April Courville, a top female boudoir photographer, graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts specializing in photography. She has been taking photos since she was twelve.
She has experience in various types of photography, including weddings, portraits, events, babies, and headshots. Since 2011, she has focused on boudoir photography.
Fueled by passion and a unique perspective, April has carved her path as a female boudoir photographer, capturing moments that celebrate confidence.
Join us as we uncover her story, insights, and the artistry that make her a true pioneer in her field.
Q.1 How did you first get interested in photography, and what sparked your passion for it?
Ans. I started taking photos when I was 12 years old. I liked taking black and white photos of old, abandoned buildings and sheds are were plentiful in the rural southern Louisiana area I grew up in. And I got a bachelors degree in fine art photography in 2006.
Q.2 What led you to specialize in boudoir photography, and what do you find most rewarding about it?
Ans. I stumbled upon boudoir by accident. I did weddings, high school seniors, families, etc. An engagement client asked to do a pinup shoot long before I knew that boudoir was even a thing. I loved it and never looked back.
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Q.3 What aspects of boudoir photography do you find most fulfilling or challenging compared to other types of photography you have done?
Ans. The most fulfilling is seeing the transformation a client goes through once her boudoir session is complete. She realizes that woman is her and that she has always been there. The most challenging part is getting past many women’s mindset: I am not enough.
Not thin enough, not young enough, not in a relationship. None of that matters though. The entire point is to do it for you, where you are right now.
Q.4 What do you consider to be your signature style in your boudoir photography work?
Ans. I do a mix of dark/ moody and light and airy. Lots of clients say they love how tasteful my work is. So I guess I would say, my work is pretty soft core and classy with just a hint of spice.
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Q.5 Can you tell us about a particularly memorable or rewarding boudoir photography session you’ve had?
Ans. We recently photographed a trans client. She was so nervous about finding a creative photographer who would offer a safe space. But our mission is to provide a safe space for all women, judgement-free.
To see the client go from unsure and doubtful to fully accepting herself, and knowing we helped her get there was really inspiring.
Q.6 Have you ever faced any challenges or negative feedback related to boudoir photography, and if so, how have you addressed them?
Ans. We get alot of pushback on the level of investment for a boudoir experience. It is NOT like other types of photography. Most people will do this only once in their lives, so make it worth it. And it is worth it.
They are worth it! It can be life-changing for many and anything that changes your life for the better usually is an investment.
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Q.7 In boudoir photography, how do you ensure that your clients feel comfortable and empowered during the shoot?
Ans. I have been doing this since 2011, so I have lots of experience working with nervous ladies. I can usually anticipate their hangups before they do.
We do our best to provide guidance every step of the way from what to shop for, how to prep, providing hair and makeup the of the day, boudoir posing guidance and facial coaching and walking them through the image selection process.
And just hyping them up once they walk into the studio. We don’t take ourselves too seriously when shooting. I want the experience to be fun.
Q.8 What do you like to do other than photography?
Ans. I like being outdoors, cooking, reading, I am currently learning how to sail. I travel any chance I get. When the weather is nice I like to go camping, biking, running, I try to enjoy time outside as much as possible.
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Q.9 What are your plans for the next 6 months?
Ans. I have been working on launching an online course in which women can DIY their own beautiful boudoir photos at home. It will be for clients who don’t have the resources to hire me one on one or need to warm up to the idea first. I’m very excited about it!
Q.10 What advice would you give to someone who is interested in pursuing boudoir photography as a career?
Ans. Learn photography basics first, then specialize. I shot everything for 8 years before I went into boudoir. Don’t reinvent the wheel! Find a peer group or mentor who can show you the ropes. There are tons of educators out there to choose from.
Q.11 Finally, how do you stay current and inspired in your boudoir photography work, and what are your future plans and goals for your business?
Ans. I follow lots of other photographers and artists. I try to be active in our local arts community as well. Like I mentioned before, I am working on this course and plan to offer other digital content for women who are looking to feel better in their own skin, want to reconnect with their partner or just need to get out of a funk.
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Conclusion
As we conclude this captivating journey into the life and artistry of April Courville, it’s evident that her lens has the power to not only capture amazing images but to also capture hearts and souls.
Through her photography, she empowers individuals to embrace their uniqueness and radiate confidence.
We thank April for sharing her insights and passion, and we look forward to witnessing the continued evolution of her remarkable career.
To check out more of April’s work, click here.
