Unleash the Wild Side: How Animal Prints and Big Hair Can Transform Your Portrait and Boudoir Photography

Dec 10, 2024 | Boudoir, For Photographers, Portrait Photography

In the world of portrait and boudoir photography, nothing exudes confidence and unapologetic style quite like the bold punch of animal prints paired with wild, untamed hair. If you want your photos to pop with attitude and flair, embrace that full-on mob-wife aesthetic—because let’s face it, winter is here, and it’s time to turn up the heat with fierce, statement-making looks! Then ditch the ordinary and go full throttle with this sassy, unapologetic style. Just look at Diamony, who strut her stuff like a total queen in a recent shoot, slaying every shot in a bold animal print and textured, flowing hair. The vibe? Pure, unfiltered power.

So, why should you unleash the beast in your sessions with animal prints and wild hair? Because these choices aren’t just about fashion—they’re about making a statement. They add that perfect splash of drama, confidence, and a little rebellious spirit that turns heads and dares the viewer to look away. If you’re ready to give your photography a spicy edge, let animal prints and unruly locks lead the way to unforgettable shots.

1. Animal Prints: The Ultimate Power Statement

Animal prints are iconic for a reason—they’re fierce, unapologetic, and full of attitude. Whether it’s leopard, zebra, or tiger stripes, these bold patterns naturally exude confidence and empowerment. When your client slips into an animal-print outfit, it’s like flipping a switch—the energy instantly becomes more daring and adventurous.

In boudoir photography, animal prints can be especially transformative. They bring out the wild side of your client, encouraging them to embrace their inner fierceness and strength. The contrast of such a powerful print against soft, sensual poses creates a unique dynamic that adds layers of depth to your portraits.

2. Wild Hair: Let It Flow!

Forget the sleek, polished look—when it comes to portraits that truly stand out, big, wild hair is where it’s at. Let your subject’s hair flow naturally, allowing it to frame their face with texture and movement. In Diamony’s shoot, her voluminous locks brought a sense of freedom and untamed spirit to the images, complementing the animal-print outfit perfectly.

Wild hair adds drama, texture, and a sense of movement to your shots. It brings a raw, organic vibe that contrasts beautifully with structured poses. Plus, it’s a great way to create dynamic lighting effects, as the texture of the hair catches light in interesting ways, adding more depth to your images.

3. The Psychology Behind Animal Prints and Big Hair

There’s a reason animal prints and wild hair make such a strong impact—they’re deeply tied to how we perceive power, freedom, and rebellion. Animal prints are often associated with strength, confidence, and a primal sense of self. It’s a visual cue that instantly conveys independence and boldness.

Big hair, on the other hand, represents freedom and wildness. When your client lets their hair down—literally—it symbolizes letting go of societal expectations and embracing their natural, authentic self. It’s a visual representation of breaking free from constraints, which is exactly the kind of energy you want in a boudoir or portrait shoot.

4. How to Incorporate These Elements in Your Shoots

If you’re ready to bring the wild side to your photography, here are a few tips for incorporating animal prints and big hair into your sessions:

  • Wardrobe Choices: Encourage your client to experiment with bold animal-print outfits. From form-fitting dresses to glamorous robes, these prints will instantly add drama and style to the shoot. Bonus points if the prints include embellishments or textures like sequins, like Diamony’s stunning look.
  • Hair Styling: Work with a hairstylist to create voluminous, textured hairstyles. The key is to avoid perfection—embrace the messiness and natural flow of the hair. If your client has long hair, encourage them to flip or play with it during the shoot for added movement.
  • Posing Tips: Pair the wild hair and prints with confident, dynamic poses. Think strong, angular stances that emphasize your subject’s power and grace. Let the hair and outfit do the talking, while the client holds poses that radiate confidence.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to portrait and boudoir photography, sometimes you have to let loose and embrace the wild side. Incorporating animal prints and wild hair into your sessions isn’t just about creating eye-catching visuals—it’s about empowering your client to step into their bold, authentic self. With these elements, your photos will not only stand out but leave a lasting impression. So, don’t be afraid to unleash the wild side in your next shoot—you (and your clients) will love the results!

I was one of those people who thought I was invincible, and that won’t happen to me well…
It was really hard and I’m so grateful for every day now 
EMMA

ChristinaWehbe