Boudoir can be scary. Almost any new experience comes attached with some trepidation. It’s alright! You’re not alone. My favorite part of this experience is helping clients build their confidence and ultimately construct a beautiful narrative that they control. If you are considering a boudoir session for yourself or your partner here are some helpful tips to give you the control to finally click that book button.
1) Define why you want to do this.
Many people book boudoir sessions for many different reasons. Ask yourself, Why am I doing this? Remember boudoir doesn’t have to be for anyone but you. Also, don’t put boudoir photos in a figurative box. They can be anything celebrating you and your body.
2) Find a photographer who has work that speaks to you.
This is super important. Look through someone’s portfolio. If it doesn’t speak to you, move on. You want to be happy with their aesthetic because it ultimately will be your aesthetic. If you’re looking for something specific find someone who will photograph you the way you want.
3) On the topic of photographers…
Every professional photographer should be clear and concise about how your experience with them should go. From the minute you book to the minute your photos are delivered you should have no reservations of what is the next step. A great boudoir photographer will make sure all your questions are asked before, during and after a session. Remember, there are no silly questions, just silly answers.
Personally, every one of my client receives a consultation that defines their goals for the session. I get to know what people are looking for, or if they have no idea, help them build a vision. Boudoir by Michael Jacobs also helps with location scouting and wardrobe selection. Speaking of wardrobe selection…
4) A t shirt is just as valuable as a lingerie set.
Boudoir wardrobe can be anything you want it to be. You can wear your birthday suit or a business suit. I never endorse people buying pieces before a shoot. Why? New garments sometimes take a while to feel comfortable in. I also do not like to endorse fast fashion. A sheer cloth, a piece of fabric and again, your birthday suit work just as well. So don’t overthink this step. Part of my job is helping you select what pieces work for you.
5) Boudoir is self care.
Have you taken a look outside lately? Yeah, things aren’t going the greatest. It’s good to have a bit of control over the things you want to do in life. Getting pampered for your day with hair and makeup and having a session all about you is the perfect way to take a bit of stress off. Look, you are going to have these images forever. They are a snapshot of yourself feeling absolutely awesome and looking wonderful. How is this not self care?
All Boudoir by Michael Jacobs sessions come with hair and makeup. There is no reason for you to be rushing around trying to get a fake eyelash on. Just relax, sip some champagne and feel relaxed.
6) The best time to book boudoir is now.
I hear it so much. “I want to lose 5lbs. I’m not there yet.” I desire everyone to feel comfortable during their session but in the end that weight focused goal won’t matter. We help you with posing and apparel that help flatter you. The goal is feeling beautiful at any weight. There is no weight requirement for boudoir. Only a confidence requirement. We will get you there together.
Below is an actual session with one of my former brides, Laurel. This was Laurel’s first time ever doing anything remotely like this. She’s an actress in New York and is unbelievably sweet and expressive. All the wardrobe was provided by her and we helped select what would work best in the space. Speaking of the space, this session was shot at “Fabulous Finds” which is a gorgeous, turn of the century, consignment shop in Belvidere, New Jersey. Remember, boudoir doesn’t have to just be in a bedroom. It can be in any unique space that celebrates you.
Hair and makeup by the master: Meeza Gee. Meeza’s website.
At the end of our shoot I let Laurel take the reigns and photograph herself. It was a nice way to give some power to the client. She became even more alive clowning around and just being adorable!
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