Boudoir Diary : Marlen James' Boudoir Photography Toronto in Action

How to do your own boudoir shoot with an iPhone

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:06:00 +0000

Inspired by my popular post "how to shoot your own boudoir photos" and this picture which tittle is:

"NUMBER ONE USE OF CAMERA PHONES THESE DAYS" (Get naked and take pictures)

Yes we have all done it. Good thing we are not famous- yet.
Now this post is about how to take your iPhone naked pictures to the next level. Here is my attempt to eradicate those pictures taken in the washroom mirror - the horror.
Fine. I can't eradicate them for good, since we still have to take a picture of the outfit we are wearing that day and post it on Facebook.

But for sexy pictures in your underwear- Please use this.

Here I go again, shaving the winter fuzz for you people. (hi everybody at my day job- it's ok they are used to me wearing crazy things)

1: Get your room ready.
My room does not look like this everyday. Everything goes into the closet and the catch all drawers.

2: IPHONE

TIMER: FOUND the perfect app for your iphone. Yes I did. It's 99 cents but so worth it. Called Camera Timer+ From appetixer.com. takes 20 pictures at 5 seconds intervals or more. You know what, you'll be using it for other sexy things if video scares you. Just sayin'. Wait a minute, my kid just showed me how to take timer pics with King Photo. Even better! editing and timer in one.

3: GET READY
Thank god for push up bras. Aren't they awesome? And my Batman undies. I nerded out for this shoot. Tips on what to wear are here.
Make up. Pile it on. Tamang Phan has some awesome tutorials. This one she creates a Victoria Secret model look. She can do anything.

5: TAKE THE PICTURES:
All right here you go, it is easier when no one is looking :). And you are actually looking at yourself in the iphone so it helps. If you are shooting video set your iphone horizontally - but for photos vertically its ok.
So start the goofiness. Use props. More tips on what to do click here Just remember, you are on your knees here so move around. Go on all fours. You can think of something :P

5: EDITING: There are tons out there. I have to say I love instagram but that is a sharing service and unless you want to share your pictures to the world keep them private. The advantage is that you could actually print a Blurb book with them.
I downloaded a couple to try out. My faves so far have been Adobe Photoshop Express and King Camera. They both let me lighten the picture. I like light! 100 cameras also has some nifty filters. All of these are compatible with instagram as well. It's a conspiracy.

Photos taken with iphone 4.

What not to do:
besides loosing your iphone with all those pictures- or sending them to a jerk


All I see is the toilet. I think I am too straight.	Nice collection of - hmm, crap on the floor-

Almost... good try, the darn toilet paper got in the way. Push that tush.	I love the water bottle there. Very Austin Powers

So if you must... this is a good example. Almost no crap and all you see is boobs. It's purpose is to tease. If you ever break up - there is no face! just awesome boobs.	And this one, you got a tattoo. Good excuse to take one as soon as you get home. You could have moved the fan a tinsy bit.

And also points for clean mirrors! Anyway- hope you get the self timer app and start having fun without holding your phone. Send me some samples. Im curios.

FAQ : Why is Boudoir Photography expensive?

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 15:33:00 +0000

Or why are you cheap? Or what it's the difference between boudoir photographers packages? Or why should I pay a regular price when I can get a groupon?

So hey! I know people look around- google Boudoir Photography Toronto and get a ton of pages- some you have to email to get the price list- hmm--. I have it all out in the open.

I consider myself middle range. Not too cheap, not too expensive. But people have asked me how I price myself in a very competitive boudoir market. It seems all of the sudden there are 144,000 results when you google boudoir photographers to choose from - yeah- you have fun.

There are a couple of things to consider in the price.
- Location:
Portrait Studio: A lot of photographers have really nice studios. So if you prefer to have a clean background and professional lighting everywhere, go for it. The pin up shoots look great on a clean background as well. The disadvantages are that there is usually no bed, and it can be a little awkward just to stand there.

Hotel Room: And there is the photographers that offer Marathons. They rent a hotel room and shoot several appointments in one day to be cost effective or sometimes they ask the client to book it, adding to the actual package price.

Boudoir Set: Some actually have the hotel room thing going in their studio. Which makes sense. Less clutter, a bed, different backdrops.

I cheat here. I am saving you money by shooting out of my place. I fixed my bedroom up to have the backdrops- lighting- white sheets, hide all the clutter.
Yes, it is a bit weird you are coming into a strangers apartment to take your clothes off, but hey- at least it's not a basement and the weirdos I live with (my son and man) are not around on the weekends. And if you like to live on the edge I am pretty sure you've done it before eh? wink wink. oh the slutty memories. ahem.

My place look like this: white carpet was a good idea at the time.

Me arranging stuff:

My hair au naturale - frizzy mess, and I need a belt.

Photos above by Melissa Aquino

- The Make up options:
Do your own: so you are good at it, go for it. Do your make up like you are going out. Vamp it up. If you can add the false eyelashes. A neat trick is to just cut one in half. WAY easier to put on yourself.

Extra for Make up artist: usually make up artists are in the range of 40-100 per application. A boudoir studio will have one that they recommend and can offer a discount on bookings

And there is me. Make up junkie included in the package. Loved make up so much I took a class after university. argh a long time ago. Learned a lot from my Glamour shot days. Boy did they pile it on. And I keep with it and justify my 4 drawer tall make up case. It's ok it has wheels.

- The Retouching and prints:

Did you read the fine print? yes you get 30 images in your package but only one is retouched. gah. So you have 29 images that it's great if you like the all- natural look and have something agains photoshop, but for me is not changing what you look like. For me is about making the white sheet, white not gray, and give an overal smoothness to the picture.
Or you have to pay extra- that is where they get you. Yes $79 dollars is a deal for a boudoir session. But look closely on what you are getting.

I make it simple my packages include 5,10, 20 or 30. Retouched images with prints. From a professional lab, not costco.

Depending on how many sexy pictures you need, or are going to give away - whatever works.

so here it is- a little rant about the boudoir industry- and a little justification on how much it costs to get your naked on. Yes it's a treat. But everybody should do it at least once.

Don't forget to add to the cost of the package little extras like:
Manicure/pedicure
new lingerie (I tell people to get a nice teddy from winners for $20) no need to go crazy
the waxing

But all these things if you do not get them done regularly, then why not enjoy the whole experience. I am sure no one is going to complain you waxed the bush and stripped the rough skin from your feet that was getting caught in the sheets. yeah...

And the last thing I price my self in- besides my awesome photoshoping and dorky personality is with experience. Holly crap have I've been around the block. On my sixth year doing boudoir and about 12 in the biz- the weddings, the babies, and everything in between. And I will stop now before I feel old.

And I do have a special promotion for Valentines! /http://vdaypin.eventbrite.com/

Sh*t Boudoir Photographers say

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:15:00 +0000

I am jumping on the bandwagon. Who am I kidding with the * - shit there I wrote it. shit boudoir photographers say:

* stand straight
* suck it in
* err, turn slightly right, no the other right
* turn to the light
* relax your mouth
* open it a bit
* do not worry you do not look special needs
* touch your mouth
* yeah - now suck it O_o
* butt man or boob man?
* ok now on your knees
* spread your legs - make room there
* on your tummy
* put your legs up
* knees together! like a lady!
and my favourite -
* let the nipple escape.

Good thing I am a girl- it does get comfortable between girls. I have full conversations while people are changing their panties. Guys want my job - ha.

The one thing I want to say but haven't had the chance:
" FLUFFER!"

Thanks for the laugh ladies!

Should I make a video about this? thinking? argh I am to lazy and my buddy "perky" is in Ottawa.

Holiday Boudoir Round up

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 02:29:00 +0000

Apparently there is such thing as too busy to blog! Other times it has been out of sheer lazyness or, lack of something snazzy to say but this month... holly busiest month ever batman! Between the holiday orders, shoots, and day job I need better time management. Or multiple assistants. And a cleaner.

It's over thank goodness. Just to be ready to start again for Valentines! But before that I want to reflect on what happened this year.

Nakedness has flourished. More brave women are joining the "hey! I got naked in front of the camera and it was awesome!" club, ha- not really I get a more : "it was not as scary as I thought" and my favourite: "thanks! it was fun!" It sure is.
I have the worst memory. I am like Dori. I have bumped into former clients with no name recollection what so ever- but then an image pops in my head. My visual memory is not too shabby. I would go like "oh so yes now I remember you- with the school girl outfit" or "the awesome Manolo's" or "yes! studded pasties!". The sexiest shoes and the naughtiest outfits seem to stick from each shoot. Not to worry! I am always careful not to be loud.
I really love what I do. I meet the most interesting women. I get to get a glimpse into their lives, their fears, their shyness, their vulnerability. But also the quirks, their sense of humour, their achievements. Oh the stories. If I could remember more details of the stories I would write books, but see previous point. Your secret is safe with me. I forget it.

Special thanks to the fab Laura Furtado from Diva Girl Fitness and getting people comfortable with sexy. My minions Melissa, Amanda, Dana and Linda and their help in expanding our style with family shots at Moda Style Photography.

And all the brave women who google boudoir photography toronto and choose me !

Feliz Año Nuevo!

Frequently asked questions about your Boudoir Session

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 02:10:00 +0000

Dang it I should have done this a loooooong time ago. oops. There are some FAQ's lying around here somewhere but this is the condensed and updated version.

1. What should I bring to the session?
I answered that one perfectly right here http://marlenjames.blogspot.com/2009/02/what-to-wear-to-your-session-tips.html How many outfits you may ask? minimum 3 but bring a variety - lingerie is not that heavy to lug around.

2. How long does the shoot last?
About two hours. The part that takes the longest is the make up application. Those fake eyelashes sometimes require effort :) . It takes about 40 minutes to get ready- and the shooting part goes way faster.

3. Do you help with the posing? why yes I do. I show you all you need to do. It helps also you read my tips on how to pose standing up http://marlenjames.blogspot.com/2010/06/how-to-do-pose-sexy-standing-up.html I think is funny. And for the close ups and what to do with your hands: http://marlenjames.blogspot.com/2011/01/posing-tips-how-to-pose-for-your.html.
The best thing you can do is practice your facial expression in front of a mirror. It feels silly, but you will feel silly here anyways.
And I give you the general idea at the beginning anyway.

see? lie down twisty and hold boobs.

4. Can I bring a friend/sister/hubby?
Yes you can! whoever is going to help out and watch is fine. If they make you laugh even better. Takes some of my performance pressure off :) A couple of people have even decided to share the appointment time and when one is changing one is shooting, so as long as everybody is comfortable, I am good to go!

5. How many files do I get?
Digital... I kind of miss the good old glamour shot days that you had 16 shots and you had to choose your 5 best one from there. You blinked- you lost a frame. Nowadays for each session I have about 300 files. Dang it. A lot of the images are similar so that just helps me decide on which one has a better focus. You have two options: One I send you about 50 so you can choose your top 20-30 that I can edit or you let me choose the best ones for you and you only see the final selections. Up to you.

6. What do you do with the other 250 files?
If they did not make the cut for the best 50 I delete them- I need hardrive space. If you want them all - the private affair package includes all digital files for you to do as you wish. Otherwise they are just deleted or sold to playboy... I WISH. :)

7. How long till I see the proofs?
Low season- meaning not this close to xmas and valenties day - usually you get a link of your proofs within 24 hrs. High season when I have more than 3 bookings per day is about 36 hrs. I will let you know an estimate at the end of the session.

8. I am getting married next week, how soon can I get the pictures and album?
hmm, yes I had these before. Yes I do my darnest to get them done in a week. But album takes about 3 weeks so only prints can be done within the week. I usually send files to print on Wednesday and pick up Thursday and meet up with people on Friday or mail them.
Wednesday is print day.
Normally it will be two weeks from your session to get prints and 3 to get the album. So plan accordingly and dont give me any more stress related white hairs.

9. I don't know which package to get
To help you choose a package http://marlenjames.blogspot.com/2011/02/faq-just-dont-know-whether-to-get-model.html you can always just pay the deposit and decide after you see your proofs. No biggie.

10. What is the extent of the retouching?
Depending on the package you get- you get 5-10-20-30 high res retouched digital files. Retouching includes:

background - any cable - carpet piece
skin smoothing- stretch marks, lumps, bumps, bruises, blemishes
face- under eye area- skin and teeth brightening
figure- tuck in the waist a bit and if you are sitting or bending funny smoothing extra skin aka the "roll"
and my toes

I tend to have a light touch. It is still you but a bit enhanced. You can request more retouching after you see them.

and lastly my privacy policy... I will not post a faces- lips yeah, some boobs, some butt, but any marks or tattoos are deleted to prevent recognition. I sometimes distort the faces a bit too. Only you know they are your boobs.

Me and non naked pictures

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:54:00 +0000

Well hello there. Like the tittle? It just came to me. Not really, it's just that lately I have been doing more "non-naked" shots than before, and they deserved a post.
I have tried to focus my efforts in Boudoir photography and it has been great. That is still my main specialty that is for sure. What has happened is that former naked clients have asked me: can you shoot me and the new baby? Do you do familes? So you think you can dance?
yes to all of the above.

Right after my glamour shots days, I was actually a baby photographer for a bit. It lasted a hole year and a half until the squeaky toys started to give me eye twitches. True story. It was a perfect match since I was a new mom and around all these babies so it made sense at the time. I learned a lot. Specially what I like and don't like. I hate photos that you just sit there in front of a grey back drop- I really do. Well, I hate the stiffness of them. It takes a while for people to feel comfortable in front of a camera and those sessions are in and out in under 15 minutes. I love interaction, true smiles, tickles and hugs.
So anyway... I tried to keep the family shots and the boudoir shots separate but they keep overlapping - so I am giving up.
You can see some family and friends shoot here: http://pptout.com/x5yq

Tips on what to wear to your Maternity shoot - Boudoir style

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 16:42:00 +0000

Maternity shoots... like boudoir shoots from a while back, before they got all maxim and cool, there is a fine line between cheesy and cool. VERY fine. I think it all started with the Demi Moore image in the 90's. And then Christina Aguilera's came along...

I like the poses and the heels actually suit her. I like the fact that she is smiling, not looking at the camera with the come and do me face- she is just having fun. The belly here is kinda small like a 7 months so keep that in mind. And the ones with her son are super cute and clean. Nobody is naked, but she just has great make up on.

I bought the domain MaternityBoudoir.com a while back, thinking hmm, it will eventually be ok to rock the belly with some push up bras and some sexy poses, but it turns out, it hasn't happened that way. It seemed a bit contrived. And who am I kidding, the last thing you feel at 8 months is sexy. You just want to capture your body, in the nicest way possible, while you have an alien like creature in there, or like I was supposed to say it: "while it is creating the miracle of life..."

Anyway, what I am blabbing about is that my whole intention of the maternity boudoir has shifted from capturing sexy belly, to capturing a shot where you feel great. And that you can show your parents. We still do some tasteful nudes anyway, that if you want to show them go ahead, I do not judge.

So here are the tips on what to wear to your Maternity shoot:

"Bandeaus" bras (I had to google that) those tube bras that cover your boobs with no straps. White, black or simple colour.
Skirt - flowy, comfortable. Even kinda of those peasant ones. Or even denim
Black simple dress- or any colour as long as it doesn't have prints (I am anti-print)
Big dress shirt. This one for some reason works without being too cheesy. Your hubby's works.
Coordinate a bit your other half's outfit. Try not to be matchy - matchy but at least do not clash. Showcase what you would normally wear.
Baby items: toy, shoes or a special blanket.
Wraps or fabric. Not really needed but if you have one you really like.
Comfy sweater - nice if its cold out, it is a bit body hugging or if its open with buttons, or shows your shoulder.

The goal is to showcase the belly so wear stuff that makes you feel confortable and not too tight.

taken at my place

for some of the latest samples click here

For some LOL's and what NOT to do: http://www.pregnantchicken.com/pregnant-chicken-blog/2010/12/10/awkward-pregnancy-photos.html

The comments are super funny. I like her. Even read the "10 things they do not tell you" about pregnancy- I had flashbacks and flinching moments while laughing.

And for more info about my packages you can go here

I did include a combo package, where you can have a shoot after baby and you are sick of feeling tired and like a milk machine, and you just want a bit of your femininity pre-baby back. Because you are going to have TONS of pics of the baby anyway, take some of the you with the baby too if you want where you look great. Like Christina up there... just saying.

I will scout for my pregnant picture I have from my glamour shot days... let me find it. It wasn't that awkward but the backdrop is a horrible drappey-gray.

Boudoir photographer in front of the camera

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00:00 +0000

so, there comes a time every now and then, that my self timer is not enough, and the stars align perfectly for me to be the photographed instead of the photographer. Usually once a year. And usually because of networking. Fancy that. Twitter and Model Mayhem do work.

I pretend that I actually listen to my own advice. Keeps me grounded too. Staring into a lens and bringing the sexy out is kinda hard, and sometimes the results are pretty lame.
But once in a while, oh la la, the angle just works, the light hits the right spot and the editing gets rid of the two zits on my forehead and the multiple sun spots and ta-da!

I almost look famous

Thanks to Doug Shimizu for making me look like that. He has a super sexy portfolio.
I like that one of my eyebrows is kinda messy ( like normal). And I am debating the possibility of me going around with my mouth like that, not closing it e-v-e-r.

Interesting effect about having a great picture- makes you feel good... and a lot of my facebook friends liked it, keeping it for a while, want to send it to a couple of ex boyfriends... ha

in colour!

I do have the liquid eyeliner down to a science I think.

Tips for your Pin Up Photography Session and update

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 17:58:00 +0000

So hi, about time I updated my website with more pin up stuff! So ta-da! : New packages for pin up shoots.

Package info:
There is the Tease that is done once a month at the Roosevelt Room in collaboration with Diva Girl Fitness. We do shoots before the show. I really like the ambience of the space and it is an opportunity to have a taste of what a pin up shoot is. Plus you get the perfect guidance from Miss Laura Furtado on how to pose. Try it!

The other two are at my place. The main difference between boudoir and pin up is the amount of retouching. While the boudoir is more natural, sexy look, pin up is glossy and everything from skin to hair is touched up. This package does include hair styling just to get the hair right :)

TIPS:
+ Prepare your outfits carefully. From fully dressed to underwear. Make sure everything goes. For example bring a fifties looking dress, with the lingerie stockings and shoes. We will take pictures of the hole outfit and go from there.

+ Choose a theme.

Fifties pin up or sixties for that matter
sailor, military (police or anything uniform) cowgirl
sexy secretary (or sexy librarian)
playboy bunny
singer (like jessica rabbit?) Sexy long dress
house wife (sexy dress, apron) - or nightie
beach (bathing suit, sunglasses, hat)

or anything really. Get inspired by researching pin up photos and my absolute hero : Alberto Vargas. Dust of those slutty halloween costumes.

+ Practice your posing. This is the time to let it all out. Go as out there as you can. Always point your toes and keep your hands busy. More posing tips here.
+ Plan what you want. In this kind of shoot, it's better to plan ahead as much as possible. Depending on your package you can choose between having two outfits or unlimited to plan a calendar. Wouldn't that be nifty? have your own pin up calendar? Plan your outfits per month in this case.
+ Bring props! Backgrounds available are pink, red, striped red (kinda circus like), black and white. Will add more as we go.

Retouching:
Below is a sample of the retouching. Who else but me is brave enough to show a before and after picture. The things I do for you people. What also works here is the pose. No need to tuck the waist since the arm does the job of covering it AND pushing boobs together. Dang it I forgot to do my nails.

	the before- leaving it little but you get the idea.
Skin, make up, and background gets the photoshoping.

err, my boobs look huge! They no not look like that on real life. The combination of the top and the arm. On that note, check the gallery here.

Inspiration : Jane Fonda

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Fri, 02 Sep 2011 12:45:00 +0000

I am digging the sixties hair and make up

I will blog more, and on that note I am (hoping!) to write a weekly inspiration article.

I should have started with Dita. Or Betty Page. But I met Jane Fonda at a Globe and Mail event so I am starting with her. Me and the sister went to her book signing this last week (thanks to ex-boyfriend who hook us up- pays to be friends). And here I have her new book "Prime Time" about love, health, fitness and sex into your nineties (!). She is 73. She looks great! And she made jokes about having her knee replaced so she can still go on her knees. BJ jokes! I want to be like her when I am 73. But I have a nagging suspicion I am going to be way dirtier and a bit poorer.

we got there too late to get good seats

What image of Jane Fonda comes to you when you think of her. For me- it was barbarella - yeah old for me but I saw it because of the pin up inspiration- and who am I kidding- the corny way they had an excuse to rip her outfits (by Paco Rabane by the way- did you know that? I didn't). My sisters? the JLo movie Monster inlaw. Another friend? The eighties aerobics. Regardless of your image of her- from her rather controversial political views, to the lycra clad aerobics that your mom use to try to do (depending how old you are- you might have tried them too). I enjoyed her presentation, will read the book and liked the images I found on the internets. I think a sixties inspired shoot is in order.

nice pose- love the thigh high boots

you don't know where that gun has been

interesting how a sweater can be sexy

she still does side boob!

Couples boudoir... a recent one

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 01:00:00 +0000

This shoot was so sexy that it deserves it's on post. I love to hear when clients tell me: we bookmarked your site a while ago and we where excited to do this. me: yay! They liked the photo I have somewhere around here of the couple I shot through the blinds. So I went to ikea to get me some for my place. Hadn't thought of that one! It works great- now I can do my "perv looking though the blinds" shot anytime.

so yay! couples! people should do this as an anniversary present. Or "I really like you and I want you to stick around" present.

And I like to thing that a couples boudoir shoot is the gift that keeps on giving. First is the day of the shoot - you leave and do your thing whatever it is. Then the anticipation of seeing your pictures and choosing together. And then when you get the final prints - or book, so you can look at these pictures any time you want.

blurred on purpose to hide him. kinda lazily but you get the idea.

Boudoir Lingo - and (some) summer boudoir round up

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:52:00 +0000

Or an alternative tittle for this post could be: "Things I can say without sounding like a perv". Or "things that are so funny when they happen and they are just alright when I remember to write them."

Here is my Top ten list of what only a boudoir photographer is allowed to say:

10. Bring your shoulders back (same as stand up straight)
9. Push the boobs and the butt out.
8. Don't breathe!
7. Open your mouth - like you are inhaling
6. now stick a finger in (the mouth of course)
5. Make kissy lips
4. hold your boobs higher
3. And make a face like you are enjoying holding your boobs
2. Pull the underwear like you are taking it off...

And the number one phrase of what only a boudoir photographer is allowed to say with out sounding like a perv is:

1. take it off !

Oh and these are the ones I can remember, there have been some you had to be there and others that I would never thought I would say to another woman like "you have really cute nipples" or "no wonder I missed photoshoping that pimple, I wasn't looking at the crevice area". All true stories.

Some samples bellow! I wish I could post more dang it! I have some great shots, that sadly would showcase my ladies' faces (yeah, that sounds weird) but at the same time these are real women, getting married, celebrating aniversaries or celebrating themselves, their face do not needs to be in the internet.

This sample, I loved the vest. And she was wearing sexy librarian glasses. Animal print underwear and librarian glasses, fierce!

I love getting the images of people cracking up. Makes me think I am hilarious instead of accidentally funny.

and then lipstick and curves

And sometimes all the accessories you need are red lips and shoes. There was no lingerie needed for some of these shots.

The art of the tease - Chic a Boom Burlesque

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Thu, 14 Jul 2011 20:40:00 +0000

Recently my ~~minions~~ interns, Linda and Melissa and I, attended the Chic a Boom Burlesque show, June edition. These shoot are like me doing a groupon or something like that where you just come there and do a pin up shoot at a discounted rate. Nothing naked but also there are more people involved than just you and me. There is my awesome minions, who actually shoot, fabulous Laura that tells you EXACTLY how to pose, and me doing your make up, retouching and supervising the minions. I like saying minions, it's ok they are use to it. :) Next one is July 27th!

And the whole point of my bloggy article today is that if you stay for the show, you learn a couple of things. And it's never the same! In this edition there was a traditional burlesque strip tease.

I love his "giddy" face :)

And the ladies in Action:

Do you remember this pose? makes the waist skinny.

Love the attitude, the show and the general fabulousness of all the dancers

To view the whole album you can click here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150229348781644.316192.519081643&l=264a3314c6

or add me as your new face book friend :) https://www.facebook.com/marlen.james so you can see my shenanigans

Here are some of the samples of the shoots that go on at the Roosevelt Room:

Thanks minions! I am a proud pimp!

May and June Boudoir round up and reasons women do it

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 13:03:00 +0000

Its been so hectic, so I havent posted recent work properly.
But here we go! I made new friends (who should post great reviews girls!) just saying, you can go here for the google one and here for the yelp one hint- hint.

so anyway! These are the reasons why some of my clients have done a boudoir shoot:

"I do not like any pictures of myself but I am doing this for my hubby" I said BRING IT ON. She liked them. He LOVED them.
"It has taken me a long time to feel good about my body and here I am!" love this one.
"It's our ten year anniversary"
"Nobody thinks I would ever do this"
"I am getting married in two weeks!" - I get this one a lot.
And the main one, no one will recognize their faces in their underwear.

So yes here are some of the ladies that have crossed my boudoir :) Love your stories. I may write a book someday.

Boudoir photography for couples- updated gallery and tips

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Fri, 03 Jun 2011 22:24:00 +0000

I love shooting couples... I sound like the corny wedding photographer but it is true in my case. It takes a really committed and confident couple to go for this type of photography. It is almost like swinging (i think). You have to trust the other half that these images are not going to end up on tumblr (i just found out about all the nsfw images here! holly crap! wish I was a 14 year old boy to use it properly) Start with Tremblingfluidheat - you are welcome!! Warning it is not for prudes. Sister of mine, if you read this, do not click it.

So! where was I? it's getting warm here.

Oh yeah, you have to trust your other half that in the case you ever broke up; pinkie promise that these images do not end on the internets for the world to see your abilities. So when people email me about the couples photography I always have to ask: how long have you been together? and give me both your emails. For the rated R or above I do require to meet prior to the shoot, or at least have a phone conversation to make sure everybody is comfortable with everybody (almost like swinging- so I have heard- ha).

Check it out- not while you are working ok? show it to your other half and start planing what not to wear.

http://boudoirbymj.com/slideshows/couples-boudoir

Like half of these samples where shot at hotels and some at my place.

Tips on what to wear:

For her- they are all here on what to wear for your session

For him:

Suit with tie and everything (not to worry about the shoes really) or just bring shirt and tie.
Jeans and simple t-shirt
Boxers/ briefs/thongs I do not judge. Maybe a little but I won't tell you. Simple colours, preferably no prints.
Shave super early in the day on even the night before if you have sensitive skin.
Tweeze the unibrow and brush off your lips with your toothbrush for kissable lips.
Moisturize after your shower, you want to look dewy

And that is it! Email me if you have any questions or if you need to see the other link I have that I do not post, the extra steamy one for erotic photography for couples that go all the way... with no faces of course but I don't think anybody cares as long as you can see naughty bits. Even a hint of naughty bits...

PIN Up Photography - special teaser session

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Sat, 28 May 2011 14:57:00 +0000

Here are the some samples of this great event organized by Diva Girl Fitness! Laura came up with the idea of opening these shoots for everybody.
They will be held once a month! There are limited spaces and the price is super ONLY $69!! - whaat!. The best part is that there is a coach for your session so you will model like a pro. And it makes my job easier :)

- Professional Make-Up Application (20 mins)
- photo-shoot with my team (20 mins)
- Customized modeling tips and coaching from the Partners of the Chic-A-Boom Room: Carla Catherwood or Laura Furtado
- 10 photo shoot images (non-edited- to be emailed)
- 3 fully edited images for future printing
- 1 FREE ticket to the Chic-A-Boom Room showcase, hosted after your photo shoot session
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT!!

Date: Wednesday, June 29th
Time: Slots are available from 5-9PM (booked in 1/2 hour slots)
Location: The Roosevelt Room
328 Adelaide Street, Toronto, ON
Registration: To book your “teaser” session, please contact DivaGirl at info@divagirlentertainment.com. Registration and pre-payment of $69 is mandatory.

These sessions are ideal for the less shyer bunch that have always wanted to do a pin up type shoot.

Your Boudoir Appointment Checklist

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Mon, 23 May 2011 19:36:00 +0000

I have been meaning to do this in a nifty easy to read pdf, for those that rather not go through my sometimes entertaining, but sometimes annoying (I know myself) blog.

Tada! easy to use checklist here. It is a handy pdf that you can print or just click as you on your screen. So simple...

In the meantime, this picture proves a point... you do not have to be naked to be sexy

April Boudoir Round up

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Wed, 04 May 2011 01:09:00 +0000

here we go! will promise to do a post once a week! I am so behind! Here are some images from April. I am lucky to meet a whole bunch of fun women.

Lot's of boob holding, butt twisting and laughs :)

Pin up - Chic a boom edition

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 19:45:00 +0000

What are you doing April 27th? help vote for the next Bombshell Beauty! https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=206161026069099

These lady's sure did not need help posing, I even learned a few moves. And I also understood my limitations. Those are some flexible chicks! And there are faces! not my usual but these ladies are in a show so might as well :).

shout out to Dana and Melissa, super interns (I have interns- it makes me feel old) and Diva Fitness for letting me in. See you at the Roosevelt Room on the 27th? Some drinkies?

DivaGirl Fitness: Ode to woman- Burlesque show

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 12:10:00 +0000

Sometimes I try to take on too much. And then I have to ask friends to help out. But in this case when I said to my friend Cyrille: Can you shoot a burlesque session tonight? His answer: he-he, why not?
Why not indeed. :) Sexy women and a cool place. We both like the no flash look, so I completely trusted him on getting some nice shots. And he did! You can check the facebook album here. Or some of my faves:

The class:

The show:

This is Pastel Supernova, I have her calendar :)

Looking forward to next month's event April 27th that I will be able to shoot!

What I have been doing lately

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:09:00 +0000

Yeah I have neglected the blog. But I have some naked here from some of my shoots!
But first I want to share some exciting projects I got going.

Some Burlesque!
Diva Girl is organizing the Chic a Boom Ode to woman Come and be entertained by the Bombshell Beauties, Nuvo-Burlesque Performance and Training Group, along with special guests Shavar Blackwood, and a fierce group of women from Montreal lead by Giulia Tripoli. This show will be strong, stylish and sexy! I will be around chatting and taking pictures. Come takes some notes on acting sexy for your shoot. Even better take a class!

Some Art!

I am collaborating with Scott Easson. We will have an art show where we showcase both his paintings and my photographs. So excited about this, I love his stuff. More to come about this...

Some cool Wedding stuff!
Not for mine, I am still debating wedding dates and budget (I am cheap and don't mind living in sin), thinking 2012 now. But met Cendi from Immortal Weddings and we just clicked. We both have in common dark and original weddings, the non-traditional and a black wedding dress. Why not? Plus we both think vampires are sexy and corsets and leather are hot. And yes we are working on a little something something :)

I know I am being a tease.

But here some of the other teasing! Have I told you lately that I love my wall? I want to paint the floor black now.

Doesn't she look like she is having so much fun?? she was. just saying.
:)

FAQ: just don't know whether to get the model or the diva

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 23:48:00 +0000

So I will answer some questions I have been sent, in a weekly edition of FAQ Monday. Yes FAQ it. send me your questions at mj@marlenjames.com.
Meanwhile I have some to go through.

N from Toronto asks: (yes I am pretending I have a radio show)

just don't know whether to get the model or the diva and what benefits of the extras are. can you advise?

Dear N:

The difference in packages is how much retouching and prints you get. Everybody gets 20 top low res files. The difference would be on starlet you get 10 fully retouched files and prints and model 20 and diva 30.

Most people go with the Model and then just pay me the difference to get an album too, from blurb (60 bucks) Since the images are all ready retouched it's easy for me to plop them in an album and order it.

The diva includes 30 and a bigger print for display, it can be something artsy that does not show your face. It just has something you can hang in a wall.

If you are not sure, you can still choose the package after seeing the pictures. But Model is a safe bet. (it is my bestseller after all) :)

Also! introducing a whole bunch of high end products you can create with your own files. When you get your final images you also get an insider private link to be able to order:

Cards (you want to give you naked picture away) - for mother's day ha!
Calendars - to replace the FHM that your bf has in his desk
Day Planners - mmm, every month has a different naked picture! and it's more discreet- better than an online calendar
Photo Journals - Dear diary- I get distracted by the naked pictures
Photo Books - Fancier versions than what blurb offers
Framed products - yep hang it on the wall.

It's kinda nice to have the control of what you want. And remember not all of the images are rated R, some are PG and others you can show your mom. there will be some artsy ones in there too.

Boudoir photography for brides- tips!

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 16:33:00 +0000

For the lovers month, I wrote an article for The Getaway Bride on tips to brides to be to give Boudoir photography as a gift to the groom.
Good tips I tell you. On how to choose your photographer (besides me), make up, hair, accesories and lingerie.
Then I found this article (it found me via Treacle from the Lingerie Addict) on the 3 secrets to choosing bridal lingerie. Good information!

Some tips: wear white- of course.

Wear the bridal jewerly, the ring and a smile

Valentine's Boudoir sessions

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:17:00 +0000

Yes I am done!- not really I still have to order some prints but almost!

Have so much to post but here is a Happy Valentine's preview, and some extra tidbits from my experience.

Go buy lingerie on sale after Valentines- Winners puts an extra 40% on sale items after
And get on that groupon wagon and get your self a mani/pedi/massage thing before you come.

Heck even today there are brazilian's for only $19!!!! I bought 5. I am all set.

I put on my facebook status : Be bald for Valentine's get a brazilian and my guy friend told me: I want to like your status but do not want to look like a creep. (ha) I say it is the gift that keeps on giving. And it will burn calories.

So get your stuff, and then come see me, ok?

Type your summary here Type rest of the post here

Guest post: A Gift to Myself at 75

noreply@blogger.com (marlen.james) — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:44:00 +0000

A small intro here: this was written by an actual client! she explains better the reasons to do a boudoir session better than me :)

A Gift to Myself at 75

by Leigh

The idea of doing a Boudoir photo session started off as a gift to my boyfriend for his birthday. While it still is a sexy little gift for him, it turned into a bigger gift to myself. I’ve even showed the pictures to a few girlfriends, and they’ve been inspired to do something similar.

At first, it felt a bit indulgent to want to do this.

Then I thought – why? If I can’t feel good about my body and feel sexy when I’m happy, healthy and in a good place in my life – when will that ever happen?

I decided to get over the self-doubt, the judgment, forget about what anyone else would think, and just go for it. So I booked my session with Marlen.

I trusted Marlen, and because of her, I felt really comfortable doing something I don’t ordinarily do every Saturday.

I wanted to see what it was like to FEEL genuinely sexy and sexual through my own eyes, instead of trying to BE sexy by someone else’s standards.

I wanted to get in touch with my incredibly feminine side.

I wanted to remember that being a girl is FUN

I wanted to know that feeling sexy doesn’t mean you have to compromise your dignity, your pro-womanhood, and it doesn’t have to be degrading to other women.

And, I wanted some kick ass pictures to prove it!

Well, I got what I wanted.

I can’t tell you what an amazing experience it was. Plus, I feel a little bad ass, I gotta say. And it feels really, really, good.

I realized that not only was I doing this for my boyfriend who appreciates me no matter what I am or am not wearing, but that I was doing it for myself and that, even though I wore red lipstick for the first time, I don’t need lipstick to feel good about myself.

When I’m 75, I’m going to look back on these photos and appreciate them. This gift to myself at 75 is that I had the good sense to feel good about my body and get in touch with a whole new side of myself on my own terms, with Marlen’s help.

So I say life’s short. Go for the red lipstick and just see what a different side of you can be like.