August 16, 2024
Embracing the Dark and Dreamy: Witchy NYC Boudoir Photography
As a traveling boudoir photographer based in Dallas, I thrive on helping my clients feel like the works of art they truly are. Recently, I had the pleasure of taking my camera to the streets of New York City for a moody boudoir session that was all about embracing the dark and the dreamy. The setting? A unique Brooklyn photo studio, Things to Look at Studio, a speakeasy inspired artist space, perfect for the aesthetic we wanted to create. Keep reading to view this stunning NYC boudoir photography session at Things to Look at Studio located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
The Studio: A Williamsburg Artists Parlor
Finding the right location for a photoshoot is half the battle (especially as a traveling boudoir photographer from out of state), and Things to Look at Studio in Brooklyn was a perfect fit for this session. This Brooklyn photo studio is a moody masterpiece—a speakeasy inspired studio with artistic details in every nook and cranny. The decor is eclectic, with vintage touches that whisper stories of the past, making it an ideal backdrop for a NYC boudoir session with witchy themes.
While this space is located in a basement level flat, the included “faux window” created with LED panels framed by iron details and curtains. This not only added additional soft lighting, but allowed for a lot of creative shots. The moment I stepped into the studio, I knew we found the perfect space for our NYC boudoir photography session.
The Wardrobe: Lingerie with a Gothic Aesthetic
My client came prepared with plenty of witchy boudoir outfit options that perfectly captured the gothic boudoir vibe my client wanted for her NYC boudoir photography session. She started in a vintage black nightgown that I brought from my client closet back in Dallas. This vintage nightgown has gorgeous cutouts and added a touch of old-world elegance to the shoot. The next outfit was a sheer lace dress with dramatic bell sleeves from Dolls Kill—a modern piece with a decidedly witchy flair.
Would it be a boudoir session without a lingerie set? I absolutely loved this emerald toned set from Celine Intimates. Lastly, she slipped into a silver sheer lace bodysuit from House of Widow, a stunning piece that caught the light in all the right ways, adding an ethereal glow to the darker tones of the shoot. Each boudoir outfit was chosen to highlight her natural beauty while embracing the moody, gothic theme of the session.
The Lighting: Crafting Shadows and Highlights with Amaran 60D
Lighting is everything in photography, especially when you’re working with a moody aesthetic. As mentioned, this studio was located in a basement, so artificial lighting was a must. For this shoot, I used the Amaran COB 60D, a portable yet powerful light that’s perfect for a traveling photographer like me. This light allowed me to craft the shadows and highlights needed to bring out the depth and emotion in each shot.
The studio’s dim, ambient lighting provided the perfect base, while the Amaran COB 60D added that extra touch, accentuating the curves and textures of the outfits and the space. The result was a set of images that were both haunting and beautiful, capturing the essence of a witchy boudoir session.
The Experience: Capturing Intimacy through Boudoir in NYC
Shooting boudoir in New York City was not only a great experience, but has inspired me to come back for more. The energy of the city seeps into the session, adding an extra layer of excitement and intensity. My client was incredible to work with—her confidence grew with each outfit change, and she fully embraced the theme of the shoot. We experimented with different poses and settings within the studio, from the dungeon-like benches to the moody corners filled with antique decor. Each shot captured not just an image, but a story—a blend of dark and ethereal brought to life.
Conclusion: A Witchy Boudoir Session to Remember
This moody boudoir session in Brooklyn was a reminder of why I love what I do. Traveling to new cities and exploring different styles allows me to push creative boundaries and deliver images that are as unique as my clients. Whether you’re in Dallas, New York, or anywhere in between, boudoir photography is about more than just the photos—it’s about the experience, the empowerment, and the art of capturing beauty in its most intimate form.
If you’re looking for a traveling boudoir photographer who can bring your dream photoshoot to life, whether it’s a witchy boudoir session in Brooklyn or an ethereal shoot in Dallas, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s create something magical together.