Heading to your first boudoir photography shoot can be downright intimidating. After all, it’s not every day that you’re highlighting your intimate self in front of the camera. Thankfully, I’ll be sharing a couple of essential boudoir photo session tips below so that you can feel confident and prepared on the big day. Here’s everything you need to know before heading into your boudoir photoshoot.
1. Figure Out What Your Shoot Means To You
Before heading into your boudoir photography session, it can be helpful to solidify the theme of your desired photos. Are you seeking out a session to celebrate your beauty? Are your boudoir photos going to be a sexy and thoughtful gift for your significant other? Or do you just want to do something fun and empowering? Remember that you don’t need a reason to step into boudoir photography. I will help guide you with posing during your session to ensure we are showing off the most flattering angles and arches of your body, however, pinning down your angle of the shoot ahead of time can help ease your photo session and create effortlessly gorgeous images that speak to your needs – such as if it’s a gift for your significant other we could incorporate more shots of you looking into the lens – think flirty, sultry, mysterious, whereas if it was a session just for you and empowering yourself we could have you look far into the distance or with your eyes closed and face up to add more drama and intensity.
2. Remember to Pamper Yourself
Boudoir photoshoots are always a celebration of you, so don’t forget to take the time and pamper yourself! Iron out any little details before your shoot date, whether that’s getting your nails and toenails done or getting your hair trimmed. Avoid trying out any new products before your photoshoot to prevent any potential reactions. To prevent any unwanted skin marks, don’t wear any tight fitting clothing on the day of your session. Try your best to stay hydrated and get a good night’s rest before your photo session. Also, make sure you clear your calendar– Your boudoir photography session will be around 4-6 hours, so you’ll want to be free to express yourself.
3. Find The Perfect Outfit
You’ll need to make sure that you prepare the perfect outfit for your boudoir photo session. However, remember that this doesn’t necessarily equate to lingerie. You should feel whatever makes you feel the most confident, carefree, and sexy– Whether that’s a bodysuit, robe, T-shirt, night gown or nothing at all, as long as you feel your best, you’re bound to look amazing! It’s important to communicate with your photographer about multiple outfits options and make sure everything fits perfectly before heading over to your photoshoot. Before your boudoir session with me, we will go over all your outfit options that way we are both prepared for the session day. This will also include accessories such as high heels, boots, stockings, fishnets, etc. If you do not have any lingerie attire, I can help suggest some amazing styles that will flatter your body. Some great places to shop are: Marie Mur, Blue Bella, Victoria’s Secret, La Senza, Urban Outfitters, Fashion Nova, Forever 21, and SHEIN
4. Embrace Your Inner Sexy
Take some time to contemplate what makes you feel sexy, beautiful, or confident. You’ll want to draw from these thoughts during your boudoir photoshoot. For some, it may be helpful to jot these thoughts down ahead of time so that you’re able to remember them for the big day. Remember to spend some well-deserved time appreciating yourself and your inner sexy in whatever way that may be so that your gorgeous essence can shine through in your photos.
5. Ease Your Nerves
There’s no denying that a boudoir photography session can be nerve wracking, but don’t let that prevent you from having an amazing photoshoot. Don’t forget that your photographer is highly skilled in bringing out your best self, so as long as you show up with an open mind and attitude, you’re bound to look amazing. Preparing for your boudoir photoshoot properly can also help ease some of the tension. Make sure you have your wardrobe packed up and ready the night before so that all you have to do is show up and have fun once your shoot day arrives. Nerves are normal, but any credible photographer will help your work past them so that you can shine during your boudoir photoshoot.
6. Seek Out Inspiration
Another great way to ease some of the nerves before shoot day is to seek out inspiration. Check out some online boudoir galleries for ideas and pick out some reference shots. While you may not be able to recreate a photo to a T, you can certainly work with your photographer to produce similar results. This can also be a great way to start thinking about wardrobe and what theme or emotions you’d like to evoke in your photos.
7. Collaborate With Your Photographer
By far, the best way to prepare for your boudoir photography shoot is to collaborate with your photographer. You’ll want to pin down some reference photos, wardrobe ideas, and any questions regarding your future photo session before sitting down for your pre-shoot meeting. The more specific you are, the better chance you have of realizing your boudoir photo vision. Your photographer will work with you to capture your unique beauty and style– Trust that their direction will lead you to your desired photos and above all, have fun!
Vancouver based XS Sharon Photography is a full-service photographer specializing in maternity, boudoir and creative portraitures. Inspired by colours, fashion and fine art photography, she strives to create more than just a photo but a timeless work of art for her clients. Contact me today to find out more about my boudoir photography services and how we can capture your beauty authentically and effortlessly.