Preparing for boudoir photos can feel overwhelming! These aren't the typical family or wedding photos that you're used to. This session is just about YOU, and that can be an intimidating (and exciting!) truth. This is where the experts come in. We had the pleasure of collaborating with two amazing boudoir photographers for this article: Alicia from Buxom Boudoir (Port Washington, WI) and Stacey from Stacey Marie Photography (Bradenton, FL). Below, you'll find 4 Do's and 4 Do Not's for preparing for your boudoir photo session.
"Do's"
1. Stay Open-Minded "Arrive with an open mind! When you head to your session, have the belief that you'll do great and your body is a good body. This mindset will help you have the best experience possible."
-Alicia
2. Research and Find Your Perfect Photographer "Search for a boudoir photographer who you feel comfortable with. Do you like the copy on their website? Do you feel comfortable talking with them? Have they photographed people who look like you? Comfort can make or break a session, so make sure you feel good around your boudoir photographer." -Alicia
3. Speak up about Your Styling
"Let your hair and makeup artist know if you want any adjustments made to your styling. I promise, you will not hurt their feelings. They want you to LOVE your hair and makeup look, so if there is something you don't like, or something you want changed, say so!" -Stacey
4. Plan an Afterparty :)
"Plan to go out after your photoshoot. You are going to be feeling fabulous and you'll have your hair and makeup professionally done, so take advantage and plan for an evening out with your partner or your girlfriends." -Stacey
"Do Not's"
1. Give in to Your Inner Critic
"Do not let your inner critic run the show! A boudoir session is the perfect time to challenge the negative beliefs you have about yourself. If you're self critical through the entire session, you won't be able to enjoy the experience."
-Alicia
2. Feel Shame "Do not feel embarrassed or ashamed about how your body looks (easier said than done - I know!) Boudoir photographers work with a plethora of body shapes and sizes, and a good boudoir photographer respects them all. We don't care about skin conditions, rolls, cellulite, gray hair, wrinkles or scars. We care about giving you a wonderful session. Don't worry about what your body looks like or what it can do. Boudoir sessions are a judgement free space!" -Alicia
3. Bring too Much or too Little "Don't over or under pack. If you underpack, you may not have the variety you are hoping for in your photos. If you overpack, you may become overwhelmed by all the options and spend too much time filtering through all of your items. Be sure to ask your photographer how many looks you will need. I recommend packing one extra look in case of a wardrobe malfunction." -Stacey
4. Compare Your Results to Magazines "Don't expect unrealistic results. Boudoir captures your beauty and sensuality in an artistic fashion. We do lightly edit your photos, but avoid comparing yourself to unrealistic photoshop alterations or heavily edited photos." -Stacey
Alicia is the owner of Buxom Boudoir, based in Port Washington, Wisconsin. She specializes in Boudoir Photography. You can find her Happily Ever Photo profile here and her website here.
