Boudoir Photoshoot Preparation Guide

Now that you're booked and your session is quickly approaching, I'd love to share some tips and tricks that I've found help clients during their boudoir photography session. Follow this guide and you'll feel more prepared and less stressed in the days leading up to your special day!

Things to Consider Before Your Session


CLOTHING - This is an important component to consider when planning your photography session. Planning in advance, however, tends to take this potentially stressful preparation out of the mix. I like to tell people to consider what look you're going for.

  • If your session is a themed session, (e.g. - vintage pin-up) plan your outfit accordingly. Your hair, makeup, jewelry, shoes, and clothing will reflect the whole ensemble and either convey what you're trying to achieve, or leave you asking yourself, "Why doesn't this look like I envisioned?" Check out some photos online of goal images. What models are wearing, etc. If you're unsure, CONTACT ME! I can definitely guide you in what to wear and what will showcase your goal look.
  • If your session is a classic boudoir experience, lingerie is always a winner. Black and red are my go-to colors. However, choose colors based on your skin tone. Lace is always a sexy component, also. I love adding in those little extras that will amplify your session, too. Chokers, pearls, candy...these are all great additions.
  • I am always a fan of fun & sexy, too. If you want to do a themed session, let's get crazy and plan for something unique!


MAKEUP, NAILS, AND HAIR - This is another key component in creating a gorgeous image.

  • Please make sure all nail polish is either fully applied, or completely taken off. This small detail can seriously irritate you for years to come. ;)
  • In regards to hair, again, what look are you wanting to convey? Pin-Up has a very specific look. Your hairstyle should be cohesive with your outfit. When planning your hair for a sexy shoot, long and luscious, short and glam, whatever style you're rocking, you do you. I want your hair to be in a style you feel most sexy in.
  • Try to keep flyaways under control.
  • If your hair coloring isn't up-to-date, this is definitely noticeable.
  • When applying makeup, go bold. Pin-Up has a unique style and this should be applied to the clothing you've chosen. Sexy and bold is perfect for any boudoir session. Glitter or shimmer can be nice to add, but without a heavy hand. This should not overtake your look.
  • *If you are experiencing a small bruise, pimple, blemish, etc., NO worries! I can take care of these during editing. Minimal flaws are simple fixes and we pride ourselves in showing you at your best. I want you to feel confident and will do everything in my power to enhance your natural beauty without adjusting any permanent personal traits.

Please remember, taking care of these small details will vastly enhance the beauty of your images! If you are not confident in your hair and/or makeup abilities, this is why I have the option of hair & makeup for every client. :) This helps you take out the guesswork and simply enjoy being pampered before your session. *See below if you're taking advantage of our hair and/or makeup option!*


HAIR & MAKEUP ARTIST - If you are planning on using one of our preferred hair & makeup artists, we will have decided on a look prior to your session depending on if you have a specific style you're looking for. Your artist will handle everything necessary in order to create a gorgeous appearance. Plan to show up with clean hair and no makeup to ensure a blank palette. :)


GLASSES - Sometimes, glasses tend to create a reflection from our studio lighting. If this is problematic, I will capture some shots of you with and without glasses. Then, I will edit them correctly to ensure your photo is without any distracting reflections.


SUSTENANCE - Please make sure you aren't starving yourself! I know this can be a cause of insecurity, however, if you are "hangry", you won't enjoy your session. Having said that, don't eat right before your shoot. This could definitely cause bloating and sluggishness. Neither of which will help you feel sexy. ;) Plan to eat a couple of hours prior to your shoot. This helps to avoid any cravings, but gives your body enough time to process and avoid that full feeling.


PLAN AHEAD - Give yourself enough time. Try to avoid rushing around right before your portrait session. If you feel rushed and stressed out, this will definitely be reflected during your session. Planning ahead as much as possible will help your session day go smoothly.


LAST BUT, CERTAINLY, NOT LEAST - Be excited! Boudoir sessions are legit the most fun! We're capturing something you'll be proud you captured when you're older. Be in the moment. I want you to be able to look back on these images with fond memories.

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