Boudoir Prep: Do's & don'ts.
Alright, gorgeous! Get ready to unleash your inner supermodel and capture your unique beauty in a way that will make jaws drop and hearts race.
But hey, I get it. The thought of posing in front of a camera with sultry confidence can be a tad intimidating. Don't sweat it! Think of it as a pre-shoot pep talk from your best friend who's been there, done that, and is here to spill the tea (or maybe the champagne) on how to rock your boudoir session like a pro. Knowing some of my top do’s and don’ts will help ease your nerves and get you excited for your upcoming photoshoot!
From choosing the perfect outfits to boosting your self-confidence and everything in between, I’ve got you covered. Now, let’s goooooo!
Now, before we get into the nitty gritty, let’s talk about everyones FIRST question.
What do I wear?
I know the natural reaction is to obsess over what to wear but I am here to tell you to STOP. I can do an entire boudoir session with a single sheet so trust me when I tell you that you do not need to overthink your outfit!
My Number One Rule
I can’t tell you how many times clients will show up with outfits that prompt them to say “I don’t really like this one but I brought it anyways. I’ll leave it up to you!” …NO! If you don’t like the outfit, you’re probably not going to like the photos of you in the outfit. Leave it at home and bring the outfits that make you FEEL amazing!
Lingerie is NOT a must
Don’t be afraid to get creative! An old graphic tee that you wear around the house, a silky dress, fishnet stockings, a bedsheet…the options are literally endless! This session is about you and your authentic personality, not about being someone you aren’t.
That said, I do have some helpful suggestions of what photographs the best.
After photographing thousands of women, I have found that you really can’t go wrong with neutrals, jewel tones or pastels. This leaves A LOT of options on the table!
I would suggestion avoiding neon colours and busy patterns as they are harsh on camera and take over the image. I think an outfit should compliment you, not steal the show!
Now that we have talked about colour choices, let’s get into the different styles!
Remember my number one rule?
That you feel good in it!!! This is absolutely key.
I see clients make the mistake of buying lingerie online and not trying it on before their session. Try things on! Make sure items fit properly.
When is the last time you felt good in something that was too small? Size up if you need to so clothing isn’t digging into you and creating unnecessary bulges and indents.
Time for the PREP-Talk…
The Do’s:
Get your beauty sleep! Photoshop can’t fix tired ;)
Plan Ahead - Nothing puts a damper on your relaxing boudoir day than feeling rushed or late! Plan ahead for traffic and arrive 10 minutes ahead of your scheduled start time.
Pamper Yourself - Use this time to pamper yourself. Go out a few days before your session and treat yourself to a nice mani/pedi. This will give you a finished, polished look. Nothing says sexy like chipped nails ;)
Exfoliate (including your lips!) - Sounds weird, I know. You’re going to be putting lotion all over your body prior to your shoot and makeup on your lips. Lips can be overlooked when it comes to exfoliating but dry, cracked lips is something nobody wants! Use your toothbrush while brushing your teeth and make a few passes over your lips to help shed any dead skin. Immediately apply with a moisturizing lip balm. Repeat repeat repeat.
Drink Lots of Water - Getting your skin ready to glow on camera! Nothing beats healthy and hydrated skin for makeup application and your photoshoot!
Lather Up - Be sure to moisturize throughout the week leading up to your shoot. Do not use tinted lotion or self tanner on the day of your shoot.
Wear Loose Fitting Clothing - Wear loose fitting clothing to your session and when you’re getting your hair and makeup done. Tight jeans, leggings and bras create a lot if indents/dimples on your skin even if you’re only wearing them on the way to your session. Something light and loose is best!
Stretch - We’re going to get bendy so I highly recommend stretching before and after your session!
The Don’ts:
Self Tanner - I understand wanting a little glow for your photoshoot! Please do not experiment with self tanner for the first time for your session. If you want to have a spray tan, go to someone who knows what they’re doing 1-2 days before your shoot. Do not wear bronzer lotion to your session.
Party the Night Before - If you’re nervous, have a bubble bath! Hangovers aren’t sexy!
Drink Red Wine Right Before - Red wine stains teeth. Sip on white wine or champagne instead!
Get a haircut or colour right before - Now isn’t the time to experiment with a whole new look! Hair always looks best when it’s grown in at least a few weeks!
Be mean to yourself - No negative self talk leading up to your session. Let’s focus on the things you DO love! A great attitude will go a long way in having a fabulous and upbeat experience.
I’m so excited for you! If you haven’t done a boudoir session before, you’re in for a real treat! You may walk in a bundle of nerves, but you’re going to walk out feeling like a total bombshell.
I hope you found these outfit tips and prep-talk helpful!
Have SO much fun & if your session is with me I can’t wait to meet you!
Stacey, xo