No matter your age, no matter the occasion, I think every woman should try a boudoir session at least once. Boudoir photography doesn’t have to be for another person. You can book a session just for you! It’s a great way to celebrate your body and accomplishments and feel good about the skin you’re in. Even for those who are a bit shy in front of the lens—especially with a little less clothing on—I’ve never had anyone regret a boudoir session. I’m here to help you feel completely comfortable and confident during your session, and I’ll guide you into poses you feel great about. I have a blast photographing these amazing ladies. It’s one of those experiences you’ll never forget. Whether you hope to surprise your partner with your boudoir portraits or you’re simply doing it for yourself, I have a feeling you’ll love every second of it.
Once you book your boudoir photography session, here are a few tips on how to prepare (plus a few things not to do as well).
How to Prepare for Your Boudoir Photography Shoot
Before your boudoir photo shoot…
Choose your style & select the pieces you want to wear.
Select about six mix and match pieces or a couple sets that your feel beautiful in. You might also select a few accessories, such as long necklaces or classic jewelry pieces, and a kimono, robe, or wrap. This is a great time to try on some of those new items from your lingerie shower, or splurge a little on some new things.
You can absolutely do a boudoir session just for you! Maybe you’re celebrating a personal milestone or want to try something bold, brave, and beautiful just because. Boudoir photography allows you to see just how stunning you are from an outside perspective. Boudoir sessions are a ton of fun, and it’s a great confidence booster!
But, if you’ll be sharing your photos with your husband as a newlywed or anniversary gift, pick a few items you know he loves too. It’ll add a personalized touch for an extra-special gift. You might even throw in his favorite t-shirt you love to wear or a dress shirt and tie. Or, you could bring along his ball cap or jersey to add a few fun and flirty photos in there.
Get a little exercise in.
I recommend exercise for confidence more than anything else. (I’m certainly not saying you need to get on a strict and rigorous exercise plan in order to do a boudoir session!) Instead, doing some cardio and toning exercises in the weeks or days leading up to your session will get the endorphins going to offer a boost of energy, confidence–and yes, some toning benefits too. (And actually, boudoir sessions can really give you a workout trying to hold poses, so a little exercise will warm you up beforehand.) Here are a few great leg-toning exercises you can do right in your living room to prep for your session.
The week before your boudoir photography session…
Eat consistent, healthy meals.
Please don’t stop eating or cut major calories! I don’t want you to pass out in the middle or the shoot. Stick to light, healthy meals all the way up to your session—even the day of. Your body will thank you, and your skin will glow.
Consider cutting the alcohol and limit salt.
These lead to water retention, bloating, and just not feeling your best.
Indulge in some self-care pampering.
Schedule any waxing, mani/pedi, hair, eyelash, and/or makeup appointments you want before your session.
Hydrate!
Keep up your water intake all week long for healthy, glowing skin. (Surprisingly, drinking enough water will prevent bloating and water retention as well—staying hydrated keeps everything balanced and in proper working order.)
Moisturize and exfoliate.
Don’t forget full-body skincare leading up to your boudoir photoshoot! (However, I usually recommend against changing up your facial care routine right before your shoot.)
The day of…
- Wear loose clothing to prevent imprints and lines.
- Eat a light meal. (Maybe avoid raw veggies to prevent digestive issues.)
- Continue drinking water!
- Pack a kit with makeup, extra lashes (if needed), razor, and any other touch-up or emergency items you might need.
- Wear clear deodorant.
DO NOT do this before your session…
- Fast—you’ll feel out of sorts for your session. Plus, you’re beautiful as you are!
- Try an extra high-intensity workout the day before—soreness is not ideal for posing.
- Lay out in the sun or go to a tanning salon—sunburns and tan lines are no fun (and if I haven’t mentioned enough: you look beautiful in the skin you’re in!).
Have a Few More Questions about Boudoir Photography?
Get in touch with Dawn here for more info.
