So you made it this far. You did the research. Found a photographer you love. Booked your session. Got a date on the calendar. And now you’re left thinking… what’s next?

Booking a Boudoir Session is exciting but also tends to induce a few nerves. And that’s totally normal. For most people, this is their first time ever doing a session like this! You can’t know what to expect and that can result in some butterflies.

When you book your session you have a call (as long or short as you want) for us to get to know each other. We always ensure that we establish a relationship with you prior to the session so you feel comfortable reaching out with thoughts, questions, or ideas before your session. Along with our booking materials we include a questionnaire to better learn your interests and concerns, as well as give you some helpful tips.

This feather is a soft sensual focal point for the portrait.

But let’s talk about a few things we always recommend to our clients as they prepare for their session.

Do a little research. Look through your photographer’s portfolio and make note of some of your favorite shots or poses. Observe the way other women have dressed for their sessions and think about your own style and what you might like to include in your own portraits, as well as helping you learn what kind of lighting you prefer too. Do you love soft bright sets or dark moody vibes? Part of the fun in planning is seeing all of your options and how creative you can get with your session!

Some clients like to make a Pinterest board of their favorite poses and ideas. But looking at inspiration will also help you to think about how you will be posing and plan what you want to wear…

Plan your outfits. We always recommend bringing about 4 outfits to your session (but it’s okay to bring more options!) This can include lingerie, slips, bodysuits, bras and undie sets, pjs, T-shirts, dresses, high heels, jewelry, or anything your heart desires! You should bring whatever makes you feel beautiful and comfortable. There’s no wrong answer.

These sessions are also a great excuse to take yourself on a shopping date. Or to order some new things online. You can try on some new styles and get comfortable wearing your lingerie around the house :)

Gather any additional props you’d like to bring. A bouquet of flowers, crystals, books, your grandmothers typewriter, feathers, favorite scarf, leather cuffs, or any other item you love. We’ve worked with a sword and crossbow too, so don’t think anything is too weird or wild for us. (: It’s so much fun to use your imagination if you desire something out of the ordinary.

Here her book plays the role of shirt. (:

This powerhouse woman brought her crossbow to show off! — This powerhouse woman brought her crossbow to use for the session.

This outfit was a nod to her love of the TV show Bridgerton.

Plan any self care appointments accordingly. While it’s not necessary, some women like to book manicures, waxing, or salon appointments leading up to their session. Any waxing should be done a week prior, to ensure the skin has time to heal.

Look at your body with kind eyes. It’s normal to be nervous and worry about how you will look in photos. Many of us get overly critical of ourselves and our bodies at times of being recorded in a photograph. But this is the perfect time to practice self love and acceptance. (We know that complete self acceptance is such a big deal. We are trying to help nudge all of us in the direction of it in any way we can!)

Boudoir Sessions are all about celebrating the skin you’re in. You don’t need to change a thing in order to feel beautiful, sexy, and whole.

Keep all of these realities in mind leading up to your session. Give yourself a little hug when you wakeup in the morning. Practice a few sexy poses in the mirror before getting dressed. Enjoy your favorite activities and foods, and spend time with the people that support and love you. (If you want to dive in deeper to changing the voices in your head check out my course, Ingenious Alchemy)

A few things to consider for the final days before your session:

Try to get some rest and drink lots of water during the days leading up - being properly hydrated really does make your skin glow!
You can prepare your body for portraits by exfoliating. It is a lovely was to pamper yourself before coming in.

Arrive with a clean (makeup free) and moisturized face as well as clean dry hair.
Pay attention to your nails/cuticles. You don't necessarily need a manicure ahead of time, but they can be clean and shaped nicely if that is important for you.
If you have a favorite lipstick feel free to bring it with you to have on hand for touch-ups.

The day of:

Pack your bags, grab a cup of coffee or tea, and take a deep breath. Maybe take a moment to meditate or sit in the quiet while you congratulate yourself for making the time and space to celebrate your beautiful self. Then dance yourself into the studio and be prepared to relax, and have fun. We will take it from there! :)

Ready to chat with us? Click here to send us a note. We love talking to women about our sessions.