Is “Boudoir” a Dirty Word? Let’s Talk About It.

By Madeline Lenore

Alright y’all, let’s get into it.

The word boudoir—she’s a fancy one, right? French, soft, a little sultry. She wears lipstick, maybe a silk robe. But lately, I’ve been wondering… is she also scaring some people off?

I just got back from Shutterfest, and let me tell you, the creative fire I left with could burn a hole through a softbox. One conversation that stuck with me? Sal Cincotta (yes, that Sal) pointed out something that hit real deep: some photographers are ditching the word “boudoir” altogether and rebranding under Beauty.

Wait, what? My jaw didn’t hit the floor, but she wobbled.

At first, I scoffed—“Beauty” sounds like a hair salon, right? Are we offering blowouts and updos now? Do I need to stock dry shampoo and hairspray?

But the more I sat with it, the more I realized what this shift is really about. Maybe the word “boudoir” is loaded. Maybe it makes people think, “Oh no, I could never do that,” or “That’s too sexy for me,” or worse—“My husband would kill me.”

Insert deep sigh and eyeroll here.

But here’s the thing: I’m not here to scandalize your mother-in-law. I’m here to empower you. I want women to feel seen, radiant, and a little bit wild in the best way. I don’t care if we call it boudoir, beauty, fine art, or Tuesday at 3PM. I care about the transformation. The fire. The “I can’t believe that’s me” moment when you see your photos.

So it got me thinking…

👉 Does the word boudoir push people away before they even get to the magic?
👉 Does beauty sound safer—but maybe too safe?
👉 Are we evolving the industry, or just watering it down?

I’ll be honest: I don’t have the answers yet. But I do know I want my work—and my words—to invite people in, not intimidate them.

So I’m asking you—my clients, my fellow artists, my ride-or-dies:

What comes to mind when you hear “boudoir” vs. “beauty”?
Would you be more likely to book a session labeled as one over the other?
What name feels like home to you—while still feeling bold, sexy, and empowering?

Drop your thoughts below. I’m listening.

Because no matter what we call it, I’m here to show you your power. Your softness. Your absolute badassery.

Even if it does start in a silk robe.