Taking Better Bedroom Photos

The boom in digital camera technology makes it easier than ever to indulge in a little bedroom camera play -- you get instant results, and no stranger in a film processing plant ever needs to see the evidence of your photographic romp! Whether you're thinking about fooling around with your camera for the first time, or you're already a die-hard bedroom shutterbug, here are some tips to make the creation of these most loving mementos a fun and satisfying experience.

Let there be light
For all their technical wonder, cameras can't see as well as you can. The beautiful image your eye perceives in the "romantic" low-light conditions typical of a bedroom, may wind up as a photo with grainy texture and muted colors. Sometimes that soft, grainy look is exactly what you're going for, but if you're not happy with the quality you're getting, try adding more light. While posing for racy pictures in a brightly lit room may feel a little exposed at first, you might find the increased color and contrast to be worthwhile.

Clear the clutter
When you're photographing your beloved, you only have eyes for them -- you notice their smile, their body, and the way sharing this intimate moment makes you feel. The camera, unfortunately, also has "eyes" for the laundry basket in the corner, the goofy stuffed animals on the shelf, and the novelty coffee mug on the nightstand. Take a moment to clear the scene before you start shooting, and keep the focus where it belongs!

Be yourself
Sexy has a different meaning for everyone -- and that's good! These pictures are for you. There's no "right" way to dress, look, or be. Some people are comfortable with very explicit poses, others are more demure. Boundaries should be respected -- this is not the time or place for pressure, or to try to prove anything. Good communication is the key to making sure that camera play is fun.

Shoot away!
We've all had the experience of seeing photos of ourselves we don't like, which can make the prospect of seeing revealing photos that much more intimidating.  But remember: professionals shoot hundreds of pictures to get that one on the cover of a magazine (or in the centerfold.) So try not to worry about how the photos are  going to turn out, and just have fun making them. Take lots of pictures with the expectation that most of them won't be a "magic moment." Don't start judging the photos (or yourself!) until your clothes are back on and you're going through them to select the best. Any you really don't like? Delete!

An ounce of prevention
Now that you've got your loving mementos, take some care to protect them from unintended "exposure." Avoid mixing up your spicy poses with the family vacation photos and snaps from the Little League game you send to the in-laws (or anywhere else!) by buying a dedicated memory card for camera play, and marking it with a permanent pen so you'll be able to identify it easily.