Boudoir by Bri
Indoor vs. Outdoor Boudoir Sessions in Saint Louis
WHICH EXPERIENCE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
If you’re imagining yourself at a boudoir session, you’re likely picturing an intimate studio with beautiful lighting and cozy sheets. Most of my sessions are like this (right here in downtown Saint Louis) and for good reason! Indoor sessions are comfortable, the sets are versatile, the appointment is private, and lighting is controlled. I’ll never get sick of classic boudoir sessions. Ever!
Having said that, summertime really does reignite my creativity and I’m always looking forward to outdoor photoshoots. (If this STL spring rain ever goes away!) Outdoor shoots always feel so dramatic and unique—well worth the bug bites. If you’re considering booking a boudoir session and wondering whether an indoor or outdoor experience would fit you best, here’s a quick breakdown of both options and what they’re like here in the Saint Louis and surrounding areas.
Why Indoor Boudoir Sessions Are So Popular
Indoor boudoir photography is the most common choice. It certainly makes the most sense as far as dependability, and there aren’t really any cons!
Since boudoir can feel intimidating at first, having a private indoor environment often helps calm nerves quickly. You don’t have to worry about strangers walking by, changing weather, feeling exposed, etc. And obviously, studio sessions also allow for consistent lighting, climate control, convenient outfit changes, access to props and furniture, and complete privacy. I think all of this is especially helpful for first-timers who may be feeling extra nervous. (Everyone is nervous at first, by the way! Totally normal.)
Bottom line, the biggest advantage of shooting indoors is the flexibility, especially because Saint Louis weather can be so unpredictable. The studio is also easy and convenient to visit from surrounding areas like St. Charles, O’Fallon, Chesterfield, Edwardsville, Belleville, or Columbia, and we don’t have to worry about finding a new outdoor location that everyone can travel to last minute due to bad weather ruining our first choice.
Indoor sessions also tend to make the most sense when it comes to bridal boudoir, really glamorous lingerie looks with high heels, cozy sweaters or pajamas that make more sense inside a bedroom, and shots where we want editorial lighting or backdrops.
Why Outdoor Boudoir Sessions Feel So Fun and Free
Outdoor boudoir sessions are a completely different experience, and that’s what makes them so special and fun! There’s something so freeing about being outside for a shoot. Natural light is so beautiful during golden hour (right before sunset), and everything feels adventurous, natural, emotional, and SO dramatic. I always think my outdoor boudoir clients look like goddesses! 🤣
The scenery around Saint Louis gives us a surprising amount of variety, too. Depending on the vibe you want, we can create anything from romantic and dreamy to bold and dramatic. I love taking advantage of wooded areas, open fields, private Airbnb properties, pools, parks with hidden pockets, riverfronts, ponds, rooftops, and, of course, clients’ backyards.
The Biggest Challenge With Outdoor Boudoir
Outdoor boudoir sessions require more strategy than studio sessions. Privacy is the number one concern, and rightfully so!
Whenever I shoot outdoors, I’m very intentional about choosing locations carefully. We typically avoid crowded public spaces and instead focus on quieter areas, private properties, less busy times of day, or angles that maintain comfort and discretion. Sometimes we work very quickly between moments when areas are empty. Other times, we use styling and posing that create the feeling of boudoir and sensuality without requiring any real exposure. Outdoor boudoir absolutely can be done tastefully, comfortably, and safely, but flexibility is important!
Missouri Weather Requires Flexibility
If you live around Saint Louis, you already know the weather can change constantly. But luckily, some of the most beautiful outdoor boudoir images happen because of those unpredictable conditions. Wind movement, cloudy skies, glowing sunsets, fog, and dramatic light all make beautiful images!
Which Boudoir Style Is Right for You?
An indoor studio session may be perfect if you love classic boudoir images, you want comfort and convenience, or if you don’t want to risk needing to reschedule a hair and makeup appointment if we’re dealing with storms.
An outdoor boudoir session may be the better choice if you’re wanting something unique, you love nature and adventure, you want dramatic scenery, and you’re able to have some flexibility with your session date.
Boudoir Should Feel Personal to You
One of my favorite things about boudoir photography is that no two sessions ever feel exactly the same. No matter which setting you choose, my goal is always the same: helping you feel comfortable, confident, supported, and genuinely beautiful throughout the entire experience.
Whether we’re shooting in my downtown Saint Louis studio or chasing golden-hour light outdoors somewhere around Missouri, boudoir is about creating images that feel like you. Reach out and we’ll talk about your dream session, pressure free!