Interview with Jan Pavláček – Photographer (10 Questions)

Jan Pavláček (@jan_pavlacek_portrait) isn’t just your typical boudoir photographer—he’s a visual storyteller blending Czech tradition with the raw, untamed beauty of Mongolia and Asia. Based in Brno, Jan has built a career capturing elegance with a hint of adventure, infusing his work with an artistic blend of Eastern spontaneity and European refinement. Whether he’s working in a studio or exploring the breathtaking Mongolian landscapes, Jan’s photography exudes a unique charm that captivates his audience. We caught up with him to talk about his journey, his art, and even Cleopatra (yes, really).

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1. How does your Czech heritage influence your work, and what aspects of your travels in Mongolia and Asia have shaped your style?

Jan Pavláček (jan_pavlacek_portrait): The Mongolian and generally Asian mentality suits me very well. Czech and Mongolian cultures differ in many ways, which is immensely inspiring for me as a photographer. Czech culture has deep roots in European history, is very structured, detail-oriented, and focused on tradition. In contrast, Mongolia, with its nomadic history and strong connection to nature, feels much freer and more spontaneous. This contrast is fascinating.

2. Do you remember the first boudoir shoot you ever did? What was it like, and how did it impact your approach to the genre?

Jan: My first boudoir shoot was around 2018, just for fun with a friend. I enjoyed it, but I didn’t know much about setting up lighting, composition, or poses. After that session, I started reading books and listening to podcasts about glamour and boudoir photography. I always work on improving and advancing my skills in this genre.

3. What do you find most challenging about boudoir photography, and how do you overcome it?

Jan: For me, the biggest challenges are colors and post-processing. I’m truly passionate about colorful photography and not a big fan of black-and-white. Achieving color harmony and balanced retouching is always a tough task, and I spend hours searching for the perfect balance of colors, skin tones, and other aspects.

4. What’s your go-to technique or trick to help your models feel confident and comfortable during a shoot?

Jan: Professional behavior and communication are key to keeping the conversation flowing. A photoshoot should always be fun. In my opinion, boudoir is more about the process of shooting than the final photographs themselves.

5. Do you prefer working with experienced models or those completely new to boudoir? Why?

Jan: It doesn’t really matter to me. In Mongolia, my assistant usually helps with guiding the models when needed. I enjoy both equally and don’t differentiate between them. It’s true that most of the girls in my portfolio are girls who were photographed for the first time in their lives.

6. Where do you draw the line between provocative art and something too explicit?

Jan: This question is really difficult to answer because everyone has a different boundary. For me, boudoir photography is primarily art. It can include almost anything, but the intention must be artistic. So, it’s the intention that defines the boundary.

7. If you could photograph anyone, dead or alive, in a boudoir setting, who would it be and why?

Jan: Honestly, I’d pick Cleopatra. Imagine the luxurious vibe—gold, silk, and a couple of dramatic leopards lounging in the background. Plus, I feel like she’d be the type to give fierce posing tips!

8. How do you balance the intimate nature of boudoir photography with your personal life?

Jan: I really love taking portraits, and sometimes I just want to grab my camera and head out to take photos for fun. It’s something I truly enjoy doing in my free time. On the other hand, boudoir photography is not only a passion but also my job. Even though these two styles are different, I feel like I don’t need to try hard to balance them. They seem to naturally fit together and find their own harmony without much effort from me.

9. What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you outside of photography?

Jan: My definition of success? When I can play a high-quality horror game on my PS without pausing every five minutes to check if something’s behind me. That’s peak adulting!

10. What’s the most memorable compliment you’ve ever received from a model or client?

Jan: I’m always deeply pleased when a model decides to come back for another shoot. It’s a sign that she enjoyed working with me. One model once told me that it was her first-ever photoshoot—a boudoir session with a foreign photographer—and that it greatly boosted her confidence. That truly meant a lot to me.

Final Thoughts

Jan’s passion for art, culture, and human connection shines through every photograph he captures. Whether it’s the golden elegance of Cleopatra or a candid moment of laughter during a shoot, his work invites us to celebrate individuality and beauty.