There is no secret about it… I LOVE boudoir and how I have the power to change perspectives, and make people see themselves the way someone who loves them unconditionally would! As I say over and over, preparation makes for perfect pictures. That being said lets get you educated on how you can ROCK your next boudoir shoot!
It is a misconception that you need only lingerie for boudoir, there are in fact many other options. You can incorporate a couple of styles in your shoot or just choose one of them, for example: romantic bohemian style, timeless lingerie, sporty, country, vintage, girl next door, elegant, and even some implied nude photos.
What to Wear For The Ladies
In my experience, I recommend bringing at least four to five outfits, because more choice is better than less. Try to prepare all the outfits at least a week before the shoot to avoid last minute stress. They should include: Two matching underwear sets (one black is a great staple), one or two tops or T-shirts, tights, if that’s your style, heels, or shoes that make you feel sexy! Most important bring a robe! You are going to be a bit nervous at first and we can still get some hot photo’s with the robe before your confidence builds.
A good general rule is that no matter what you wear it needs to be well fitting. Try everything on before; choose matching panties and bra because matching colors look better in photos. Avoid patterns and choose some bright colors that will pop in the pictures and/or a classic black, blue or white. If you are worried about looking pale in your photo’s go with lighter colored outfits and pieces. Black will make you appear more slim but can make you look pale.
Classic Underwear Set
I recommend sets because they photograph better than separate pieces. Try them on and make sure they fit well. There is not general rule here. Have fun shopping and trying lots of sets on. Choose sets that make you feel good!
Cheekies are better than larger or smaller undies, because they give you more definition. I also prefer a cheeky over a thong as it is not aesthetical in photoshoots; bring your thongs only if their front side is pretty. A cheeky gives more definition and curve, rather than a small, straight thong.
High waist and vintage undies give a little retro look. Choose high waisted underwear if you have a pear shape or want to cover some hip issues.
Bra and Bralette
The bra is supported and can be padded. A bralette is, instead, a bra without wires or padded cups. Both photograph well but it really depends on your body shape what looks best for you. Bralettes often have fun backs and they are fun in photos. In general they fit better on ladies with small breasts. For larger breasts sizes some support is recommended.
Full Body Pieces and Corsets
The full body pieces are fun and comfortable. They are also great to hide the stomach and if you are worried about C-section scars, stretch marks or any other issue. The Corset has been used for centuries to tighten the waist and give support. It’s a must and super sexy for women!
Nighties and Robes
Nighties and baby dolls give a vintage and delicate classy look. Robes are fun to play with and help cover up if you are a little shy at the beginning of the photoshoots. Robes are also very popular for brides to be, generally in white.
Tops, Sweaters and T-shirts
See through tops are fun to play with and help cover up if you are a little shy at the beginning of the photoshoot. Go long sleeve if you want to go for season-less images and have a cute and sensual look then bring a winter sweater. If they are off the shoulder, even better! I personally love warm, cosy sweaters to feel cute and sexy. If lingerie is not really your thing or you want to have that “girl next door look”, then panties and a tank top will work perfect for you. Some ladies like to wear one of her guy’s shirts too.
What To Wear For the Boys
Let’s be honest, guys have it much easier than women at getting ready! Its becoming more and more popular for men to showcase their confidence and sexuality in from of the camera. Here are a few tips for you hot dudes!
Men should bring:
Well fitting jeans. Darker jeans have more of a mysterious vibe and photograph nicely. Don’t forget a belt if you have one. Boxers/ Briefs of course but, avoid patterns(briefs look better). stick with solid colors, white, grey and black are timeless and my personal favorites. Bring a couple of button up shirts (also better if plain in color). A tie if its your style can be a fun prop and make for some fun images. Lastly a T-shirt preferably a V neck and solid color.
Body Preparation
Moisturize your body before the shoot. Natural scrubs a few days before are a good idea too. Shave/wax few days before to avoid red spots. Don’t worry about cellulite, stretch marks, bruises etc. We retouch the skin in post-processing! Hands and feet are an important part of a some ones image. Apply hand cream and if you ladies have time book a manicure and pedicure before the photoshoot. Apply a nail varnish of your choice, but PLEASE avoid neon bright colors.
Ladies this is your chance to go all out! Hire a make up artist and/or hair stylist! I love spicing up pictures with a dark or red lip color half way through the session.
Just Before the Shoot
Drink plenty of water in the morning.
Stretch out and get ready to arch and curve.
Eat before the shoot, being hungry during the shoot is counterproductive and often makes your stomach more bloated.
Try to get a good night sleep and do not have excessively large meals or alcohol the night before.
Come wearing lose clothing! Tight socks, hair ties and bras with leave unpleasant marks and indents on your skin.
Most Importantly find the right mind set! So much of your success during the photo shoot will depend on your psychological prep work. Think about it: Confidence is what exudes sexiness, and confidence is all mental. When you slip off your robe and the photographer start snapping away, you want to be in a place of total self-acceptance. Invite your best girlfriends over to help give you a boost and cheer you on, re-read complimentary cards or texts from your significant other, develop a self-assuring mantra to say to yourself in the mirror — whatever it takes to psych yourself out and help you to feel totally comfortable in your own skin.