Preparing for your boudoir session
It’s natural to have questions before a boudoir session, so I’ve put together a few tips to help you get the most from your shoot.
DO: treat yourself to something that makes you feel that bit more confident, like a manicure and pedicure or having your hair done. Avoid facials or waxing for two days beforehand, in case of any reaction or blotchiness.
DO: consider a drink or two before the shoot to settle any nerves and give you some extra confidence. That’s entirely optional, and best not overdone.
DO: cut the tags out of your clothing. It helps items lie flat against the skin and stops them showing through anything sheer.
DO: bring accessories. Jewellery, hats, fishnets or stockings, robes and, most importantly, high heels. Heels elongate the leg and tend to give a confidence boost. Accessories change the look of an outfit quickly and give me more to work with. Props help too, such as white bed sheets or towels.
DO: think about which colours suit you. Black is always a good starting point, but don’t be afraid to experiment with colour and texture.
DO: dress for your body type. If you’d rather show less skin, try waist-slimming underwear, robes and button-down shirts. Anything too small will only create lumps and bumps.
What to wear
We usually start with more clothing on and work through your options as you relax. As a starting point, bring a variation of the following:
- One-piece sets (bodysuit, teddy, fitted slip dress or shapewear)
- Two-piece sets (bra/undies, high-waisted skirt/bra, garter belt set/bra/stockings)
- A cover up (robe, shirt, cardigan, shawl)
- Something you LOVE that makes you feel comfortable but confident
Bras and underwear
Bring at least one matching set. Start with black, then add other colours or simple patterns. Underwear can be photographed on its own, under other items, or with any accessories you bring, and it works well for setting up implied nude shots.
Lingerie
A bodysuit, vintage slip, teddy, shapewear or camisole always photographs well. High-waisted briefs, thigh-high stockings, a garter belt and heels work too. My studio suits every colour, pattern and fabric, so start simple and build from there.
Casual attire
If you’re nervous about being too revealing, bring normal clothing such as tank tops, high-slit skirts or dresses, or fitted shirts. Many of these can be teamed with underwear for a look that’s suggestive rather than skimpy. Sheer tops, jeans or a dress can look just as good when they’re photographed well. If the shoot is a gift from a partner, consider wearing something of theirs; a button-down shirt or a tie adds a personal touch.
It’s important that you feel comfortable, so how much or how little skin you show is entirely up to you and how confident you feel. These shoots are meant to be fun, and the people who relax into them tend to get the best photos, whatever they’re wearing. If you have any questions before the day, just ask.
Boudoir photography
Thinking about a boudoir shoot?
I photograph boudoir and creative portraits through my model site, where you can see the work and book a session.