Boudoir photography is a rapidly growing trend that celebrates body positivity, self-love and confidence. But while a great boudoir photographer will help you feel comfortable in your skin, it’s totally normal to feel nervous leading up to a boudoir photo session.

One of the best ways to reduce any pre-photo jitters you may be experiencing ahead of your session is to understand how to prepare for a boudoir photography shoot. 

Throughout the rest of this post, I’ll be sharing my first-hand experience and prep tips as an Omaha boudoir photographer.

What Is Boudoir Photography?

Boudoir photography is designed to capture intimate and sensual images, usually in lingerie or other garments. The goal is to showcase your beauty, femininity and confidence in a beautiful, elegant way.

Boudoir photography can be done for a number of reasons. Some women simply want saucy photos of themselves as personal keepsakes. Others want to take photos to give to a partner or spouse. At my studio, for example, I do a lot of bridal boudoir photography sessions.

While you might feel nervous to take revealing photographs, it’s a great way to feel empowered and feel more comfortable in your own skin. And the right preparation is key!

How do I prepare my body for a boudoir photo shoot?

The best thing you can do to have an empowering boudoir photography experience is to come as you are. Don’t stress about losing weight, fixing skin imperfections or doing anything drastic. You are beautiful just as you are!

If you want to do a little extra body prep before your shoot, that’s totally fine! Here are some of the most common questions I get about how to get your body ready for a boudoir photoshoot:

Should you wax before a boudoir shoot?

Waxing ahead of a boudoir photoshoot is a great option, especially if you’re looking for a totally smooth look. But it’s definitely not necessary! If you do decide to get a wax, make sure you time it right. You don’t want to do it so far ahead that hair starts to grow back, but also don’t want to do it too close to your session and experience skin irritation. I recommend scheduling a wax about 4-5 days before your photoshoot.

When should you shave for a boudoir shoot?

The answer to this question will depend a little bit on your body. Some people shave and have hair growing back the next day. Others have a few days before they need to shave again. I recommend shaving at least the day before your session, so that any knicks or skin irritations have time to heal before your session.

Should you get professional hair and makeup for your session?

You don’t have to get professional hair and makeup for a boudoir photography session, but I definitely recommend it! Not only does it take some pressure off not having to do it yourself, it’s also a fantastic way to feel relaxed, pampered and glamorous ahead of your shoot.

At my Omaha boudoir photo studio, I partner with a hair and makeup artist to offer in-studio prep before your session. 

Should I get my nails done for a boudoir shoot?

This is another prep step that is really a personal preference. If you want a more natural look, feel free to go without any special nails. But if you want a more glamorous, polished look, a pedicure and manicure is never a bad idea!

At the very least, I recommend removing any old or chipped nail polish that may be lingering from your last mani-pedi and making sure your nails are well-shaped and evenly sized.

If you do decide to get a manicure and pedicure, aim for something fairly natural. A French manicure or nude polish is a classic, timeless look that leaves the focus on you.

Should I eat or drink anything special before a boudoir photo shoot?

Eating a healthy diet can help you feel and look your best for your boudoir session. In the week leading up to your session, focus on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and sugary snacks that can cause inflammation and breakouts. Drinking plenty of water can also help keep your skin hydrated and glowing.

What not to do before a boudoir photo shoot

While there are many things you can do to prepare for a boudoir photoshoot, there are also a few things you should avoid doing before your session. Here are a few of them:

1. Don’t try anything new: It’s not a good idea to try out a new skincare product, makeup, or hairstyle right before your photoshoot. Stick with products and styles that you know work well for you.

2. Don’t get a drastic haircut: While it’s okay to get a trim or touch up your roots, getting a drastic haircut right before your photoshoot can be risky. If you don’t like the way your new haircut looks, it can affect your confidence and the way you feel during your photoshoot.
3. Don’t tan too much: While a healthy glow can look great in photos, tanning too much or too close to your photoshoot can lead to uneven skin tone and sunburn. If you want to get a tan, do it at least a few days before your session.

4. Don’t forget to communicate with your photographer: Make sure you communicate with your photographer about your preferences and any concerns you may have. This can help ensure that you get the best possible results from your boudoir photoshoot.

5. Don’t stress! It’s normal to have some butterflies leading up to your session but try not to worry too much. Do your best to relax and have fun. Your photos will come out better if you’re happy and comfortable and you’ll have a much better time doing it!

Boudoir Photography Tips for Clients: What to Wear

What outfits to wear for a boudoir photoshoot is easily the most common question I get asked as a boudoir photographer. While many people wear lingerie in boudoir photos, there are so many colors, styles and materials to choose from. And many options beyond lingerie as well!

Do you bring your own clothes to a boudoir session?

Yes, typically you will bring your own outfits to a boudoir photography session. At my Omaha boudoir studio, clients are asked to bring their own clothes. I offer lots of support before the session, however, to help make choosing an outfit easy.

How many outfits for boudoir?

The number of outfits you’ll need for a boudoir session depends on the kind of package you book. Every photographer is different. Some may offer unlimited outfit changes while others will only include one outfit change.

When you book Omaha boudoir photography at my studio, for example, the number of outfit changes depends on the package you book, with as many as three outfits needed.

What shoes to wear for a boudoir photo shoot?

For many boudoir poses you won’t need shoes at all. Many women go barefoot for sessions for a more natural, relaxed look. But you could absolutely incorporate a pair of saucy heels into a few shots if you wanted to. Talk to your photographer about your ideas so they can help you choose the right pair.

Should you wear jewelry to a boudoir photo shoot?

You can wear jewelry, but you definitely don’t need to! Bridal boudoir shoots often include at least a few shots that focus on the engagement ring and other bridal jewelry. And statement necklaces are always fun to incorporate into a photo shoot! But if you don’t have any pieces you love or just aren’t much of a jewelry person, your natural assets will be more than enough to showcase in your images.

Tips for Choosing the Best Boudoir Photography Outfits

Tip # 1: Consider your personal style and comfort level: The most important thing is to wear something that makes you feel beautiful and confident.

Tip #2: Consider your body type: Different styles of clothing can flatter different body types. You’ll look beautiful in whatever you wear, but you do want to make sure you feel comfortable in your body. For example, if you’re self-conscious about your midsection, you may want to choose clothing that provides some coverage in that area. On the other hand, if you love your curves, then choose clothing that accentuates them and shows them off!

Tip #3: Choose clothing that fits well: It’s important to choose clothing that fits well and is comfortable to wear. Avoid clothing that is too tight or too loose, as it can be distracting and take away from the overall look of the photo.

Tip #4: Choose the right colors for your skin tone: Different colors can complement different skin tones. For example, if you have a warm skin tone, you may want to choose clothing in earthy tones like browns, oranges, and yellows. If you have a cool skin tone, you may want to choose clothing in blues, purples, and greens. Think about what colors you typically wear in your day to day life and look for outfits in similar hues.

Tip #5: Consider the style of the shoot: The style of the shoot can also influence what you wear. If you’re going for a classic and elegant look, you may want to choose lingerie in black, white, or red. If you’re going for a more playful and casual look, you may want to choose lingerie in bright colors or fun patterns.

Tip #6: Don’t forget about accessories: Accessories can add a lot of visual interest to your photos. Consider adding items like jewelry, heels, or a statement piece of lingerie. If you have questions about accessories or want ideas for things to try, reach out to your photographer.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. If you’re not sure what to wear, don’t be afraid to ask your photographer for guidance. They can provide tips on what clothing will look best on camera and help you create a look that reflects your unique style and personality.

Are You Ready to Book a Boudoir Photography Session?

Feeling inspired to plan a boudoir photoshoot of your own? Let’s make it happen! If you’re local, contact my Omaha boudoir photography studio today to learn more and book a session.