Today we’re welcoming one of our newest Oakland Local advertisers, Boudoir Photography.

Boudoir's owner, Marian Carle is a resident of Jingletown who specializes in boudoir and pinup photography, the perfect gift for Valentine's Day. An experienced photographer with a talent for shooting flattering studio portraits, Carle prides herself on capturing her clients' visions and making them look wonderful - especially if they're draped in some tasteful lingerie, sexy props or … nothing at all.

Rachel Hayes, a recent client, had nothing but praise for Carle's skills. 

"Mariah made sure my boudoir session was very comfortable. We laughed, had a little serious discussion and laughed some more," Hayes said. "I had never done a boudoir  session before, but Mariah made me feel like a natural in front of the camera."'

An experienced portrait photographer, Carle prides herself on her ability to shoot intimate photos of a wide variety of people - from young women to mature women to  gay, trans and gender-fluid people. Unlike some boudoir photographers, Carle is completely comfortable shooting men. 

"I like shooting guys," she said. "Whether it's for a girlfriend or a male partner, it's fun to shoot guys and make them look great. I have no problems with it whatsoever."

Of course, Carle also loves shooting women.

"It's not uncommon for women to want to commission Valentine's Day photos as a way to give an amazing gift to a partner," she said. "But sometimes, women want the shots just for themselves, to remember themselves at a particular time.

Fellow photographer Michael Ross also gives Carle a high rating for her work.

"Mariah will do most anything to get the best photo," Ross said. "It doesn't always come across in her photos, but many of her shoots are outdoors in hard to shoot (or even dangerous) locations ... Mariah's eye for the shot comes first for her.

"She cares deeply for her clients and knows they're paying for a perfect moment in time," he added. "Mariah works at least until that's been delivered."

For Valentine's Day, Carle is offering private sittings at affordable prices. Values are good and quality is high. A $250 session, for example, will give you a private shoot and a package of photos, which includes five 5x7 prints. Or, if you prefer, you can have one-8x10 and 2-5x7 prints.

Carle will be scheduling settings through Feb. 12; appointments available by calling (650) 996-1860. Also check out her website and take advantage of the deal today!