We interviewed Angie Anderson a boudoir photographer from Calgary, Canada, together with their wonderful shoot with Allie Sigmundson.

01) What does boudoir photography mean to you?

Many clients take years to work up the courage to book a boudoir photo session & it’s an incredibly vulnerable experience. Women are taught from a very young age that they have to look a certain way and act a certain way. There is so much shame around our bodies and sexuality. It is my responsibility to provide a safe environment with no judgment. I want to empower them to embrace their sensuality & to see that they are beautiful. Right now. Just as they are.

02) Why did you choose to pursue a career as a boudoir / fine art photographer? What got you started in boudoir?

When I first started out as a photographer, I shot everything- weddings, newborns, families, real estate, concrete crushers- everything under the sun. When I did my first boudoir session back in 2012, I was hooked. I didn’t realize it at the time, but as a survivor of sexual abuse, allowing women to explore their own sensuality without shame is truly therapeutic.

03) What kind of creative process is there behind boudoir photography?

There are so many things to consider for each shoot- lighting, styling, location, mood… I try to get to know more about my clients so that I can create an experience that is their own instead of having a standard set of poses that I run through.

I also strive to show women what they don’t get to see in the mirror every day; the things that their partner, family & friends love about them. I always get those sexy AF shots but I like to capture what they look like when they’re flirting, confident, laughing, and even a bit sad. It becomes more of an experience than just a photoshoot.

04) How do you communicate with a client or model you’ve just met to make them comfortable for boudoir / nude photography?

Communication with my clients start months in advance with a phone consultation to explain how the day will go & answer any questions that they have. I email them a lingerie guide as well as a preparation guide. There is also a questionnaire that I send to help me with planning the session (including their comfort level with nudity).

05) How do you educate yourself to take better photos?

One of the things that I love about photography is that you can never stop learning. I’ve spent thousands of dollars on education including a Certificate of Photography. I try to set up at least one creative session a year to try out something new. Some of my favorite images have been created that way.

By far, the best course I’ve taken was Stripped Down, the Art of Emotion with Denise Birdsong. I’ve done the 20 week online course twice now as well as a 2 day in person workshop at her studio in Hayward, California. She’s a fucking genius & genuinely cares about her students. My work has transformed from just taking pretty pictures to now creating emotive, meaningful pieces of art that will be my legacy.

06) How would you describe your photography style?

Emotive & Minimalistic.

07) What type of cameras do you shoot with?

Canon 5D Mark III

08) What kind of other gear do you use for boudoir?

1 or 2 Strobe lights, 24-70 mm 2.8 lens & a 50mm 1.4 lens

09) Among your works, which one is your favorite? Why?

I think that my favorite image is the last one that I took of Allie sitting nude on the bed with her eyes closed. I love the lighting and it makes me feel a combination of self love & vulnerability.

10) What is the most difficult part of being a boudoir photographer for you?

The business side of things. I am a one woman show & do my own social media, website & marketing. There’s so much to learn about running a business!

11) What is the most rewarding part of being a boudoir photographer for you?

Everyone should have beautiful photos of themselves & I love showing women how the rest of the world sees them.

12) Just for fun, if you could shoot in any location, what would it be?

In an oceanfront whitewashed villa with a pool, on a white sandy beach with turquoise waters & lots of plants.

13) Do you have any other profession or anything you are passionate about?

Photography is my only income. I have 2 amazing kids & an incredible husband that is my rock. I am so grateful that I get to do what I love for a living.