BOUDOIR SESSION CHEAT SHEET
Boudoir photography is a niche very near and dear to my heart. Helping people see themselves in a new light and rediscover a sense of confidence is an incredibly rewarding experience for me, and so. much. fun. Whether you're doing this for your partner, to celebrate a personal milestone, to get back in touch with your femininity (whatever that means to *YOU*), or for no reason at all other than you deserve it, I am thrilled at the opportunity to create some beautiful images with you. Boudoir sessions can be such an empowering experience, leaving you feeling great long after your session ends.
I've created this Cheat Sheet to help my clients feel prepared and at ease, but keep in mind that this is YOUR session, not mine! These are just tips stemmed from what's worked well in my experience. Always feel very welcome to discuss ideas or ask questions!
Happy prepping!
Clean the bottoms of your feet well. It's easy to miss while getting ready, but so easy to spot in photos! If you're doing an all-barefoot shoot, bring some slippers or flip flops to walk around in.
Plan each of your outfits from head to toe. One of the few issues I come across is when a client brings suitcases full of pieces of outfits they like, but nothing that comes together as a set.
Wear loose clothing the morning of your session to avoid red marks and indents on your skin.
If you're sensitive to bright lights like me, take some headache medicine before we start. Especially if you're getting hair and makeup done—that's extra time in bright light!
Eat about an hour before your session. Some clients skip meals to avoid bloat, but trust me! Boudoir sessions are a lot of physical work—you'll want to feel energized, not hungry.
Carefully cut off all the tags on your lingerie. Those long Victoria's Secret tags are the bane of my existence.
For outdoor sessions, pack a strapless sundress or anything that's easy to slip on and off!
If you'll have access to the client closet, don't forget a nude thong! Many items are sheer, so if that's more than you're wanting to show, pack some pasties that match your skin.
Don't forget to plan your session around your period, if you get one!
Stay hydrated! Pack a water bottle and treat yourself to your favorite café drink on your way to your session.
Plan something fun for after your session! You're going to be looking and feeling fabulous. Let me know if you need some Saint Louis recommendations!
If you're having your hair & makeup done, come with clean, product-free hair and no makeup.
Make sure any waxes or facials are done several days before your session to avoid redness or blotchiness.
Posing for boudoir sessions is a workout! It wouldn't hurt to do some light stretching leading up to your boudoir photoshoot.
If you are a bride surprising your fiancé with a boudoir album the morning of your wedding, bring the lingerie you plan to wear that night or on your honeymoon!
If you are financially able, use this boudoir session as a reason to pamper yourself! Get your nails done, get a fresh haircut or those highlights you've been wanting, book a full spa day with massage and facial, etc.
I have playlists ready to go—but if you want to, don't be afraid to make your own. Just make sure the songs are upbeat and will energize you! Your phone should be able to connect to my Bluetooth speaker. Make sure the playlist is at least as long as your session is scheduled to last.
Feel at ease knowing that your boudoir photographer has seen and worked with every body type, and you have nothing to be self-conscious about. At all.
Resist the urge to ask if you can see some photos on the back of the camera. RAW files are a completely different species—they are going to look so flat and lifeless before editing!
Don't feel like your only wardrobe options are traditional lingerie. Wear what makes you FEEL sexy, especially if you're doing this session for yourself! Your session can be as modest as you want (think cozy sweaters and knee-high socks), in nothing at all, or anything in between!
This is way easier said than done, but try to get a good night's sleep before your session! Take some time to wind down with a face mask, watch your favorite show, and relax.
Most importantly, allow yourself to let loose and have fun! You'll be in a safe, judgement-free environment. You deserve this and so much more!