Backroom Boudoir: 10 Questions with Brynne Zaniboni

Photography - Brynne Zaniboni

Business: Backroom Boudoir
Location: Los Angeles, California CA
Experience: 11
Profile: Backroom Boudoir
Website: www.backroomboudoir.com

1. Introduction: What's your story?

Hi, I'm Brynne, the photographer and owner of Backroom Boudoir in Los Angeles. For the past 10 years, I've photographed more than 1,000 women, creating boudoir experiences that are elegant, relaxed, and a whole lot more fun than most people expect.

Almost every client tells me they're awkward in front of the camera. My favorite part of my job is proving them wrong. My studio is designed to feel beautiful but never intimidating, and while I take my work seriously, I definitely don't take myself too seriously. Expect plenty of laughter, gentle guidance, and an experience that feels more like spending time with a friend who happens to have a camera.

Before photography, I worked in women's empowerment nonprofits, and although my career has changed, my mission hasn't. I love helping women see themselves with more confidence, kindness, and appreciation than they ever thought possible. Beautiful photos are just the icing on the cake.

2. What is your experience shooting boudoir?

Over the past decade of owning Backroom Boudoir, I've refined not only my photography style but also the experience I create. Most of my clients have never had professional photos taken before and come in feeling nervous or convinced they're "not photogenic." My specialty is making them feel comfortable, confident, and genuinely excited to be in front of the camera. Every session has taught me something new, and after all this time, I know how to guide people through every pose, expression, and moment so they leave with images they're proud of and an experience they'll never forget.

I love doing bridal boudoir with women who are so excited to give their partner such a unique and intimate gift. I love working with couples who want to see their relationship through someone else's lens and reignite their passion. I love working with maternity clients and inviting them to see their body as this powerful, yet beautiful, source of creation. I love to work with anyone who decides to do such a vulnerable photoshoot and entrust me in the process!

3. Where will the photo shoot take place?

I only shoot in my private loft studio in Downtown Los Angeles. The space is filled with beautiful natural light from oversized windows and thoughtfully designed with minimalist furnishings. I enjoy creating an elegant backdrop without distracting from the most important part of the photos: you!

4. How should customers prepare for the Boudoir photo shoot?

Once you book, I send over a full prep guide covering everything: where to park, what to bring, how to prep your skin and hair, even outfit ideas. Then we usually hop on an optional pre-shoot call so I can calm any nerves and answer last-minute questions. Honestly, most of my clients walk in a little nervous and walk out wondering why they waited so long to do it. My job is just to make sure they don't have to think about anything except showing up and having fun.

5. Will there be a hairstylist and make-up artist?

If getting pampered is your thing, my celebrity hair and makeup artists are available for you. However, I know many people prefer to trust themselves for this shoot, so I don't force it on anyone. The hair and makeup artists I work with have worked with me for many years. They know just as well as I do how to make you feel comfortable and look your absolute best!

6. What do you do to make your customers feel comfortable for the shoot?

As an anxious person myself, I get wanting to know as much as possible before trying something new. So before you even book, I'm always around to chat or answer your texts and emails, no question too small. Once you do book, you'll get a very detailed prep guide covering literally everything, down to where to grab coffee if you get to the studio early, or when you should shave. When you arrive, we always start with a little chat first to get to know each other and go over posing instructions together, so you know exactly what I'm asking for before we even start shooting. I'll even model every single pose myself first, so you've always got something to mirror. And yes, there's a little champagne waiting too, just to help take the edge off. I know it takes real bravery to do this, and my whole goal is to make sure your hand is held (if you need it) every step of the way.

7. Are pictures printed or do you provide a digital file?

Each package comes with retouched images, how many is dependent on what your goals for the shoot are. I don't require an uncomfortable, in-person, sales-y photo selection session. I let you see all the images from your shoot from the comfort of your home so you can really deliberate on which photos you want from our session. Once you choose the images you want to keep, I do my retouching thing on them. My philosophy is that they should like like you on your best day ever, so I don't do heavy-handed airbrushing. However if you want a more magazine-quality retouch then I'm happy to deliver that. Each package also comes with a physical product, whether it be an album or a printed image. I have always thought photography shouldn't just live on your computer, but be celebrated in hand.

8. What happens on the day?

From the moment you walk through the studio doors, my goal is to make you feel comfortable, relaxed, and excited. If you choose it, your session begins with professional hair and makeup while we chat, sip champagne, get to know each other, and ease any nerves you might have. By the time you're in front of the camera, it won't feel like you're spending the day with a stranger, it'll feel like you're hanging out with a friend.

During the photoshoot, it'll be just you and me, unless you've brought a trusted friend to cheer you on. I guide you through every single pose from head to toe, so you'll never have to wonder what to do with your hands or how to arch your back. I'll also demonstrate poses myself so you can simply mirror what I'm doing.

Most of my clients tell me they're awkward, unphotogenic, or have never done anything like this before. That's completely normal and exactly why I'm there. You don't need any modeling experience. I'll direct you every step of the way, cheer you on, make you laugh, and make sure you look and feel incredible. All you have to do is show up, trust the process, and let me do the rest.

9. Where will the photographs be used?

Your photos are yours and yours alone. I don't even use social media so you'll never have to worry about seeing your booty pop up in an add you didn't consent to.

10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?

To book your shoot, I require a 25% deposit that is non-refundable to ensure that you don't get cold feet. I allow one reschedule should something come up and we are over a week away from your shoot, but no last-minute rescheduling. Should you have to cancel entirely, I always allow the option to use your deposit for a future shoot or you can gift it to a friend.