Be the Star of A Renaissance Painting in the New Cloud Boudoir Mini Set
I’m still figuring out what to call it—Mount Olympus? Cloud Nine? Hera’s Haze? Just Like Heaven? Another secret thing yet to reveal itself?—but I’m too excited to share with you to wait. I’m bringing back cloud boudoir!
The new mini set theme is here and I’m obsessed! Just like last year’s Golden Gods, we are returning to sun-kissed celestial splendor with a renaissance art twist for our summer boudoir vibes! This heavenly scene is available as a standalone mini-session or as a set within a deluxe session!
Embody your goddess energy for a Renaissance painting-inspired boudoir cloud mini photo session, featuring lush golden colors, dreamy fabric drapery, and glowy soft fluffy heaven! These ethereal sessions will put you in photos that look like fine art paintings, with gorgeous buttery lighting and angelic haze. You can be a serene and benevolent god, or a sultry avenging angel. You can be a holy mother, or an unholy terror. The choice is yours.
It’s like a Renaissance art photoshoot and an intimate cloud boudoir mini set all in one!
This creative boudoir session in the clouds is perfect for:
✧ Art history lovers ✧ Pregnant people/expecting mothers who want a fantasy maternity photoshoot ✧ Fantasy and romantasy (or fantasy romance, if you hate a portmanteau) readers ✧ Women whose queer awakening was Meg from Hercules (or one of the Chorus) ✧ Adults who were once obsessed with Greek Mythology (or Roman, you do you!), gods of Egypt, little cupids, big harps, and pipe-cleaner halos ✧ Adults who are still obsessed with Greek Mythology and cried at Song of Achilles ✧ Queer people who grew up in Catholic school ✧ People who love costumes. Come on. Bring me a backstory. Get in here with your hand-crafted D&D paladin or whatever. The elf ears stay on. Let’s fucking go. If this dreamy set is the vibe for your OC I’m ready. Bring wings. ✧ Fans of gilded Eastern-European iconography, and portraits of saints (CW: Saint Sebastian) ✧ Anyone who can give an unplanned 5-minute TED Talk on the inherent erotic yearning in religious art ✧ Celebrants of the divinely feminine, divinely masculine, and every hallowed combination of the two
Customize Your Cloud Boudoir mini shoot
As always, the Neon Velvet boudoir client closet is available to help you achieve your dreamiest most heavenly version of yourself, but here are some ideas to inspire your mood board for your creative boudoir session:
✧ Accessorize with gold, silver, leather, jewels, harnesses, and more ✧ Fresh flowers for a spring goddess, lush greenery for summer, a cornucopia for harvest gods, a sheaf of wheat, a spear, a candle ✧ A lantern to guide souls to (or from) the underworld ✧ A bow, a harp, a halo, or wings to keep it classic and angelic ✧ Chains and swords to be a fallen angel ✧ Fantasy ears, crystal crowns, leather accessories if you want to dress like your favorite bat boy (I see you, booktok girlies) ✧ Gold leafing painted on you, and nothing else
Honestly the sky’s the limit (I’m sorry I’m sorry I’m just pandering to my audience!) and I’d be delighted to hear which divine being, fantasy figure, or virtue you vibe with! Let’s brainstorm unique elements together in your consultation. And if you don’t have a concept but you want to join in the fun, I have ideas to spare and will tailor one to fit you!
“I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Cassandra multiple times and never in my life have I felt so empowered and comfortable with a photographer. The amount of detail and care that is placed in every aspect of the sets, lighting, down to the gallery curation is magnificent and there is never a … Continue reading Heather D.→
“Is it silly to write my own testimonial? Maybe! But I’ve done self-portraits for years and hired other photographers too, and I believe that seeing lovingly crafted art featuring yourself is a transformative experience. Doing sessions for myself has made me love parts of my body I never expected to, and revealed the way my … Continue reading Cassie→
Happy energetic new year babes! Spring is finally coming, the days are longer, and the weather is getting warmer. It’s time to shed our winter layers and step into fresh patterns and opportunities. To celebrate, I’ve invited Melanie The Journey Witch to do a fun guest blog on astrology inspired boudoir shoots to help you find the perfect boudoir session ideas for your zodiac sign!
I’d encourage starting with your sun/moon/rising signs, but most people have most signs in their charts somewhere, so you might be surprised to discover the vibe that resonates strongest with you is in a sign other than your big three! Maybe it will be your Venus sign—or the one that’s your sun sign’s perfect romantic match for zodiac-themed boudoir instead.
I turned Melanie loose in my boudoir portfolio so she could pair some of my photography to set the mood for each sign. So let’s see what she has to recommend! The zodiac signs are presented in calendar order, so scroll to find your faves.
Aries
Do you want to embrace your utmost confidence, playfulness and passion all in one image? Connect with the first sign of the zodiac in an Aries themed photoshoot for exactly that! Warm hues, reds, pinks, pops of oranges can really make you feel empowered and energized. With forward facing profiles, bold angles and power flowing through direct eye contact, tapping into this sign is not for the faint of heart.
Aries energy means minimal distraction or extras in your images because you are the main focus. Show off as the natural leader you were born to be! Embrace your sexy, bold and passionate side in stunning frames.
Taurus
Let’s relax, get cozy and grab a snack! If your vibe is more casual and you adore that I-want-to-stay-in-bed-all-day look, this Earth sign may be your inspiration.
Taurus is inspired by all things sensual, beautiful and all the luxuries of the Earth. Greens of all shades call to you, with lush fabrics flowing around your poses. Just because you prefer a laid back style doesn’t mean you don’t look absolutely drop dead gorgeous doing it though! Fine fabrics, comfy couches, and luxe accessories are a must for a Taurus inspired shoot.
Gemini
No one can label your mind, beauty or heart, and being inspired by the sign of Gemini demands to create some stunner images! Gemini energies are curious, expressive and intellectual. Capture all of that plus your outstanding beauty in vivid color with gel lights and dramatic shadow. Do you have two favorite colors? Pick gorgeous hues that connect with your two sides!
The Twins can fuel energetic and enigmatic power poses for seriously cool shots. For a Gemini themed photoshoot you’ll be looking for unique backdrops, eye catching effects and color pops of lingerie that appeal to your adventurous side.
Cancer
Emotional?Me? No way! But, sure I think I can pout over my beautifully dressed shoulder and smolder into the camera.Cancer energy in a nutshell! Instant perfection!
If you’re a combo of feeling tapped into your emotions with a dash of home body energy, Cancer inspired boudoir is for you! People may say crybaby is your middle name, but you make it look gooood. Soft pastels, tousled locks and luxe fabrics will accentuate your passion for comfort and ease. Settle in on an embellished rug, beside a beautiful window, bathtub, or other stately home piece and you have yourself the perfect Water sign homage.
Leo
Powerful. Charismatic. Born to rule. Shift into the fiery energies of Leo to catapult your beauty to the forefront. Let this generous, creative, and confident fire sign inspire you for some eternally hot portraits. Add a dash of drama to your shoot with sultry cat eyes, old Hollywood waves and boldly showing off your figure. Glitter, sequins, and shiny textures are an added boost for the perfect Leo themed photoshoot.
Oh and don’t forget that intense, can’t-look-away gaze into the camera! You are a born leader after all, and we’re watching.
Virgo
Cassie’s note: When I was doing prep work to support Melanie in this blog post, “Virgo photoshoot” kept coming up in the searches, so Virgos I feel like you are all about embracing your moment in the spotlight!
Ah, the lovely grounded energy of our Virgo sign! Poses on the floor or seriously lounging on comfy spreads are a must for Virgo, your ultimate earth sign inspo. Virgo energy loves to show off the whole length of your body, from immaculately styled head to pedicured toes.
You are inspired by the luxuries of life, taking it easy and looking like perfection through it all. Earth colors of all kinds suit you, especially greens and browns and pops of gold. Intricate patterns help to reflect your analytical mind and attention to detail. You’re modest and humble, so you won’t be bragging about how fantastic you are in your images, but the proof will be there for all to see!
Libra
Are you ready to reveal your most sophisticated self? Beauty, art, and balance are key virtues of the air sign Libra. You’re the charmer, the social butterfly of the zodiac; Libra-themed boudoir photos showcase your happiness and confidence in action.
You are also a big romantic, so dark reds, creams and purple tones can really enhance your serene, sexy energy. With your sign associated with the Scales, balance in your images is key. Mirrors can be included to literally reflect your irresistibility. Choose painterly poses that show off your torso with lovely legs and elegant arms.
Scorpio
The wind whispers in your ears and you respond with an incantation over the flame. The Moon is high in the sky and you are thriving in the midnight hour. This is you, Scorpio. Mystery, secrets and a dash of drama inspire your ideal setting for a Scorpio inspired photoshoot. You may not be so focused on capturing you per se, but you in the act of something, in the midst of ritual, capturing your energy and intention. Black and white photography suits you well, or dark moody colors.
Intense shadows and highlights cast the spell to shine a light on your ethereal beauty.
Sagittarius
You are admirably independent, royalty in your own life. You constantly seek new adventures to enhance your creative side. All while looking so flawless—so Sagittarius!
This fire sign can seriously unleash inspiration on set with a positive mindset, unlimited confidence and free-spirited flirtatiousness. You will thrive with warm tones of gold, reds and soft oranges. Pops of gold anywhere really suit you. A Sagittarius themed photoshoot will lean into bold accessories, unique jewelry, and statement pieces to add fuel to your fiery hot self.
Capricorn
Imagine yourself in a room filled with plants, glimmering jewels, soft lighting and of course dramatic furniture to lounge on. You are hard working and determined; you love to show off your practical side and strong intellect. But you also have a profound sensitive side. A Capricorn inspired photo session will show off how you can be soft and vulnerable, and sophisticated in doing so!
What is so incredible with this Earth sign is that you manage to balance the power of your seriousness and your sensuality!
Aquarius
The Aquarius themed photoshoot is for the out of the box thinkers, creatives and leaders! Aquarius, you’re the air sign that doesn’t follow the pack; you aim to be different because that’s what calls you. You love anything that is unique and unexpected, and you pull off this vibe so perfectly.
You’ll be drawn to a new setting that no one has experienced yet, or intimate close ups that surround you in a soft white light. You may choose to go full on au naturel in your shoot, or dress in the most colorful lingerie you can possibly find. Imagination is your only limit here, so be inspired by this sign when you want to step out of your comfort zone to capture your strength and grace.
Pisces
With our final sign of the zodiac, experience your vivid daydreams captured in stills! This water sign lives to dream, to create and be curious. The Pisces inspired shoot will feel ethereal, with flowing luxe fabrics, gentle candle light, and maybe even a waterfall (outdoor boudoir anyone?). Breathe in some fragrant incense and let the camera show your full form, highlighting your delicate details and your romantic environment.
This water sign’s energy may be too shy at times for that close up, and instead embrace the mood of the room, the energy of the Pisces experience. Use Piscean inspiration to live out a fantasy vision or dream-like quality that only your creative mind can conjure.
Was it a Match Made in the Stars?
How did you match up? Is your sun sign your perfect astrology-themed boudoir inspiration? Or was it your Venus? Something else? Let us know in the comments!
And if you’ve identified your perfect astrology inspired boudoir shoot and you’re ready to share it, check out my Aries birthday sale and schedule your free photoshoot consultation today!
About Melanie The Journey Witch
photo of The Journey Witch by Cassandra Panek
My name is Melanie. I am a meditation coach, yoga instructor and intuitive mentor. I love art, witchcraft, mindfulness, the tarot, folk practices, intuition, dreams… the list goes on and on! Through a combination of the above elements, I help people connect with their spirituality and make it work within their busy schedules.
Balancing our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual selves is such a big focus in my teachings. Connecting with each layer not only helps us thrive, but allows us to embrace our power, intuition and confidence in all facets of life.
I am currently celebrating the SpringEquinox and the astrological new year with a 30 Day Challenge, where each day we address a physical, mental, emotional or spiritual layer. For only 5 to 10 minutes a day, we are going to first choose one layer to start with. There is a follow-along 30 day calendar so you can easily mark off your completion each day. As each week builds we will add a second, third, and fourth layer to look at so that our habits begin to build! The goal for the end of the 30 days is to begin seeing what you want to add more into your life, reconnect with yourself through these self-care habits, and feel the importance of continuing these habits onward!
And the best part: I’m introducing the Healthy, Happy Witch challengeas a PayWhatYouCan offer! Depending on what works for you, I want this offer to be accessible to anyone!
You will be part of a private Instagram group + daily check ins to cheer one another on! It is not too late to jump in and get started after Day 1! Please reach out to me for more information and to secure your spot!
Sign up now for more information on Healthy, Happy Witch:
You’re invited to be the star of the birthday boudoir party! This limited-time discount is to celebrate my birthday, but you can use it to your advantage. Now is the perfect time to schedule your own birthday photoshoot if your special day falls between May and November! Or to celebrate any other occasion that makes you want to be camera-facing.
Why am I doing this? I wasn’t really feeling my milestone birthday in 2024, so I’m going big this year and want you to join me.
Introducing Muse Sessions!
Introducing Muse Sessions, a special gift for my VIP mailing list subscribers in celebration of me, your favorite Aries menace, in this, the month of my birth!
Muse Sessions are a buy-one-get-one-nearly-free opportunity to get two entire photoshoots for only a little more than the price of one! Why?
Because seeing your beautiful face just once isn’t enough 🙂
Book one solo deluxe session for May/June/July/August of 2025 and get a themed mini session in August/September/October/November of 2025 for only $250! That’s over $1100 in savings, holy cow!
Two sessions, two dates, two looks, two sets! Because you’re so nice you should treat yourself twice. We’re grown now; it’s time for medium treat behavior.
Solo Deluxe vs. Themed Minis
Both sessions include all the goodies detailed on our “What’s included in a luxury boudoir session” page—hair and makeup, wardrobe assistance, pose coaching and more! Both sessions include a video chat image reveal and our signature masterful retouching.
Solo deluxe sessions are a little longer, allowing for more looks/outfit changes during the session. The package comes with more edits, and a discount on any add-ons including albums, prints, and collections.
Themed mini sessionswill be a specific set based on your session date! Some are simple, some are elaborate, all are fun! If you’re a returning client and the theme for the date you’d like to book is one you’ve done before, I’m happy to discuss alternatives for you so you can have some thing new to you!
If you’ve had trouble choosing which style of session you want in the past, this is the promo for you because you just get both!
Celebrate a milestone, a birthday, or any occasion with Neon Velvet Studio this year! 🖤
Can’t wait to see you for my birthday! xoxo, your favorite Aries (maybe?)
The Birthday Boudoir Sale’s Fine Print
**Fine print: Can’t be combined with other offers, discounts, contests, or previously scheduled sessions. For sessions booked in the month of March 2025 for the date ranges listed above. For sessions in the Neon Velvet boudoir photo studio home base only, unless otherwise specified.
Invoice must be paid in full before 1st session; if you want a longer payment plan you can use Affirm/Klarna buy now pay later! All your options can be discussed in your free pre-booking consultation.
What Clients are Saying
“I have worked with Cassie numerous times. And every time she impresses me more and more. She is so creative and fun to work with. Whether it’s her project idea or mine. She knocks it out every time. She is one of my top favorite female artists!”
Most of you know me here for my work as a photographer. But in my leisure time I’m also a mixed media artist and painter! I’m mostly a self-taught artist and mostly paint for fun. So it’s always such an honor to participate in art shows as a painter. On February 8th I joined the 3rd annual Heart of Gold fundraiser, contributing my newest painting for the silent auction.
Gold Door Gallery in Hatboro has been hosting Heart of Gold since the gallery (which shares walls with Deleted Scene Tattoo Removal) opened. The annual fundraiser’s proceeds benefit different lovingly chosen organizations and foundations each year. Hannah’s receptions are always filled with nice people and tasty snacks, and I make a few new friends among the artists and art admirers at every show.
If you’re unfamiliar with the idea, Heart Shows are art shows where all the artists work on heart-shaped canvases/surfaces. Heart, get it? Philly has a bunch, hosted by various galleries and orgs. They’re often around Valentine’s Day, drawing artists of all styles, levels, and notoriety. 2025’s only unifying theme was the canvas, so Heart of Gold had a great variety of mediums and moods on display.
This year I picked up canvas blanks for myself and two fellow artist friends. After a few thumbnail sketches I decided to do a pop culture homage. That’s how I started on this Tanya McQuoid art, in honor of the White Lotus character played so impeccably by Jennifer Coolidge. Santa Cipolla, the diva of Palermo!
Santa Cipolla, 2025. acrylic on canvas
It’s rare that I’m timely on anything but it was fun to get this finished and hung in time for both the gallery show and The White Lotus s3 premiere! Hannah was also kind enough to include a few of my romantic art pieces on the sale table. If you see anything you like, my Valentine’s cards and other prints are available here.
My piece is one of a dozen still for sale if you’d like to buy art and contribute to a good cause at the same time. The 2025 beneficiary organization is the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention! There are some really cool pieces by artists from Philly and the surrounding area available.
And if you love to see behind the scenes videos of the painting process, here you go:
“I’ve worked with Cassie several times now for my business and every time I’m blown away with the images she captures! Each time I think it’s the best shoot we’ve ever done… until the next one, and then THAT’S the best one. She always makes me and our models feel comfortable and confident, she pays … Continue reading Johanna S.→
If you’ve clicked around my portfolio it’s probably no secret that I love to shoot black and white photos! Maybe you’re with me! Please enjoy this collection of my black and white boudoir photography. But if you’re still on the fence, give me a chance to inspire you!
Why Black and White?
Boudoir photos in black and white are a classic for a reason. Whether it’s the rich and cinematic clear contrast of Hollywood’s Golden Age or the lo-fi grit and matte black and white tones of expired film from the 70s-90s, it creates a mood, drama, and intimacy. Monochrome is so personalizable. It helps me give a gritty punk client their DIY venue vibe, or a burlesque performer their perfect backstage sensual glamour session.
Explore Your Darkness and Find Your Light
As a boudoir photographer I love the way that black and white photography really makes light matter. When you remove color from an image it allows the eye to really pay attention to focus and contrast. It helps me shape a dramatic silhouette! Create anonymous boudoir images using shadows! Emphasize a body’s strength or softness.
Shooting in black and white is flattering for everyone, no matter your size, race, or gender. It’s hot for couples. It can help your bridal boudoir session vibe match with your wedding photos. Monochrome can help highlight your favorite features.
Black and White: Beautiful in Print
Black and white boudoir prints make gorgeous art pieces people are delighted to display in their homes. I love to print them on metal, which gives a magical lustrous shimmer that makes the tones shine. Bonus: they can hang safely on a wall without framing, if you’re into minimalism or still waiting for the perfect thrifted frame to find you.
Black and white photos interspersed with color images from the same session can add some drama and extra visual interest to albums. It can draw attention to favorite frames in your keepsake album.
I advocate for them when a client is having a tough time choosing between two beautiful but similar images—each can be a distinct work of art with tonal change and creative cropping.
Can You Have the Best of Both Worlds?
Yes. The best part of the digital age is that you don’t have to commit to an all color or all black and white session!
Most of my sessions are fully digital (with exception to special polaroid/instax bonuses for people pre-purchasing collections!), so you can get edits from your boudoir session in lush vivid color and romantic black and white. This goes for photos and videos.
Just like my color images, black and white photos are lovingly retouched to deliver luxurious, cinematic, and timeless boudoir portraits that show you as absolute art.
Enough Talk, Cassie! ON to the Black and White Photo Gallery!
“Getting boudoir shots was always on my bucket list, but getting them done with Cassie made the whole thing that much more special. She was super supportive and made sure I was comfortable with every aspect of the experience. I had a rough patch several months before my session (the passing of one of my … Continue reading Rommy D.→
“Is it silly to write my own testimonial? Maybe! But I’ve done self-portraits for years and hired other photographers too, and I believe that seeing lovingly crafted art featuring yourself is a transformative experience. Doing sessions for myself has made me love parts of my body I never expected to, and revealed the way my … Continue reading Cassie→
Put Some Love in the air with a Valentine’s Day boudoir shoot
I’m an elder goth, the absolute last person you’d expect to get fired up about Valentine’s Day. And you’re right; I don’t care about it as a commercial occasion. But I love it as a themed boudoir session opportunity! These can feel more playful than a classic boudoir photoshoot because they’re colorful and can involve cute props. Valentine’s Day has always been campy and Valentine’s boudoir is too. Want hot pink femme euphoria? Got it! Or maybe you’re a them fatale. Iconic widow robe vibes. Or you want to dress up like a powder-blue fox and wear heart-shaped pasties. I’m for it.
There are three types of people I think Valentine’s Day boudoir sessions are perfect for:
People in love
People out of love
Happy singles
Let’s get into it!
People In Love
Got that special someone you want to be sure is thinking of you when you’re thinking of them? Nothing says love like the personal and sensual gift of sexy photos! Flowers are beautiful and candy is nice, but a custom photo album will last forever. Valentine’s Day boudoir sessions are a little sweet, a little spicy. Use them to set the romantic vibe for the year to follow.
Or really lean in and schedule a Deluxe Couples Session with your sweetie! You’ll be together forever in your album and prints, memorialized for the hot pair you are.
People Out of Love
Look babe, I get it. Heartbreak hurts. But sometimes the best way to move on is to be so hot they regret everything. Make them cry. Let them regret. Block their number. You’re hot and you’ve moved on. You’re dressing for revenge. You are a sultry siren ready to break the heart that broke yours, and maybe a few others on the way. I don’t judge. That’s for god and drag queens to do.
These photos are for you, but maybe they’re for the internet too. So let’s accentuate your favorite features and get you feeling fire again. And if you want extra moral support, book back-to-back sessions with your pal for Galentine’s Day and make it a party.
Happy Singles
Welcome to the Self Love Club! You’re living your glorious unattached life and this session is about you creating a glamorous archive of self-adoration. I love the other kinds of sessions but between you and me, this is my favorite one. You’ve got no one to prove anything to but yourself, and it’s time for a luxurious little treat. Like those expensive bath bombs, but much longer-lasting.
Get glamorous with professional hair and makeup styling, have a dress up dream in the Client Closet, and pose your heart out! You can be sweet or spicy or a bit of both! I’ve got time! You’re on a journey to fall in love with the most important person in your life—yourself.
If you’ve made it this far I just need you to know that at some point writing this I confused St. Valentine with St. Sebastian and barely course corrected in time. But like… if somebody wants to do a St. Sebastian-themed session I think that would slap. Love you. Please sign up for my mailing list if you want to.
What Clients are Saying
“The studio atmosphere and beautiful set made me feel comfortable and creative, with room to play around and indulge in finding poses and character moments.”
with trans inclusive and LGBTQ friendly Photographer Cassandra Panek
What’s Going On?
With the support of Wax Poetic Clothing I’m hosting a day of free professional headshots for trans and non-binary writers, artists, creators, and makers in Philadelphia! If you’re a trans realtor or something I’m not going to turn you away, but my headshot style is a little funky and a lawyer or executive probably won’t be getting the right vibe.
Come get a new headshot and/or network a little, say hi, and shop Wax Poetic Clothing’s racks of new clothing and sale items!
Why am I doing this?
To spread a little joy and light to my friends in the trans community. You matter. Your art matters. I can’t hire you all or buy all your art and books, but I can do this to help you on your professional journey! From each according to their ability, etc.
Who Am I?
I’m Cassandra Panek (she/they), the owner of Neon Velvet Studio! I’m a queer artist and trans inclusive and LGBTQ friendly photographer based in Philadelphia. If you click around on this site you’ll see my primary work is boudoir photography for queer people and our allies, but I also do bespoke branding work and a few other things like fashion lookbooks (which is how I met Johanna of Wax Poetic Clothing, our other host!) and food photography. I’m a little silly and had to work really hard not to title this Headshot Photography Gay. Want to read more about me?
hi! I’m Cassie!
Where’s The Studio?
Wax Poetic Clothing’s studio is located on the 4th floor of the Bok Building in South Philly! (It’s accessible by elevator; please check out Bok’s website if you have specific accessibility questions, and if the site doesn’t have an answer email me and I’ll try to find out)
When is the Event?
Monday, February 17th, 2025 from 1pm-4pm. Appointment times will be scheduled, but please come early or stay late to chat and socialize!
What Else Do I Need To Know?
If you only want to come by and say hi or browse Wax Poetic Clothing’s pop up shop you can do that! If you’d like headshots please use the form below to sign up. Sessions are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis; if they fill up I’ll create a wait-list.
I’ll be posting about this on instagram and bluesky; please drop any Q’s you have and I’ll answer!
What Clients are Saying
“I have worked with Cassie multiple times now, on a variety of projects, over years. She has a unique eye for visuals and can work magic to bring the imagined to life. To top it off, every single shoot I have done with her has been with kindness, relatability, respect, fun, and overall enjoyment. Cassie … Continue reading Kat L.→
Want to be part of the winning team? Vote here, and be sure to follow all the instructions. If you’re a robot, please ask a human friend to vote on your behalf.
✧ Last year’s posts about voting brought hundreds of new eyes to my work! Literally hundreds of people who might not have otherwise known about me. For a small local business, that’s huge. I’m so grateful for it, and for the chance to grow my network again this year.
✧ The voting process involves a few steps and a few minutes of your time. Some people—no matter how much they love my work—won’t do that, so every vote really counts and I appreciate any and all help to spread the word!
✧ It feels more important than ever for LGBTQ+ artists and queer-owned businesses to be represented and visible for our community and for our allies!
✧ I’ve been a Montco resident since I moved to the Philly metro in 2002, which officially means I’ve been here more than half my life! I love being part of the community here, and the more people who know about me, the more I get to meet and make gorgeous photos of!
✧ 2024 was a difficult and often demoralizing year and 2025 is already bringing its own complications; a win would make me feel very appreciated for the queer joyful work I’m putting into the world.
“Is it silly to write my own testimonial? Maybe! But I’ve done self-portraits for years and hired other photographers too, and I believe that seeing lovingly crafted art featuring yourself is a transformative experience. Doing sessions for myself has made me love parts of my body I never expected to, and revealed the way my … Continue reading Cassie→
“I’ve worked with Cassie for maternity photos, headshots, and boudoir. In each of these very different contexts she made me feel both comfortable and creative, and the end products were beautiful representations of me.”
For as long as we’ve had bodies and art, artists have been celebrating the wonderful beauty of the nude figure. Bodies of all shapes, sizes, colors and genders doing all kinds of fantastic activities and luxurious lounging! Stark ass naked, wearing nothing but a smile, or occasionally a little drape of lovely fabric! I’ll be sharing a few examples from classical art with you today because I’m a nerd, and also because if I share nude boudoir photos directly in this post I won’t be able to share the post anywhere.
If you’d like to see the nude boudoir photography I’ve created, I’ll be linking that at the bottom of the page. Apologies for the inconvenience, but let’s pretend it’s a fun scavenger hunt.
“After the Bath,” by Giovanni Boldini
There’s something wonderful and timeless about nudity; the human form is beautiful and largely unchanging on a cosmic scale. A body won’t be dated by fad wardrobe (though maybe by poofy 80s hairdos). The human physique is frankly a marvel. I’m obsessed.
Titian’s “Venus with a Mirror”
What is Nude Boudoir?
Like all boudoir, artistic nude portraits are intimate. They’re vulnerable to make and share. And the end results are often very powerful! Posture and posing matter so much; as a model you’re using your body to tell a story, set a scene, create a mood. Marry that with setting and lighting, and we can build a cinematic masterpiece in three simple steps (none of these steps are simple but that’s a future blog post).
A nude boudoir photoshoot has a lot in common with a regular boudoir session: it should be fun, something you’re excited for! Please never do anything that makes you uncomfortable. It’s never mandatory to show more skin than you want to. This artistic collaboration is all about enthusiastic consent!
Because comfort levels are unique and personal, open honest communication and a consultation are especially important to me for sessions like this. It’s important to find an artist you vibe with! You deserve to feel confident, comfortable, and safe with your photographer, regardless of what you are—or aren’t—wearing.
All Nude Boudoir Is Not Created Equal
How nude is nude? Let’s begin with a quick breakdown of types of nudity!
Non-explicit nudity: Honestly this is all wildly subjective, but my definition would include all the classical art included in this post.
Explicit/sexual nudity: NSFW. Nudity in situations designed to arouse. You can see how this gets vague depending on your worldview, right?
Implied nudes: Might be considered SFW depending on the details. Nudity is suggested to the viewer, but nothing spicy is visible in the image–it’s covered in fabric drape, a towel, or even a particularly deep shadow. Historically this could include obscuring intimate parts with a hand, but social media censors consider this “sexual touching,” so today an implied nude with a ‘hand bra’ would be flagged as sexually suggestive content—a great example of how the creation and reception of art are both interrelated with the times and circumstances in which they’re made.
The cool thing about implied nudity is that you don’t need to be fully naked to create this style of image; a model for boudoir implied nudes could still be wearing pasties, a thong or low-profile pair of underwear, a modesty pouch. Illusion at work!
“Aurora,” by François Boucher
Nude Boudoir is For You If:
✧ You hate worrying about what to wear. ✧ You’re in touch with your sensual side and the idea of nude photos of yourself thrills you. ✧ You want to star in timeless fine art nude portraits. ✧ This isn’t your first boudoir rodeo and you want to try something new! ✧ You love art history and long to recline dramatically on soft pillows, possibly eating symbolic fruit. ✧ You never want to be able to share the images on instagram (I joke, but I kinda don’t joke) ✧ It’s time to commemorate a moment in time with your body. Maybe it will be changing soon, going through a major life transition! Maybe you just love it as-is! Or maybe this is part of your journey to loving your body in all its present glory. ✧ Your favorite feature would otherwise be obscured by an outfit: maybe you love the natural shape of your unadorned butt or hip dips, or your bra strap covers part of your favorite tattoo! ✧ You don’t feel you can move and pose freely in clothes!
What Do I Do with My Artistic Nude Portraits?
I knew somebody who put a 24×36″ gorgeous fine art nude image of themselves in their guest bathroom where any visitor could see it. Other clients order discreet 5×7″ print collections in a custom keepsake box, or small albums that are easy to hide from tiny household fingers but can be viewed by the subject (and friends?) at will! Some clients ask me to submit their photo sessions to magazines because they want the world to see. Some people go all-digital, and text their bespoke nudes. I keep a boudoir photo of my partner as my phone lock screen. My partner has a polaroid of me in their wallet. Some people put their boudoir nudes on onlyfans for the world to see.
As always, nude images or clothed, the photos we make together are totally private. I don’t post them unless you choose to sign a model release allowing me to share one, some, or all of them!
You wouldn’t put a robe on the statue of David, would you? This cc0 image of Michelangelo’s David photographed by Guy Percival
“The studio atmosphere and beautiful set made me feel comfortable and creative, with room to play around and indulge in finding poses and character moments.”
Bonus content: if you’d like to read more about any of the artworks I’ve included here, great info is available about them and other public domain works through the National Gallery of Art.
I’m getting in early for once, instead of scrambling to put together a Black Friday boudoir sale at the last minute! Is this growth? The High Roller Collections are back in extremely limited numbers. And since I’m so excited about this year’s special edition session, I’m sharing it early too!
You’ll get two hair and makeup looks for double the fun! Plus multiple wardrobe changes and one or two sets, whichever best suits the concept we come up with. And if you’re feeling bold and want to share with the world, I’ll help you submit your photos as a magazine editorial to some publications.
And as always I love to reward my regulars: If this isn’t your first session with me, you get a complimentary bonus edit!
In addition to showing appreciation for friends and family, you should show yourself some love too–with beautiful boudoir photos!
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Your Exclusive Black Friday Boudoir Session Includes:
✧ A pre-session consultation to get you feeling prepared and excited for your experience! ✧ Professional hair and makeup styling by one of my favorite local artists to help you feel pampered and relaxed. Since this editorial boudoir session includes two gorgeous glam hair and makeup looks, expect to spend extra time here getting your look switched up! ✧ The location (most sessions take place in my home studio, unless otherwise specified/discussed) ✧ Access to my client closet! This is a great way to add variety and spice to the favorite outfits you bring (I have sizes S-4X; if you fall outside this size range I’m always shopping for new pieces and am happy to add to my collection in your size!) ✧ Pose coaching, hype, and guidance through the entire process! I have over a decade of experience photographing people, so you’ve got nothing to worry about if you’re nervous or have no experience in front of the camera. ✧ Approximately 45 minutes of session time in one or two sets. This is enough time for multiple outfits! ✧ A post-session image reveal appointment to view and select your images ✧ Your six favorite images, edited for digital delivery, web sharing, or submission to publications! And if you’re a returning client, you get a bonus image, on me!
Fine Print
✧ To receive the special promotion, you must schedule your session, sign your contract, and pay your retainer during the sale period (now-Dec 1, 2024) ✧ Specialty sessions are limited availability, and will be scheduled on a first come, first served basis. When they’re sold out, they’re sold out! ✧ These are solo sessions only! If you’d like to do photos with your boo or your bestie, you can book two back to back sessions on the same date, availability permitting. ✧ Sessions can be gifted but they must be paid in full if the buyer is not the user. ✧ Any add-ons (prints, albums, additional images) selected at the time of your image reveal are not eligible for payment plans through me. You can put them on a credit card or pay however you like, but it needs to be paid in full in my accounting system!
Schedule your consultation and reserve your date for your two-look special editorial boudoir session, or indulge in extra self-care with an extremely limited edition high roller package!
Ready for some Black Friday boudoir editorial inspiration?
Treat yourself or someone else with our Black Friday boudoir specials! We offer gift certificates from $100+ so you can give someone part or all of a session. And if you’re particularly forward-thinking with an eye on birthdays, anniversaries, or the 2025 (I know!) holiday season, you can use this Black Friday sale to score some unique photo session packages to use throughout the year.
Savor the whole experience and keep the mementos for yourself, or order albums and prints as a gift for someone who’ll love to see the sensual side of you.
In the spirit of giving, take 15% off a la carte items when you add on to any session at the time of scheduling. We accept credit cards and offer pre-payment plans for people who wish to break their order into installments.
