Ashley is a Chicago boudoir photographer creating natural light, fine art boudoir sessions for women who want to be photographed as they are.
Photographed with care, softness, and a calm editorial approach, her images feel intimate and lived-in, made to be returned to over time.
Chicago Boudoir Photographer
Boudoir, for you
We spend so much of our lives moving forward, always becoming. We rarely pause to honor the version of ourselves standing here, now.
A boudoir session is an invitation to slow down and be witnessed — to say, this is me, in this moment of my life. The experience is centered entirely on you, not on how anyone else might see you.
My hope is that these boudoir photos reflect who you are right now, and that you’ll return to them with tenderness and pride.
If this resonates with you, I would be honored to connect and explore what we might create together.
"My boudoir photos held up a mirror so I could see myself as I really am: as a beautiful person who contains multitudes, whose body has carried her through the most joyful and challenging moments of my life, whose body tells that story — my story — and deserves to be loved in all it's forms."
Meet Ashley
Ashley Biess is a Chicago boudoir photographer with nearly two decades of experience and a singular devotion to creating images that feel honest, intimate, and deeply human.
Her work has been recognized three times as one of Chicago’s best boudoir photographers, including by The Knot.
Ashley’s approach is calm, intuitive, and personal. She works as a single-artist studio, guiding each client herself from the first conversation through the final artwork. Every session is shaped with intention and rooted in trust and care.
Her images are not about becoming someone else. They are about remembering who you already are.
Her hope is that every client leaves the experience feeling beautifully seen.
What matters, in the end, is having photographs that hold this version of you — exactly as it was, at this point in your life.
Afterward
Afterward, I curate and edit your images with restraint. Nothing is pushed too far or smoothed into something unrecognizable. When clients see their boudoir photographs, what often lands first is the sense that this version of them was worth keeping.
During The Session
During the session, I guide you clearly and gently. You’re never left guessing what to do. We move slowly, follow the light, and take breaks when needed. Many clients tell me they forget they were ever nervous — that it starts to feel easy.
Before your boudoir session, we’ll talk through what drew you here, what you’re hoping to feel, and any concerns you’re carrying with you. I’ll help you choose a space, timing, and wardrobe that feel natural and supportive — nothing performative.
Before the Session
Most women come into a boudoir session feeling nervous — even the ones who seem confident on the outside. If you’re wondering whether you’ll feel awkward or unsure of what to do, you’re not alone.
My role is to make the experience feel far more comfortable than most people expect.
The Boudoir Experience
The Studio Chicago
DL Loft
Soho House
The Drake, Oak Brook
& Beyond
The Langham
The Nobu Hotel
The Hoxton
Studio Sunset
The Ambassador
The Talbott
The Studio Chicago
DL Loft
Soho House
The Drake, Oak Brook
& Beyond
Boudoir Sessions in Chicago
Boudoir sessions take place in light-filled Chicago hotel suites and studios, chosen for beautiful window light and a calm, refined feel.
Recent Chicago boudoir session locations include:
Printed Artwork
Albums and fine art prints are available as part of the boudoir experience.
I’ll walk you through the process from start to finish, choosing images, designing your boudoir album or custom framed prints, and making sure everything feels comfortable and unrushed.
The result is a one-of-a-kind piece, created just for you and meant to be cherished.
"Ashley helps women own the power of their bodies—and love them, not for anyone else, but for themselves. Her boudoir work is a gift, and an act of resistance in its most creative and beautiful form."
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve never done a boudoir session before. Will you guide me?
Absolutely. I’ll guide you through the entire boudoir experience, from how to stand and where to place your hands to pacing, expression, and when to take a breath. You don’t need to know what you’re doing or how to pose. Most clients arrive a little nervous and leave surprised by how natural and comfortable it all felt.
What should I wear?
Most clients bring two to four looks. That might include lingerie, an oversized shirt, a dramatic robe, a blazer, or something meaningful to you. Before your session, I’ll offer guidance so you feel prepared without feeling overwhelmed. You don’t need a closet full of options, just a few pieces that feel like you.
How much does it cost to work with you for a boudoir session?
My Chicago boudoir collections begin at $2,000, with most clients investing between $2,800–$3,600 for a complete experience and heirloom artwork. After you inquire, I’ll send my full Boudoir Collection Guide so you can review what’s included and decide what feels right for you.
Do you retouch the photos?
Yes — with a light, thoughtful hand. I smooth and polish where needed, but skin still looks like skin and you still look like yourself. My goal is for the images to feel honest, timeless, and natural rather than overly perfected.
When will I receive my images?
Your private online gallery is typically delivered within 5 weeks of your session. If you choose to create an album or artwork, I’ll guide you through that process next and handle the design with the same care as the session itself.
Why do women book a boudoir session?
Women book boudoir sessions for many reasons. Some schedule a bridal boudoir session before their wedding day. Others choose boudoir photography to celebrate a milestone birthday, mark a personal transformation, navigate postpartum changes, or reconnect with their body during a season of growth.
For many women, a boudoir session becomes a way to pause and honor themselves exactly as they are. It isn’t about becoming someone new. It’s about recognizing strength, softness, and self in the moment.
"I look at my boudoir photos and feel strong and beautiful. Thank you to Ashley for doing this. It's so important for women to feel these things about themselves!"
If you’re considering a boudoir session in Chicago and would like to learn more, I’d love to hear from you.
I reply within 48 hours, Monday through Thursday.
Request Information
Prefer email? You can also reach me at ashley@artistrieco.com
While I review your inquiry, you’re warmly invited to complete my Boudoir Questionnaire below. It’s optional, but many clients find it a meaningful first step in shaping an experience that truly feels like them.
It’s a space to reflect on your “why,” share what draws you to boudoir, and begin imagining what we’ll create together.
I’ll be in touch soon with availability and next steps. I’m very much looking forward to connecting.
Warmly,
Ashley
Thank you for reaching out—I’m so glad you’re here.
