While Jennifer Johnson and business partner Tia May specialize in wedding photography, portraits, and even the baby bump, these professionals from J and J Photography are also introducing Las Vegas brides to a new wedding trend—the boudoir photo shoot. Since boudoir photography has become an increasingly popular gift from a bride to her groom, I wanted to learn what this process looked like from wedding photography specialists who have added that extra sexy step to their portfolios. Recently, I spoke with J and J Photography to gain that insight.

For brides who are planning their Las Vegas weddings, take a moment to peek into our discussion about boudoir photography. You’ll learn what to expect when you walk into the studio, how much J and J photographers care about creating a special experience, and how to overcome your nerves to deliver sexy poses and sultry faces in boudoir images for your groom’s eyes only. Discover the secrets of boudoir photography, as shared by Jennifer Johnson and Tia May—two photo professionals with a lot of spunk and the desire to make every bride feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful.

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Jennifer (of J and J Photography): “Boudoir is a huge trend actually. We do it for-his-eyes-only, and it makes a really nice groom’s gift. But it’s becoming more and more popular. Brides are really interested in it. [At J and J Photography], we’re two women and we have a full studio. So it’s just a lot of fun. And years down the road, you’ll still have those pictures… You just look so good before your wedding.”

Tia (of J and J Photography): “That’s the thing. No one has their body as rockin’ as when you are about to get married.”

Allyson (of Bridal Spectacular’s Las Vegas Wedding Blog): “Isn’t that the truth.”

Tia: “Yeah, so you may as well showcase it, right?”

Allyson: “All right. Well, I’ve been wondering about boudoir photography. But I don’t know too much about it other than I’m assuming it includes lingerie.”

Jennifer: “Yeah. But we’re very tasteful.”

Tia: “Very tasteful.”

Jennifer: “We’re all about suggestion but not showing too much.”

Tia: “It’s all about connection with the eyes. Yes, it’s all in lingerie, but everything falls out of focus.”

Jennifer: “We take a lot of our inspiration from Victoria’s Secret, just to give you an idea. It’s tasteful.”

Allyson: “So everything’s covered up on the bride that needs to be?”

Tia: “Oh absolutely! Everything that a bathing suit would cover up, we cover.”

Allyson: “That’s good. That was one of my concerns right there.”

Jennifer: “Yep. It’s tasteful, but we keep it fun.”

Allyson: “Thanks. Well, what if a bride is interested in boudoir, but she’s not sure she can pull off something as sexy as some of the pictures [in your boudoir portfolio]?”

Tia: “It’s all about angles and lighting, and we got it all down.”

Jennifer: “Every woman who comes into our studio is always nervous. They’re always nervous, of course. But after like ten minutes, they’re just like, ‘Oh yeah, I got this.’”

Allyson: “Do brides bring their own lingerie?”

Jennifer: “They can. We do have a lot of pieces that we can add to it as well. Throwovers or sheets look cute. You don’t always have to go out and buy a bunch of expensive lingerie.”

Allyson: “Nice. Now what would be a good way for brides to become comfortable with you? Do you offer engagement shoots?”

Tia: “Of course.”

Allyson: “So that might be a good way for the bride and groom to get to know you?”

Jennifer: “Yes.”

Tia: “That’s a really good way.”

Allyson: “At J and J, is it always women photographing?”

Tia: “Yes, always women. Usually two of us.”

Jennifer: “We like to work together, but sometimes it will be one of us plus an assistant—also a woman.”

Meet Tia May and Jennifer Johnson of J and J Photography at Bridal Spectacular's bridal show.

Allyson: “Well, thank you. Your studio came highly recommended, and I can see why.”

Jennifer: “Thank you.”

Allyson: “One last question: If you two could say something to all the brides reading Bridal Spectacular’s Las Vegas Wedding blog, what would you like to tell them? For wedding photos or boudoir, go ahead and shout it out there.”

Tia: “Make sure when you’re choosing a photographer that you choose someone you’re comfortable with. If you don’t feel comfortable, you’re going to look uncomfortable in your photos. So if you don’t feel that connection, even if the price is right, you may want to keep looking. That’s a really big thing for photos.”

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Fortunately, brides, these ladies at J and J Photography have what it takes to help you feel that comfortable connection, with your groom, with your photographer, and with the camera. If you’re considering a boudoir photo shoot or if you’d like to learn more about J and J Photography’s natural style for your wedding day or engagement photos, please visit their website for more information and to view their portfolios.

Want to know even more options for wedding-related photography? Visit Bridal Spectacular’s website and view the Wedding Services page. You’ll find Las Vegas wedding vendors for every aspect of your wedding, from start to finish.

Author: Allyson Siwajian

Photographs: J and J Photography (first two images), Allyson Siwajian (final image)