photos. It’s just another part of your body that I know how to photograph in flattering ways.
How much does plus size boudoir photography cost?
Pricing is the same regardless of the client’s size. The $550 session fee covers professional hair and makeup, the photoshoot, and your same day reveal. Product collections start at $1,300 and go up depending on how many images you want and what products you choose. Payment plans are available to make it more manageable.
What sizes do you photograph?
All of them! I’ve photographed women from size 12 to size 28 and beyond. The session is tailored to your body specifically, regardless of what size you wear.
Serving Plus Size Boudoir Clients Across Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia
My studio serves the entire DMV area, including Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia. I’ve worked with plus size clients from Baltimore, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Alexandria, Arlington, and everywhere in between.
The Washington DC metro area is full of accomplished, professional, high-achieving women who know how to be taken seriously, yet rarely give themselves permission to be seen as beautiful. Plus size women, especially, learn to make themselves smaller. They do it physically and emotionally after hearing their entire lives that their bodies take up too much space.
Boudoir photography in my Maryland studio gives you permission to take up space. It allows you to be seen; it invites you to celebrate your body exactly as it is, not as you think it should be.
If you’re in Maryland, DC, or Northern Virginia and you’ve been thinking about booking a boudoir session but talking yourself out of it because of your size, this is your sign to stop waiting. Your body is worthy now.
Ready to See Yourself Differently?
If you’re a plus size woman in Maryland, Washington DC, or Northern Virginia and you’ve been wondering if boudoir photography is for you, the answer is yes!
You don’t need to lose weight first or wait until you feel confident. There’s nothing about your body that you need to change before your session. You just need to show up. You’ll be guided through every pose, every angle, every movement. And you’ll walk out with proof that your body is beautiful exactly as it is.
Stop waiting, stop telling yourself you’ll do this later, and stop believing the lie that your body isn’t worthy yet. It is, and I can prove it to you. Let’s chat!
