The Avalon City Imaging team LOVE Boudoir! We love it for all the reasons our clients do. It's super fun, it's empowering, it makes you feel damned sexy and it's just lovely to take some time out for a bit of pampering. Who doesn't love being fussed over?
To help out clients out, we thought we would share with you some of our hottest tips for rocking your Boudoir photoshoot. We hope you enjoy!
1. Personalise, Personalise, Personalise!
Props rock! Before your shoot think about the reasons you are doing this. Is it for you? Your partner? Maybe both? If its bridal boudoir for example, maybe consider bringing along the veil you will be wearing on the wedding day or any special things your partner loves. Brides-to-be often bring in their partners sports uniforms or favourite shirts. If this is for you, maybe you are a pinup queen and want to bring some vintage props, maybe its something that makes you feel totally sexy (we don't judge!) It's entirely up to you! Think about what details will make this experience extra special to you!
This bride bought along her wedding lingerie, bouquet and veil for some extra personal touches.
2. Play dress up!
It's not essential, but some of our clients love a shopping spree before their shoot! Get creative! For something truly decadent take a look at Agent Provocateur. For our friends wanting somewhere super body positive, we adore New Zealand based Lonely and their dedication to body diverse lingerie. Don't forget the age old classic for bodies over size 14 City Chic, For our friends on a budget Target have some pretty banging underwear sets. It's not about the money spent, its about how amazing it makes you feel!
However don't feel pressured to spend up big. Have a look through your own wardrobe. It's completely up to you what you wear. Corsets, matching bra and underwear, cute stay up stockings, sometimes even those plain nickers you wander around the house in can look incredible. You can also be daring go and nude! If you are feeling particularly nervous and unsure about the day, bring along a lacy robe or jacket you can pose with. Sometimes it's what we don't show thats sexy!
Sometimes it's what you don't show thats sexy! This badass babe decided on boxing gloves and a hoodie for a deadly photoshoot experience!
3. Accessorise!
Life is better with an amazing pair of shoes! We have seen everything from cowboy boots, stilettos, huge big black gothic boots, cute sparkly flats and fire engine red heels! Bring a selection so we can play around. Barefoot is awesome too! If you want to look taller and define your legs a bit more, heels work wonders.
Don't forget the bling! It doesn't have to be expensive to look incredible. We have been known to buy cheap costume pearls from the Reject Shop - it works every time! If you have any jewellery that's special to you (extra points for sentimental value, maybe your partner gave it to you or you treated yourself) pack that too. You can never pack too much!
4. Research...
Let's get smart! Get a feel for the kind of images you want us to create by doing your research. We will never directly copy another photographers work, but have a look on sites such as Pinterest to find examples of the type of photos you want to make. This is a collaborative effort, so the more you show us, the better we can tailor your images to you.
Rock some research! The stunning Cass loves books and a cup of tea, so why not spice our shoot up with a bit of sexy librarian?
5. Come Clean...
We know how tempting it is to throw on a bit of lippy or foundation before you leave the house, however our makeup artists have you covered. It's better if you have nothing on your face the moment you come in. Wash your hair the night before and we are good to go! If you are coming straight from work, we have wipes to remove any make up you still have on.
Behind the scenes of the incredible Mandy Nash working her magic on one of our amazing clients
6. Communication is key...
Like every good relationship, the more we know the better it's going to be. If you are uncomfortable, tell us. If you have an idea you want to try, go right ahead and let us know. If you have a disability that makes it harder to pose, we will be more than acomodating. Embarrassed to ask about photographing an idea you have? Truly don't be. We have seen it all! This is a 100% inclusive, judgement free environment. We want to make the best images we possibly can... so be wild! It's our little secret!
MEOW! Go wild! The absolutely STUNNING Jessie brought along a bunch of puuuurrrrrrrfect props for some kitty realness!
7. Plan in advance
Once your photoshoot is done, your order may take a while to process. Especially if you want to create a gorgeous album or portrait box, we need time to create them. If you need this as a gift for your partner or if its time sensitive, book early so our worker elves can have them complete well before you need them.
A selection of our gorgeous hand crafted Lafyette Boxes
8. Relax...
We couldn't talk about doing boudoir without talking about nerves. It's perfectly normal to feel uneasy or nervous about your shoot. Often you might get a few negative thoughts about yourself or butterflies in your stomach. Those thoughts often fade away super fast, but if its really bothering you, just chat to us about it. If it relaxes you a little you are welcome to bring a friend and have a few giggles. Deep breaths! You can trust us. We got this!
Relax... We got this!
If you are interested in a shoot of your own pop on over to our "Book your session" page
Much love everyone!