Boudoir Prep Guide
It is understandable if you feel nervous before your boudoir shoot. This prep guide is designed to help you feel more prepared for your session.
After Booking Your Session
Know what you want
Everyone wants something different from their boudoir session. Whether you want to bare it all or would rather stay mostly clothed is up to you. Just talk to your photographer beforehand about your comfort level in poses and clothing choices. The more your photographer knows about your needs and expectations, the more prepared they’ll be and, more importantly, the more comfortable you’ll feel during your session.
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Choose your wardrobe and accessories.
Not sure what to wear for your session? Bring items that make you feel beautiful. That can be lingerie, an oversized sweater, or even a gorgeous dress. Boudoir is all about YOU, but your photographer can also recommend pieces that will work best for your skin tone and body type. If nothing in your closet screams stunning or makes you feel amazing, then allow yourself a little Amazon browsing to pick out outfits and lingerie that you love. Just be sure to try everything on before your session, in case something doesn’t fit or doesn’t look the way you want it to. Choose accessories for your session that show off your personality and capture you at your most confident. Break out your prettiest heels or jewelry.
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Dress comfortably to your session
When you get dressed to go to your photo shoot, be sure to wear loose, comfortable clothes that won’t leave marks on your skin. That means no jeans, no bras, and no clothing with elastic bands. Those red marks from tight clothes will show up in your photos, and you want your skin to look as fresh and smooth as possible.
Hair and Makeup
Lydia, our hair and makeup specialist, will contact you so you know what to bring (your particular foundation, etc), what she will provide, and discuss the overall look you want. If you will not be requiring her services, just let us know in advance.
The Week Before Your Session
Get pampered
If you wax, make sure to do so at least four to five days before your session to avoid any unsightly bumps or redness. This is also a good time to have your eyebrows done and visit the salon for a touchup, if you need one. Make a day of it and get a manicure and pedicure while you’re at it! You should avoid spending a lot of time out in the sun- a sunburn or tan lines won’t look good in your photos. And absolutely don’t spray tan. You want to look like your naturally beautiful self!
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Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water the week before and the day of your shoot to ensure your skin looks healthy and hydrated. You should also reduce your salt intake.
Try on everything one more time
Slip into those beautiful new (and favorite) outfits once more to make sure they all fit. Remove any tags and labels and make sure every piece is clean and ironed or steamed. Hang up each outfit after ironing to make sure they hold their shape when you take them to the studio.
The Day Before Your Session
Have an at-home spa day
The day before your boudoir shoot is the perfect time to pamper yourself at home. Take a nice bath, shave, and be sure to moisturize. Once you’ve soaked, enjoy a relaxing evening at home with a good book or stream your favorite show, go to bed early to get plenty of sleep.
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Pack everything up
Make sure all your outfits are gathered together, and you’ve packed everything you need for your shoot. It’s a great idea to write out a checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything. Pack any props and accessories, as well as extra deodorant and lotion, just in case.
The Day of Your Session
Look fresh and clean
Arrive to the studio with clean hair and a moisturized, makeup-free face. The makeup artist will ensure you look your best, so give them a blank canvas to work with. And be sure to wear clear deodorant so it doesn’t rub off on your clothing.
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Give yourself plenty of time
Rushing leads to stress, so be sure to give yourself plenty of time to eat a light, but filling, breakfast and to get to the studio. Check the traffic when you get up in the morning.
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Take a deep breath and relax
The most important thing you can do on the day of your session is relax and enjoy it. Feeling nervous is completely normal! Your photographer will be there to guide you through poses and positions, making sure that you feel comfortable.