Do I need any experience to pose for a boudoir shoot?

No. The vast majority of clients have never done a professional photo shoot of any kind. Every pose is demonstrated and adjusted for you in the moment, there’s nothing to prepare or practice beforehand. Check out our boudoir experience guide.

What if I genuinely don't know how to pose at all?

That’s totally normal, not the exception. You’ll be guided through every single pose, one small adjustment at a time, rather than handed a list of poses to figure out on your own.

Can I bring reference photos or poses I like?

Absolutely, and it’s genuinely helpful. Reference photos give us a starting point for your consultation, though they’re never required. We can just as easily build a full shot list from a conversation alone.

What if I feel stiff or awkward in front of the camera?

Very normal, especially in the first few minutes. It fades quickly once you settle in, and the pace of the session adjusts to how you’re feeling rather than rushing through a checklist.

Will someone actually show me the pose, or just tell me?

Both. Poses are demonstrated by me in person, then refined with hands-on adjustments like a hand placement or a shift in weight. You’re never left guessing. I will take care of you.

Your Boudoir Shoot Checklist: Everything to Do the Week Before

Once your session is booked, the logistics questions start: what should I do beforehand, what should I avoid, what do I actually need to bring? None of it needs to be complicated. Here’s the real checklist I give clients, broken down by timing so you’re not trying to remember everything the morning of.

One week before

Hydrate more than usual. Well-hydrated skin photographs noticeably better, less texture, more even tone. Start increasing your water intake a few days out rather than chugging a bottle the morning of.

Skip anything new on your skin. This is not the week to try a new facial, a new retinol, or a new self-tanner. Skin reactions and uneven tan lines are the two most common regrets clients mention, and both are avoidable by simply sticking to your normal routine.

Book any beauty appointments now, not the day before. Manicures, waxing, or a haircut you’ve been meaning to get. Waxing especially should happen 2 to 3 days ahead, not the night before, to avoid any redness or irritation showing up on camera.

Watch the sun. A new sunburn or a fresh, uneven tan will show up in photos far more than you’d expect. If you tan, stick to your usual routine well in advance rather than a rushed session right before your shoot.

The night before

Avoid high-sodium food and alcohol. Both contribute to next-day bloating and puffiness, especially around the face and midsection. A normal, balanced dinner is all you need.

Pack your bag. Any personal items you’re bringing (jewelry, a partner’s shirt, reference photos), comfortable clothes to travel to and from the studio in, and anything on your beauty routine you specifically want on hand.

Get real sleep. This affects under-eye appearance more than almost anything else on this list. Aim for your normal full night, not a late one.

The morning of

Arrive with a clean face. Hair and makeup is professionally done on site as part of your session, so there’s no need to do your own beforehand. Clean, moisturized skin is all that’s needed.

Wear something loose and comfortable to travel in. Tight waistbands or bra straps can leave temporary marks on the skin. Loose clothing avoids this entirely and makes the transition into your session smoother.

Eat something light beforehand. An empty stomach shows up as low energy in photos. A light meal a couple hours before keeps you feeling steady without any discomfort during posing.

Bring water. Sessions run anywhere from one hour to a full day depending on your collection. Staying hydrated throughout keeps your energy and your skin looking its best from the first shot to the last.

What to bring vs. what to leave at home
Bring: any personal item with meaning to you, reference photos if you have them, a valid ID and your payment method, and comfortable travel clothes.

Leave at home: jewelry you’re precious about damaging, brand-new shoes you haven’t broken in, and any new skincare or makeup products you haven’t tested on your skin before.

Boudoir Shoot Checklist

the checklist at a glance

ONE WEEK BEFORE

increase your water intake
skip anything new on your skin
book waxing or manicure now, not the day before
avoid new sun exposure

THE NIGHT BEFORE

skip high-sodium food and alcohol
pack your bag
get a full night of good sleep

THE MORNING OF

arrive with clean, moisturized face
arrive with clean, dry hair
wear something loose to travel in
eat something light a couples hours beforhand

frequently asked questions

What to expect at a boudoir photoshoo

Answers to what first-time clients ask most.

What should I eat before my boudoir session?

Something light, a couple of hours beforehand. Skipping food entirely tends to show up as low energy in photos, while a heavy meal right before a session can leave you feeling uncomfortable during posing.

Should I get my nails done before my shoot?

It’s a nice touch but not required. If you’d like a manicure, book it a few days ahead rather than the same day, so polish has time to fully set.

What if my period falls during my shoot week?

It happens, and it doesn’t need to change your plans. If you’re concerned about bloating or comfort, mention it when booking so your session timing or posing can be adjusted around it.

Do I need to shave or wax before my session?

That’s entirely your personal preference, there’s no requirement either way. If you do plan to wax, schedule it 2 to 3 days ahead rather than the night before, to avoid any redness showing up on camera.