10 Uncommon Boudoir Photoshoot Tips

Getting ready for your first boudoir photoshoot? Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or a mix of both, proper preparation can make all the difference. Here are some tried-and-true tips from photographers and models to help you feel confident and enjoy the experience:

1. Bring someone you trust. A trusted friend or partner can make you feel more comfortable during the shoot. While this is especially helpful if you’re new to boudoir, choose someone you feel completely at ease around—someone whose presence won’t distract or make you feel self-conscious.
2. Have open communication with your photographer. Before the shoot, talk to your photographer about your preferences, any poses you want to try, or any insecurities you’d like them to be mindful of. During the session, don’t hesitate to share feedback—let them know what’s working for you and what isn’t. Remember, this is a collaboration.
3. Practice your poses. Watching tutorials or practicing in front of a mirror can go a long way. Photographers like Lindsay Adler and Michael Sasser offer excellent resources for learning poses that flatter your body. Exaggerated curves and angles might feel unnatural but often translate beautifully in photos.
4. Avoid tight clothing before the shoot. On the day of your session, wear loose-fitting clothes to prevent elastic marks on your skin. This simple tip ensures smooth, flawless results in your photos.
5. Hydrate and keep your skin glowing. Start drinking plenty of water a few days before your session to help your skin look its best. Skip any drastic beauty treatments leading up to the shoot, as they might irritate your skin or cause unexpected reactions.
6. Set the mood and have fun. Embrace the experience with confidence. Visualize the energy and emotion you want to bring to your photos—whether sexy, playful, or empowered. Cameras don’t just capture images; they capture energy, so let yours shine!
7. Relax and trust your photographer. A professional photographer is skilled in helping you look and feel your best. Take a few minutes at the start of the shoot to discuss wardrobe, location, and pose ideas. These conversations will build rapport and ease any nervousness.
8. Don’t overthink flaws. Whether it’s a scar, blemish, or other imperfection, your photographer can either pose you strategically or touch up details in post-production. Focus on highlighting what you love about yourself!
9. Shake off tension. If you’re feeling stiff, take a moment to stretch, shake out your arms, or roll your shoulders. Small movements can help you relax and feel more natural.
10. Look for inspiration. Before the shoot, search for photos or poses you love and share them with your photographer. This provides a helpful reference for the look and feel you’re aiming for.

Feeling ready to book your boudoir session? If you’d like to dive deeper into the art of boudoir photography, explore the many courses available for download on our website. Our resources cover everything from posing techniques to creating a safe and empowering environment, helping both photographers and models achieve stunning results.