How to Prepare for a Boudoir Shoot: Before, During, and After
Before Your Boudoir Session
6-8 Weeks Out: Start Planning
The best boudoir photos come from thoughtful preparation. Start by scheduling a consultation with me to discuss your vision, comfort level, and what you hope to achieve from the experience. This is the perfect time to share any insecurities or concerns—I’ve photographed every body type and I know exactly how to make you look and feel incredible. Begin gathering wardrobe ideas. Think about pieces that make you feel confident: lace lingerie, a partner’s oversized button-down shirt, your favorite jeans with nothing else, or even just flowing sheets. Variety is your friend—bring 3-5 different looks to give yourself options.
2-4 Weeks Out: Skincare and Self-Care
Focus on hydration and skincare. Drink plenty of water, moisturize daily, and avoid trying any new skincare products that might cause reactions. If you’re planning to wax, schedule the appointment carefully—waxing should be done at least 3-4 days before your shoot to allow any redness to subside. Consider scheduling professional hair and makeup. I offer this as part of my boudoir packages, and it’s absolutely worth it. Professional styling not only ensures you look camera-ready but also helps you feel pampered and confident from the moment your session begins.
The Week Before: Final Preparations
Confirm all the details with me: arrival time, location, what I provide (robes, props, etc.), and what you need to bring. Try on all your outfits and make sure everything fits comfortably. Check for any loose threads, missing hooks, or stains that need attention. Avoid excessive alcohol and salty foods the night before, as these can cause bloating and puffiness. Get a good night’s sleep—rested eyes photograph beautifully, and you’ll have more energy for your session.
The Day Of: Morning Preparations
Eat a light, healthy breakfast and stay hydrated. Avoid foods that might cause bloating or discomfort. If your session doesn’t include professional hair and makeup, keep your makeup natural and slightly more dramatic than usual—cameras tend to wash out subtle makeup. Bring your wardrobe items on hangers, and don’t forget accessories like heels, jewelry, or any special props we’ve discussed.
During Your Boudoir Session
Arriving at the Studio
Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes early so you’re not rushed. I’ll start with a brief walkthrough of the space and discuss the plan for your session. If you’re feeling nervous, please speak up—this is completely normal, and I’m here to help you relax and feel comfortable.
Posing and Direction
Here’s a secret: you don’t need to know how to pose!!! I’ll guide you through every position, from where to place your hands to how to angle your body for the most flattering shots. Trust the process and my expertise—I’ve done this hundreds of times and know exactly what works. Don’t be afraid to move and adjust. Boudoir photography is about capturing authentic moments of confidence and sensuality, not creating stiff, uncomfortable poses. Take breaks when you need them, stay hydrated, and remember that every woman feels a bit awkward at first—it gets easier as the session progresses.
Wardrobe Changes
Plan for 20-30 minutes per outfit change, including hair and makeup touch-ups. I may suggest adjustments to your styling or accessories between looks. This collaborative process often yields the best results, so stay open to my suggestions.
After Your Boudoir Session
Viewing Your Images
One of the most special parts of my process is that you’ll see your images right after your session—no waiting! I want you to fall in love with the unedited images first, to see yourself through my lens while you’re still glowing from the experience. We’ll review the images together, and this moment is often emotional. My clients frequently tell me they can’t believe that confident, beautiful woman on the screen is actually them. Take your time reviewing each image. Don’t rush the selection process—these photos are an investment in yourself and deserve careful consideration.
Selecting Your Favorites
During this viewing session, you’ll choose which images you’d like to purchase and decide what products you want. Most of my clients choose one of our beautiful albums and a wall art piece—these tangible products transform your images into heirlooms you can treasure forever. We’ll discuss all your options, from luxurious leather-bound albums to stunning canvas or framed prints that deserve a place on your wall. Once you’ve made your selections, I’ll edit those chosen images to perfection.My professional retouching includes smoothing skin, adjusting lighting and color, and minor blemish removal—but you’ll still be recognizably you. The editing process takes about 2 weeks, and I carefully retouch each photo to ensure you look your absolute best.
Receiving Your Final Images
Receiving Your Final Images
After your images are professionally edited, you’ll receive your chosen products. Whether you’ve selected a gorgeous album to share with your partner, a stunning wall art piece for your bedroom, or digital files to keep as personal reminders of your confidence—each product is carefully crafted to showcase your beautiful images.
Finally, give yourself credit for doing something bold and empowering. Boudoir photography isn’t just about the final images—it’s about the experience of celebrating yourself, embracing your body, and creating art that captures your confidence and beauty at this moment in your life. Many women report that their boudoir experience changed how they see themselves. Whether this is your first session or your fifth, each shoot is an opportunity to reconnect with yourself and celebrate the incredible woman you are.
Ready to book your boudoir experience? The hardest part is taking that first step. Everything else—the preparation, the session, and the stunning photos—flows naturally from there. Your only job is to show up and let yourself be celebrated.
