7 Boudoir Photographers in DC Who Empower Behind the Lens

These DMV pros will help your confidence shine through.
kim forrest the knot
by
Kim Forrest
kim forrest the knot
Kim Forrest
Senior Editor
  • Kim writes and edits articles for The Knot Worldwide, specializing in etiquette and planning advice
  • Kim manages freelance writers for The Knot Worldwide
  • Prior to The Knot Worldwide, Kim was Associate Bridal Editor at Washingtonian magazine and Associate Fashion Editor at Conde Nast’s Brides Local magazines
Updated May 28, 2024

Whether you want a special gift for your partner or just capture your confidence, boudoir photography can be a fun and empowering experience—as long as you find the right pro. Fortunately, there are lots of options for boudoir photographers in the DC area, and many pros are catching on to this photography trend. When looking for boudoir photography in DC, you not only want a pro who's creative and experienced, but also one who makes you feel comfortable, confident and beautiful—especially important when you're in front of a camera in barely-there attire.

We're sharing some of the top pros for boudoir photography in the Washington, DC area. If you're looking for even more options, The Knot Vendor Marketplace makes it super-easy to find the right pro. Simply search for photographers near you, and then select the boudoir filter under the "More Filters" section.

Boudoir by Julie Socher in Alexandria, Virginia

As a member of the Association of International Boudoir photographers, Julie Socher specializes in helping clients step outside their comfort zone and honor their individuality. She's exclusively focused on boudoir photography for over 12 years, and guides each client to "recognize the beauty in herself that others see" and "step into her power and be seen as strong, beautiful and sensual—a masterpiece!" She works out of her own studio loft in Alexandria, Virginia.

    • Years of Experience: Over 13 years
    • What Couples Love: Socher makes clients feel at ease, and makes the boudoir experience fun. Her photos are beautiful and creative.

      Capitol Bombshell in Frederick, Maryland

      If you're looking for boudoir photography in the DC area with a vintage twist, check out Capitol Bombshell in Frederick. Photographer Luigi Crespo and his all-female team don't "remodel, revamp, or make-over, rather, we enhance, strengthen and reinforce the individualized beauty in each of our bombshells." Capitol Bombshell offers several packages which include hair and makeup (the client brings their own outfits). Albums, prints and digital files are all available. Fans of retro pin-up style photography will absolutely love Crespo's work.

        • Years of Experience: Over 13 years
        • What Couples Love: Crespo's photos are fun and flirty, and clients love how he makes them feel comfortable in their own skin.

        Boudoir by Debbie Ringle in Fredericksburg, Virginia

        A boudoir photo shoot should be a fun and empowering experience, and Fredericksburg-based Debbie Ringle gives her clients all that and more. Her natural, relaxed style is ideal for those who want to feel like the best version of themselves in front of the camera. Says one client: "I truly walked out of my session with Debbie with a completely different opinion of myself and of boudoir photography. I walked in self conscious, bummed that I didn't lose weight before my session, nervous, anything that you think you could feel I probably was feeling. I walked out feeling empowered, beautiful, confident and like that session went way too fast because I was having so much fun!"

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          • Years of Experience: Over 12 years
          • What Couples Love: Debbie's laid-back style makes clients feel instantly relaxed, and she lets their natural beauty shine through in her images.

          KAMlens Photography in Washington, DC

          Washington, DC-based KAMlens Photography (photographers Amanda and Kayla) won the 2024 Best of Weddings Award from The Knot. Clients rave about these creative and talented photographers' ability to bring out their inner confidence. The vibe here is all about "harnesses your inner goddess," all the while creating elegant and intimate images. Packages start at $800 and include hair and makeup—they also travel. One recent client shares: "The pictures these girls gave me were amazing—so beautiful and will forever be treasured. The experience was even better! They were so much fun to work with, and really listened to what I was looking for."

          • What Couples Love: Photographers Amanda and Kayla win raves for being personable and fun, putting clients at ease during what can be a vulnerable experience.

          DC Boudoir Photography in Washington, DC

          According to Washington, DC boudoir photographer Lauren Miller's website, "my goal is to create a safe space for you to honor and celebrate your body." At DC Boudoir Photography, former wedding photographer Miller promises both beautiful images and a newfound confidence and self-love for her clients. Before each session, Miller provides her clients with a "Boudoir Bible" that shares everything from what to wear (and where to shop) to how to approach the photoshoot. Sessions take place at Miller's Capitol Hill studio, and no minimum purchase is required. Several packages are available, and you can add on professional hair and makeup to ensure you look and feel your very best.

            • Years of Experience: Over 12 years
            • What Couples Love: Couples rave about Miller's ability to boost their confidence, and her positive and friendly nature, as well as her creative and stunning images.

            Black Lace Boudoir in Fredericksburg, Virginia

            Photographer Rami Thompson of Black Lace Boudoir in Fredericksburg creates a luxurious experience for her clients, including full professional makeup, a closet of attire to choose from, refreshments and a same-day reveal of your images right after your photoshoot. Thompson's work is ideal for those who want to go full glam for their boudoir experience, and her images look like something out of a magazine. Packages start at $600 and albums, canvas prints and digital files are all available. Says one client: "Rami really knew how to make me feel confident, relaxed and beautiful. I know this was a gift for my fiance but it became a gift for myself also."

            • Years of Experience: Over 16 years
            • What Couples Love: Black Lace Boudoir provides a completely all-inclusive experience, with outfits, hair and makeup and more, and Thompson's images are creative and unique.

              Shelly Pate Photography in Washington, DC

              DC boudoir and wedding photographer Shelly Pate describes her boudoir shots as "flirty, sexy and sultry" and we couldn't agree more! Her sessions are all about boosting her clients' confidence, and showcase their best assets. She encourages her clients to bring both sexy lingerie and "chill" pieces, like an oversized tee and boy shorts, for more casual shots. "Shelly did a boudoir session for me and completely blew me away," says one client. "She made me feel super comfortable, was super patient with me, and gave clear directions on how to move around and pose resulting in some amazing shots!"

                • Years of Experience: Over 10 years
                • What Couples Love: Couples appreciate Pate's patience and ability to empower her clients, as well as her artistic and creative talents.
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