Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Your Boudoir Session & How To Prepare For It
Get Ready to Glow: Your Ultimate Photoshoot Prep Guide
So, you've booked your photoshoot – congratulations! Now comes the exciting part: preparing to look and feel your absolute best. This guide will walk you through everything you need to do (and avoid!) to ensure your photos are stunning.
The DOs: Your Path to Picture-Perfect
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate! Water is your best friend leading up to your shoot. Drinking plenty of water flushes your system, plumps your skin, and gives you a healthy glow. Start hydrating several days in advance for optimal results.
Rest and Recharge: Prioritize sleep the night before your shoot. Being well rested is so important to keeping dark circles and bags away and helping you have the best experience. A light meal on the day of the shoot is recommended. I’ll also have some snacks on hand for us to enjoy!
Allergies Alert: Please inform me of any food or makeup allergies before your session so I can be prepared.
Stretch it Out: Incorporating stretching into your routine the several weeks before your session can be incredibly beneficial. Increased flexibility will not only help you achieve more dynamic poses but also prevent soreness after the shoot. Focus on areas like your back, shoulders, and legs, and neck.
Pamper Yourself but Plan Ahead. Grooming is Key and Timing Does Matter:
Schedule those essential beauty appointments in advance.Nail Care: Your hands will likely be featured in some shots, so make sure your nails are neat and tidy. A manicure a few days before the shoot is ideal. For a timeless look, opt for a classic look like a French manicure, a neutral shade. If that isn’t your vibe and you prefer a splash of color or design, coordinate a color that complements your outfits or vibe of the session we want to create.
Skin Care: Exfoliating and moisturizing your entire body (avoid body oils or powders) before your shoot is crucial for smooth, radiant skin. This removes dead skin cells and helps your skin look its best.
Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize: Hydrated skin looks its best. Pay extra attention to moisturizing in the days leading up to the shoot, especially if you'll be wearing lingerie that shows more skin.
A pedicure, while not required, can be a great addition to your pre-shoot pampering session, offering further exfoliation and contributing to an overall polished look.
Body Hair: Pay attention to any body hair removal you prefer, keeping in mind the lingerie or implied nude looks you’ll be shooting. If waxing, allow 3-4 days for any irritation to subside. Important Note: If you choose to go au naturel, that's perfectly fine! Just remember, it will be visible in the photos, and any requests for removal in post-production will incur an additional charge.
Hair Care & Styling: Healthy, well-styled hair is a must! Simple curls and straightening are included with your session. If you have a specific hairstyle in mind or prefer to arrive with your hair styled by your favorite stylist, you are more than welcome to do so.
General Hair Care: If you plan on any hair treatments, like a trim, color touch-up, deep conditioning, or relaxer, schedule them at least a week or two before the shoot. This gives your hair time to settle and look its best. Avoid trying any new hairstyles or drastic cuts right before the shoot. On the day of the shoot, come with your hair clean and styled as desired (or ready for simple curls or straightening if you're utilizing that service).
Textured Hair Styling: For individuals with textured hair, consider styles that complement your face shape and the overall vibe of the photoshoot. Whether embracing your natural texture with a wash-and-go, twist-out, or braids, or opting for a protective style like locs or a weave, ensure your hair is moisturized and defined. If choosing simple curls or straightening to be done at the studio, please arrive with clean, dry hair that has been prepped for styling with heat.
Wigs & Extensions: Wigs and extensions offer fantastic versatility. If you plan to use a wig or extensions, ensure they are high-quality, well-maintained, and securely attached. Experiment with different styles and colors beforehand to find the perfect look for your shoot. Bring your wig or extensions with you to the session.
Preferred Hairstylist? If you have a preferred hairstylist, feel free to work with them before your session. Just let me know, and we can coordinate the timing.
Strike a Pose: Do some homework! Flip through magazines and lingerie catalogs for inspiration. Practice posing in front of a mirror. Remember the key elements: chin forward and slightly down, shoulders back, core engaged, stand tall, relax your face, smile with your eyes, and consider your hand and toe placement. "Ballet fingers" and pointed toes can make a big difference!
Bring Your Makeup Bag: While I provide complimentary Natural Glam makeup with false lashes and will have makeup on hand, bringing your own foundation (matched to your skin tone) and moisturizer is a great idea, especially if you have sensitive skin. If you prefer to use your own professional makeup artist who is experienced doing makeup for boudoir photoshoots or do your own makeup, you are more than welcome to do so. I would like to view their work if possible though and request that you ask they not use any products that will cause flashback.
Communicate with me: Discuss your vision for the shoot, including specific poses, outfits, and the overall mood you want to create. Share inspiration images if you have any. The more open you are, the better I can tailor the session to you.
Trust the Process: You've hired a professional for a reason! I have the experience and expertise to flatter every body type and capture your best angles. Trust me to guide you through the poses and create beautiful images.
Wardrobe Prep is Essential: This is a big one! Shop for your outfits well in advance of the shoot. This gives you time to try everything on, ensuring a perfect fit and that you absolutely love your choices. Don't forget to consider the overall style and mood of the shoot when selecting your clothes.
Pack Your Bags (and Props!): Once you've chosen your outfits, pack them carefully, along with any props or accessories you want to include in your photos. Think about jewelry, shoes, scarves, hats, or anything else that reflects your personality and complements your outfits. Keeping everything organized in a bag will make the day of the shoot much smoother.
The DON'Ts: Steer Clear of These Pitfalls
No Drastic Changes: Avoid any major changes to your hair or skin less than a month before your shoot. Schedule any significant treatments well in advance.
Avoid chipped polish or overly long nails. We will be incorporating your hands into the poses and they will be visible so keep that in mind. If you do not like having your nails done, just make sure they are groomed and neat
Tan Lines are a No-Go: Try to avoid severe tan lines. Removing them in post-production will incur an additional charge per photo. Remember, all skin tones are beautiful! Professional lighting and retouching will enhance your natural beauty.
Skip the Late Nights: Resist the urge to go out drinking or stay up late the night before. Stress, exhaustion, and dehydration will definitely show in your photos.
Ditch the Tight Clothes: Avoid wearing tight clothing or undergarments on the day of your shoot. These can leave lines on your skin that are difficult to remove, even hours later. Let your skin breathe and come in comfortable clothing.
Avoid Foods that cause puffiness and bloating: Steer clear of alcohol, salty foods, carbonated drinks, dairy and anything else that tends to cause bloating in the days leading up to your shoot. This will help you feel and look your best.
Don't stress about "imperfections": Everyone has things they're self-conscious about. I will pose you in flattering ways and use lighting to enhance your best features. Focus on what you love about yourself and tell me what you favorite features are and we’ll build from there.
Don't compare yourself to others: Boudoir shoots are about celebrating your unique beauty. Avoid comparing yourself to models or other women you see online.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to a successful and enjoyable photoshoot experience, resulting in images you'll cherish for years to come!
