How to Prepare for Your Boudoir Photoshoot
A boudoir photoshoot is a unique and empowering experience that allows you to embrace your body, boost your self-confidence, and create stunning, intimate photos that you'll cherish for a lifetime. To make the most out of this incredible journey, it's crucial to prepare thoroughly. In this blog post, I'll walk you through the steps to ensure you feel confident, beautiful, and ready for your boudoir photoshoot. Lets do this!
1: Choose the Right Photographer
The first step to a successful boudoir photoshoot is finding a skilled and professional photographer who specializes in boudoir photography. Take your time to research, read reviews, and view portfolios. A boudoir photography will understand your vision and help you feel at ease during the shoot. Additionally, make sure you are selecting a photographer with a photography style you love. Don’t settle for anything less!
2: Select Your Wardrobe
Choose outfits that make you feel beautiful and confident. Lingerie, corsets, robes, or even oversized sweaters can be excellent choices. Ensure that your clothing fits you perfectly, as this can significantly impact the final result. Consider bringing a variety of outfits to offer diversity in your photos. If you have no experience with lingerie, your photographer can help you narrow down outfits. Many photographers (like myself) offer a full client wardrobe in-studio so you won’t have to stress over buying outfits!
3: Grooming & Skincare
A few days before the photoshoot, pamper yourself with a spa day or at-home self-care routine. This can include a facial, manicure, pedicure, and hair styling. Make sure your skin is well-hydrated and exfoliated, but don’t fret over any blemishes that may appear. That’s normal and it’s nothing a little makeup and photoshop can’t fix! Avoid getting a drastic new haircut or hair color right before the shoot, as it may not leave you with enough time to adjust or get used to the new look. As for waxing, that is up to the individual. Come to your shoot however you are most comfortable.
4: Eat & Stay Hydrated!
Leading up to the photoshoot, stay hydrated and avoid excessive salt, sugar, and alcohol, as they can lead to bloating and other temporary body changes. Don't skip meals, as it's essential to have enough energy throughout the day. Please, please, please eat. That includes breakfast on the morning of your shoot. Remember: a boudoir session is a workout!
5: Practice Posing
Practice poses and expressions in front of a mirror or with a friend to get a sense of what looks best on you. Your photographer will guide you during the shoot, but having an idea of what to expect can help with your nerves and confidence. I always tell me clients to go through my portfolio and practice some of the poses. They don’t have to be perfect, but it will help you prepare!
6: Stretch, stretch, stretch!
Stretch your back, legs, and arms. You’ll be holding a ton of poses, and stretching will help relax those muscles. There will be a ton of back arching, so make sure you prioritize your back when you stretch.
7: Accessories & Props
Consider bringing along accessories or props that hold personal significance or add a unique touch to your photos. It could be your partner's favorite shirt, a piece of jewelry, or a sentimental item that represents you.
8: Trust Your Photographer
During the photoshoot, trust your photographer's expertise. They will provide guidance on poses, lighting, and angles to make sure you look your best. Be open to their suggestions and enjoy the experience. And remember: a boudoir photoshoot isn’t going to feel natural! The poses can feel weird, unnatural, and sometimes stiff. This isn’t your normal every day session. And you’ll most likely be a little sore the next day.
