Guinea Pig #37: Boudoir Photo Shoot
When I saw Anthony Parazo’s booth at the Spring Wedding Show, my attention was immediately drawn to a little black book of alluring photographs. It sat demurely beside his wedding photography portfolio, and was full of sexy and romantic images that looked like they came out of a glossy fashion magazine. Ruth, his wife and business partner explained that in addition to offering wedding photos and head shots, Anthony also does “boudoir” photo shoots.
Hearing the word “boudoir photo shoot” may remind you of the over-coiffed “Glamour Shots” that were popular in the 80s and 90s, or maybe even that iconic George Castanza photo from Seinfeld, but let me assure you that that these photos bore no resemblance at all!
In the name of science, I decided to participate in a boudoir photo shoot. I’m not much of a girly-girl, and I literally did not own even one piece of lingerie, so I figure if Anthony can bring out my inner vixen, he can do the same for anyone.
Procedure:
The first step was a professional makeup application by Anthony’s makeup artist, Jessica. I was going for a natural, dewy look (nothing too heavy or smoky, mostly because my boyfriend doesn’t like it when I wear a lot of make-up), and Jessica transformed me from being nervous and tired into the best possible version of myself. I can honestly say I have never looked so good.
After the makeup application, the shoot began. I changed in and out of three different outfits, and posed in three different rooms of a beautiful home in Rosedale. At first, being semi-undressed in front of strangers was a little unnerving, but the crew’s professionalism put me at ease, not to mention the fact that if anyone was uncomfortable, it was Anthony, since he was the lone man in a room full of women. The other thing that made me relax (despite wearing some sexy shapewear – no easy feat) was seeing how well the shots were coming out. It was an instant confidence-boost.
Analysis/Results:
A few days after the shoot, Anthony sent me the proofs and my jaw literally dropped. The photographs were absolutely stunning and exactly what I was hoping for: seductive, but not at all slutty. A few of the photos would be excellent as head shots, while others, where my back is to the camera, are more artistic.
Conclusions:
I thought doing a boudoir photo shoot was going to be uncomfortable and nerve-wracking, but it was actually a lot of fun. It's amazing how a professional photo crew can make you feel relaxed and beautiful, even while you're wearing next to nothing. The best part of the experience was despite meeting me only days before, I feel like Anthony really captured my personality. Take a look at the gallery and see for yourself!
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Photo shoots are $850 for individuals and $350/person for "marathon" shoots (4+ people), and include a professional makeup application. Couples' shoots are also available. Each package includes a 10-page 4x6 album with retouched and enhanced prints.
For more information, visit http://www.anthonyparazo.com/.
Written by: Erin Jackson