Boudoir Session Information

WHAT TO BRIND TO A BOUDOIR PHOTOSHOOT?

What should I wear for my boudoir shoot?

Apart from ‘what is a boudoir shoot’, this is probably the next most common question that I get asked and the answer isn’t as obvious as you might think.

What kind of woman are you?

A woman’s relationship with her body and her lingerie drawer is deeply personal.  Some women buy lingerie like others buy shoes or lipstick – in quantity, quality and to suit the occasion.   Others prefer to put comfort over aesthetics and there are those who prefer to go commando – each to their own I say.   So let’s be clear that there isn’t a perfect, one size fits all, list of the best things to wear for a boudoir session.   What matters is what feels right for you and I have styled my home to offer two very different styles of boudoir photos – from light, airy and girly to dark, sultry and fierce.   You can choose to focus on one boudoir style or have a mix of the two.  

Boudoir Lingerie Inspiration

For a 2 – 3 hour boudoir shoot I recommend that you focus on 3 or 4 different ‘looks’. Here are some things to think about

  • Colour: We all love the purity of white lingerie (and it’s perfect for a wedding boudoir shoot) and the contrast of sexy black sets but don’t disregard the beauty and power of a matching lingerie set with strong colour. It can be gorgeous for shots that focus on the face and we can match lips and nails to really make the images ‘pop’. Push ups, demi cups or sheer bras are better than full coverage. Do think about the fact that you will probably be lying down so make sure the bra fits you well.

  • Waist enhancers: Women’s bodies should be curvy and shapely so any lingerie that enhances that is a good thing – think corsets, bustiers and suspender belts.

  • Texture: Lingerie can be crazy expensive but the top end designs are luxurious and the materials include silk, chiffon and lace. Soft and feminine textures look and photograph beautifully when contrasted with skin.

  • Loose fitting items can be beautiful too: A boudoir shoot doesn’t have to mean exposing lots of skin – sometimes a suggestion of flesh can be just as stylish and sexy. Think cosy jumpers, cardigans, camis, teddies, vintage slips, babydolls and bed socks, oversized shirts or just a simple sheet. Bringing an item that belongs to your partner is also highly recommend!

  • Heels: Do feature in some of the images – ideally bring a black and a neutral/nude pair. 100% stilettos and ideally the kind of shoes you can’t walk very far in. The higher the better. Try to stay away from platform and wedges for your shoot. Check the bottoms – ideally you don’t want to bring heels that are really scuffed on the sole.

  • Stockings: Are definitely great for boudoir. I’m not a huge fan of ‘stay ups’ due to the rubber lining which has a tendency to pinch so try and find stockings that are designed to be used with a garter. Generally stockings with a plain top are best if your lingerie is quite intricate and detailed.

Wedding Boudoir

If you are having a bridal boudoir shoot don’t forget to bring flesh coloured or cream stockings, your veil, garter and your wedding shoes.  Many women end up wearing ‘invisible’ underwear with their wedding dress so this is the time to showcase the wedding night vibe.

Extra Things To Bring

There are a few extra things to bring with you on the day of your session.

  • House Slipper - for walking around the studio

  • Robe - for in between changes

  • Transparent Deodorant

  • Items that belong to your partner