10 Things You Don’t Need to Do Before Your Boudoir Shoot
If you’ve been thinking about booking a boudoir session, you might be picturing weeks of prep: diets, a frantic mall trip, or maybe even just 10 months to complete a full laser hair removal cycle. I’m here to tell you, it’s literally so unnecessary.
Boudoir is about celebrating who you are right now. It’s meant to feel indulgent and cheeky on your terms. So let’s clear up a few myths and take a little pressure off, shall we?
1. Lose weight
Let’s bust this one first. If you’re waiting to “just lose 10 pounds,” here’s a secret: that’s a moving target. And while you’re waiting, you’re missing the chance to experience everything a boudoir shoot can do for your confidence today. Your future self will thank you for showing up exactly as you are.
2. Buy an entirely new wardrobe
Sure, if a lingerie spree sounds fun — go wild. But if not? Your favorite t-shirt, a pair of Calvins, or literally only your own naked body will look luxe in photos. Boudoir isn’t about the clothes; it’s about the energy you bring.
3. Book a week-long spa retreat beforehand
Listen, I love a steam room as much as anyone, but you don’t have to overhaul your life before stepping in front of my camera. You can come straight from your morning coffee and still look like a whole editorial spread.
4. Try a new spray tan… for the first time
If you’ve done self tanners or spray tans before and want to do one, awesome! But I don’t recommend doing a spray tan for the first time ever before your session. Your natural skin tone photographs beautifully, and I’ll use lighting and editing to make sure it looks luminous.
5. Do a full hair transformation
Boudoir is not the time to try bangs for the first time. Trust me. Stick with what makes you feel like you.
6. Perfect your nails (well, sort of)
Yes: neat, clean nails are the one thing I actually really recommend, because detail shots pick them up. But whether that’s a glossy clear coat or a full acrylic set is totally your call!
7. Hit the gym like you’re training for the Olympics
Boudoir posing is about angles, not athletic conditioning. I’ll guide you into positions that flatter you and feel natural, no squats required.
8. Bring a suitcase of lingerie you’ll never wear again
You don’t need a 12-piece boudoir capsule collection. Bring a few things that make you feel gorgeous, and yes, that could include your favorite jeans.
9. Memorize poses from Pinterest
Please don’t study for your session! That’s my job. I’ll direct you the whole time, from fingertip placement to that smirk that looks like you just got away with something.
10. Be “ready”
Boudoir isn’t about being ready — it’s about being willing. You don’t have to feel 100% confident walking in the door. That’s what the shoot is for: to help you see yourself the way you deserve to be seen.