What to Expect During A Boudoir Session: A Step-by-Step Guide

Thinking about booking a boudoir session? Whether you’re looking to practice a little self-love or create a special gift for your fiancé or husband, it’s natural to feel a bit nervous or overwhelmed, especially if you’re unsure what to expect.

But don’t worry! I’m here to walk you through everything, from scheduling your shoot to the moment you receive your beautiful images.

Let’s dive into what to expect during a boudoir session so that you’ll know exactly what to prepare for!

What to Expect During a Boudoir Session: Booking & Scheduling

Most of my clients initially reach out to me through email or Instagram. This first connection is all about getting to know you better!

Whether we chat through text, email, or a video call, I’ll ask questions to understand why you’re considering a boudoir shoot, what you hope to achieve, and if you plan to gift the images.

Once we’ve had our conversation, if we both feel that we’re a great fit, we’ll move forward with scheduling your session. My availability is posted several months in advance, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

If you’re getting married or need your images by a certain date, I recommend scheduling at least two months in advance. And remember, you’ll need to have your session paid in full before receiving your images, so if you’re on a payment plan, it might be wise to schedule a bit further out.

What to Expect During a Boudoir Session: The Day of Your Session

On the day of your session, you’ll arrive at the time we’ve scheduled. For example, if your session is at 10:30 AM, that’s when you’ll arrive, and we’ll kick things off with your hair and makeup.

Every session includes full-glam, professional hair, and makeup done by Zach Bonner. This is your time to relax and get pampered!

After your hair and makeup are complete, we’ll move into the studio. Don’t worry about finalizing your outfit choices beforehand—just bring all your options, and I’ll help you narrow them down.

I have plenty of experience to ensure you’ll feel confident and comfortable in whatever you choose.

Here are a few outfit ideas I recommend for all my clients:

• What to Wear: Part 1 – Comfy
• What to Wear: Part 2 – Sexy
• What to Wear: Part 3 – Plus Size

Once we’ve selected your outfits and you’re all dressed, your one-hour session officially begins when I pick up my camera. I’ll guide you through every pose—you don’t need to be a model!

With over 200 boudoir sessions under my belt, I know exactly how to direct you so that you’ll look and feel your best in every shot.

After the Session: Album and Artwork Selection

Once your session wraps up, you’ll have the opportunity to browse through examples of albums. This is the time to start dreaming about how you’d like to present your images.

We can also discuss how you might want to gift your albums—more about that in this post here.

A common question I get is, “Will anyone else see my photos?” The answer is no—your photos are kept strictly confidential.

I don’t use your photos for any purpose without your permission. If you’re comfortable with me using your images for social media or marketing, I’ll ask you to sign a model release form.

But the decision is entirely up to you!

Now, I know that many women come to their boudoir sessions in secret, planning to surprise their partners with these special photos. But after getting all glammed up, you might be wondering what to do next to avoid any curious questions at home.

The good news? You don’t have to let that stunning look go to waste! Here are a few ideas for what you can do after your session:

• Brunch with Friends: After your session, head out for a stylish brunch with friends. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your confidence and enjoy some delicious food while showing off your glam look.

• Spa Day: Extend the pampering with a spa visit. Whether it’s a massage, facial, or manicure, a spa day complements your boudoir session perfectly and gives you a relaxing excuse for your glamorous appearance.

• Shopping Spree: Take advantage of your dolled-up look and hit the shops. Whether you’re browsing for something new or just window shopping, you’ll feel fabulous strolling through the stores.

• Visit a Museum or Gallery: Spend the afternoon exploring a local museum or art gallery. It’s a great way to enjoy some culture while looking your best.

• Go Out for a Special Lunch/Dinner: Treat yourself to a fancy lunch or dinner at a restaurant you love, or try out a new spot. It’s the perfect excuse to show off your gorgeous look!

• Plan a Girls’ Night: Call up your girlfriends for a spontaneous night out. Whether it’s cocktails, dancing, or just catching up, it’s a great way to keep the glam going.

• Enjoy a Solo Date: If you prefer some “me time,” why not take yourself on a solo date? See a movie, visit a museum, or enjoy a nice walk in the city—whatever makes you feel fabulous.

The Ordering Session

One to two weeks after your session, we’ll schedule a Zoom call for your image reveal. This is when you’ll get to see your photos for the first time!

We’ll go through each image together, narrowing down your favorites and designing your custom artwork and albums.

After you’ve made your selections and your investment is paid in full, your images, album, and/or artwork will be delivered approximately 3 to 4 weeks later.

A Final Note

We’ve covered everything with What to Expect During a Boudoir Session, from the timeline and details of your boudoir shoot, but there’s so much more to expect from your session than just logistics.

When you invest in a boudoir session, you’re investing in:

• A Boost of Inner Strength and Confidence: You’ll leave feeling empowered and beautiful.

• Stunning Results: You’ll have images that you absolutely love.

• Expert Guidance: I’ll be there to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident.

• A Non-Judgmental Environment: This is your space to feel safe and comfortable in your own skin.

• Confidentiality: Your images are private and only shared with your permission.

• A Chance to Truly Love Your Body: This experience is about celebrating you.

If you have any questions or if you’re ready to book your session, I’m here to help. Let’s create a gift that you’ll love as much (or maybe even more) than your partner will.

Ready to do this? Click here!