Boudoir by Bri — Saint Louis Boudoir Photographer
What Actually Happens at a Boudoir Shoot? A Step-by-Step Look Inside My Studio
A Step-by-Step Guide to Help You Feel Ready, Informed, and Excited
Thinking about booking a boudoir session but not totally sure what you’re signing up for? (You’re not alone! Most of my clients walk in having never done anything like this before, and many arrive feeling nervous or uncertain about what to expect.)
I’m hoping this guide will take the mystery out of the process and help you feel confident, excited, and totally at ease before your session even begins. You don’t need to show up knowing anything. You don’t need to practice poses or have a certain body type or be “good at taking pictures.” That’s my job! Your job is just to take a leap of faith.
Whether you’re planning to shoot in my home studio near downtown Saint Louis, or you’ve booked a dreamy Airbnb, chic hotel suite, or even picked a secluded outdoor spot, here’s a little peak at what you can expect during a boudoir shoot with me from start to finish.
Step 1: Booking + Getting to Know Each Other
Once you reach out, I’ll send over all the details you need about packages, availability, and pricing. (Or, you can view my packaging and pricing ahead of time! I love to be transparent about pricing, so everything is detailed on my website.) From there, we’ll start chatting! I’d like to think I’m friendly and accessible, and I’m happy to answer any questions you might have. No judgment, ever. Whether you’re wondering what to wear, feeling nervous, or just wanting some tourist suggestions to make the most of your trip to Saint Louis, I’ll help you feel supported every step of the way.
So many clients truly feel like friends before we even meet in person, and that connection helps the session feel fun and relaxed right from the start!
Step 2: Getting Ready for Your Boudoir Session
Depending on the package you choose, you may have professional hair and makeup included. If not, you’re still welcome to glam up however you’d like, or keep it simple and natural. Either way–there’s no wrong choice. I love giving my clients options that suit different budgets, but my hair and makeup team is phenomenal if you want the full pampering experience!
And if you need help choosing outfits, I’ve got you there, too! I send my boudoir clients plenty of helpful blogs, tips, and outfit guides, and some of my packages include access to wardrobe pieces I have on hand. Whether you want cozy, bridal, edgy, romantic, or bold, we’ll find your perfect vibe.
Step 3: The Big Day
No matter how nervous you feel walking in, I promise you’ll be surprised at how quickly those nerves melt away. You do not have to come in with supermodel-level confidence. Just show up! I’ll take care of the rest. It’s all warmth and zero judgement here.
Before we begin, I’ll talk you through the flow of the session, and we’ll lay out your outfits and decide which ones would look best in which sets.
Once we start shooting, I’ll guide you through every single pose from head to toe. You’ll never be left wondering what to do with your hands or where to look. In fact, many of my clients say they relax almost immediately because they’re so focused on following my instructions (and usually laughing a little in the process). Whether your session is 30 minutes or 4+ hours long, you can expect encouragement from start to finish.
Each shoot is entirely tailored to you. Your body, your comfort level, and your vision for your session’s vibe.
Step 4: After the Shoot
Within four weeks (often much sooner), you’ll be able to download your finished photos from a private, password-protected online gallery. No mandatory product packages, no hidden fees, and no holding your images hostage so you have to spend more money. And if you let me know ahead of time that you’re on a deadline (maybe a birthday, anniversary gift, or even your wedding day), I’m typically able to do a rush turnaround.
You’ve Got This
From the first email to album delivery, I’m here to support you, uplift you, and remind you that you’re more than enough, exactly as you are right now.