What to Expect at a Boudoir Shoot
Everything you need to know before your first boudoir session
What Actually Happens at a Boudoir Photo Shoot?
Unsure of what to expect at a boudoir shoot? Boudoir sessions can bring two emotions at once—excitement and nervousness. Especially if it’s your first time and you’re not quite sure what to expect. Even seasoned clients still get the jitters!
As a boudoir photographer in Portland, Oregon, and someone who has experienced a boudoir session firsthand, I get it. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference. By the end of this post, you’ll know what to expect, feel prepared, and be ready to enjoy your session with confidence. Let’s dig in!
What is Your “Why” for Wanting To Book a Boudoir Session?
Before you even begin your search for a boudoir photographer, it is worth asking yourself one simple question: why do you want to do a boudoir session?
There is no right or wrong reason, but understanding your “why” will help you define your expectations. It can guide your journey toward the experience you are hoping for and give you a clearer idea of the type of boudoir photographer who will be the best fit for you.
Reasons People Choose to do a Boudoir Photoshoot
While no two stories are the same, here are some of the most common reasons people come into my studio:
- Celebrating a milestone like a birthday, engagement, or personal achievement
- A desire to reconnect with their confidence, embrace their body, or step outside of their comfort zone
- Creating a meaningful gift for a partner, especially around weddings or anniversaries
- Treating themselves to a fun and pampering experience on a semi-regular basis
No matter the reason, boudoir is ultimately about how it makes you feel. It is a chance to see yourself in a new light, to feel empowered, and to walk away with more than just beautiful images. It becomes an experience that stays with you long after the session is over.
Finding a Photographer Who Matches Your Vision and Goals
Now that you’ve defined your “why,” you’re ready to find a photographer. This is the person who will guide you, make you feel comfortable, and create the images you’ll love.
When deciding who to work with, focus on two key factors: their portfolio and your comfort and connection with them. Both will directly shape your experience and the final results of your boudoir session.
Boudoir Portfolios
A picture is worth a thousand words. A photographer’s portfolio is one of the clearest indicators of what you can expect from your boudoir session. It shows their style, how they use lighting, how they edit, and whether they specialize in a particular niche.
It’s important that you love what you see in their portfolio. The images you are drawn to are a direct reflection of the style and quality you can expect to receive in your own gallery. Reviewing portfolios carefully will help you narrow down photographers who match the vision and experience you want for your session.
Boudoir Styles
Boudoir photography comes in many different styles. You don’t need to memorize every type. Just notice what appeals to you when looking through portfolios. Here are some styles you might see:
- Classic Boudoir– Timeless and elegant, often with more posed images looking at the camera.
- Lifestyle boudoir– Cozy, at-home vibes more natural posing; can include lingerie or your favorite casual outfit like a band tee.
- Bridal Boudoir– Incorporates elements of weddings such as veils, rings, and wedding shoes.
- Glam Boudoir– Supermodel for a day. High-fashion, editorial vibe with dramatic styling and polished images.
- Maternity Boudoir– Celebrating pregnancy with beautiful, flattering images.
- Couples Boudoir– A session with you and your partner, highlighting connection and intimacy.
- Themed Boudoir– A session with you and your partner, highlighting connection and intimacy.
- Fine Art Boudoir- Focused on light, shadows, and the curves of the body, with a more abstract, artistic approach where you truly become the art.
Please don’t worry about familiarizing yourself too much with specific styles. The most important thing is what you are feeling DRAWN to when you look through your photographer options and that you love their work.
Your Comfort and Connection
Just as important as style is connection. You should genuinely feel comfortable with your photographer. I wouldn’t consider working with someone who isn’t willing, at the very least, to talk on the phone before you book your session. This conversation ensures you’re a good match and that your expectations align, which will directly shape the experience of your shoot.
When you feel confident and at ease with the person behind the camera, everything else about your session becomes that much easier.
What to Know Before Your Boudoir Shoot
This stage has the biggest impact on your overall boudoir experience. When you book your photographer, they’ll provide detailed guidance on how to prepare for your session. Many photographers also cover this during a pre-booking consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
I personally send my clients a welcome guide that includes a timeline outlining each step of the preparation process. This helps ensure they feel confident, relaxed, and fully prepared by the time they step in front of the camera—and know exactly when to take care of each detail leading up to their shoot.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Boudoir Timeline
To help you feel fully prepared (and avoid any last-minute stress), here’s a professional prep timeline breaking down exactly what to do and when.
1 Month Before the Shoot
- Shop for lingerie or other clothing you are wanting to wear for your shoot
- Schedule all beauty appointments to give you ample time (nails, hair, waxing, etc)
3-5 Days Before the Shoot
- Nail care (both feet and hands) Cleaning up those nails is important because we will use your hands expressively during your shoot. Avoid bright colors, nuetrals are best!
- Grooming activities such as waxing, exfoliating and shaving to avoid redness or bumps the day of your shoot
- Make a confidence-boosting playlist. Bonus points if you send me a Spotify playlist!
- Moisturize every day prior to the shoot & keep yourself hydrated with water
- Lower your salt intake and avoid alcohol if you’re worried about retaining water
The Day Before the Shoot
- Avoid alcohol and salty foods
- Have all tags removed from clothing (even the permanent ones) you plan on wearing during your shoot, and pack your bag
The Morning of the Shoot
- Be sure to lotion your body
- Eat something light, but filling, before you leave home for your shoot
- If you wear deodorant, make sure its clear
- If you’re having your makeup done on location, moisturize your face and arrive without makeup.
- Wear something loose and comfortable to avoid lines and creases on the skin (such as bra’s, socks, rubber bands on wrists, etc…)
What to Wear (and feel amazing in) For Your Boudoir shoot
This is the fun part and where the overall vibe of your boudoir session really comes to life. Some shoots lean into classic lingerie, while others incorporate props, cozy layers, or even something as simple as an oversized sweater or your favorite band tee.
Just remember: boudoir doesn’t have to mean lingerie. It’s about choosing pieces that make you feel confident, comfortable, and completely yourself. With that in mind, here are a few things to consider as you make your selections.
Consider the Photographic Style of Your Shoot
Think about the mood your photographer is creating. Are you doing a cozy at-home session? A Valentine’s-themed setup in a studio? Or a modern, minimalistic shoot where less is more? The style of your session will guide your outfit choices and set the tone for your photos.
Choose Pieces That Fill You Well
Avoid anything too tight or too loose. Outfits that dig into your body or won’t stay in place can limit posing options and may not photograph as well. Prioritize pieces that fit comfortably and flatter your natural shape.
Only Select Outfits You Feel AMAZING In
f you’re on the fence about a piece, leave it at home. Confidence is everything in boudoir photography so only choose outfits that make you feel empowered. If you try something on and think, “I love this, except for…”, consider continuing your search until you find the perfect something you LOVE.
Explore Both In-Store and Online Options
Shopping in a lingerie store is a fun and valuable experience. Working with experts who can help you find the right pieces can make a big difference, so don’t rely on online shopping alone. If you’re in Portland, clients love Love Oh Baby Lingerie, which also sells online for non-local shoppers. Other great online options include Adore Me and Thistle and Spire.
The Big Day: What to Expect at Your Shoot
EEK! It’s finally here. You’re probably both excited and a little nervous. But if you’ve followed all the tips in this guide, you have nothing to worry about. You’re going to rock it! Here’s what typically happens on the day of your boudoir shoot
Arrival and Preparation
When you arrive at your photo shoot destination, you will meet your photographer and get settled. If hair and makeup are included, you will likely spend about an hour and a half in the chair. Your photographer may take care of some studio prep and will periodically check in. This is a great time to break the ice and start feeling comfortable.
Styling and Outfit Check
After hair and makeup, you will go through your outfit selections together to make sure everything looks perfect. If you were debating between a few pieces, your photographer can help guide your decision. By the time the camera comes out, everything will be ready to go.
Shoot Time
This is where the fun really begins. You do not need to know anything about posing. Your photographer will guide you step by step. Boudoir shoots typically last one to two hours, but you will be amazed at how fast the time goes. The best part is seeing your transformation from nervous to confident and thriving in front of the camera. We are there to be your biggest cheerleader every step of the way. You are going to have so much fun!
The End of the Shoot
How the session wraps up can vary. Some photographers finish shooting and provide a timeline for when you will receive your images. Others may offer a sneak peek or reveal immediately afterward. All of this will be clearly outlined during your pre-booking consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article has helped ease your nerves and given you a clear idea of what to expect at a boudoir shoot. While the thought of a boudoir session can feel a little intimidating, the experience is truly rewarding and transformative. My goal is that understanding what to expect will give you the confidence to take the leap and enjoy this empowering experience!
Planning Your Portland Oregon Wedding or Boudoir Session? I Can Help
And if you’re here because you’re planning a wedding, boudoir can be such a meaningful part of that journey. Feel free to explore my wedding photography work as well to see how I capture those moments!
Inquire
If you’re looking for a photographer and you connect with my work, I would love to talk to you.
