DC Boudoir Photographer Nicole Griffin Named Top Black Boudoir Photographer of 2026

Griffin's transformative photography experiences help women reconstruct their self-image

Mar. 30, 2026 at 3:36pm

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A high-contrast silkscreen print in neon colors of a single, iconic boudoir photography prop repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the empowering and inclusive nature of boudoir photography.A bold, vibrant celebration of the transformative power of boudoir photography, redefining representation and body positivity.Washington Today

Nicole Griffin, founder and lead photographer of Nicole Griffin Photography, was named one of the Top Black Boudoir Photographers at The Coterie Noir Virtual Awards. Griffin, a Washington DC-based boudoir photographer, was recognized for her work redefining representation, body positivity, and the transformative power of boudoir photography.

Why it matters

Griffin's work challenges the impossible beauty standards imposed on women, particularly women of color and women across straight to plus sizes. Her inclusive approach centers diverse body types, skin tones, ages, and backgrounds to expand what the world accepts as beautiful.

The details

Griffin was honored alongside four other photographers from across the country. Testimonials submitted by the public described her as "revolutionary" for her ability to instill confidence in clients of all sizes, ages, and backgrounds. What began as Griffin's own healing journey evolved into a mission to create transformational experiences for high-achieving women who have mastered every area of their lives except how they see themselves.

  • The Coterie Noir Virtual Awards ceremony was held on March 21, 2026.
  • Griffin has photographed hundreds of women across the DMV region.

The players

Nicole Griffin

Founder and lead photographer of Nicole Griffin Photography, a Washington DC-based boudoir photography studio serving clients throughout Maryland and Northern Virginia.

Olesha Haskett

Founder of Boudoir for Black Women, the organization that hosted the Coterie Noir Virtual Awards.

Katrina Cross-Daniels

Boudoir photographer based in Detroit, Michigan, also recognized as a Top Black Boudoir Photographer.

Brianne Daul

Boudoir photographer based in Boonton, New Jersey, also recognized as a Top Black Boudoir Photographer.

Latoya Dixon Smith

Boudoir photographer based in Greenville, South Carolina, also recognized as a Top Black Boudoir Photographer.

Maria Rouse

Boudoir photographer based in Atlanta, Georgia, also recognized as a Top Black Boudoir Photographer.

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The takeaway

Griffin's work challenges the impossible beauty standards imposed on women, particularly women of color and women across straight to plus sizes. Her inclusive approach centers diverse body types, skin tones, ages, and backgrounds to expand what the world accepts as beautiful, empowering women to see themselves as worthy of celebration.