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 makes her a true pioneer in her field.
Q. Your journey led you through various photography genres, including weddings and portraits, before specializing in boudoir photography in 2011. How has your approach to photography changed over the years as you’ve gained more experience?
Answer. I think it has offered up space to focus on the client more. I am less concerned about my settings and the technical aspect of it because it’s become second nature to me. So I get to focus on making the client feel comfortable.
Q. Do you have any pre-session rituals or studio practices that help set the tone for the photoshoot?
Answer. Absolutely! I set out a welcome sign with the client’s name on it, I light a fragrant candle, put on spa music for when they arrive. I offer them champagne and a baked good – there are many bakeries near my studio so it’s easy to grab a snack for them.
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Q. How do you think platforms like Instagram and TikTok are influencing modern boudoir photography?
Answer. I have a love/hate relationship with them. One one hand, it has given up and coming photographers platform that’s more accessible but on the other hand, there are policies and regulations that keep changing that censor our work. That’s frustrating.
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Q. Who is April when she’s not behind the camera?
Answer. I’m going through peri-menopause so I’ve been a hormonal mess! I don’t feel like I was not prepared for it – only now are women starting to talk about peri-menopause in a public setting, it’s been so hush-hush but literally every. Single. Woman goes through it so why aren’t we more open about it?
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Q. AI-generated art is pushing creative boundaries—do you see AI as a threat or an asset in boudoir photography?
Answer. Little known fact – AI in Adobe products like photoshop WILL NOT let you use AI like generative fill on most boudoir because it doesn’t meet “guidelines”. Users will need to be extra discerning when looking at photography online, even more so than before, because a lot of it is very convincing. But humans are heard creatures – nothing will replace the aspect of human connection, and that is a big part of what we offer as boudoir photographers.
Q. How do you hope your work impacts your clients in the long term—beyond just the session day?
Answer. I hope it shifts their mindset, I want their self worth to go up and I want them to learn that it’s ok to put themselves first. I want them to feel heard and healed.
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Q. What has been a lesson you’ve learned as a female boudoir photographer that has stuck with you to date?
Answer. To be successful and stay in business, you have to be a business owner first, and an artist second. It doesn’t matter how amazing your work is, if you can’t market it, you won’t make a living. If you don’t have a good handle on your numbers, you will fail. Master your craft – yes. But invest in education about business and you will succeed.
Q. Looking back, what advice would you give your 12-year-old self—camera in hand and exploring?
Answer. When you go to college, major in business and minor in art.
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Q. What’s your favorite part of the boudoir session—the shoot itself, the reveal, or seeing the client’s reaction?
Answer. I love when they see their images for the first time. “Oh wow” is a common reaction.
Q. Are there any new technologies (such as AI or 3D rendering) you’re excited about incorporating into your work?
Answer. I have been using AI to help me with marketing campaigns, blog posts and other back end work but as far as helping me create art? I guess I am old school.
Q. What’s one thing people are surprised to learn about you?
Answer. That I really like to sing and I am pretty decent at it.
Q. Where do you see the evolution of boudoir photography heading over the next 5-10 years?
Answer. I do think with the advent of AI, there will be a shift of more custom service, more personal connection, and photographers offering more than just photos but an array of self-love empowering products.
Q. What legacy do you hope to leave behind—not just as a female boudoir photographer, but as a creative and a woman empowering others?
Answer. That I lifted women up, that I created a community of positive, supportive ladies that were there for each other. That I was able to change the way women saw themselves for the better.
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Q. How do you unwind after a long day of shoot?
Answer. I take a long, hot shower and cuddle with my cat Charlie.
Q. What’s next for you—do you have any upcoming projects or goals that you’re particularly excited about?
Answer. I have a few things on the horizon! I am finally offering couples sessions. And I hope to start offering on-location shoots such as beach sessions, pool sessions, etc.
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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.
