How to Prepare for Your Boudoir Shoot
I want to help you make the most of your special photoshoot day by coming prepared! So here are some ways to prepare for your boudoir shoot that may not have even crossed your mind. Do know that all of this is optional. I would never ever judge you for not doing something on this list! It is simply just to provide you with information that most people forget about until the day of.
1. Wash Your Hair the Day of or Night Before for Hairstylist
If you are going to have a professional hair stylist for your shoot then this is for you - in order for the hair stylist to work their magic, they need to work with clean hair & request you come with your hair washed the night before. You can also wash it the day of just make sure it is dry when you show up to the shoot.
2. Color Treatments
Speaking of hair…If you dye your hair and you would like a touch up before the shoot, now would be the time to book your hair appointment before your shoot to touch up any roots or faded colors! To change this in photoshop may not be possible and if it is then it would be an additional cost.
3. Nails
Consider getting a mani-pedi. 100% natural nails are always welcome, but often times people forget about this detail are regret coming in with half chipped polish. Nails are hard to photoshop and often forgotten about until shoot day comes! If you don’t want the mani-pedi at least come with clean, clear even shaped nails. What I do for myself for photoshoot days is a layer of Top Coat to add a quick shine and even texture.
4. Drink Plenty of Water
Water improves your metabolism and hydrates your skin. If you drink coffee try drinking one cup of water before the coffee. It’s recommended that female bodied people intake 11.5 cups of water per day. Make sure the week of your shoot (or just as a general rule of thumb) that you’re keeping the largest organ in your body (your skin) happy and healthy!
5. A Tip for Tired Eyes
If you’re like me & struggle with heavy under eye bags, one tip I learned to improve this on the day of 1. To use a gel under eye mask that morning before makeup. I usually leave mine on for 20min or until I feel it has dried out. 2. put a mixture of coffee grounds & water on your bags. Leave on for 15-20min & rinse, careful not to get in your eyes when doing so. It's going to look ridiculous but the caffeine in the grounds tightens the skin and can help with puffiness.
6. Skin Tips
A facial can also help your skin in general look glowly and dewy, especially with derma-planing! This is the girl who does mine! If this is something you’re considering but have never done before, I recommend trying it out well in advance of the shoot as to not have any skin surprises or bad reactions the week of the shoot. Avoid harsh treatments that leave the skin red, like chemical peels, right before the shoot.
7. Should I Eat Before the Shoot?
I want you to feel amazing. Whatever you know you need to do for that happen, that is up to you! If you get more energy by eating before then eat before. If it feels better for you & your body to wait until after, then wait until after. Do make sure that if you know you'll be hungry to have at least a snack beforehand so you don’t end up feeling lightheaded or nauseous.
8. Yoga in the Morning?
I sometimes say that photoshoots with me are more like a Pilates or Yoga class. You’re holding poses for 1-2hrs. Working out before your shoot will help your body feel more comfortable in these positions (especially backbends). I recommend a yoga class to help with flexibility if you have time & that feels fun for you. This can also be done the evening or day before too! Of course if that does not seem fun to you then don't force yourself! Also know that I will never make you hold a pose that is painful, and I will often be asking you how you are feeling & if this pose feels okay for you. Your comfort is my priority.
9. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
If you have a breakout that day or you get a new rash or a bruise. Don’t worry about it, these things are insanely easy to photoshop so don’t let it ruin your day! I photoshop non-permanent blemishes so if something comes up do let me know the day of the shoot!
10. To Wax or Not to Wax?
This is totally up to you and how comfortable you feel! It is optional, yet another appointment you might want to consider booking is a bikini (bikini line) or brazilian (full coverage) wax. Your first one is free at European Wax Center. (just read reviews to look for the names of trusted & professional waxers). I’ve also heard great things about Sugaring! We won't be doing crotch shots unless you request that but make sure you're comfortable down under ahead of time. I’ve had a few people show up and say "oh no, I wanted to do this but I forgot to do this" and that's the only reason I bring it up!
11. Aunt Flow Came to Town….
So you got your period. Do you have to reschedule or cancel your shoot? Well that’s completely up to you and how you feel that day. Know that rescheduling is not ideal as you will forfeit your deposit. If you can predict when you may be starting your period then I recommend planning you photoshoot around that if it’s a concern to you. Most choose to go on with the shoot and decided not to wear thongs but undies with better coverage and comfort. Don’t be afraid to talk to me about it! It’s completely your choice!
12. Wear Loose Fitted Clothing to Your Shoot
This is a very important tip! Please please please wear loose fitted clothing the morning of your shoot. Tight clothing like jeans will leave a mark/imprint on the skin that I will have to take extra time to photoshop out. Prevent this by loose fitted sweats or a dress.
13. Spray Tans / Self Tanner
Absolutely no self tanner is recommended the week of your shoot if you do not have experience doing these on yourself! They often do go wrong, and leak onto the sheets and clothing. If tanning is something you’d like to do, I recommend trying it out well advanced of the shoot so there are no surprises!
If you have any other questions for me feel free to reach out!
XOXO,
Audrey, Chicago Boudoir Photographer