Celebrating Trans Bodies Through Luxury Boudoir Photography: Orion’s Story

At Marieke Captures, the Glasgow boudoir studio is built to be a safe, inclusive space for every body, at every stage of their journey. Orion's story is a powerful example of what that can look like.

‘‘This photoshoot was a very special experience for me for a few reasons. I’m currently in the middle of my transition, I have been on testosterone for about 1 year and 3 months, which means that while some parts of my body are becoming more me, there are still a lot of bits that I am dysphoric about, especially my chest. I think boudoir is a wonderful photography style, and I think it’s really important to see more queer and trans bodies being celebrated at all stages of transition. If you're curious about the deeper emotional impact boudoir photography can have, this post explores exactly that.

Boudoir photography has also traditionally been seen as a space for cis women to experience their bodies in a new light, and I want to make that experience accessible to other trans people by making myself visible here. I identify relatively far along the masculinity spectrum, but to experience the softness in these shots mixed with my trans-ness was absolute magic.

Im hoping to do at least 2 more shoots with her, one right before my top surgery and one after I have healed because I’m so sure she will be able to convey how I want to be seen in those memories. Marieke is such a calming presence, so lovely to be around, and will always be your number 1 hype woman during the shoot!’’ Wondering what your own first experience would look like? Here's exactly what to expect.
You can explore more of the work from Marieke Captures in the full gallery here.

Orion, thank you for trusting me with this. For showing up so fully, and for allowing these photographs to exist in the world.

Boudoir has historically been a space created for a very narrow idea of who deserves to be celebrated. That has never sat right with me. Every body, at every stage of its story, deserves to be seen with tenderness and without apology. That includes bodies in transition. Bodies that don't fit a mould. Bodies that the world hasn't always been kind to.

If you are trans, non-binary, or queer, and you have wondered whether a space like this could ever feel safe for you: you are always welcomed and celebrated here. You don't need to be at a particular stage of your journey. You don't need to feel comfortable in your body yet. You just need to be willing to show up, and I will take care of everything else.

Representation matters. If you're looking for a safe, affirming space to be photographed exactly as you are, I'd love to hear from you.