When you’re thinking about doing a boudoir session there are a lot of questions that come up about doing this type of session. So I am here today to answer a bunch of the Frequently Asked Questions about Boudoir Photography for you.

I’m really nervous. Is that normal?

It is definitely normal to be nervous for your boudoir session, so don’t worry. Most of our clients are nervous until the session has gone on for a few minutes. After it starts, you’ll begin to loosen up. If you’re still nervous, try out these relaxation tips we’ve provided in another blog post: Click here.

How do I know how to pose?

Don’t worry about posing. We’ve totally got you covered in that department. We know all the tricks to create the most flattering angles for you, no matter what shape or size you are. Plus we have some great starter tips for any photos you take at home that can start you on the path of preparing for your session. Check out FREEBIE HERE.

Do your packages include hair and makeup?

Absolutely! One thing we have as a non-negotiable for your session to provide you with complimentary hair and makeup by a professional MUA for your session. We want you to feel and look your best and we don’t want you to have to worry about doing it yourself. Taking care of it for you and letting us pamper you helps you feel more relaxed and at ease for stepping in front of the camera to take photos.

Am I allowed to bring alcohol to help loosen my nerves?

As long as you’re over 21, that’s totally fine with us. We do offer champagne or wine at your session to help you relax. But don’t go overboard with the alcohol either. Being relaxed is one thing. Being drunk, well then you’re photos aren’t going to look good either so one glass is probably good.

Do you provide the wardrobe?

We do not provide your wardrobe. This is something you’ll have to pick out and bring along yourself. If you need help choosing an outfit, we can definitely give you some suggestions, though. And we do send out a full prep-guide when you book to help you find places to go shopping and what to pull from your own closet. But to get an idea of what you can bring head to this helpful blog HERE. Or click HERE for other options other than lingerie!

I want share these pictures with my partner, but I don’t want loose prints floating around. Any ideas for the best gift?

This is a very common concern and we totally understand. We recommend placing an order for our little black book. This is much more discreet and will keep all of your images in one place and not floating around. We also offer folios and accordion albums as well. For more information on these products, just ask. Or check out this blog here to learn about places to display your photos.

What should I bring to my boudoir session?

For our sessions, we suggest three to four different outfits and any props or accessories you may want to incorporate. Don’t hesitate to buy a few more things than you think you need or to even bring more to your session than you think you need. We will help you the day of your session to pick the best outfit for you. Need help choosing props? Check out this blog article we’ve written on incorporating your partner’s interests by clicking here.

Can I bring a friend?

Yes, you can bring a friend if you think it will help you relax. However, sometimes an extra set of eyes has the opposite effect, even if it is a friend. They are more than welcome to come, but if they are making you uncomfortable, they may have to wait out in the lobby. But just ask and we are more than happy to help you decide.

Will my session be with a male or female photographer?

Our team is composed of all women, so you will only have me, as your female photographer for your session. Our hair and makeup artist is also a female. And the owner of the event and retreat center that we use as our studio space is also run by a woman. We also do not allow men to be in the studio or at your session so that you can do this powerfully for yourself.

Do you do touchups?

Yes, we will smooth skin and do some basic retouching on all of your portraits. But we will NOT make you look different or take weight off of you or make you look like someone you’re not. Blemishes, scars, pimples, scratches, etc. that aren’t naturally part of your body we will help hide. Otherwise let us know what you’re concerned about and we’d be happy to help you feel more at ease about what we can do to help you.

I’m not a model – are boudoir photos still flattering even if my body isn’t perfect?

Absolutely! Nobody is perfect and every woman is sexy. If you have any specific concerns, contact us and we can talk about it! Posing and great outfits add to helping you look and feel amazing during your session.

Do you do outdoor boudoir sessions?

We absolutely do outdoor boudoir sessions. The joy of the studio space that we use is that it’s a large farm house out in the country. Our studio space is inside the farm house (which is also an event and retreat center for women, run by a woman). It is in a secluded area, so nobody can see us during the session because the yard is a good distance from the road. We are happy to have this space to protect you and our company and enjoy doing both an indoor set and an out door set during your session.

Do I have control over who sees my images?

Yes, most certainly. We will only share photos if you have given us permission and have approved the images for sharing. We respect your wishes and won’t post or share any images if you’d prefer they stay private. There’s always variations of photos that you might be comfortable with sharing versus not sharing so don’t hesitate to ask (as we also always bring it up in our consult call) so that you know exactly how this works.

Have a question that’s not listed here? Contact us and we can answer it for you. melissaleephotography.mn@gmail.com

Have you thought about booking your own shoot with Melissa? Download your complimentary Dream Shoot Planner by clicking HERE.  It will tell you all about the experience and what to expect.  I would love to chat with you!  You can email me at melissaleephotography.mn@gmail.com. And if you’d like to know more about the boudoir experience head to this BLOG about how this experience is designed to transform you. I can’t wait to hear from you!