Thrive Gallery: Matt Kay AKA The Wood’s Photography Boudoir Sessions

Thrive Gallery: Matt Kay, AKA The Wood’s Photography Boudoir Sessions

The legend that is Matt Kay joined us for Thrive back in October offering us not one, but two inspiring shoot sessions. Matt is well known for his raw and innovative photography: street style that transfers beautifully into wedding photography, so when he suggested offering a Boudoir photography session we knew it was going to be a bit special.

Whatever springs to mind when you think ‘Boudoir Photography’ throw it in the bin! Matt has transformed the boudoir experience into something totally empowering. His work transcends traditional notions of boudoir, celebrating individuality and capturing the beauty, strength, and vulnerability of his subjects.

Matt has a huge talent for Boudoir photography, connecting with his couples on a level that relaxes them in front of the lens like nothing I’ve seen before.

Matt was keen to use a ‘real person’ (ie not a model) for his boudoir session, he suggested throwing a tennis ball out into the Thrive crowd and inviting the person lucky enough to catch the ball to model, I reminded him that we’re British!

The wonderful Esme Whiteside came to the rescue to act as Matt’s model for these sessions, obviously she looks absolutely awesome.

“Reading and Connecting with Your Subject
Matt emphasised the importance of observing body language and making the subject feel at ease. His knack for creating comfort in vulnerable moments was eye-opening for attendees..”

Matt’s Boudoir Workshop

Matt’s editorial approach to boudoir photography is unlike anything we’ve seen before—personal, artistic, and deeply impactful.

Matt explained how his boudoir work has become a sought-after addition to wedding packages. Here’s what participants learned during this exclusive, intimate workshop:

Maximising Small Spaces
By using the available space creatively, Matt showed how limitations could be turned into advantages. Participants explored how to find the best light and angles, even in confined environments.
Reading and Connecting with Your Subject
Matt emphasised the importance of observing body language and making the subject feel at ease. His knack for creating comfort in vulnerable moments was eye-opening for attendees.
Adapting on the Fly
From directing with a light touch to improvising with available props, Matt demonstrated how to keep a session dynamic and engaging without becoming overly controlling.
Elevating Natural Lighting
Instead of relying on professional lighting setups, Matt taught attendees how to work with what’s available, creating raw and powerful images that tell a story.