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tips and advice from carrie on how to prepare for your boudoir session

I am so excited for your upcoming boudoir session!

For most, the thought of having a boudoir session is nerve-wracking. Being half naked plus emotionally vulnerable in front of the camera sounds scary. I get that, but just remind yourself -I’m an artist… and have been shooting boudoir for nearly 15 yrs. At this point I truly see the body as a work of art and I’m paying attention to angles, curves, flattering positions and emotion.  Boudoir is beautiful and not awkward for me. I will do everything I can during your session to help you just have the BEST day you’ve ever had!

I’ve put together some great boudoir session tips and what to wear ideas to make everything just perfect for your time at the studio. BUT FIRST I WOULD LIKE TO ANSWER A VERY IMPORTANT QUESTION ABOUT BOUDOIR…

Is Boudoir only for women?

BOUDOIR IS FOR EVERY PERSON. Being an inclusive photographer is very important to both Allie and I. We have friends and clients all over the spectrum and Forest Heart welcomes ALL GENDER IDENTITIES for boudoir sessions. Every human should experience a boudoir session and the self love it creates within you.

Self Care

Get a pedicure and manicure

When doing polish, we find it works best visually to have the polish on your nails and toes match. Try for neautral colors so they don’t take away the attention from the important parts of the photos.

Treat yourself to professional makeup

Photography tends to flatten real life by 50%, so don’t be afraid to up the ante a little! Even if you aren’t a makeup kind of person, I actually recommend at least a foundation and contour on the face. This will remove any oil shine, deep pores and blemishes. This will also help draw attention to your eyes. Your eyes will be the most important factor in many of your images, so we will want to make them pop!

Make that Hair shine

Mostly loose curls or a flat iron to bring out the shine. Wearing long hair down is best for the camera. If you are getting professional hair styling, Try to avoid getting it over done. We are totally going to mess that hair up…in a good way of course.

Treat your body like a temple

Hydrate and have a healthy meal before you arrive. This is so important. Please don’t starve yourself before your session. A lack of energy = a cranky client. Hydrating the day prior to your session will also help with dry skin. Lotion, lotion lotion…skin needs love so make it glow with happiness.

What to Wear

Bring extra options but not your whole closet

Depending on your type of session, your package may include 1-2 outfits. I strongly encourage you to bring a few extra on top of that so we can take a look at them together when you arrive. As a photographer, I will be able to give you the best advise on what will look most flattering “on camera”. However, you don’t want to get overwhelmed with too many choices and you will want to make the most out of your shoot time instead of stressing over the wardrobe.

Accessorize!

Anything you can think of that tells your story for your boudoir session. The sky is the limit! Some of my favorites: hats, glasses, books, delicate robes (sheer & lace) and knee high socks.

Lingerie

There are so many options! Some that work well on camera and are the most flattering: Bra & panty sets, Bodysuits, wide neck sweaters, silky pajama sets and delicate pajama dresses. Remember, wear what makes you feel good. Texture is amazing on camera: Lace, knits etc… But avoid busy prints and stick with solid colors.

What if I don’t like lingerie?

Not a problem, I don’t either haha. You’d be surprised what a t-shirt and weathered/distressed jeans can do! Wide neck sweaters paired with boxer shorts, cardigans with cheeky underwear, and the best idea…..just a sheet.

Things to avoid

No low cut thongs or G-string panties

Thongs and G-strings have a tendency to make your butt look a bit flat on camera. We recommend doing a cheeky panty or hipster. They make the butt look round and voluptuous! The only exception to this rule is body suits, they can look amazing with a thong

Don’t buy thigh highs

No matter how thin you are, stockings that use plastic to grip your skin will instantly give you sausage-leg. If you must use thigh highs purchase the higher end ones made to be worn with a garter belt. Thigh high socks are a great replacement option as they are more stretchy and usually don’t pinch the legs.

Baby doll style lingerie

Many women are self-conscious about their mid-section. We all feel comfortable with a bit of loose flowey coverage. When you put more fabric at an area you’re trying to hide, it highlights it and makes it look larger. We want to highlight your waist! If you’re uncomfortable with your mid-section, try a high-waisted panty paired with matching bra and a robe to accentuate your curves and hide the area’s you feel self conscious about.

Corsets are a photographers nightmare

Sure, corsets can suck in the tummy, and lift the girls, however they also push things out where they shouldn’t. Corsets create large overflows of skin underneath the armpits and also on the upper back…yikes!