Whether you've had a boudoir session before or not, I always recommend a bit of preparation for your photo shoot; personalized to YOU, of course! These are some of my top tips and suggestions as an intimate portrait photographer when it comes to helping you get ready and make the most out of your session!
~ The Vibe Checks
- make sure you look up your photographer's work and talk with them before booking, so you know you feel comfortable with their skills and personality; in other words, do you vibe with them and their style? If not, maybe look for other photographers that could be a better match! Everyone has their own ideas, style, and personality, and not everyone vibes with everyone ~ and that's okay! Book with someone whose work and personality speak to you!
- let your photographer know what vibes you have in mind for your session if any (cutesy-cuddly and modest, or sultry-steamy and kinky?) so that you're both prepared to capture that vision. Don't feel like you have to pick one specific vibe or idea for a boudoir shoot, either. Photographers are always happy to take the lead with creative direction if you just want to show up and go with the flow!
~ The Outfit Options
I have a Boudoir Client Closet filled with women's lingerie pieces size S-5XL, and my boudoir sessions ALWAYS include access to these options, so you don't have to worry about buying or bringing anything unless you WANT to! The key is that your outfits and accessories feel like YOU, make you feel good, and match your personality and comfort level.
Here are some other ideas for different outfit options for your Boudoir session:
- Lingerie of any style; one piece, two or more pieces, corsets, strappy things, lacey things, nightgowns, etc.
- Classic panties/bra combos (sports bras or boyshorts sets are okay too! Cotton, lace, thong, "granny," ANY kinda undies ya feel like!)
- T-shirts, oversized/off-the-shoulder sweaters, jerseys, or button-downs
- Jeans paired with a bralette or topless look (props and flower tops)
- Nude or "just the sheets/props"
- Your s/o's clothes or accessories (tie, cap, gamer or sports props, etc)
- Your own accessories like heels, jewelry, hair accessories, props (whether something more personality related, like books or paint, or something like bondage or other kinky props)
- Anything that matches your theme (IF you have a themed shoot); for example, a bridal session calls for wedding props like your veil or ring, and different holiday-themed sessions might inspire your outfit or prop choices, as well!
~ The Pampering and Session Prep
- Hair and Makeup; my boudoir sessions ALWAYS include these styling services IF you want them, but if you prefer to do your own or keep things natural, that is A-OK! Some clients even go all out and get a fresh cut and color done the day before or the morning of their photo shoot, which is REALLY making the most of the self-love and pampering experience!
- Nails; get them done professionally, grab a pack of glue-ons or stick-ons, paint them yourself, or if you hate all those options, just make sure your bare nails are all nice and clean for your session!
- Personal Care; before your session, brush your teeth, shave any areas you want (IF you want), and wear loose, comfy clothes to your session.
~ The Hype
Let go of the nerves, let in the EXCITEMENT! You are deserving of the boudoir experience, hype, pampering, and Self-Love, AS YOU ARE, and ALWAYS. Don't let doubt and insecurity creep in and tell you you're not _______ enough. You are. So don't put so much pressure on yourself, just have fun with it and be YOU.
And if I'm your photographer, well... you better also prepare to be singing, laughing, and shaking our booties during your session, because I LIVE for being a professional hype woman for other women and couples, and we never take ourselves too seriously around here!