With the date set for your shoot at Johanna Elizabeth, you’ll now want to start planning for the big day!
If you’re not sure what you need to bring along, rest assured, at every stage of the process I am here to help and guide you.
I’ll give you advice and tips well in advance on what you should bring to your boudoir photoshoot. I have this and other articles on our blog which will also give you a head-start.
Related reading: Three things you’ll discover during your portrait photoshoot experience
Planning your boudoir photoshoot look
I’ll encourage you to do plenty of research before the photoshoot. This will allow you to firm up in your mind what type of boudoir portraits you’d like me to create.
Every woman is different and I’ve done a variety of things in the studio. While I have endless creative ideas for how to make you look and feel fabulous, I am open to hearing yours too!
I have a Pinterest board showing examples of photos I’ve created for other women, and you can use these as a reference when deciding what boudoir look you love. These show a variety of lingerie, boudoir poses and themes, as well as boudoir make-up ideas.
Simply pin your favourite images to a board within your own Pinterest account ready for when we get together to talk through your ideas.
Using this research time well, ahead of your shoot, will ensure that you’re clear on what you want from your time with me. Sharing that vision with me will ensure I create the photos you want and will love.
Related reading: How to prepare for a boudoir photography session
Boudoir checklist: What you should bring to your boudoir photoshoot
THE ESSENTIALS:
1 – A make-up-free face
If you possibly can, please come to the studio without makeup on so that your makeup artist has a blank canvas to work with. If not possible, please wear only light makeup which is easily removed/added to when you arrive.
You don’t have to bring your own make-up (unless there are a certain set of eyelashes that you want or you have allergies to make-up), but I do suggest you explore the different styles you would like to emulate. You may want a dramatic Hollywood look or, if you don’t like heavy make-up, a lighter boho style could look perfect!
Whatever your preference, my professional make-up artist will give you a flattering look that enhances your features while still making you look like ‘you’.
2. Styled hair
Please ensure that you have styled your hair they way yout’d love it for your shoot. If you have long hair – it looks best down, so I can pose it! Seriously, I do!
3. Two sets of your favourite lingerie
I recommend that all myclients enjoying our boudoir experience invest in two well-fitting lingerie outfits. Bring along sets in colours that suit your complexion so that I can create a variety of looks.
I love vintage lace, silk robes and negligees! Trust me, you will look fabulous wearing what you choose and we will chat aboout this at length before the day,
Related reading: Five things to consider when choosing lingerie for your boudoir photoshoot
Related reading: Boudoir shoot photo ideas: Five alternatives to lingerie
4. Stockings maybe?
Whether you opt for stockings or choose to bare your legs is completely up to you but if you are bringing these along, I suggest you bring a couple of pairs in case of any rips and ladders. Also, consider bringing both dark and nude tones, depending on your outfit.
5. Heels
Heels look great in the boudoir! A dark and a light pair gives us options to play with, and the higher the better. Think bed shoes 😉
They work wonders for lengthening your legs and creating a flattering look.
Bring along your favourite pairs, ensuring that they are in good condition so that they’ll look good on camera.
No worries if you don’t own any, I also have many pairs you can borrow.
6. Jewellery and Accessories
I have a large range of accessories in the studio that you are welcome to use during your session, but if you have your own favourites then do bring those along.
In terms of jewellery, rings, necklaces, pearls and statement earrings look amazing on camera! Don’t forget that it’s these small touches that can make a big impact in your photos.
Related reading: Boudoir outfit inspiration: White shirt photography
Boudoir Checklist: Optional Extras
7. False eyelashes
A great set of false eyelashes will be sure to make your eyes pop in your portraits! If you’d like to wear these, our make-up artist can fit these on for you but, of course, they are your personal choice.
8. Hair extensions and accessories
You are always welcome to bring your own hair accessories. If you plan to wear extensions in your hair, please ensure these are already fitted.
9. Props
Depending on your personality and the look you want to create in your portraits, you may want to bring along props such as a favourite hat, robe or book, for example, plus any sentimental or personal items that you’d like me to include.
Clients who’ve been to the boudoir before have brought along everything from feathers and favourite handbags to golf clubs and even Xbox controllers! I’ve seen it all!
Remember, this is your photo shoot and your chance to make the photos your own!
Related reading: Stuck for prop ideas for your boudoir photoshoot?
10. Loungewear
Loungewear is also worth bringing along, if you have it, so that you have something comfortable to slip on between shots or even wear in your photos!
Related reading: Women’s loungewear we love – perfect for your photoshoot day
What are the best things to wear for a boudoir photoshoot?
When it comes to what you should bring to your boudoir photoshoot, these are a few essentials I recommend. I hope that this boudoir checklist has been helpful as you plan what you should wear.
The truth is… anything goes! Just remember to make it about you.
All this and more will be planned in your Design Consultation, but if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me.
Love Johanna
~x~