What It’s Like Working With A Male Professional Boudoir Photographer

Why I Became a Boudoir Photographer

I became a professional boudoir photographer not for attention, not to objectify anyone…but to bring joy to relationships, to help women rewrite their narratives and overcome afflictions. To help women feel beautiful again, especially after they’ve been through hell.

Over the years, I’ve seen what happens when women are left to handle everything alone—when the men who should have been present chose to check out instead.

I’ve known women too scared to leave their homes because of an abusive partner.

Heard stories of women who’ve sat alone in waiting rooms for appointments they shouldn’t have had to face alone, without support.

I’ve watched them scramble to make birthdays and holidays special for their kids while their partners were out on benders with “the boys.”

And I just have to pause here for a moment…because that, right there, is not manhood. That’s adolescence masquerading as a man. I want to be really clear about that before we continue on.

I’ve also witnessed the damage that infidelity leaves behind and the slow dimming of a bright, beautiful soul after years of neglect or emotional abuse.

Witnessing those moments opened my eyes.

Watching people I care about walk through these experiences showed me exactly what it looks like when women are left to carry everything alone. And it made me determined to show up differently.

It’s why I approach this work with compassion, respect, and a deep sense of purpose.

How I Show Up Differently

Those experiences didn’t just open my eyes, they changed how I move through the world. Not just in photography, but in all areas of my life.

They taught me that showing up isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about paying attention, listening without judgment, creating a space where someone can finally set all that weight down and just be.

That’s why, in my sessions, everything is intentional:

  • The way I build a team of women around you, so you never feel alone in this process.
  • The conversations we have before I ever pick up a camera, so you know you’re in control from the very first moment.
  • The patience and guidance I bring into every pose, because this experience isn’t about performing, it’s about being seen.

This work isn’t a job for me. It’s a promise. A promise to create a space where you feel safe, valued, and celebrated exactly as you are.

Photographer Christopher Reynolds stanind in a photography studio.

Before I Even Pick Up the Camera

Before a single photo is taken, we sit down.
Warm mugs in hand. Cozy lounge space. No pressure. Just real talk.

We’ll talk through:

  • What makes you feel most at ease (and even do a few quick breathing exercises).
  • Poses and expressions so you know exactly what to do.
  • Your boundaries and comfort level for each set.
  • The wardrobe you’ve brought and what will photograph best.
  • The overall mood and message you want your images to tell.

Before all of that, right after booking your session, you’ll recieve our proprietary boudoir prep guide which helps you shop for lingerie that flatters your body type and explores different styles you might love. Whether that’s delicate lace, your favorite cozy loungewear, or even those bold, strappy pieces you’ve been curious about, we’ll walk you through it all so you feel confident and prepared when you arrive.

By the time we start with the first set, you’ll know what to expect and how it’s going to flow.
More importantly, you’ll know you’re in control every step of the way.

What’s Actually Going Through My Mind During Your Shoot

There’s a common stigma about male boudoir photographers, that we’re standing behind the camera thinking dirty thoughts or spinning wild fantasies.

And honestly? I get why people feel that way. There are guys out there like that. I can’t deny it. But they’re not professionals by any stretch of the imagination. In the industry, we even have a name for them: “GWCs,” short for “guys with cameras.” They’re the ones with no safety protocols, no real website (just an Instagram full of fake followers), and a portfolio full of poses created for the male gaze rather than to celebrate the woman in front of the lens. You know exactly what I’m talking about.

Working with a true professional, someone who’s in it for the right reasons, is a completely different experience. During your session, my head isn’t wandering. It’s locked in on a hundred creative and technical details, like:

  • “Is the light sculpting her curves in a flattering way?”
  • “Does this pose reflect her vibe; romantic, bold, effortless?”
  • “Do the textures in this shot add elegance or distraction?”
  • “Will this be a jaw-dropping album spread, or an intimate black-and-white close-up?”
  • “Most importantly, is she feeling safe, relaxed, and celebrated right now?”

My focus isn’t on sex appeal, it’s on artistry and empowerment.
And when you see your images for the first time, you’ll see that difference immediately.

The Vibe in Our Sessions

We photograph in a private, dedicated studio in Round Rock or in carefully selected boutique hotel suites. These spaces are chosen for one reason: to create a comfortable, stylish, and safe environment with beautiful natural light and curated backdrops.

What you won’t find here? Random Peerspace rentals, shared studios, or spaces where people come and go. There’s zero chance of anyone walking in, interrupting, or watching your session. It’s private. Always.

With the exception of myself, my team is entirely made up of women. From the moment you arrive, our in-house hair and makeup artist is there to pamper you and help you relax, and an assistant is always present to provide support throughout your shoot so you never feel alone.

The vibe? Calm. Intentional. Centered on you. Every detail, from lighting to music, is set up so you can take a deep breath, let your shoulders drop, and just be present in the moment.

Behind the scenes of a boudoir photography session with makeup artist styling a client before her shoot in Austin, TX.

Comfort Shouldn’t be About Gender, It’s About Trust

You might be surprised to learn that working with a male photographer could very well be more freeing than with a woman. Sure, you say…. But sereiously, as you know, women are often instinctively critical of each other, whether it’s comparing body shapes, style choices, or even energy in the room. Hell even mom shaming one another. It’s bananas!

Not only that, if you’re one who’s prone to comparing yourself to other women, you won’t even have to think about that with me. And if you’re worried about looking silly… just imagine me, doing ultra-feminine, girly poses to demonstrate in front of you. (Yes, it’s hilarious, and it works. LOL.)

When I’m behind the camera, there’s no unspoken peer pressure or “comparison vibes” swirling around; you get my full, undivided focus on making you look and feel incredible, without any subconscious judgments.

And let’s face it, flirtation doesn’t only come from men these days. I’m just being honest. The difference is, with me there’s an extra layer of trust and security. I always work with a team. Many female photographers choose to shoot alone, and while that’s their choice, I believe my clients deserve that added layer of comfort and safety. It might feel like a double standard, but I’m okay with that, because you will never be in this space without support.

This Is Your Space

With me, your photos are never shared without written permission. Period.
All images are stored securely on a private, password-protected, offline drive and never backed up to the cloud.

Your privacy is sacred here.

Whether you’re posing in lace, cozy flannel, or nothing at all, this is your story to tell.
And I promise you, I’ll help you tell it with dignity, grace, and just enough edge to remind yourself of the power you’ve always had.

You can read more about how we protect your privacy and create a safe boudoir photography experience here.

Why I Love What I Do

Boudoir photography isn’t just a job for me, it’s a privilege I never take for granted. Every session gives me a front-row seat to something powerful: watching a woman walk in carrying a little bit of doubt, and leave standing taller, lighter, and so proud of herself.

I get to meet amazing women from every walk of life, hear their stories, and create something meaningful for them. And honestly? It fills me up, too. I love the art, the connection, the trust, and yes, even the laughter that happens between the serious moments.

And the best part? I don’t do this alone. Behind the scenes, my team cheers me on just as much as they cheer for you. As a creative and a minority in this industry, having that support means everything. Together, we create a safe, encouraging space where transformation happens.

That’s why I wake up every day grateful that this is my work. It’s not just about photographs, it’s about people.

An intimate Austin boudoir portrait of a woman gracefully posed on a bed, captured in soft, flattering light.

When You’re Ready…

I’d love to speak with you, map out your vision, and plan a session that celebrates you…
in every light, with every shadow, and in every powerful moment in between.

Because this isn’t just a photoshoot…
it’s your story, your empowerment, and your art.