Empowerment Through Visibility:

Celebrating Queer Identity at Notorious Boudoir

At Notorious Boudoir in Milwaukee, our studio isn’t just a space for taking beautiful photographs; it’s a space built on radical acceptance, celebration, and empowerment. We welcome the LGBTQ+ community with open arms, not as a performative gesture, but as a deep-rooted part of our mission and daily practice.

Boudoir photography has often been associated with cisgender, heterosexual women, but in truth, it has evolved far beyond that narrow definition. Today, it is a medium embraced across the LGBTQ+ spectrum; a way for queer, transgender, and nonbinary individuals to step into their power, explore gender expression, and be truly seen. And in a world that works tirelessly to dim queer voices, we’re working just as hard to amplify them.

(Client above wearing client closet bra and chest harness. They added their favorite cowboy boots/hat and bottom harness)

Our Milwaukee boudoir studio exists as a sanctuary where authenticity is honored and encouraged. We understand that gender expression is deeply personal, emotional, and brave. The vulnerability it takes to show up as your whole self, and the electricity that comes from being witnessed in that truth; is what drives our work. Boudoir, in this space, becomes more than art. It becomes rebellion. It becomes healing. It becomes joy.

Milwaukee’s queer community is beautifully complex. Many have journeyed from across the country to find refuge here, escaping towns that tried to erase them. Others have rooted themselves in advocacy, organizing affirming care and resources for the community. Each story is different, and every story matters. I’m not here to pass judgment on where someone is in their journey. As a neurodivergent woman who has often felt misunderstood, I’ve found kinship, inspiration, and deep learning through my queer friends and clients.

(Client above requested a session with a female queer stranger-This experience was carefully matched with a well known past client.)

Photography has given me the gift of documenting true badasses. Through my lens, I get to preserve moments of strength, softness, transformation, and fierce self-love. At Notorious Boudoir, we don’t ask anyone to shrink themselves. We ask them to take up space. Loudly. Beautifully. Queerly.

If you’re seeking a space in Milwaukee where you can be exactly who you are and be celebrated for it! We’re here, and we can’t wait to meet you.

I know you’re here for a reason! Well there is some more info I can give you to make shopping for your boudoir session super easy. Below is a list of Gender Affirming and Queer friendly Lingerie Brands.

(Client above wearing items from our client closet wardrobe. )

What are some Gender Affirming- Queer Friendly lingerie brands?

There are far more brands that make options for gender queer and transgender folks these days. This list includes brands that offer binders, tucking underwear, masculine or unisex options, and body padding. Check out our favorite brands that you need to check out for yourself.

• Cantiq LA
• Solstice Intimates
• Thistle and Spire
• Unclockable
• Savage X Fenty
• Tomboyx
• Origami Customs
• Tuck and Bind
• Madalynne
• En Femme Style
• Gaff and Go
• Lemonade Dolls
• Nala

(Client above trying boudoir for the first time. Client wearing our popular unisex Chest Harness)

Check out our website with more examples of queer representation in the Gallery.