Ask Me Anything is going to be a three part series where I answer the most asked questions I receive.
These questions are from real women just like you who have wondered what this whole boudoir thing is about. If that sounds like you, then I definitely think this is a great post to start with to get your feet wet. In this first installment we'll be covering who boudoir is for, why it's a great idea, and how to prepare for your shoot.
Let's do this! And if you've read part one already, go ahead and jump to part two.
Question: Everyone looks so natural and relaxed. I'm so nervous to do this, how'd you get them to chill out?
Answer: It doesn't happen right away, believe me. But during the course of building this experience for you we'll talk and get to know one another. This will help you and I have an established rapport when you arrive for your session. Even before that though, once your session is booked you'll fill out a fun questionnaire for me that will help me get to know you as well. I use this to tailor the experience to each and every client. That way when you walk into the studio, you'll be walking into a space that has been customized for your session. The more comfortable you are with me, the more you'll be able to release your apprehensions and let go when the time arrives. And I'll be here with you every step, adjusting your hair as we shoot, placing your hands, positioning your lingerie. I always try to get your body posed correctly,from your fingertips down to your pointed toes. I coach for expressions by using various breathing techniques, emotional cues, and my own brand of silly humor during the course of the shoot to help you feel at ease. I always ask permission before making any adjustments that will require me to touch you, so you never feel like I'm being creepy. My studio is a private location and the only people present are my skilled hair and makeup artist, myself, and you. I feel like I have been entrusted with something very important to you — your self-worth. I never take it for granted and I'm committed to empowering you.
Question: Do you have the right to post my photos?
Answer: As a boudoir photographer, I take my client's privacy very seriously. When we work together our relationship is built on trust. When you sign a contract with my studio, you're not signing a document that says I can share your images. After the shoot, I will present you with a separate document that allows you to choose how far your images will go. You can choose to share them anonymously, or not at all. No pressure is ever placed on you to sign this document. All the clients you see on my site are people just like you (non-models) who came in a little apprehensive. By the time it was over though, they saw how confident and amazing they look in the images. They chose to share their images so another woman can be empowered. We're showing that all woman can have this experience. Occasionally I've been asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement. Once I review the terms of the agreement, I'd be happy to sign one if this is what you need.
Question: Do I have to get nekkid? What are my nudity options?
Answer: You decide how much or how little you're comfortable with showing. Remember this is an experience for you and part of making that as empowering and enjoyable as possible means you need to feel confident the entire way. Would you feel great if I was demanding you to be more nude than you were ready to be? Of course not. So, I don't set minimums on how much skin to show. And while we're shooting I'll give you little previews from the back of the camera, that way you can see yourself the way everyone else does. It's a huge confidence booster, and isn't that why you're here?
Question: Where do your sessions take place?
Answer: I shoot 99% of my sessions out of my private studio in Southern Maryland. I know and love the light, and the images you see in my portfolio are a reflection of that space. It's a cozy, comfortable, and safe. It's a place for clients (who are feeling pretty vulnerable) to relax and let go. We want you to rock out your session, and our amazing studio allows you to do just that. I will, on occasion shoot at a client's home or in a hotel setting. In that case, you and I would consult in advance about your space (how to get it ready and free of clutter). There are also additional fees that apply to shooting on location or in a hotel. Just keep in mind that using our studio keeps your stress at a minimum and we have champagne and snacks!
Question: What exactly IS boudoir photography? That isn't just a fancy word for porn is it?
Answer: I LOVE this question. LOL, of course boudoir isn't a fancy word for porn. If you're looking for porn, boudoir is NOT it. #sorrynotsorry Anyway, boudoir photography emphasizes seduction through sensuality, suggestion, and confidence. It doesn't mean getting naked or even half naked, it means dressing, (or undressing) in a way that provides the viewer with a sense of seduction. Think about how you feel when you put on a dress that has pockets- that feeling radiates through your entire body. That's the feeling boudoir photography captures - the feelings of happiness, sensuality and confidence.
Question: What do I need to do in the days before the shoot?
Answer: Water. Water. And guess what? Drink more water. Hydration is one of the often overlooked secrets to great skin that is luminous on camera. Look after your skin by moisturizing. Avoid no self-tanning, spray on tans or excessive sun exposure, only so much can be done in Photoshop.
Grooming - I'm not saying you have to - but - you may want to consider shaving or waxing any areas that you may want shaved or waxed. It is a good idea to do this several days before the shoot to avoid any redness or skin rash. Starting a week before the shoot try to avoid processed and sugary foods - your skin will love you. The most important sleep is the one two nights before your shoot - make sure it's a good one. The next important sleep, a very close second, is the night before your shoot.
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