Let’s be real—when people hear "male boudoir photographer," there’s often an immediate hesitation. And honestly? I get it. Women are taught from an early age to be cautious around men, and in the boudoir industry, where vulnerability is a key part of the experience, trust is everything.

There have been far too many cases of women being taken advantage of by bad actors in the photography world. The unfortunate reality is that some men have tarnished the reputation of male boudoir photographers by engaging in unethical—and even criminal—behavior. A case in San Antonio involving a male boudoir photographer accused of sexual assault is just one example of why many women are wary.

But here’s the thing: While distrust is a natural and justified reaction, I’ve found that earning trust as a male boudoir photographer isn’t as hard as it seems—if you approach it the right way.

Building Trust: It’s Not That Hard to Be a Good Human

As a male boudoir photographer, I don’t take trust lightly—it’s something I work to build from the very first interaction. Safety and comfort come first, always. And honestly, it’s not difficult if you approach it with genuine respect, transparency, and open communication.

One of the biggest things I advocate for is client control. Clients should feel completely in charge of their session—whether it’s setting boundaries, bringing a friend for support, or voicing any concerns. In fact, I actively encourage clients to bring someone along—not just for safety, but because having a close friend in the room makes the experience way more fun. We all become this little hype team, boosting confidence and making sure every shot is exactly what the client wants.

A while back, I had the chance to sit down with model Mitzy Venus to talk about safety in the modeling industry. She shared some powerful insights on creating a safe environment, including the importance of clear communication, knowing your rights, and trusting your instincts. (If you haven’t read that interview yet, I highly recommend it—you can check it out here.) Everything she said applies directly to boudoir photography, too.

The Unexpected Advantage of a Male Boudoir Photographer

Now, I won’t pretend that being a male photographer is a disadvantage across the board. In fact, one of the biggest pieces of feedback I get from clients—especially those booking boudoir sessions as a gift for their partners—is that I offer a unique perspective.

A lot of women come in wanting to create something special for their significant other, but when I ask, "What does he find most attractive about you?" or "What’s something he absolutely loves?" I’m often met with a blank stare and a shrug.

And I get it—sometimes, men aren’t the best at expressing what they love most about their partners (we could all do better there, honestly). But as a married man of over 20 years, I’ve had a lot of time to understand how men see their partners, what stands out to them, and what makes an intimate image resonate.

That perspective allows me to help guide my clients, offering ideas that highlight their unique beauty in a way that not only makes them feel incredible, but also creates a deeply personal and intimate gift for their significant other. It’s a collaborative effort, and when that trust is there, the final results are absolutely stunning.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, boudoir photography isn’t just about taking beautiful photos—it’s about creating an experience where the client feels safe, empowered, and confident. While the hesitation around male boudoir photographers is completely understandable, trust can be built when the right steps are taken.

A good boudoir photographer—male or female—prioritizes safety, respects boundaries, and ensures their client’s comfort at all times. That’s not just part of the job; it’s the foundation of the entire experience.

So, if you’re considering a boudoir session but feeling unsure about working with a male photographer, just know this: a true professional will always put you first. And if they don’t? Walk away—because you deserve nothing less than an incredible, empowering experience.

💬 What are your thoughts on this topic? Have you ever worked with a male boudoir photographer, or would you? Let’s talk in the comments!