How to Prepare for a Boudoir Session | Confidence Tips & What to Expect
Your step-by-step guide to feeling empowered, prepared, and ready for a stunning boudoir experience in Salt Lake City, Utah.
A boudoir session is more than a photoshoot—it's an empowering journey of self-love and confidence. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, creating a meaningful gift, or reconnecting with yourself, preparation is key to making it unforgettable.
From selecting the perfect outfits to simple self-care tips, this guide will help you feel confident, radiant, and ready to shine during your boudoir experience at my Salt Lake City studio. Let’s get started!
1. Plan Ahead
Book Early
Choose your date early to give yourself time to prepare and avoid feeling rushed. This ensures you can schedule your hair, makeup, and wardrobe fitting if needed.
Set Your Intentions
Ask yourself: What do I want to feel and capture during this shoot? This clarity will guide your wardrobe choices, poses, and overall mood.
2. Wardrobe Tips
Choose Outfits That Make You Feel Amazing
Select 2-3 outfits that fit well, accentuate your favorite features, and align with the vibe you’re going for. Lace lingerie, silk robes, or even an oversized sweater can all create stunning looks. See Bag Checklist below.
Bring Water or A Coffee
Stay hydrated during your session! We encourage you to bring a water bottle or your favorite coffee—many clients love bringing their trusty Stanley mug. We’ll also have water available for you, along with a selection of bougie drinks to keep you refreshed and feeling your best throughout the experience.
Pro Tip: Avoid tight clothing when arriving to your session to prevent lines on your skin.
3. Self-Care Before Your Session
Stay Hydrated and Rested
Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your shoot and aim for a good night’s sleep. A well-rested, hydrated body feels and looks its best.
Stretch
Make sure to stretch a good week prior to your session and each day leading up to it if you can. You will thank me later.
Pamper Yourself
Treat yourself to a manicure, pedicure, or even a relaxing spa day. Many clients find waxing or shaving helpful, but this is entirely optional and based on your comfort.
4. On the Day of Your Session
Arrive with a clean face Makeup-Free
If your session includes professional styling, come with clean, moisturized skin and dry hair. This allows your stylist to create a flawless look tailored to the shoot. Your questionnaire helps us to know what look you are going for but we will also go over this in detail when you're in the makeup chair.
Eat a Light Meal
Have a small meal to keep your energy up, but avoid anything heavy that might make you feel bloated. you will be with me for a good 4 hours.
5. Embrace the Experience
Trust Your Photographer
Feeling a bit nervous is normal, but remember: this is YOUR moment. Your photographer will guide you through poses and ensure you feel supported every step of the way.
Focus on Feeling Empowered
Rather than worrying about how you look, focus on how you feel. This mindset shift creates natural, radiant photos that capture your essence.
What to Pack in Your Bag for Your Boudoir Session
Here’s a checklist of essentials to bring with you:
1. Your Selected Outfits
Lingerie or Wardrobe Pieces: Bring 2-3 carefully chosen outfits that make you feel amazing—think lace sets, bodysuits, or even a cozy sweater for a unique look.
Backup Options: Pack one extra outfit just in case you want to swap during the shoot.
2. Accessories to Elevate Your Look
Jewelry: Statement earrings, layered necklaces, or bracelets.
Shoes: Heels or boots that complement your outfits.
Sentimental Items: A personal keepsake like a necklace or piece of fabric can make your session even more meaningful.
3. Beauty Essentials
Lip Balm or Lipstick for touch-ups.
Hairbrush or Comb to refresh your hair between shots.
Compact Makeup Kit if minor adjustments are needed.
4. Practical Items
Nude and Black Undergarments: These seamless options work well with any outfit.
A Robe: Perfect for relaxing between sets.
Adhesive Bra or Pasties if your outfits require extra coverage.
5. Personal Touches
Props: If you'd like to incorporate items like a partner’s shirt, hat, or meaningful object, pack them in your bag.
Favorite Playlist: we will play this during your session. We want something that makes you feel confident.
By packing these essentials, you’ll be ready for anything, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable boudoir experience. Not sure what to bring? Don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help you feel prepared and confident!
TIMELINE PREP
4-6 WEEKS PRIOR
Start Dreaming About Your Boudoir Looks
Begin envisioning your ideal boudoir outfits! Shop your closet for pieces you already love and feel amazing in. For added inspiration, browse magazines or check out brands that align with your style. A few of my favorites include Madewell and Anthropologie.
Go Shopping with a Friend
Grab a girlfriend and hit the stores! Having a second opinion can help you choose outfits that not only look incredible but also make you feel confident. Step outside your comfort zone and try something new—you might be surprised by how much you love it!Narrow It Down to 3-5 Outfits
Select your top 3-5 outfits that showcase your personality and make you feel amazing. Don’t hesitate to let your unique style shine—it’s what makes your session truly yours.Think Beyond the Session
Consider how you want to display your photos. Albums and prints are my personal favorites for showcasing boudoir images—they're timeless ways to preserve these beautiful memories.
3-5 DAYS PRIOR
Wax, Shave, and Moisturize
Take care of any hair removal needs and follow up with a good moisturizer to keep your skin smooth and glowing.
Skip the Spray Tans and Lotions
While tanning sprays and lotions might seem tempting, they often create an orange tone that cannot be retouched after your session. Natural skin tones always photograph best. if you decide to do a spray tan make sure to wash it off before arriving to the studio.Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session to keep your skin hydrated and radiant.Remove All Tags from Your Lingerie
Be sure to cut off all price and sizing tags, even the permanent ones, so they don’t accidentally show during your session.Finalize Your Top 2-3 Outfits
Select your final 2-3 outfits that make you feel confident, comfortable, and fabulous.
1-2 DAYS PRIOR
Freshen Up with a Manicure
Treat yourself to a fresh manicure, but stick to neutral or soft tones for a timeless, elegant look that complements every outfit.
Hydrate Inside and Out
Skip the alcohol and focus on drinking plenty of water to keep your skin looking its best. Hydration is key for that healthy glow!Moisturize Your Skin
Apply a nourishing moisturizer to keep your skin soft, smooth, and camera-ready.Pack Your Boudoir Bag the Night Before
Ensure you have everything you need by packing your bag ahead of time. This way, nothing gets forgotten in the last-minute rush.Double-Check, Relax, and Get Ready to Shine
Go over your list one more time, then take a deep breath and relax. You’re about to be pampered and have an unforgettable experience!
BOUDOIR SESSION DAY
Arrive with a Clean, Moisturized Face
Our team will take care of your hair and makeup, so come fresh-faced and ready to be pampered.
Moisturize from Head to Toe
Hydrated skin photographs beautifully, so don’t skip this step!Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing
Choose loose clothing and undergarments to avoid marks or impressions on your skin before your session.Eat a Light Meal
Enjoy a light, satisfying meal beforehand to keep your energy up without feeling bloated.Give Yourself Extra Time
Plan to arrive a few minutes early to settle in, relax, and feel confident as you get ready to slay your boudoir session!
