Behind the Scenes of a Boudoir Photoshoot: What To Expect

Are you considering a boudoir shoot but feel nervous or unsure about what to expect? It’s natural to have some questions, especially since boudoir photography is an vulnerable and personal experience. To help calm those nerves, I’m taking you behind the scenes to show you what really happens during a boudoir session, from start to finish. Spoiler alert: it’s not nearly as intimidating as it might seem! The entire boudoir experience is about 4 hours, and here’s how it breaks down!

1. Scheduling Your Phone Consult

Before your boudoir session, we’ll schedule a 20 minute phone consult. This is where we get to know each other a little better, and discuss your why and vision for the shoot. I love getting to hear about what inspired you to do a a session. During this time, I’ll also walk you through the process so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Whether you’re nervous or excited, this will help you know what to expect and if we’re a good fit. Lastly, we’ll discuss scheduling and I’ll further explain pricing, payment plans and pre-payment. After your call you’ll receive a booking link to reserve your date. Once you sign the contract and pay your deposit, you’re on the calendar!

2. Choosing the Perfect Outfits

One of the most exciting parts of preparing for your boudoir shoot is selecting your outfits. With every full-priced boudoir session, you’ll have access to Kelsey, the personal stylist on my team, for one-on-one styling assistance. Kelsey will schedule a phone consultation to discuss your needs, style, body type, and preferences. About a week later, she’ll send you a personalized list of 10 carefully chosen outfits, complete with shoppable links. You can browse at your own pace and decide if you’d like to order anything. I can also recommend where to shop if you’d prefer to on your own. Bella Bra Shop in Dallas is my go-to favorite for the best shopping experience!

3. Arriving at the Studio

When you arrive at the studio, you’ll be greeted by a calming environment designed to make you feel at ease. I’ll meet you outside and help you bring in any big bags or items. We’ll head inside and upstairs to the studio. Then I’l hang out your outfits on a clothing rack and you’ll change into a robe (I’ll provide one) before hair and makeup begins.

4. Professional Hair & Makeup

I have partnered with an amazing studio, Tease to Please for all of my boudoir clients. Their talented artists will work with you to create a look that enhances your natural beauty while aligning with the vision for your shoot. Whether you want a soft, natural glow or something bold and glamorous, they’ll customize your style to ensure you feel confident and stunning in front of the camera. This service is all about making you look and feel amazing, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

5. Your Session Begins

I know how awkward it can feel at first, but trust me, this is where the magic happens! I’ll offer gentle direction on your posture, expression, and angles, and you’ll be amazed at how natural everything feels. The key is to trust the process and have fun with it! The session is about 90 minutes with about 25 minutes for each of your 3 outfits and time to change in between.

5. Enjoy a Luxurious Massage

While I’m editing your photos, you’ll enjoy a relaxing chair massage to help you unwind and fully embrace the experience. The licensed massage therapist will provide a soothing, tension-relieving session that’s designed to melt away any stress. It’s the perfect way to pamper yourself after your shoot, allowing you to relax and rejuvenate while I work on getting all the photos ready to show you!

6. Same Day Reveal & Ordering Appointment

In the studio, I have a big projector for your reveal. We dim the lights, and you will enjoy your own private viewing (with all the movie theatre vibes!) I’ll show you all the images, and walk you through helping you narrow down to your favorites. Then you’ll decide which ones you’d like to purchase and we’ll place your order. You’ll either pay in full or start your payment plan.

7. Saying Goodbye

It’s no exaggeration that you will be feeling so confident and beautiful! I hope you made plans for a girls night or date night, because you will be on a high. 😉

8. Products Arrive

Most products take 4-6 weeks to arrive (more buffer needed around the holidays) Your digitals will be delivered in a gallery 7-10 days after your session (or once you’re paid in full) and you’ll receive a shipping notification when your gorgeous album or book is on its way!

From the consultation to the final reveal, every step is designed to make you feel comfortable, confident, and empowered. If you’re ready to experience this for yourself, I’d love to help you capture your beautiful, unique story!

Interested in a session?

Schedule a call