If you’re planning to surprise your partner with a boudoir album on your wedding day (or anniversary, birthday, or any special moment), timing is everything! As a San Diego boudoir photographer, one of the most common questions I get is:
“How far in advance should I book my boudoir photoshoot?”
The short answer? Your photoshoot should happen at least 8 weeks before your event — but you’ll want to contact your photographer a few months before that to reserve your date. Trust me, the earlier you reach out, the better!
Let’s break down why this timeline matters and how to make sure your session fits perfectly into your schedule.
1. You’ll want time to relax and enjoy the process
Boudoir is about so much more than a few quick pictures. When you book with me, your experience includes:
- one-on-one styling and planning call
- a full day in my private San Diego boudoir studio
- professional hair and makeup
- a two-hour photoshoot with multiple looks
- same-day reveal and selection
- by-hand editing and retouching
- custom album/print design
All of that takes time, and I want you to be able to enjoy every part of it without stressing over deadlines.
2. Retouching, design, and printing take time
Directly after your session, we’ll choose your favorite images. From there, I handle detailed retouching, layout design, and album production. Your final artwork is printed on high-quality materials and shipped directly to the studio for pickup.
That full process can take several weeks, especially around wedding or holiday season. Booking your photoshoot at least 8 weeks before your event ensures your album is ready in time with no last-minute stress.
3. My calendar fills fast, so reach out early
Here’s the part most people don’t realize: You’ll want to contact your photographer a couple months before that 8-week mark. I typically book out 2–6 months in advance, and prime dates — especially around holidays and spring/fall weddings — go quickly.
Even if you’re just gathering information, don’t wait to inquire. Starting early gives you the best chance of locking in the date you want and planning everything without a time crunch. Plus, you can make the experience financially easier with an in-house, interest-free prepayment plan.
4. What if your wedding is soon?
If your wedding (or event) is coming up quickly, still reach out! If I have any last-minute openings or cancellations, I’m always happy to try and work some magic. And if not, we can explore turning your boudoir session into the perfect honeymoon gift, first holiday together gift, or one-year anniversary surprise.
TL;DR: Reach out early — even if you’re not totally ready to book.
Seriously, it’s never too early to start the conversation. Whether you’re getting married in a few months or next year, I’d love to walk you through the experience and help you create something truly unforgettable.
You deserve to feel beautiful, empowered, and celebrated, and I’ll be here every step of the way.
💍 Curious what a bridal boudoir session actually looks like? Check out this recent bridal boudoir blog post to see why a boudoir session is an incredible gift idea for your partner AND for you.
📅 Ready to start planning your own San Diego bridal boudoir session? Contact me here and let’s chat about your vision!
xo, Keeley
San Diego boudoir photographer for women who want to feel like art
