You did it! You booked your dream boudoir session! Now what? I am going to give you several tips on how to prepare yourself, both mentally and physically, for your photo shoot.
How To Mentally Prepare For A Boudoir Session
Whether you have booked your boudoir session or you are still on the fence, mental preparation is important. Everyone has anxiety before their session, so you are not alone. Most of my clients have not had a boudoir session before and they are terrified they aren't going to know what to do. Trust me when I say, I've got you. I will help you pick out your outfits, guide you in posing, facial expressions, hand gestures, and so much more.
My studio space is a judgement free, safe space. I love hearing ideas clients bring to the table, learning about my clients and building solid friendships. Your comfort level is my number one priority. You do not have to do anything you are not comfortable with.
I tell all of my clients that the anxiety goes out the window pretty fast once we get started. And it's so true! I guide you every step of the way. I'm a woman, just like you, and love to bond with my clients.
Decide why you want to take boudoir photos, and pick a selfish reason...
Yes, you read that right.
We are all guilty of not giving ourselves enough attention, love, and respect. So, when you book your boudoir session, even if it is a gift for someone else, make sure you consider what YOU are getting out of it.
Here are some reasons to consider making this session a gift for yourself:
- Pamper yourself (treat yourself, you deserve it)
- Celebrate you
- Boost your confidence
- Honor your latest struggle, and the fact that you conquered it
- Have fun
- Just....because
We all love our significant others and want to gift them something priceless, but the most important person to do it for should be YOU.
How To Prepare For The Session
1 WEEK BEFORE YOUR BOUDOIR SESSION
- Wax, shave, moisturize! I have an amazing spa located right next door to me that can get you feeling fresh for your session.
- Freshen up your hair, but do not make any drastic changes (cut, color, etc.)
- Get a manicure and a pedicure
- If you want to tan or apply a tanning cream, please be sure to do this far enough in advance before your session to avoid creasing, tan lines, etc.
- Avoid alcohol and drink plenty of water. Hydration does wonders for your skin!
- Create a Pinterest board with the vibe you are going for and send it my way. I love to see your inspiration.
- Read the HS Boudoir Photography Dream Shoot Planner that I emailed to you. It is filled with FAQ's, tips, pricing guides, and so much more.
1 DAY BEFORE YOUR BOUDOIR SESSION
- Double check your day bag. Do you have everything you need? Everything that you are wanting to bring with you, is it packed? I always recommend bringing a black and nude thong and bra just in case you want to wear these under certain garments. Women come in so many beautiful shapes and sizes and bras can be tricky. It's good to have personal ones fitted for you.
- You don't have to bring any lingerie with you! I have an amazing client wardrobe for us to pick from for you. But, if you have some favorite pieces, please feel free to bring them with you.
- Relax and unwind in the evening before and skip the glass of wine. You want to get some good rest the night before your session.
- And I cannot express it enough, hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.
DAY OF YOUR BOUDOIR SESSION
- Be sure to shower, wash your hair, and shave any places that you want to be smooth.
- Be sure to have your hair dry with no product so that my hair and makeup artist has a nice, fresh canvas.
- Wash and moisturize your face and do not apply any makeup. That's what my stylist is for! She's got you.
- Again, drink lots of water!
- Wear loose fitting, comfy clothes. You don't want to wear anything super constricting that will create lines on your body. You also want your top to be easy to get over your head and not mess up your hair once it's styled.
- Eat a light meal. You want to have energy but not feel too full.
- Set an alarm to get up several hours before hair and makeup starts. Give yourself time to wake up, relax, and make sure you have everything ready to go.
- And most importantly, have fun! This day is all about you!
What To Bring To A Boudoir Session
- Comfy clothes to lounge in after your session and while we view your images
- Slippers or flip flops. I have cold floors and want you to keep your feet warm and free of glitter and feathers
- If this is a bridal boudoir session, bring your veil, garter, and any other accessories that you have for your wedding day
- If you have a special piece of jewelry, book, instrument, etc., be sure to bring those with you. I love incorporating items into your session that help define you
- An oversized button down shirt, jacket, jersey from your significant other, or your closet
- Black and nude thong and bra just in case
- Lotion for any dry skin and to keep your skin hydrated
- Your bestie, hype girl! You are always welcome to bring a friend for moral support. But, I and my hair and makeup artist will be your hype girls no matter what
This Is Your Boudoir Photo Shoot
YES! Now you know exactly how to prep for a boudoir photo shoot. Remember, this is your day to dress up, get pampered and feel like the absolute goddess that you are.