Why Blogging Is Important for Boudoir Photographers... or Is It?

Boudoir photographs are by their very nature intimate and revealing, and therefore they are sexually provocative. Deciding you want them of yourself has been described to me as… exciting, exhilarating, liberating, and even life-changing. But for many, those feelings quickly turn to apprehension and anxiety as they ponder the reality of actually doing it. Some proceed, more do not, and that equates to fewer clients for my boudoir photography business.

So, what is it that stops a woman from moving beyond that initial decision to actually fulfilling her desire? In my experience it is unanswered questions. And without answers that satisfy her, nothing more will happen. The challenge, then, is anticipating those questions and providing a way for her to find the answers. That’s why I write many of the blog articles I do. But until recently, I didn’t fully understand how important they can be—especially in answering those difficult-for-her-to-ask questions that more often than not remain unasked… and, if left unanswered, become show-stoppers.

A couple of weeks ago, I received an email from an engaging young woman asking about boudoir photography. There were, of course, the usual questions about location, price, and product, but what was most interesting to me was that she had navigated beyond the galleries and was reading my articles.

After several email exchanges and a telephone conversation, she decided to become a client. And given that she lives and works in a different part of the country, this was no small decision. So I asked what motivated her to choose us. Was it our work? The products we offered? Well, they counted, of course, but no, they weren’t what made the difference. For her, it was the blog articles. She wrote, “I think those blogs are wonderful because it does let us know who you are as a person and your attitude towards your work/life.”

Those blog articles answered her unasked questions and helped her feel connected to us in a way that would have been otherwise impossible. But how important were those articles to her in making the decision to become a client? And had my only online presence been a gallery or blog that failed to address those difficult questions, would she have been at all interested in our services? I asked and here is her answer:

As for your question, your blogs were VERY important when making my decision. I emailed a handful of people whose galleries I liked (tastefully done, looked authentic, and the models were non-professional). You are the only one who is not located within driving distance (and the only male photographer). The big reason why I contacted you (despite the distance) was your blog; I really felt that you “understood” my needs!! I contacted the others because they were in my area.

Another thing I should add is that I felt comfortable contacting you because of your blog article, “Is Gender Important?” I didn’t come across many male boudoir photographers, but all of those things you mention in your blog are definitely questions that cross one’s mind. In your blog, you convinced me that there is a benefit in going to a male photographer (I completely agree with your article), but I did wonder about the attitudes of other male photographers who don’t address that issue head on. So, I chose you because you were the one who actually addressed it.

For boudoir photographers, or any photographer doing intimate work for private clients, the lesson here isn’t that blogging per se is important, it’s that what you blog about is very important. It will set you apart.

Today’s Image: Rose

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Comments

[Ed]

We have essentially the same experience with our clients. Many have expressed their love for the photographs on our portfolio and blog. But still several have stated that the articles on our site and our blog have helped them make the final decision.

Yes, blogs are very useful in this regard. They help people get to know you, how you think about your work, philosophy, demeanor, etc.

As for photographer gender: It's really a matter of personal preference for the client. I've noticed that our clients prefer the idea of getting a male's perspective when it comes to sexy and sensual pictures of women. Some may feel that posing for a woman comes with a little competitive or judgmental baggage.

As a matter of fact, I've noticed fewer women arriving with a female friend to their shoots. Opting, of course, to make this a concentrated effort without distractions, or the potential self-conscious feelings and awkwardness that might come with having an "observer" there.

Great post, Will.

[Orcatek]

I agree. I too have found that clients are enjoying reading my blog. I often get comments on how much information I provide that all their questions are answered. More and more the calls are to schedule an appointment, not to ask questions.

[Rebecca]

Hi Will,
Thank you for finding me through the internet maze and taking the time to comment on my blog. As it turns out, I worked with a photographer this morning using me to start building a portfolio for boudoir photography and I immediately directed him to this page. Such useful information here! You are doing a great service to a lot of interested people!

Rebecca

[Lin]

Great article, Will and very well written. I agree completely.
Our clients and potential models all tell us that they find out "who we really are" via our blog.

Blogging enables readers to feel like they really know you (this is true to some extent, but not all) and more importantly to feel as if they have a bond with you. When seeking potential clients, this can only be a good thing.

[Susan]

Hmmm. Thanks for this interesting blog. I don't always make time for blogging, but while I have learned it's important for my portraiture business, now that I've spun off with a new boudoir-specific site, it seems I'd better ramp up my efforts on the boudoir end as well. Best wishes! Susan