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By Andrea Busche

Boudoir, or “bedroom-style” photography, encompasses a unique niche within the industry. Often described as sensual, sexy, beautiful and bold, the experience of a boudoir photo shoot is intended to empower and inspire confidence.

“Often, women come in feeling timid,” said Dani Schultz, owner of Red Stiletto Boudoir. “But we’re all beautiful, and I get to help women recognize that beauty. I don’t care if you’re 21 or 71. This experience helps women feel incredible.”

Career switch

Schultz, who is originally from Homewood, Illinois, didn’t foresee herself working as a photographer, let alone a boudoir photographer. She had considered social work and psychology before ultimately entering the medical field.

“My dad always had a beautiful camera,” she said. “I only got into photography because it was one of his passions.”

Schultz earned a certificate in radiology technology and worked at Hennepin County Medical Center for seven years, followed by 20 years at CMDI, a mobile imaging company. Today, Schultz still works in the medical industry as a diagnostic medical sonographer (also known as an ultrasound technologist) three or four days per week. Although she lives in Duluth, she splits her work time between Lakeview Hospital in Two Harbors and North Shore Health in Grand Marais.

Schultz is fortunate enough to have discovered two professional pursuits she enjoys. “I love working in health care, but I’m equally passionate about photography,” she said.

Photography

After her dad gifted her with all of his camera equipment, Schultz began experimenting with the hobby. She took pictures of her children, friends and other family members, and realized she really enjoyed photography.

When Schultz and her husband, Troy, were making plans for a “mega garage” to complement their Kenwood home, they decided to dedicate roughly half the space (equating to about 1,000 square feet) to a photography studio. The studio area is separate and very private. It also overlooks the woods, so it is a serene and peaceful space.

“At that time, I still wasn’t thinking about boudoir photos,” Schultz explained. “One of my girlfriends was looking into a boudoir photo shoot for herself, and all of the local options were booked up. I realized I had the perfect little space, and I said, ‘Will you let me try?’”

Schultz began her career as a boudoir photographer by working with friends, using her trusty Canon 60 to capture the images. Eventually, she grew her portfolio to the point that she decided to start a business. Red Stiletto Boudoir opened in late 2020, and remains housed in the “accessory dwelling” on the Schultz’ property.

“Red is my favorite color, and I thought it would be cool to get a pair of red stilettos in every size,” Schultz noted about the name of her business. “I like to get a set of photos of each woman wearing a pair.”

Process

Schultz, who has three assistants as well as two hair and makeup artists (all of whom are independent contractors), explained a little about her clients and the process of a boudoir photo session.

“I would say 99% of my clients are women, but I have had one man — I called it a ‘dudeoir,’” she said with a laugh.

“I see a lot of brides in their 20s, but 30-50 is probably the most common age. Some are single, some are going through a divorce. One client was celebrating turning 40, and another was starting treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, and wanted a session before she lost her hair. But sometimes a photo session is a gift — often from a fiancé, spouse or partner — or an anniversary or Valentine’s Day gift.”

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When it comes to the actual photo shoot, care is taken to ensure the client feels safe and comfortable.

“They come in and we pour them a mimosa. Then my hair and makeup artists come in, taking extra time to talk to the client. We often recommend doing a little bolder hair and makeup than they’re used to. I often tell my clients, ‘We’re not here to be subtle.’ This process takes about an hour.”

Clients are welcome to bring a friend if they wish. And many women take comfort in knowing that all of Red Stiletto’s employees are women.

Attire

In regards to the attire, “We have a client closet, but customers are also welcome to bring their own pieces — this typically includes lingerie, jewelry and shoes,” Schultz said. “Brides often bring their bouquet, veils or wedding shoes, and plenty of people bring accessories or other props, such as a motorcycle or special bottle of whiskey.

“Then we take photos for about two hours. I continue showing them some of the photos I’ve taken through the session — I think it helps them feel comfortable.”

Clients at Red Stiletto Boudoir will be treated to mimosas, a hair and makeup session, and a typical photo session is about two hours. Clients can bring in their own clothing and accessories or choose from the client closet at the studio. “We’re all beautiful, and I get to help women recognize that beauty. I don’t care if you’re 21 or 71. This experience helps women feel incredible," Schultz said.

When it comes to poses, Schultz will incorporate any particular poses that her clients want to explore, but can also fully direct them throughout the session.

And a bit of retouching, to remove a blemish, for instance, can be done afterward. But Schultz tries to keep this to a minimum.

“I don’t want them to not look like themselves,” she said.

Personal life

Dani Schultz and her husband, Troy, who owns Technical Design Services, a local engineering firm, have a blended family. This includes five children: Jacob (24), Adam (23), Sami (21), Domenick (16), and Geno (13), and a family dog — a yellow Lab named Tommie. Schultz’ other interests include music, hiking, biking, hunting and travel.

Empowering women

Above all, a boudoir photography session is intended to empower women, and help them recognize their own unique beauty.

“My company motto is, ‘You are beautiful, brilliant, powerful and brave,’” Schultz said.

She encourages women to put themselves first on occasion. And one great way to do this is with a boudoir session.

“As women, we put so much effort into everyone else — our kids, our spouse, our jobs. This is something you can do for you, and take with you. It’s an investment in your worth. I like to tell my clients, ‘This is something that you’re really going to appreciate 20 years down the road.’”

Red Stiletto Boudoir is currently accepting new clients. Visit redstilettoduluth.com or find them on Facebook to learn more.

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