Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about doing a boudoir session? Whether you've already booked your session or you're just testing the waters, you probably have some questions. To help, I've put together a big list of common questions. Client or not, please always feel welcome asking me anything. Boudoir sessions are often outside of a person's comfort zone, but I promise they are well worth any nerves!
DO I HAVE TO BE NUDE OR IN LINGERIE?
Definitely not. A boudoir session can still be a liberating experience even fully covered. It's easy to get creative with outfits! Never let a photographer pressure you to show more skin than you're ready for.
where do we shoot?
We'll shoot wherever fits your vision best! My home studio (downtown STL) is always an option and is where most of my shoots take place, but some prefer to shoot in their own homes, rent an Airbnb or hotel suite with decor they love, or even shoot at a secluded outdoor location.
i don't feel naturally sexy. won't i be awkward on camera?
No way! A boudoir session may sound intimidating, but even my most self-doubting clients start to relax after just a few shots. It's my job to make you feel comfortable and at ease, and I will pose you from head to toe! You (most likely) aren't a professional model, and I certainly do not expect you to act like one. All you have to do is show up and trust me!
are my photos safe?
I photograph you alone, edit your images alone, and will never share your photos without permission. I understand how important it is to have a boudoir photographer you can trust! Your photos are handled with respect and discretion every step of the way, and you'll download your images from a private, password-protected gallery.
can i bring a friend with me?
You can, but I don't recommend it! Be certain it's a friend you feel 100% comfortable posing in front of. Or instead, consider renting a dreamy Airbnb and booking a double boudoir session!
do you accept payment plans?
Yes! Half of your fee is required to reserve your session date and serves as a nonrefundable security deposit. The other half isn't due until 48 hours before your session. If you need some wiggle room or smaller payments, please feel welcome letting me know when you first reach out.
do you sell gift cards?
Yes, and I already adore you for being so thoughtful. Contact me and I'll get the process started for you!
how far in advance should i book?
I will always make time for a last-minute shoot if I can, but don't leave it to chance if you can help it! Some clients decide to book on a whim, and others book 9 months out to save up, meet fitness goals, etc. and I love both kinds of clients so much! I'd say six weeks is ideal to give yourself time to build your wardrobe, schedule hair or waxing appointments, etc., but the truth is it's not necessary. Not much time is needed if you're looking at a Tease or Angel package especially, simply because there are fewer schedules to align. It's just you and me, my friend!
when will i get my photos back?
My promised turnaround for finished images is four weeks after the session date, but it is very often much quicker than that. Rush edits are doable as long as I know in advance.
will my hair and makeup be done?
Some of my packages include this and some do not. I give the option to exclude professional hair and makeup services to make sure I'm accessible to clients who don't want to or can't feasibly drop a larger sum on their session. Maybe you already love the way you do your own hair and makeup! (Styled hair and/or makeup aren't required, by the way.)
what if there are parts of my body i don't like?
In the past, clients have asked me to photograph them in a way that leaves out a specific feature, or to edit things out altogether. This is your shoot and I will do whatever is in my means (and is reasonable) to accommodate your concerns! Having said that, I hope that every client knows that we are all far too self-critical.
should i plan around my period?
Solely for your own comfort, I recommend it!
do you shoot groups?
Yes! Boudoir parties are so much fun and make for a perfect girls' night, birthday celebration or bachelorette party! The energy at a boudoir party always has me smiling for days afterward.
will you "photoshop me?"
I strive to edit in a way that accentuates the natural beauty you already have. You will still look like you. I think that some photographers go WAY overboard when editing clients, which can be detrimental to their confidence and mental health. (I once had a photographer make my nose smaller. I had never thought my nose was too big, but thanks to him, I've certainly wondered a lot about it since.) Others proudly refuse to retouch their clients at all, taking a "purist" approach. While I understand, appreciate and truly value their perspective, I can't get on board with that either. So, I fall somewhere in the middle. You're investing a lot into this session, and you deserve a polished product worthy of that investment. I believe a lot of things are temporary, not part of you. Acne, blemishes, uneven skin, bruises and stray hairs are not you—they're just very normal things that come and go.
Can i bring props?
Bringing props is a great way to add some personality to your session. I will happily help you come up with some unique ideas to make your session feel extra special! I've shot clients reading, baking, FaceTiming, eating pizza, playing video games, wearing ballet shoes, working out, referencing their favorite book or movie and even cosplaying. Just no guns.
what's the atmosphere like?
You will be guided from start to finish and top to bottom, so you can relax and leave the work to me! I do my best to match my client's energy, so every session feels slightly different. Music will be playing upon your arrival, the playlist curated around whether you are doing this for yourself or for a partner. Lots of bright flashes and laughs—I assure you, I'm about as un-intimidating as it gets.
The posing flow is different with everyone, as well. I strongly dislike "pose flow checklists." I don't force clients into a strict routine of pre-decided poses because I believe every woman is different, feels differently, moves differently, loves different parts of herself, has a different personality, etc. I refuse to treat you all like rotisserie chickens: "lay on your back, turn to your side, turn to your stomach, ok you're done."