FAQ: I booked a boudoir shoot...now what?



Copyright Jai Prince Photography for Sultry Boudoir

Well, first you can go ahead and jump for joy 'cuz you are about to have some pretty rockin' photos of yourself to share with your significant other - or just to enjoy for yourself!! But next there are some things you can do prior to the shoot to help ensure awesomess! And here they are:

1. Browse magazines for posing ideas and practice them. We will be there to offer direction but if you have ideas of your own or are comfortable moving with little-to-no direction, you may be more confident and it’s likely you’ll get a greater number of usable shots. When studying magazines, pay close attention to the position of hands, the different angles the body makes (tilt of the head, arms, torso, thighs, hips, and legs), and facial expressions. Practice all of these things in a mirror. Remember, exaggerated or unusual poses usually look most interesting!
2. Find at least six outfits to bring. We may not have time for all of them but it’s best to have options, just in case.
3. Try on your complete outfits (with shoes and accessories). Make sure you are comfortable in them and that they fit well.
4. Be sure clothing is in good condition. Rips, raveling hems, stretched seams, runs, lint balls/pilling will all be very noticeable in photos and will detract from the finished product.
5. Find photos of make-up looks you love so that you can share them with the make-up artist.
6. 24-48 hours prior to shoot, drink plenty of water and avoid fatty, greasy, and salty foods that will make you puffy or bloated. Also avoid anything that may stain your teeth.
7. Be sure that your nails are neat and well maintained. Short, polished nails with a natural or buff color works great!
8. Be sure to take care of removal of all unwanted hair such as stray brows (which the make-up artist may not have time to attend to), hair on the upper lip or chin and any other excess facial hair. If you have never waxed your brows (or other areas), a couple days before the shoot may be the perfect time to treat yourself as redness or irritation of the sensitive areas may require 2-3 days to subside.
9. Plan your hairstyle. You may want a polished, well-groomed look or, if you are going for the “morning after” look (which looks great), wild or slightly disheveled hair that has been roller-set and tousled may be more suitable. The make-up artist may be able to make minor adjustments to the hair but don’t plan on a full styling on the day of the shoot.
10. Keep your skin hydrated and moisturized in the days before the shoot
11. Get plenty of rest. The night before, avoid alcohol and environments with cigarette smoke, which can make your eyes red and puffy. If you smoke, try to decrease your intake as it deprives skin of oxygen and nutrients, making it appear gray.