What to Expect From Your First Boudoir Session
- Emily Newton
- Aug 29, 2023
- 5 min read
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate your first boudoir session with ease. Whether you're considering a session for yourself or as a gift for a special someone, here's what to expect from your first foray into the empowering world of boudoir photography.
Photo by: Emily Newton.
What to Expect From Your First Boudoir Session
Taking the plunge into boudoir photography can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking, especially if you've never done it before. It’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and jitters as you imagine yourself in front of the camera in a more vulnerable setting than usual. This comprehensive guide will hopefully ease some of your nerves so you'll feel much more prepared for your very first boudoir shoot! Use the sections below to find exactly what you're looking for.
What Does Boudoir Mean?
Boudoir /ˈbo͞od, wär/
is a french word meaning a woman's bedroom or private room. Thus, a boudoir photoshoot is one that is usually taken in an intimate setting with a lingerie-inspired wardrobe. Boudoir shoots are popular for women to do previous to getting married so they can gift their soon-to-be husbands with an exciting "sneak peek" for what their future holds. More recently though, women are doing boudoir photoshoots for themselves to feel confident and empowered, without the expectation of gifting it to a significant other.
What to Bring to the Studio
When it comes to your first boudoir session, preparation is key. What you bring to the studio will greatly affect your experience and the final results. Here are some essentials:
Outfits
Multiple lingerie sets and outfits give you more options and can help you feel more confident. Think corsets, bodysuits, and sexy heels. If you're doing bridal boudoir, don't forget your veil, wedding ring, or other wedding accessories!
Personal Items
If you have certain props or items that are meaningful to you or your partner, bring them along. This could be a love letter, an engagement ring, or even a favorite book.
Skincare and Makeup
Though professional makeup will be done at the studio, having your own skincare products can be helpful for touch-ups or personal comfort.
Photo Inspirations
If you have poses or styles you’d like to try, bring some sample photos or make a Pinterest board to share with your photographer. By thoughtfully choosing what you bring to the studio, you’re ensuring that the session is uniquely yours.
Professional Hair and Makeup Application
One of the perks of a professional boudoir session is having your hair and makeup done on-site. This isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling pampered and empowered from the get-go. It sets the mood for the session and can be a significant confidence booster.
The Process
A professional makeup artist and hairstylist will consult with you to understand your preferences. Whether you want a natural look or something more glamorous, your wish is their command.
The Benefits
Having a professional handle your hair and makeup ensures that you'll look your best under studio lighting. Plus, they're experts in making your features pop without making you look overdone.
Tips
Come with a clean, moisturized face and dry hair to make the application process smoother. Also, feel free to bring photos that inspire you or specific products you'd like to use.
Browse the Client Closet
Many boudoir studios offer a "Client Closet" filled with a variety of outfits, accessories, and props that you can use during your session. This is perfect for those who might not have an extensive lingerie collection or are looking for something new and unique.
Choices, Choices, Choices
From lace bodysuits to silk robes and feather boas, a client closet offers a wide array of options. You may discover a look you hadn’t even considered!
Sizing and Hygiene
Professional studios ensure that all items are meticulously cleaned and come in a variety of sizes to accommodate every client.
Pairing with Your Items
Feel free to mix and match items from the client closet with what you’ve brought. This can create unique looks that are perfectly tailored to you.
Posing Direction and Guidance the Whole Session
One of the biggest fears people have is not knowing how to pose. That's where your photographer steps in. They have had years and years of experience posing all different body types in every pose imaginable. You're in good hands.
The Basics
Your photographer will guide you through various poses that accentuate your best features. Whether it's the curve of your back, the strength in your arms, or the twinkle in your eyes, the focus will be on making you look and feel stunning.
Communication is Key
Feel free to express your comfort or discomfort at any time. The session is a collaborative effort, and open communication ensures you get the best results. Also, recognize that many boudoir poses are not particularly comfortable and can cause clients to be fairly sore the next morning. The incredible photos are worth the minor inconveniences!
Experiment and Have Fun
The session is an exploration of your beauty and sensuality. Feel free to laugh, play, and let your personality shine through. Smiling and laughing photos are some of my absolute favorite!
Digital Gallery and Boudoir Albums to Choose From
Digital Gallery
After the session, your photos will be professionally edited and uploaded to a secure, password-protected digital gallery. You can then choose your favorites! I offer a certain amount of images with each of my packages with the option of purchasing more if you just can't narrow it down!
Boudoir Albums
Many studios offer beautifully designed boudoir albums as a keepsake or gift. These albums are professionally bound and feature high-quality prints of your selected photos. I would highly recommend getting your photos printed through your boudoir photographer. It's surprisingly difficult to find other places willing to print boudoir photos due to their company policies. Boudoir photographers have done the work to find private and reliable printing services that offer beautifully bound albums for you to keep your images safe forever!
Decisions, Decisions
You may choose to have just a digital collection, an album, or both. Either way, you will have a range of options to suit your desires and budget.
Schedule a Boudoir Shoot with Me!
Your first boudoir session promises to be an empowering and transformative experience. As a specialized boudoir photographer, I am dedicated to creating a comfortable, safe, and fun environment for you to express yourself. Booking a session with me is easy; simply reach out through my website or give me a call to get started.
So why wait? Let's create beautiful art and unforgettable memories together. Feel empowered, feel sexy, and most importantly, feel like the incredible person you are.
Example Images From Boudoir Shoots
All images by Emily Newton.
Interested in Booking a Boudoir Shoot?
If any of the information above was helpful and you're now ready to book your next boudoir shoot, send me a message here and let's get started! I'm absolutely honored that you trust me with such a courageous step in your life and would be overjoyed to be your boudoir photographer. Let's make some magic.
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