If you’ve found yourself thinking about a boudoir session — whether you’re celebrating yourself, documenting a new chapter in your life, or just craving a reminder of your own power, this experience is for you. Thank you for considering me to capture it!
For more than a decade, I’ve had the privilege of helping women see their beauty and power through boudoir photography. I photograph boudoir because I understand how it feels to struggle to see our own worth.
But I know the power that a boudoir photoshoot can have. I’ve seen it and created it for hundreds of women, and I want you to experience it, too!
What we do is about so much more than taking gorgeous photos (and we will!). It’s about taking the time to celebrate you, right now, exactly how you are. It’s about reconnecting with yourself and documenting this stage of you. It’s about reminding yourself that you are worthy of existing in photographs that make you feel incredible. Because you are.
If you are currently searching for your boudoir photographer, here are some of my top tips to guide you in finding the perfect match!
Define Your Vision
Before you begin your search, take some time to define your vision for your boudoir experience. What style and mood are you aiming for? Are there specific themes or settings you’d like to explore? Would you like to have a professional hair and makeup artist on set to get you ready? How would you like your portraits to be printed? Having a clear idea of what you want will help you find a photographer who can bring your vision to life.
Research, Research, Research
Start by researching boudoir photographers in your area. Look at their portfolios, read client testimonials, and check out their online presence. When reviewing a photographer’s boudoir portfolio, keep these things in mind: Do they feature clients who look like me and not just models? Is their retouching too heavy or do the images look rushed? Is the quality of their work consistent? More importantly, how would you like your images to look? Social media platforms and websites are great places to get a sense of their work and style.
Compatibility Matters
The connection between you and your photographer is crucial. A successful boudoir shoot depends on feeling comfortable and at ease. Reach out to potential photographers, request a consultation (this should always be free and no pressure!) and have a conversation with them. Pay attention to their communication style and how well they understand your needs. A great photographer will want you to feel totally comfortable and supported throughout the entire experience.
Ask About Experience
Boudoir photography requires a specific skill set. From lighting and posing to creating a safe, welcoming space, it’s not something just anyone can do well. Don’t be afraid to ask how long they’ve been photographing boudoir or how many sessions they’ve done. Experience shows in how relaxed their clients look, and how confident you’ll feel!
Discuss Your Comfort Zone
Your comfort is my top priority during your boudoir session!
Talk to your prospective photographer about your comfort level and boundaries. A professional will respect your wishes and ensure you feel safe and relaxed throughout the shoot. Always.
Privacy Matters
Your privacy is incredibly important to me. Your images should never be shared without your explicit, written consent. A trustworthy photographer will give you options, whether you want to keep everything private, allow anonymous sharing, or sign a full release. This should always be your choice, with no pressure.
Ask About the Process
Understanding the photographer’s process is essential. Inquire about the pre-photoshoot preparations, the day of the photoshoot, and what happens after your day is done. A transparent photographer will guide you through the entire process so you know exactly what to expect every step of the way.
Pay Attention to the Studio Experience
Where your session takes place matters. Is the studio clean, private, and welcoming? Do you feel safe and comfortable there? Are there spaces to relax, change, and be taken care of? Details like lighting, music, snacks, and cozy touches make a huge difference in helping you feel at ease.
Look for Good Direction
Even if you’ve never posed before (and most of my clients haven’t!), a great boudoir photographer will guide you through every moment. They should offer posing tips, help with expression, and gently coach you into positions that flatter your body and reflect your energy.
You don’t need to know what to do — you just need someone who does.
Budget Considerations
Discuss pricing and packages with potential photographers. Ensure you have a clear understanding of what is included in the cost and if there are any additional fees so there are no surprises.
While budget is important, prioritize finding a photographer who meets your vision and comfort level. If your budget is low, know that a cheaper photographer needs to cut corners somewhere. Many photographers (including me!) offer flexible payment plans and multiple pricing options because you do NOT want your boudoir photographer choice to be chosen purely on a budget standpoint.
Read Reviews
Don’t underestimate the value of client testimonials. They offer insights into the photographer’s professionalism, personality, and the overall experience. You want to make sure that others felt comfortable, that they loved their photos, and that their overall experience was enjoyable and smooth. Happy clients are a great sign!
Look For Full Service
Choosing a full service studio that offers a wide variety of products and prints is a huge plus. These are not the kind of portraits that you would want to send to CVS for printing. Making sure that your images are handled with care and the printing is done through professional labs who have high privacy and security standards is vital.
Trust Your Gut
Ultimately, trust your gut! If you have a good feeling about a particular photographer and believe they can bring your vision to life, go with your intuition and have fun!
Want to learn more about our San Diego boudoir studio and what my team and I offer? Get in touch!
