Are you considering a boudoir shoot? From selecting the right boudoir photographer to choosing clothing, props and poses, it can be tricky to find your best fit in the world of boudoir photography. However, with the right preparation and knowledge, you can ensure that your shoot experience and results will be amazing.
Do your research on the photographer.
Before you book your shoot, it is essential to make sure you choose the right photographer for you. Do your research and consider factors such as price, style and portfolio. Consider the photographers’ previous work to get an idea of what they can provide and whether their work appeals to you. Of course, be sure to read any reviews of the boudoir photographer that you are considering to get an idea of how they operate.
Also keep in mind that you will get into more revealing outfits in front of the photographer, so you have to make sure you completely trust them. The photographer will have to guide you through poses, outfit and hair adjustments to make it just perfect. Therefor knowing you can easily communicate with them is essential.
Decide what level of comfort you want to have during the shoot.
The level of comfort during your boudoir photoshoot is important and will depend on the photographer you choose. Ask yourself questions such as, “am I okay with them seeing my body in lingerie?”, “do I feel comfortable talking openly with the photographer about my goals for the session?”, and “am I willing to wear clothing or lingerie that I might not usually be comfortable in? If so, what kind?” Making sure you are comfortable with the photographer before booking a session can ensure that your shoot goes as smoothly as possible and you leave feeling confident and empowered.
Pick out the right clothing for the session.
Picking out the right outfit for a boudoir session is an important part of the process. Make sure your outfit reflects who you are and makes you feel confident, as this will show in your photos. Consider colors that you usually wear and make sure they accentuate your style and makeup during the session. To ensure that none of your clothing takes the focus away from you, try to steer clear of busy patterns and colors that are very bright (unless you have bright hair and/or tattoos or it just works with your style). Also, make sure to bring along a few options in case something doesn’t end up looking or feeling right once you get there! Another extra that can help you get started or add to a look is a robe or kimono. Don’t have one? Know you can always have a look in my shoot wardrobe.
Know the makeup and hair goals for your session.
If you decide to hire a professional makeup artist for your session, make sure that their style complements your vision. Make sure they have plenty of time before the start of the shoot to perfect the final look. Also, figure out what kind of hair styling you would like to go with and make sure you communicate that clearly with your hairstylist before the session starts.
Feel free to ask me about the MUA(H)s I’ve worked with and could recommend you for your session. Inge worked with a local MUAH that I recommended her and it truly transformed her and made her feel even more confident!
Ask ahead about retouching options that are available.
Working with an experienced boudoir photographer gives you more insight on how the results will look. Ask ahead to find out which retouching services they offer, so that you know what will and will not be edited (bruises, blemishes, …). Some photographers may be willing to do additional editing or it may require an additional fee. Knowing what’s included up front will help you decide if it’s a good fit for you and provide assurance in knowing what kind of results to expect at the end.
And last but certainly not least, don’t forget that you can always communicate with your photographer. Ask to plan a call ahead to discuss the shoot, talk to them during the session, ask to see pictures so you know how it looks,… This will all help with making you more confident both before, during and with the results of the shoot.
After the shoot you will get a gorgeous gallery with your best pictures, fully edited. Most photographers (like myself) offer prints, albums, large metal/acrylic prints etc so you can keep a lasting memory of your amazing boudoir experience. Feel free to ask them what they would recommend for you!
Want to book a gothic boudoir session? Feel free to reach out and have a discovery call to see if we are a good fit!
