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Professional boudoir photographers know that this work requires creative skill, an instinct for storytelling, and a brand that communicates trust and artistry.
At Imaging USA, programming dedicated to the art and business of boudoir photography will give new and established pros fresh ways to strengthen their technical skills, refine their style and grow their businesses.
From creating powerful client experiences to building a profitable, sustainable studio, these sessions can help you elevate your work and confidently take your boudoir business to the next level.
Pre-Conference Classes on Saturday, January 30
For an additional fee, you can add a pre-conference class and get a head start on all the learning that the show has in store.
The Art of Boudoir: Photographing Bodies Through a Transformative Lens
Sponsored by: The Boudoir Album
Boudoir has exploded in popularity, but much of the focus became about lingerie and stiff poses somewhere along the way. However, boudoir can be one of the most transformative forms of portrait photography.
It’s an invitation for clients to rewrite the story they've been told about their body and to experience what it feels like to be seen with care, curiosity, and artistry.
In this class, photographer, educator, and self-portrait artist Misty Moss shares the philosophy and techniques behind a decade of photographing more than 1,000 subjects through the lens of body celebration. You’ll learn how to:
- Build experiences that transcend “boudoir” or “portraits”
- Design safe and welcoming spaces for your clients
- Create imagery that lingers long after the gallery is delivered
- Guide authentic expression instead of manufactured posing
- Cultivate a business that will leave a handprint on the hearts of your clients
The most powerful photographs don't change how someone looks. They change how someone sees themselves.
Building a Photography Brand People Care About: Lessons from The Goddess Project
Sponsored By: The Boudoir Album
Most photographers create content for their next client. But what happens when you create work that people want to follow regardless of whether they hire you?
In this workshop, photographer and content creator Ruby Jean shares how “The Goddess Project” evolved from a personal photography project into a movement that:
- Captured millions of views
- Earned media attention
- Built a passionate community
- Created unexpected opportunities
Through an honest behind-the-scenes look at the project, you’ll learn how storytelling and authentic content can help your photography stand out, grow an engaged audience, and create opportunities beyond client bookings.
Platform Classes Begin on Sunday, January 31
Included in the All-Access pass, classes during the conference are your chance to learn firsthand from the experts who inspire you and practice new skills and strategies.
Designed to Be Seen: Creating Editorial Boudoir Imagery That Demands Attention
While most boudoir photographers focus on creating images that look good on a screen, those who build unforgettable brands create images that belong on walls.
In this class, award-winning boudoir photographer, educator, and author Shawn Black will break down the process behind creating editorial-inspired boudoir imagery that elevates both your artwork and your client experience. You’ll learn how to blend:
- Fashion-forward concepts
- Intentional lighting
- Purposeful posing
Through live demonstrations and real-world examples, you’ll see how every creative decision, from concept development to final capture, contributes to building a recognizable brand and a premium client experience.
Whether you’re looking to refine your style, attract higher-end clients, or create imagery designed to be displayed as artwork, this class will give you the tools to create boudoir images that make a statement.
Platform Classes on Monday, February 1
Cinematic and Scroll-Stopping Boudoir
Looking to push the creative boundaries of boudoir photography? This program enables you to create boudoir images that feel cinematic, captivating, and impossible to ignore.
Boudoir and portrait photographer Tina Meerloo dives into advanced lighting, composition, and posing strategies that transform images into bold, fine-art storytelling.
Beyond technical skills, this class focuses on building a distinct visual style that sets your boudoir work apart. You’ll learn how to craft images that:
- Evoke emotion
- Tell a story
- Grab attention in print and online
Attendees will gain techniques they can immediately apply to elevate their sessions. This class is perfect for photographers who want to develop a signature style that commands attention and leaves a lasting impression.
The Boudoir Business Audit: Identify What’s Actually Holding You Back
Sponsored By: Miller’s Professional Imaging
Do you have a marketing problem or a clarity problem? If you’re booking inconsistently, relying on giveaways, lowering prices to stay competitive, or constantly tweaking your strategy without seeing traction, the issue may be a misdiagnosis and not a lack of effort.
In this session, Lori Unruh Poole, M.Photog., M.Wed., Photog.Cr., walks boudoir photographers through a powerful “Business Clarity Audit” designed specifically for confidence-based studios. Instead of throwing more tactics at the problem, you’ll learn how to identify the real bottleneck in your business by assessing potential:
- Audience mismatches
- Pricing misalignments
- Weak sales leadership
- Volume dependency
- Messaging that attracts bargain buyers
You’ll leave with a diagnostic framework you can apply immediately and a clear next move that supports profitability. If you’re ready to move from reactive hustle to strategic growth, this session will show you how.
Platform Class for Tuesday, February 2
The Booking Call Blueprint: Mastering the Conversation That Converts
Most photographers don’t struggle with leads, but they do struggle with conversations.
Entrepreneur, photographer, and producer Andrew Hiorth breaks down how to lead booking calls that consistently convert inquiries into paying clients. Rather than relying on scripts or pressure, this session focuses on:
- Understanding human behavior
- Uncovering true motivation
- Guiding clients toward decisions that feel right
Attendees will learn how to structure a booking call that builds trust, identifies what the client needs, and positions the experience as a meaningful solution rather than simply a service.
This approach shifts the role of the photographer from someone trying to “sell” to a professional helping a client solve a problem. You’ll walk away with the skills to better understand your clients and lead the conversation with clarity and purpose.
Meet Fellow Pros at Networking Avenue
At Networking Avenue, you’ll find dedicated opportunities to make new connections and talk shop with fellow boudoir photographers who understand your business.
The event will include a designated area for boudoir photographers to meet. Not only can you network with the pros who share your niche, but you can also get more time to chat with our expert speakers about the trends shaping your corner of the industry.
Kicking off the first evening of the show on Sunday right before the Welcome Party, this event is the perfect time to catch up with friends and meet new ones.
Test the Latest Gear on the Expo Floor
At the Expo, you’ll meet the vendors whose companies create technology and software with your style and workflow needs in mind. In addition to brands like Adorama, Canon, VSCO, and more, the Expo features exhibitors who are focused on you and your clients’ specific needs. To name a few:
The Expo floor provides opportunities to try out the newest innovations before you buy, so you can find the tools best tailored for your business and creativity.
Register Now for Early Bird Pricing!
The time to claim your savings is now! Register for your All-Access pass by October 31, 2026, to save $100 on your All-Access Pass—that’s double last year’s savings. Your All-Access Pass includes full access to classes, signature celebrations, photo walks, and more. You can also bring a friend along with you to the conference with the Buddy Pass for $199.
For pre-conference classes like the boudoir classes listed above, seats are limited and fill up fast. Make the most of your conference experience by joining us early and getting a head start on your learning.
The Expo Plus Pass is also an excellent choice, as you’ll gain access to events like Networking Avenue, the opening keynote, the Hub, and the International Photographic Competition Finale–all in addition to meeting the 130+ brands offering exclusive deals at the Expo.
We are so excited to welcome you to Imaging USA 2027 at the Charlotte Conference Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, from January 31 – February 2, 2027. The Imaging USA experience is totally customizable, with a wide variety of programming for professional boudoir photographers who attend.
