Boudoir Session FAQs
As you can tell from my Investment Packages page, I offer boudoir sessions for my clients. Naturally, potential clients have a lot of questions and concerns in regards to boudoir sessions in general, so I thought this might be a good place to list some of the questions I frequently get from people along with the answers.
Question: "Why would I even want to do this kind of session in the first place!?"
Answer: I've heard a myriad of reasons why clients schedule a boudoir session. Some do this to give as a gift to a loved one, significant other, or partner. Others may have just went through a divorce, a surgery, or lost some weight. They want to feel empowered and alive again, and this is their way to say: "I am woman, hear me roar!" Maybe you have your own reasons!
Question: "I see that you sometimes post boudoir sneak peeks from past sessions. I’m not comfortable with that idea. Are sneak peeks required to work with you?"
Answer: Sessions are 100% private and images are NEVER shared anywhere without your permission. There’s NO requirement to share images in order to book a session. You can read more in the client/photographer contract I provide to each client.
Question: "Do you offer retouching when it comes to acne, bruises, scars, etc?"
Answer: I do retouching for every session. I remove scars as requested, acne, and blemishes, in addition to bruises and other random marks you may have on the day of your session. What I don't do is "take off 20 pounds!" Instead, I work with clients to find the most flattering poses and lighting to highlight their best features. If there’s something you feel particularly self-conscious about, let me know.
Question: "Where does my boudoir session take place? I mean, outdoors sounds kind of intimidating. I don't anyone to see me!"
Answer: Boudoir sessions can take place in a number of places depending on the client. In terms of outdoor sessions, I work with the client to select a location that works for everyone involved. The location must be accessible yet private enough for the client's comfort. I also choose outdoor locations based on the theme of the boudoir session, backdrop/scenery, and more than anything, the light that's available! Every client is different, so contact me personally for more information pertaining to locations.
Question: "May I bring someone with me to my shoot?"
Answer: Yes, you are welcome to bring a friend along with you to your session. In fact, I welcome it for a number of reasons. While most photographers think a friend can be a distraction, I personally have found that having a friend present helps the client relax more during the session. It gets the client to open up a little more and express their true character in front of the camera. A friend is welcome to help with hair, makeup, outfits, etc. as well. I only ask that help is given when asked for by the client. Friends are instructed to not get in the way, or cause the client to lose focus during the session. They're welcome to stand by off to the side if that's acceptable by all parties. Balance is key, along with the comfort level of the client, if that makes sense.
Question: "How long with the session take?"
Answer: The session takes an hour and a half to complete. Boudoir sessions tend to move a little slower than your typical family, couple, etc. session. More attention to detail is placed on getting you into the most flattering positions. There also tends to be outfit changes, which can take a few minutes here and there, along with fixing hair and makeup if needed.
Question: "I'm not comfortable with wearing lingerie. Can I bring something else to wear instead?"
Answer: While lingerie is what most think about when it comes to boudoir sessions, you certainly don't have to stick with that idea. Maybe you want to wear your husband's white button down shirt, or his favorite sports jersey. How about a uniform (i.e. fireman, policeman, military) for your session? You're really only limited by your imagination, to be honest. How about a sexy cowgirl look with cutoff jean shorts, boots, etc? Again, it doesn't have to be about lingerie, but you're welcome to do that if you'd like! The sky's the limit!
Question: "I've noticed that you sometimes shoot semi-nude sessions. I'm interested in learning more about this!"
Answer: Yes, I do offer semi-nude options during my boudoir sessions. Some also call this style of photography implied nudity. The idea is to imply nudity, or in other words... it gives the person seeing the image the ability to discern there is nudity without really showing the client/model in any inappropriate manner. This style of photography is ONLY done in a tasteful and respectful manner when asked for by the client.
If you have questions that I didn't address in this forum, please feel free to contact me for more information and details! Every client is different, along with their concerns, wishes, and final product. Boudoir sessions are meant to be classy, sexy, and beautiful. These sessions are done with respect to you and your comfort level. I've working with so many people who told me how amazing of a time it was, and nothing like they imagined by the time we finished. More often than I can count, I'm told "I had so much fun!" and I hope you will consider this style of portrait photography and contact me today!