How to Prepare for Your Boudoir Session

A boudoir photography session is an empowering, life-changing experience. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply treating yourself, preparing for your boudoir shoot can make all the difference in how you feel during the session and how stunning your final images will be.

Below, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to feel confident, beautiful, and ready for your boudoir session!

1. Choose Your Outfits Carefully

Your outfits are one of the most important parts of the session. Boudoir photography is all about showcasing your personality and sensuality, so choose items that make you feel comfortable and confident. Here are a few tips for picking the perfect outfits:

• Lingerie: Select pieces that fit your body well. Don’t choose items that are too tight or too loose—comfort is key!Opt for lingerie that highlights your best features. Whether it’s a classic black lace set, a playful corset, or a silk robe, choose something that makes you feel fabulous.
• Colors: Bold colors like red, black, or jewel tones tend to photograph beautifully. However, choose colors that complement your skin tone. Darker colors can help create a more seductive vibe, while soft pastels or whites can feel romantic and dreamy.
• Textures: Lace, satin, silk, and velvet are great choices for boudoir shoots as they add dimension and texture to your photos. These fabrics have a timeless elegance that works beautifully in photographs. Consider a mix of textures to keep your outfits interesting.
• Accessories: Don’t forget accessories like stockings, heels, jewelry, and robes to add extra flair to your outfits.These little details can elevate your look and give you more options to work with during the shoot. Remember, less is sometimes more, so don’t overdo it.

If you’re unsure, don’t worry—many boudoir photographers, like me, offer a client closet filled with various outfits that can help you feel fabulous. Here’s another helpful post about outfit ideas as well: https://lillabordasportraits.com/12-ideas-to-wear-to-your-boudoir-shoot-thats-not-lingerie/ https://lillabordasportraits.com/lingerie-for-your-boudoir-shoot/

2. Grooming and Self-Care

A boudoir session is about making you feel your best, inside and out. To ensure you’re feeling fresh and fabulous, here are some grooming tips to follow:

• Nails: Clean, manicured nails make a big difference, as hands are often a focal point in boudoir shots. If you’re wearing a dark polish, make sure it’s neat and not chipped. Pick a color that goes well with a range of outfit colors. I usually recommend pink, red, black or a nice french mani.
• Hair: If you’re getting professional hair and makeup done, make sure your hair is clean and dry. If you’re doing it yourself, spend some time perfecting your style ahead of the shoot. Dont’ forget to touch up your roots if needed, but I do not recommend to change your hair style or color before your shoot.
• Skin: Hydrate your skin with your favorite lotion the night before your session. For smoother skin, you can also exfoliate gently, but avoid any harsh treatments right before your shoot.
• Shaving/Waxing: If you plan on removing body hair, do it at least 24 hours before your session to avoid any irritation or redness.

Remember, these steps are about enhancing your natural beauty. The goal is to feel pampered and relaxed, so don’t stress about perfection!

3. Get Rest and Hydrate

A good night’s sleep and proper hydration are essential for looking and feeling your best. Rest helps your skin look fresh, and hydration gives your body that glowing, radiant appearance.Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep before your shoot and drink plenty of water in the days leading up to it. I always suggest you focus on hydration during the entire week leading up to your boudoir session.

4. Embrace Your Body and Confidence

Boudoir photography is all about capturing your authentic self and embracing who you are. It’s normal to feel nervous or self-conscious before your session. However, try to focus on the excitement and the transformative experience ahead. You’re creating something beautiful, and your confidence will shine through in the images.

Here are a few ways to boost your confidence before your shoot:

• Practice positive self-talk. Focus on the things you love about your body and remind yourself of how amazing you are. This will help you step into your session feeling empowered and confident.
• Do Something That Makes You Feel Good: Whether it’s yoga, a walk in nature, or listening to your favorite empowering music, make time to do something that helps you feel your best before your session.
• Remember, this session is about celebrating you!

Here’s a super helpful video from Mel Robbins for tips for Building Unstoppable Confidence

5.Stretch Before Your Shoot

The weeks before your boudoir session, it can be helpful to stretch your body. Stretching will help you feel more relaxed, fluid, and in tune with your body. It can also relieve any tension or stiffness that might affect your posture or the way you move in front of the camera. Consider doing a few gentle stretches, focusing on areas like your neck, shoulders, back, and legs. This will help you feel more confident and graceful as you move through your poses.

6. Trust Your Photographer

A boudoir session is a collaborative experience, and your photographer is there to help you every step of the way. Trust your photographer to direct you, pose you, and create a space where you feel comfortable. They will know how to make you look and feel amazing.

7. The Day of the Shoot: Relax and Have Fun!

On the day of your session, try to keep a calm, positive mindset. Allow yourself to enjoy the moment, and let go of any stress. This is your time to shine!