For the boudoir 'purists' out there who will argue that a boudoir photoshoot, by definition, will only involve a bedroom: I say, there are nature goddesses out there all over NYC, Westchester, Long Island NY, NJ, CT and beyond who will greatly disagree - and my Boudoir by Andreea B Ballen Summer Centerfold session clients prove that you can capture gorgeous, sensual photos just about ANYWHERE - but especially in nature. So yes, you can have an outdoor boudoir photoshoot, wearing a beach bikini or lingerie (or sans, if you are feeling super spicy) and have yourself be your own magazine centerfold, calendar girl - or however you choose to honor yourself - muse! Are you one such nature goddess? Then read on.
NYC Outdoor Boudoir Photography: Summer Centerfold Sessions
Andreea Burciu-Ballen
Summer Centerfold Session Location: In Client's Own Back Yard (and Some With Swimming Pool)
Choosing location for your Summer Centerfold outdoor boudoir shoot is key. Lots of clients will have their own back yard, possibly with a pool, and as such choose this location for its utmost privacy and comfort. Here you have the option of wearing anything - and nothing at all - at any and all given times. You are the Queen of your own domain, after all. Enjoy it and celebrate it!
Summer Centerfold Session Location: Secluded Woods
Woods and clearings offer a gorgeous backdrop for Summer Centerfold sessions - and can offer different levels of privacy when timed correctly. Usually weekdays towards sunset are the best times both for light and for least amount of foot traffic nearby. It's a good idea to scout the place yourself and gage best times.
For this location, make sure to bring bug spray, lotion or essential oil blend. Tics and mosquitos my (usually) be present here and you should always, always protect yourself - including by taking a shower as soon as you can and check yourself for any 'intruders.'
As to what to wear? A bodysuit, lingerie (or nothing at all) can work here: just make sure to have a cover-up and easy slip on shoes for in between the shots!
Summer Centerfold Session Location: The Beach
The beauty of beaches on Long Island NY is that there are some with calm, flat water where you can lay out the shore or on a rock in the water -- or even go out in the water itself, without the fear of being swept away or eating a mouth full of sand! Same as the woods -- or any other location that is not entirely private -- choose a time of day such as early morning or better yet, towards sunset, on a week day, for the session. You will be wearing a bathing suit here usually, though some have chosen other spicier outfit options that we discussed on our Zoom Session Design Consultation.
Again, same as in the woods, if you are venturing into grassy dunes or green places, do have a good protection against bugs with you and don't forget to use it.
Summer Centerfold Session Location: The Lake
Same as a beach with calm waters, the lake will offer the same wave-free option.
Be sure to check that water purity levels are safe before venturing in, and stay close to the shore or within designated swimming areas. Plus remember, sunset time is mosquito time! Yup, get that protection on!
As for the what to wear? A bodysuit type bathing suit or bikini will both work, and don't be afraid of glamming it up with metallics or jewelry or body jewelry. Goddess mode, activated!
Summer Centerfold Session Location: The Parking Lot
Did I just say parking lot? Why, yes! The back of the parking lot of a hotel I was photographing at had glorious reeds and no cars anywhere near for lookie-loos. Wearing on a robe on the way? Totally recommended - and it looks great in the photos, too.
Another parking lot had a wonderful bench that could be used same as a sofa. Don't believe me? Check these out.
Want to see more? A Zoom complimentary consultation can show more photos that are too hot for the internet and inspire you too on the possibilities.
