Sensual Photography Definitions

Boudoir Photography Styles Explained by Boudoir Fusion

Our Definitions of Sensual Photography

When Michelangelo and Botticelli painted beautiful images of woman and men naked, they were not frowned upon by society, but rather celebrated for the beauty they created. I find it sad that in this day and age so many people appear to be so adverse to nudity. There may be a fine line between porn and nude, but to my photographic eye there is a huge difference, porn tends to be very much in your face, with no mystery and is about sex. Nude photography is generally considered a genre of art photography depicting the nude human body, it is more subtle and alluring, playing with shadows and using softer colours so that one admires the naked form, rather than lusting after it.

Many of our clients request nude photographs, but are unsure what to expect. So exactly what does Boudoir Fusion Photography see as implied nude, nude, erotic and adult photography, these are our definitions?

These are our interpretations of sensual photography

Sensual Photography Styles at a Glance

StyleLevel of NudityMood & Intent
Implied NudeNude implied, no intimate areas shownTease, suggestion, softness
Semi-NudeBreasts and/or buttocks visibleSensual, bold, glamour-driven
Full NudeFully nude, nothing hiddenElegant, empowering, complete exposure
Artistic NudeFully or partially nudeConceptual, emotional, light and shadow play
Erotic NudeNude with erotic focusProvocative, expressive, suggestive storytelling
Adult NudeSexually explicitBold, graphic, uninhibited, fantasy-oriented
Not sure which style suits you best?
At Boudoir Fusion Photography, we tailor every session to your comfort, desires, and boundaries — from subtle to daring, the choice is always yours.

Implied Nude

Often seen in glamour magazines and fine art photography, implied nude images suggest nudity without revealing intimate areas. Clothing, shadows, or posing strategically conceal the body, leaving much to the imagination. The result is tasteful, elegant, and sensual — where sometimes even a bare back or partial view of the buttocks adds to the allure without being explicit.

Stylistic Comparisons for Implied Nude Photography

If you’re wondering how implied nude photography might look or feel, think of these visual references:

  • Similar to the style once featured in early FHM or GQ editorial shoots
  • Reminiscent of tasteful editorials in fashion or lifestyle magazines
  • Evocative of high-end lingerie campaigns or beauty editorials
  • Agent Provocateur Campaigns (high-end lingerie art direction)
Implied nude image of a woman partially covered by shadows and pose, revealing no intimate areas, styled to evoke elegance and sensual mystery

Semi Nude

Semi-nude photography reveals more of the body while maintaining a sense of sophistication and mystery. Typically, the breasts and buttocks are visible, but intimate areas remain either covered, obscured by pose, or softly shadowed. This style balances allure and elegance — perfect for those wanting something sensual without going fully nude.

Stylistic Comparisons for Semi-Nude Photography

For visual reference, semi-nude photography is often associated with:

  • The glamour-style features once seen in classic Playboy Magazine editorials
  • Bold and sensual imagery from contemporary lingerie campaigns
  • High-contrast, evocative photography from fashion magazines with an edge
  • Select art nude collections where light and pose create the tease
  • Victoria’s Secret Editorial Gallery
Semi-nude image showing breasts and buttocks, posed to balance sensuality with taste, using light and composition to conceal intimate detail

Full Nude

Full nude photography involves capturing the body in its entirety — raw, elegant, and beautifully exposed. While nothing is hidden, the artistry lies in how light, pose, and expression come together to create tasteful, empowering imagery. At Boudoir Fusion Photography, we photograph full nude sessions with the utmost respect, celebrating the subject’s unique form and individuality, always striving to show you in your best light.

Stylistic Comparisons for Full Nude Photography

For visual reference, full nude photography is often associated with:

Full nude portrait of a confident woman, standing in soft natural light, celebrating the beauty and strength of the female form without concealment

Artistic Nude

Artistic nude photography is all about composition, emotion, and creative intention. These images are typically found in art galleries, posed with purpose and lit with dramatic precision — using light, shadow, and shape to sculpt the body as visual poetry. At Boudoir Fusion Photography, we create artistic nudes that honour form and expression, transforming your body into a canvas of light and storytelling.

Stylistic Comparisons for Artistic Nude Photography

For visual reference, full nude photography is often associated with:

Artistic nude photograph of a woman posed with dramatic lighting and shadow, highlighting the curves and contours of her body as a visual form of expression

Erotic Nude

Erotic nude photography walks the line between sensuality and provocation. Often found in curated art books and galleries, this genre features expressive poses, intimate detail, and a bold celebration of sexuality. It draws attention to the erotic energy of the subject while maintaining visual elegance. At Boudoir Fusion Photography, our approach to erotic nudes is tasteful, empowering, and created in a space that honours both your vulnerability and your confidence.

Stylistic Comparisons for Erotic Nude Photography

For visual reference, full nude photography is often associated with:

Erotic nude image of a woman posed seductively with direct gaze and exposed curves, captured in soft lighting to evoke desire and artistic tension

Adult Nude

Adult nude photography features explicit, sexually charged imagery that leaves little to the imagination. It often includes direct eye contact, erotic gestures, and poses that suggest or portray sexual acts. While more graphic in nature, it can still be styled and executed with intentionality, power, and artistic control. At Boudoir Fusion Photography, we respect every client’s level of comfort and work within clearly discussed boundaries to create bold, uninhibited visuals that explore erotic identity without shame.

Stylistic Comparisons for Adult Nude Photography

For visual reference, full nude photography is often associated with:

Explicit nude photograph of a woman in a sexually suggestive pose, captured with confidence and artistic flair to reflect the adult nude photography style