What Should I Bring to My Boudoir Session | Boston Boudoir Photography

Sometimes props can help tell a story in your boudoir photography, they also can help give you some direction and inspiration in posing.

Preparing for a boudoir session can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. But there are things you can do to ensure you are ready for your session and feel confident during the shoot. Here are some tips on what clients should bring to be ready for their Boston boudoir session with Ryan Richardson Photography.

Lingerie and Outfits

While some people might be able to rock a photo shoot with just a smile, a boudoir session is usually built on the foundation of some great outfits. You want to bring pieces that make you feel confident, beautiful, and maybe a little daring. You should bring a variety of pieces such as bodysuits, corsets, teddies, and robes. It's also a good idea to bring a mix of colors and styles that suit your personality and taste. If you're unsure what to bring, you can always ask your photographer for recommendations.

Accessories

Accessories can add a lot to your boudoir session, so consider bringing some along. Jewelry, high heels, and stockings can add a touch of class to your photos. Hats, scarves, and other accessories can also create a unique and personalized look. Different accessories can also help you style certain outfits to create a different look or feeling with minimal effort - so even if you’ve already shot wearing something it can feel fresh again. Again, if you're unsure what to bring, you can always ask your photographer for recommendations.

Hair and Makeup Supplies

Having your hair and makeup done for your boudoir session is a great mood booster and an integral part of that pampered and polished supermodel experience. If you're planning on doing your own hair and makeup, make sure to bring along all the necessary supplies such as makeup, brushes, and hair styling tools. You should also bring along any hair or makeup inspiration photos you may have to show your stylist, even if you’ve discussed it ahead of time (and you should touch base with them ahead of time so they can prepare to make you fabulous for your shoot).

Props and Personal Items

Adding personal items and props to your boudoir session can make it more unique and special. You can bring items such as a favorite book, a musical instrument, or even a sports jersey to incorporate into your photos. If you're not sure what to bring, think about your hobbies and interests or items that hold sentimental value to you or the person you’re going to be showing these photos. Props can help to tell a story with your session and they can also give you something to do if you want to act a little more naturally and not worry about what you’re going to do with your hands.

Pre-Shoot Wardrobe

While high heels are a popular choice for boudoir sessions, it's important to bring a pair of comfortable shoes to wear between sets. You don't want to be uncomfortable during your session, so consider bringing a pair of flats or sneakers to give your feet a break. You’ll also want to wear comfortable items ahead of your shoot, especially pieces that don’t leave marks or dents on your skin (heavy bags with skinny straps, I’m looking right at you) because it can take a while for those marks to disappear and it’s best to get as much right in camera as possible.

Nails

Your nails may not be the first thing you think about when preparing for your boudoir session, but they can make a big difference in your photos. Make sure to clean and trim your nails and consider a fresh coat of nail polish if desired. Neutral or classic colors tend to work best in boudoir photos - as with accessories or props, the intention is to keep the focus on your and not bring in too many distracting elements.

Confidence

Lastly, the most important thing to bring to your boudoir session is confidence. Remember, the purpose of boudoir photography is to celebrate your beauty and sensuality. Be proud of who you are and own your shape and features. A positive attitude and confidence will shine through in your photos and make for an unforgettable experience.

Now you’re ready to make preparing for a Boston boudoir session a fun and exciting process. You'll be ready for an unforgettable boudoir experience and confident that you’re going to knock your shoot out of the park. Ready to book your boudoir experience? Contact me today to get started.

Ryan Richardson is a wedding and boudoir photographer serving Boston and beyond; including Cape Cod Weddings, New England Weddings, Massachusetts Weddings and Rhode Island Weddings.