Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Boudoir Experience
Thinking about a boudoir session can bring up all the questions… and maybe a few nerves too. Totally normal.
I want you to know that if (and when 😉) you decide to book a session with me, you are never left wondering what to do or how to prepare. Leading up to your shoot, I send out plenty of prep emails to guide you every step of the way.
What you’re about to read is just a sneak peek of what those prep materials look like. No pressure. No booking required. Just a little behind-the-scenes glance so you can see how supported you’d be.
One of the most common questions I hear is:
“What do I even do to prepare for a boudoir shoot?”
There’s usually a mix of excitement and nerves leading up to it, and that’s completely okay. This experience is new for most women, and my job is to make sure you feel confident, informed, and taken care of from day one.
1. Start planning your wardrobe about 3 weeks out.
This gives you time to shop without stress. Think of lingerie shopping like finding the perfect pair of jeans. Sometimes it takes a few tries, and that’s part of the process.
2. Try everything on ahead of time.
Fit makes all the difference. When something fits well, it photographs beautifully and helps you feel confident instantly. Loose nightgowns or oversized pieces tend to hide curves, and boudoir is all about celebrating them.
3. Bring a variety of styles.
If there’s an area you feel a little unsure about, bringing different options lets you choose what feels best in the moment. Confidence always shows up in photos.
4. Full outfits photograph best.
Matching or coordinated sets help your images look polished. Even slight color differences can stand out more on camera than they do in real life.
5. Options are your best friend.
Clients who prepay for a collection can enjoy access to our Client Closet (sizes XS–5XL) as a Standard Bonus. We still encourage everyone to bring their own pieces as well! Bodysuits, shapewear, corsets, and layered looks photograph beautifully and help create a dynamic, well-rounded gallery.
And the best part? You’re never making these decisions alone. I help with wardrobe guidance guide during hair and makeup so you don’t have to stress or second-guess yourself!
6. Shoes That Work Overtime
Feel free to bring heels in any color you love, skin tone, black, or something bold like red, pink, or blue. Tall heels are especially flattering because they help elongate your legs. The higher and skinnier the heel, the better. If possible, avoid ankle straps or heavy patterns so the focus stays on your legs, not your feet. And if heels aren’t your thing, no worries at all. Many clients skip them entirely and still look incredible.
7. Skip the Props, You’re the Star
Less distraction, more you. Simple always wins when it comes to timeless images.
8. Come Comfortable, Leave Glowing
We’ll provide a robe for you to wear during hair and makeup and between outfit changes. To keep your skin looking smooth and line-free, I recommend arriving in loose-fitting clothing. Tight bras, jeans, or leggings can leave marks that show up on camera, and we want you feeling comfortable and photo-ready from the moment you walk in.
9. Bring Your Foundation (Just in Case!)
We work with several incredibly talented hair and makeup artists, and almost all of them can color match you beautifully. That said, skin tones can be unique, and lighting can change things. Bringing your own foundation is simply a precaution to ensure your match is absolutely perfect and your day feels seamless from start to finish.
10. Bridal Details Are Always Welcome
If you’re a bride, feel free to bring along your bridal lingerie, garter, or veil. These meaningful pieces can add a romantic, personal touch to your session and make your images even more special and memorable.
11. Keep Jewelry Simple & Timeless
When it comes to jewelry, less really is more. Simple, elegant pieces photograph best. If you have a favorite ring or two, especially your wedding or engagement ring, definitely wear them. Earrings don’t always show prominently, so simple studs work perfectly. Skip statement necklaces and chunky bracelets, and try to avoid pearls if possible, they can feel a bit overdone. The star of the show is you, not the accessories.
Did Someone Say Spa Day?
1. Grooming, But Make It Timely
Try to take care of all grooming at least two days before your shoot, especially if you’re waxing. This gives your skin time to calm down and helps avoid redness or irritation, so you can feel smooth, confident, and camera-ready.
2. Stick With What You Know
Now is not the time for hair experiments. Avoid trying a brand-new hairstyle or color the week of your shoot. If your roots need a refresh, aim to schedule that about a week before your session for the best results. Save any big changes for after your shoot, future you will thank you.
3. Nails Matter More Than You Think
Make sure your nails, both hands and toes, are either freshly painted or completely polish-free. Chipped or peeling polish will show, and trust me, my camera notices everything.
4. Keep It Timeless at the Tips
Soft blush tones, French manicures, and neutral colors are always flattering on camera. Bold colors can absolutely work too, just keep your outfits in mind. For example, burgundy nails paired with a red outfit can clash in photos. Not a manicure person? Press-on nails are a great option, or you can keep your nails clean, short, and natural. Both photograph beautifully.
5. Step Away From the Self-Tanner
Please skip the self-tanner before your shoot. Cameras can be unforgiving, and self-tanner often shows up unevenly, especially on hands and feet. What looks good in real life doesn’t always translate well in photos.
6. Spray Tan With Intention
Spray tanning works best if it’s something you’re already familiar with. When not done or maintained properly, it can appear too dark or blotchy on camera. If you choose to spray tan, schedule it at least two days before your session to avoid oils transferring onto furniture or sheets. A soft, natural glow is always the goal, subtle beats orange every time.
7. Lash Check, Please
If you wear eyelash extensions, plan to get them filled the week of your shoot so they’re looking full and fresh. Jess Lashes does mine and she’s incredible, though she’s located in Searcy. If you’re looking for something closer, I’ve also heard great things about Royals Salon.
8. Tidy Brows & Baby Hairs
Make sure any facial hair is trimmed or removed before your session, including eyebrows, upper lip, and chin hairs. Our makeup artist won’t pluck or remove these during your appointment, so it’s best to take care of this ahead of time. Whether you prefer a quick at-home tidy or a visit to a wax specialist, do what feels best for you.
9. To Wax or Not to Wax
Waxing is totally optional, but if you choose to do it, aim for 1–2 days before your shoot so any redness or bumps have time to calm down. If you’ve never waxed before, give yourself a little extra cushion and schedule it at least 3 days in advance. Comfort and confidence always come first.
10. Don’t Forget Your Lips
Start keeping your lips moisturized a few days before your shoot. A little ChapStick goes a long way in preventing dry or flaky lips that can show up on camera.
11. Beauty Sleep Is Not a Myth
Try to get a good night’s sleep before your session. Rested eyes and fresh skin make a noticeable difference, and your future photos will thank you.
12. Skip the Party, Grab the Water Bottle
Avoid late nights and alcohol the evening before your shoot. Puffy eyes and dull skin are not the vibe. Hydration is your best friend, so drink plenty of water leading up to your session.
13. Happy Feet Matter
This one might sound funny, but clean feet really do make a difference in photos. A quick rinse before heading out can save us a lot of retouching later.
14. Come Fresh & Ready
Please arrive with a clean face and dry hair that’s been washed within the last day or so. Washing your hair the morning of your shoot is totally fine, just be sure it’s completely dry when you arrive.
It’s Time To Go!
1. Fuel Your Body
Make sure to eat a solid meal before your shoot. We’re talking real food, not just toast and vibes. Boudoir sessions can feel like a workout. You’ll stretch, arch, hold poses, and maybe even feel it in your lower back the next day. The good news? The photos are always worth it.
2. Dress Smart on the Way In
Arrive in loose-fitting clothing like a sheath dress, joggers, or yoga pants. Tight jeans or bras can leave marks on your skin that may show up in photos, and we want everything smooth and camera-ready.
3. Wrists Check
Before you head out the door, take off any hair ties, scrunchies, or bracelets from your wrists. It’s a tiny detail that can make a surprisingly big difference once we’re shooting.
4. Timing Matters
Please arrive no more than 10 minutes early for your session. The makeup artist and I will be finishing final setup and prepping the space just for you. Arriving right on time helps everything flow smoothly from the moment you walk in.
5. Be Mindful of the Clock
While we only photograph one client per day, I do schedule other appointments around your session. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, we may need to reschedule to ensure you still receive the full, unhurried experience you deserve.
6. Take a Deep Breath
This is the most important part. Relax. You do not need to know how to pose or what to do with your hands, feet, or face. I’ll guide you through every step, down to the tiniest details. Your only job is to show up and trust the process. I’ve got you!
Curious what it’s like to step in front of my camera? Schedule your call today, I’d love to connect! We’ll talk through what you’re hoping for, what makes this experience different, and exactly how everything works so you feel excited and confident moving forward.
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