With the holidays behind us, in the photography world, it’s time to think about Valentine’s Day! Let’s be honest with each other, your loved one doesn’t want another box of chocolates or tools. What better gift than breath-taking images of you?! Or if you are single, even more of a reason to celebrate to show how beautiful and care-free you are!
In my opinion, boudoir photography is about making women look her best in a comfortable, safe and EXCITING atmosphere! What woman doesn’t want to feel and look gorgeous…and have photos to prove it?! 😉 Whether the boudoir session is for a significant other or just for you to celebrate YOU, it’s definitely worth your time. It is completely normal for you to be a little nervous for your session. I promise by the time you step foot in front of the camera, you will be amazed at how comfortable you can be because you will look AMAZING!
Here are some FAQs that you may have about boudoir photography:
1. What should I expect for my boudoir session? First and foremost…expect to have a BLAST!!! Seriously, unless I already know you very well, I start every session talking with you so you can get comfortable, we can get to know each other’s personality, see what you’re looking to portray in your photos, how much you want to reveal (or don’t want to reveal) in your photos, talk about wardrobe options, take a look through a boudoir “posing” portfolio to give you some ideas, have a bottle of iced water, things along that nature. I won’t expect you to just dive right in after we meet unless of course, that’s what you want to do. lol. I’ve been in front of the lens before for pin-up photos and revealing maternity photos, so I can completely relate to what it feels like if you don’t know the person (but luckily, a friend did my maternity and the pin-ups, we chatted the whole time and it was AWESOME!)
2. What should I wear? Well, that is entirely up to you. Normally, I suggest bringing a favorite little dress that you love, some lingerie (which those don’t always need to be too revealing), something of your loved ones (button down shirt, work shirt or something of his/your hobby to incorporate) and ACCESSORIES!! Earrings, necklaces, thigh highs, high heels (because they make your legs look fantastic!!) and anything else that you think you may want to use.
3. Will I have to get naked?! To put it simply…no. Many clients do not. And some do. It honestly depends on the person. Remember, boudoir photography is almost like glamour photography. Nothing trashy. Most boudoir portraits “suggest” nudity but not actually show anything. Clients are NEVER pushed outside of their comfort zone. This is something that is discussed even before stepping in front of the lens.
4. I think I’m too fat and would like to wait until I lose a few more pounds. Photography is not like being on tv. It doesn’t make you gain 10 lbs by being in front of the camera. As the artist, we know tricks to show your most fabulous side and to hide what you may be self-concious about (we all have our self-concious issues…it’s a woman thing! lol). Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes and it’s my job to show you that. Boudoir photography is showing the beauty that you already have….I just enhance it. 😉
5. How long will my session take? That depends on a few things. Typically, my sessions last about 1 ½ hrs. But if it’s a workshop, the time in front of the camera will vary as you most likely will have your make-up and hair done, as well as a few changes of clothes. If you bring a lot of outfits, plan on more time.
6. Can I bring a friend? Absolutely! I would suggest a female friend to make it a little more comfortable for you. Whether or not they are viewing your photo session, is up to you!
7. How many photos do you take and how many will I receive? It really depends on how the session goes, how many different outfits you have, etc. Typically, I’ll take between 50-100 photos. The gallery you will receive will have approximately 20-30 retouched images. The retouching I do consists of removing things like scars, acne, stretch marks, skin smoothing, etc. It is done to make it look natural and undetectable. You will not look like a plastic doll. 😉
8. Will they be posted online? Are they private? The photos will only be posted online in a password protected gallery (in which only YOU will have the password to). Or we can schedule a viewing session in the studio. So yes, they are very private. Also, images will never be used for portfolio (web or print) unless you give me written permission. However, clients that allow me full usage rights to their images will receive discounts or product upgrades as a thank you!
9. Where do you do the session? Sessions can be done in the studio, at your home, or at a hotel. Many also opt to have a “Girls Night Out” boudoir party where the hostess invites 4-6 of her closest friends over for some fruit, champagne, hair, make-up and portraits done all in one night.
10. How do I pay for my Photography session? If you’d like to pay via credit card, PayPal is accepted (full amount must be paid before the session). Otherwise, payment is due at the end of your shoot for cash or personal check.
11. How much does the session cost and what is included? For a Girls’ Night Out Boudoir Party or to book a session for the boudoir marathon, please email me for rates as those will vary. If enough individuals book, it may be moved to a local hotel for convenience. Also consider if you would like to have a professional make-up artist and/or hair stylist for the session (which I highly recommend).
But a typical session is $275.00 and that includes:
~ My time and talent for photographing and retouching all the images that are shown in the gallery.
~ Your choice of either a custom designed 8×8 photo book with 18 pages (containing approx. 18-24 images from the session) OR a custom-designed 5×7 memory box containing 24 5×7 portrait prints from the session.
Please email me or visit my website to schedule a session. To receive your photos by Valentine’s Day, you must book your session by January 23rd. Are you ready to look and feel GORGEOUS?! 😉
Very interested in booking a boudoir session as a Valentines present, have a four month old and am getting my body back, want to celebrate! 30 lbs down, 5 to go! Do you have anybody you use for hair/makeup?