6 Tips for Styling a Boudoir Session

If you’re reading this blog, you’re likely interested in investing in a boudoir experience or are about to embark on one soon. You might be nervous or stressed about what the process might look like. Don’t sweat it. Styling a boudoir session is a lot of fun and it’s a great chance to express any pent up creativity!

Here are 6 tips to remember when styling your shoot.

1. Your Surroundings – You probably already have an idea about where your shoot will take place — and if you don’t, this is a great time to decide. Most people opt for a domestic interior such as a bedroom, living room, or bathroom (HELLO steamy shower photos!) But, you can get as creative as you want! If you’re the outdoorsy type or have another favorite spot in mind, don’t be afraid to ask your photographer about it! Likely, your photographer will also have some sort of studio space which is also a great option. Studios can be very versatile and can be restyled in a plethora of ways. We love our studio because not only is it private, but it offers a variety of ‘looks’. It’s also important you use a place you’ll feel comfortable in.

2. Color Schemes – Does the carpet match the drapes? Literally, of course! Color schemes can play a big role in your boudoir session if you want them too. You don’t have to go far as choosing the color of every object in your space, but I highly suggest you make some considerations. If you’ve already bought your lingerie for the shoot, this is a good place to start getting inspiration! A sexy black number might look nice paired with some stark white sheets. Or a more colorful set might look nice on a more contrasted backdrop!

3.  Accessories – This one is important! Be sure you consider any accessories carefully. And I don’t just mean jewelry. There are so many kinds of accessories to consider such as shoes, stockings, hairpieces, earrings, etc. You can get creative with complementary colors, ribbons and other small accents!

4. The Right Piece of Lingerie – Obviously, this is super important. We suggest you do some research on the latest trends in lingerie to determine which style is the best for you. Also, don’t be afraid to ask or search for the best pieces that suit your body type! We’ve all got unique shapes and curves! You want a lingerie piece that totally accentuates your body’s natural beauty. A fantastic boudoir photographer will help you with this! We like to send our boudoir bombshells a questionnaire prior to their session to ask which colors and styles they’re drawn to and what parts of their body they want to accentuate. The answers to these questions help us select beautiful and flattering lingerie items from our client wardrobe to offer to each client for use during their session. Many photographers offer this perk!

5. Lighting – Different kinds of lighting will have a big impact on the outcome of your photos. I’m personally a huge fan of natural light– which means there must be big windows, a sunroof, or even the open sky. But you might like the look of studio lights better and that’s totally okay! Play around with lighting ideas with your photographer, it would be our pleasure to discuss it with you!

6. Makeup –  Lastly, you want your makeup on point! How you want your makeup to look is entirely up to you; if you’re a makeup guru, we give you full range of how you want to look for your boudoir experience. But, if you’re like a lot of us– you want a professional to look after your makeup. That’s why a lot of photographers (such as myself) keep tabs on the best makeup artists in our area! So if you’re needing some inspiration or suggestions, make sure to ask us!

I hope these tips helped inspire some ideas! Boudoir is a special gift we give to ourselves and you deserve the best outcome and experience. As your photographer, I want you to feel your best and feel as comfortable as possible doing it. So, if you’re still stuck, don’t be afraid to reach out and chat about it. I for one, love talking about all things boudoir and would love to share my favorite lighting, color schemes and lingerie outfits for every body type!