How to take sexy self portraits that look and feel amazing

Big Night In is a series where Canadian experts and creatives share advice on how to spend a magical night at home. It's the ultimate guide to staying in — whether solo or with friends — featuring thoughtfully curated ideas that are anything but routine.

A DIY boudoir photo shoot is all about capturing yourself exactly as you are. It's a chance to feel empowered and celebrated — whether the pics are for someone specific, "for your files" or just for the fun of flirting with the camera. "It's a night where you get to put yourself first, acknowledge yourself, spend time with yourself like you would a friend and love on yourself," said boudoir photographer Liz D'Alessio. 

To get started, choose a night when you'll actually have some alone time, D'Alessio suggests. Then set the mood: put your phone on Do Not Disturb, play some music to hype yourself up, and have fun doing your hair and makeup. "You can dance or sing along to the songs, strike poses in front of the mirror, maybe have a glass of wine, too," she said. 

While most boudoir sessions feature a bed, D'Alessio recommends picking a spot where you'll be comfortable, whether it's on a couch, by an accent wall or even on the floor. And wear whatever makes you feel confident — it doesn't have to be lingerie, she says. "Make choices about your outfit and poses that feel authentic." 

We don't really get a lot of time as adults to give ourselves attention, know how we're feeling or do things just for fun.

Equipment-wise, all you really need is a phone and a couple of lamps. D'Alessio's pro tip for using your phone? "Don't use the selfie lens." The back camera will give you much higher-quality images, she explains. Place your phone on a tripod if you have one, or prop it up against a stack of books. 

For the best lighting, place your main light one to two metres away from you at a 45-degree angle, "somewhere between the front and side of your face," she said. If you want a softer look with less contrast, add a second light farther away. 

Now it's time to start snapping. For flattering poses, D'Alessio suggests exaggerating your body's curves. "Drop a shoulder, put a hand on your hip, tilt your head to the side or twist your upper body towards the camera," she said. If you're unsure where to put your hands, "don't be afraid to actually touch your body." Using your phone's self-timer can be helpful, she says, but another trick is to take a video of yourself posing and then select screenshots from it.

Most importantly, remember that the whole evening is about feeling good and connecting with yourself. "We don't really get a lot of time as adults to give ourselves attention, know how we're feeling or do things just for fun," D'Alessio said.