What better way to feel empowered than through a Seattle boudoir session? As a seasoned wedding photographer, I always love to help boost self-esteem while creating a safe space to be vulnerable. My style is very cool, calm, and collected. I have finally branched out to offer boudoir for the first time, and it’s been amazing.
I work really hard to provide a meaningful experience for my clients. Even though I’ve stepped into the space of boudoir just this year. I have always understood the nerves bubbling behind the scenes. I know it’s not an easy thing to be in front of the camera – especially half (or fully) naked. If you’re considering working with me as your Seattle boudoir photographer, thank you for trusting me with your vulnerability.
This post is for my own tips and tricks to share. Ultimately, to help you get the most out of your boudoir session. You can do all of it or none of it, the choice is yours. Also, just note that this is meant to be helpful, not overwhelming! I am always here to simply meet you where you’re at, every step of the way.
Tips for location:
Booking a studio is usually easier than trying to use your own home. We don’t have to worry about clutter, and overall it can be a more controlled (and private) environment. I have a few studios I love to work with, but I’m always seeking out unique spaces where Seattle boudoir sessions can take place. When you inquire, I will ask what vibe you’d like and show you a few options to choose from. I’m personally a big fan of large windows and urban downtown Seattle spaces.
Tips for lingerie:
Depending on the length of your session, we can have time for 2-4 “looks.” Depending on the chosen location for your shoot, we might want lingerie with a certain vibe. My clients are always welcome to send me what they’re thinking of wearing or purchasing for the shoot and I can help narrow down options.
Sometimes the more subtle the look, the more natural it can feel. If you’re not a lingerie girlie at all, there are plenty of other outfits that can be sexy (jean pants or shorts with no top or bralette, braless with a sweater, etc) Fishnets can also be super flattering!
Some of my favorite places to buy lingerie: Mentionables, For Love & Lemons (link includes 20% off), Bluebella, Lonely Label, Scantily, Honey Birdette, Solstice Intimates, Nette Rose, Free People, Adore Me, X Fenty, Anya Lust, Yandy, Gooseberry Intimates, Kat The Label
Try on your chosen lingerie/outfits and practice posing in the mirror. Make sure you like how it fits on you. Does it make you feel sexy?
DON’T FORGET: Take all of the tags off prior to arriving for your shoot (even the inside labels)
Ideas for additional accessories you can bring:
– A pair of heels. (I prefer black)
– A white button up shirt (or a fave of your significant others if you want to surprise them with photos of you in it) or oversized sweater.
– If it is a bridal boudoir session, consider bringing your veil.
– Don’t forget jewelry!
Tips for your hair, makeup, and bod:
My fave HMUA vendors I love working with for Seattle boudoir sessions (let them know I sent ya):
Michelle Wight (Greenlake, WA)
Sarah Ren (Kent, WA)
Ivonne Mendoza (Tacoma)
– Consider opting for airbrushing if it’s in your budget!
– Make sure hair and makeup are done at least 30 minutes prior to our session beginning and schedule it to ensure you have plenty of time to park and make it to your scheduled appointment.
– Now might not the time to try something new. I still want you to feel yourself, just emphasized. For instance, if you’ve never had a red lip before, it can feel shocking to see it on yourself. If that’s the case, the day of your session might not be the best time to try it out, you know what I mean? But if you test out red every few days leading up to the shoot, you can decide if you should go for it.
– If you already don’t fake tan, now is not the time to start. If you do, plan to do it at least once a week prior to avoid looking orange. And if you’re using self tanner, we want to avoid staining the sheets of the studio.
– Make sure to schedule your mani/pedi or waxing appointment in advanced in preparation for your shoot!
– Moisturize at least a week leading up to your shoot. Find a good sugar/salt scrub to exfoliate your skin. Exfoliate your lips and wear lip balm, too!
– I will always edit out temporary blemishes, so if you get a pimple, don’t freak out! I’ve got you. I don’t over-edit bodies but if there are any other scars you’d like edited out of your photos, let me know. If it’s out of my scope of editing skills, we can outsource it.
TAKE NOTE: A boudoir session can be pretty physically demanding. The shoot itself moves along very quickly and poses can look easier than they are. I want to make sure you’re ready for the workout!
Other ways to prepare for your Seattle boudoir session:
– You can never do too much stretching before your shoot. A month before your session, specifically work on stretching out your neck and your back.
– Avoid alcohol and sugary/diet drinks. I would recommend a month, but try for at least 1-2 weeks. Sorry babe, but replace it all with water instead to stay hydrated. Your skin will glow, your acne will clear and overall inflammation will settle.
– Staying hydrated will also help your flexibility.
– Get a good nights rest the night before your shoot.
– Book a date night or girls night after your shoot. You got all glammed up, let’s celebrate!
Tips for the day of your Seattle boudoir session:
– Please make sure you eat throughout the day, we don’t want you hangry or lightheaded.
– Use clear or no deodorant.
– Wear loose fitting clothing to avoid those red impressions on your skin when you change outfits.
– You can use a little alcohol to take the edge off but note that some studios don’t allow alcohol on the premises, and we don’t want you impaired during your shoot.
Tips for posing:
I’m here to help you and give guidance. But it helps to find the angles of your body that you love, too. Browse Pinterest and practice in the mirror, have some fun with it! I will be sending you a questionnaire after booking your session and building a mood board for a “game plan.” This usually helps a lot of nerves to have more of a “visual” going into the session.
A few things to remember throughout your shoot: Shoulders back, chin up. Keeping your body at a 45 degree angle is usually more flattering than 90 degrees or straight on to the camera. If you don’t like stoic poses, we can be more playful. Parting your lips slightly can be incredibly sexy.
Our ultimate goal for your Seattle boudoir session is for you to treasure your body as it is, not how you might wish it would be.
The wise Moira Rose once said: “Take a thousand naked pictures of yourself.” I’m going to help you show off your best ASSets and make you feel like the supermodel you are. ;) Take a deep breath, relax, and trust me. I’ve got you.
Contact me to book a session of your own, babe.