It often starts with a desire to see yourself again, to really see yourself – free from judgement, expectations and that constant voice of doubt in your head. For many women, it’s a step into the unknown. But for Amanda van Loon, the creative soul behind Velvet Boudoir, it’s everyday magic. She captures the moment a woman rediscovers herself – not only with her eyes, but with her heart. In this blog post, the boudoir photographer shares everything about her work, offers tips for confidence in front of the camera, and tells us about her experience with our studio.
How boudoir photography helps women find themselves again
Amanda’s journey into boudoir photography began with herself. During a time when she was at her heaviest and her self-image had taken a knock, she decided to book a boudoir shoot. Not to create a perfect picture, but to learn to look at herself in a new, more loving way. She still remembers the nerves upon arrival, the discomfort… and then that one moment, when she saw the images. “I saw someone who was powerful in a way I hadn’t seen in myself before. Weight no longer mattered, nor did my imperfections. That feeling – that power – that’s my reason.”
Since then, Amanda has been guiding women on their own journeys towards self-acceptance. Her style is intimate, warm and sincere. To her, boudoir photography isn’t a genre – it’s an experience. It’s not about seduction or perfection, but about connection. With yourself. With your body. With your personal story.
Since then, Amanda has been guiding women on their own journeys towards self-acceptance. Her style is intimate, warm and sincere. To her, boudoir photography isn’t a genre – it’s an experience. It’s not about seduction or perfection, but about connection. With yourself. With your body. With your personal story.
Empowerment in images
For Amanda , empowerment isn’t something loud or grand. It lives in the softness of acceptance. In letting go of the idea that you have to live up to a standard. “To me, empowerment means that you’re allowed to embrace yourself, with everything that comes with it. Not living according to the expectations of others, but being entirely yourself – without compromise.”
During a shoot, her mission is to create a safe space where that authenticity can emerge. “Often someone arrives feeling a bit nervous, but as the shoot goes on, I see something shift. As if something opens up that was always there. And then she sees the photos and thinks, ‘Wow, that really is me.’ That is the magic.”
Amanda’s approach is about more than just photography. She is a listening ear, a mirror, a coach. She always arranges an introduction beforehand – either online or in person – to build trust. She explains everything, offers reassurance, and stresses that it’s not about perfect poses or perfect bodies, but about authenticity. “My job is to show you the way you may never have seen yourself – but the way you’ve always been.”
For Amanda , empowerment isn’t something loud or grand. It lives in the softness of acceptance. In letting go of the idea that you have to live up to a standard. “To me, empowerment means that you’re allowed to embrace yourself, with everything that comes with it. Not living according to the expectations of others, but being entirely yourself – without compromise.”
During a shoot, her mission is to create a safe space where that authenticity can emerge. “Often someone arrives feeling a bit nervous, but as the shoot goes on, I see something shift. As if something opens up that was always there. And then she sees the photos and thinks, ‘Wow, that really is me.’ That is the magic.”
Amanda’s approach is about more than just photography. She is a listening ear, a mirror, a coach. She always arranges an introduction beforehand – either online or in person – to build trust. She explains everything, offers reassurance, and stresses that it’s not about perfect poses or perfect bodies, but about authenticity. “My job is to show you the way you may never have seen yourself – but the way you’ve always been.”
The setting creates the image: boudoir photography in a haven of calm
Amanda’s work is steeped in feeling, but also in craftsmanship. Light and movement are her tools to create atmosphere. In a daylight studio , she seeks out soft, flattering light – even on a grey day. In a studio setting, she uses backlighting or plays with shadow to create a sensual, mysterious effect. “Movement is also essential – loose hair falling along a cheek, a blouse slipping off a shoulder, a veil gently held. It prevents stiffness and brings the image to life.”Atelier Oost Amsterdam is one of her favourite places to shoot. “What immediately drew me in was the natural light and high ceilings. It feels spacious and warm. The earthy tones flatter the model and bring a sense of calm to my images. And then there are the unique props – they truly add something special to the shoot.”
Boudoir photography: a craft built on trust
For anyone wanting to become a boudoir photographer themselves, Amanda has one clear piece of advice: don’t start with the camera, start with the person. “Boudoir photography is about working with emotion, vulnerability, self-image and trust. It begins with listening, sensing and connecting. Only then comes technique.”
She encourages beginner photographers to explore the ‘why’ behind the women who want to do a shoot. “Learn to communicate, create a relaxed atmosphere. Invest in workshops on posing and lighting, build a portfolio and work with transparency and respect, keep reflecting. Every woman is different – and that is exactly what makes this work so special.”
For anyone wanting to become a boudoir photographer themselves, Amanda has one clear piece of advice: don’t start with the camera, start with the person. “Boudoir photography is about working with emotion, vulnerability, self-image and trust. It begins with listening, sensing and connecting. Only then comes technique.”
She encourages beginner photographers to explore the ‘why’ behind the women who want to do a shoot. “Learn to communicate, create a relaxed atmosphere. Invest in workshops on posing and lighting, build a portfolio and work with transparency and respect, keep reflecting. Every woman is different – and that is exactly what makes this work so special.”
An ode to self-love
Amanda’s work helps women remember who they are – without filters. And in a world that so often asks us to adapt, she offers something rare: an invitation to come home to yourself. So – are you ready to take that step? Are you ready to see yourself as you truly are, without judgement? Then book a shoot – and who knows, maybe we’ll see you soon in one of our natural light studios.
Amanda’s work helps women remember who they are – without filters. And in a world that so often asks us to adapt, she offers something rare: an invitation to come home to yourself. So – are you ready to take that step? Are you ready to see yourself as you truly are, without judgement? Then book a shoot – and who knows, maybe we’ll see you soon in one of our natural light studios.
