Everything You Need to Know About Boudoir Photo Shoots

Making posing half-naked for a stranger as painless as possible. Stripping down to your skivvies and posing seductively for the camera is some people's idea of a living nightmare. For others, it holds a powerful allure. But for many, it's simply intriguing—particularly since Groupons offering sexy photo shoots have become so prevalent. So we asked three boudoir photographers what to expect if you do decide to take advantage of that deal.You Don't Need a Ton of ConfidencePhotographer Critsey Rowe at Couture Boudoir estimates that about 90 percent of women are uncomfortable in the beginning. A certain reluctance to bare your skin and have it permanently captured on film is natural. But that shouldn't stop you from trying."It doesn't take a certain type of person to do this," says Michelle Hayes, owner of California- and New York-based Michelle Hayes Studio. Unless you're a lingerie model who does this for a living, it's probably out of your comfort zone. But as the session progresses, most women loosen up and start to relax in front of the camera. "Once in a while, they'll even decide to do a topless photo if I'm shooting from the back," says Hayes.Couture BoudoirRELATED: I Did a Naked Photo Shoot—for My HealthIt Doesn't Require a Special OccasionBoudoir photography seems to be particularly popular among brides who want to give their fiancé a little eye candy. But it's also gaining momentum withg women at all stages in their lives. Sophie Spinelle, founder of Shameless Photography, says that it's "a wonderful way to re-envision yourself." This goes for whether you're in a moment of transition or simply in the mood for something new.Rowe photographs a lot of women who've lost weight and are want to document this physical transformation. Others simply hear from a friend who's had photos taken and then decide to try out boudoir photography for themselves. "You don't have to be doing this for someone else," she says. "I think everyone should get to experience this. You don't need a 'reason.'"Michelle Hayes StudioIt's Best to Meet with the Photographer Before the ShootChoosing a photographer is all about finding the aesthetic that fits your vision. They may specialize in pin-up or retro looks, modern styles, or nudes. So Hayes recommends looking at the photog's portfolio first. "Make sure they've already done what you want to do," she says. "If it resonates with you, go with that person."Some offer hair and makeup in their studio so that's another consideration. But all professional photographers should offer a consultation in advance. That's a good time to see how well you connect with the person on the other side of the lens since being comfortable around them is crucial.Couture BoudoirRELATED: 6 Ways to Make Your Bedroom the Sexiest Place EverYou'll Be Happiest with the Results If You Do Some Prep WorkIt's not a great idea to show up to the studio with a trunkful of lingerie, some of which you haven't worn since college. Rowe insists that women try on everything before the shoot. "Bring a variety of things to see what works best on camera," she says. "Something that looks good in person might not photograph well." And think beyond lacey underthings, looking at cute dresses or t-shirts with boy shorts that might work. Hayes adds that even a baggy sweater can look hot if styled right.As far as your bod goes, only do a spray tan if it's already part of your regular routine; don't get one solely for the purpose of the photos. If you dye your hair, do it just before the shoot. And get a mani-pedi so you look polished."Relax," says Spinelle. "Get a lot of sleep. Drink a lot of water. Take a bubble bath. Go for a long walk. Let the stress drain away."Psychological preparation is a big factor. "The mood and level of self-acceptance when entering the studio are probably the biggest determining factors in whether it will go well," says Spinelle. To get your head in the right place, she recommends looking at yourself nude in the mirror every day at least for a week. See what you love and what you're still working to love, and tell your photographer about those areas of pride and insecurity. "Acceptance puts you in a great mindset to come into the studio space and own it," she says.Michelle Hayes StudioTrust Your Photographer Will Work to Make You Look and Feel Great"If you're not a model, you're not going to know how to pose," says Hayes. "That's my job as a photographer."You may be told to move in a specific way or to hold your body in a certain position and think you must look ridiculous, but it's all for a good reason. "There are going to be a lot of leaps of faith throughout the process," says Spinelle.If you're told to change what you're wearing, try not to take offense. Satin, for instance, can catch light in some unpredictable ways, so your favorite slip may not be working. And be open to trying different styles and tools, like a corset.Although it may sound cheesy, Rowe tells clients to bring along something that belongs to their significant other to use as a prop. Just go with it.Couture BoudoirRELATED: How to Install a Dimmer Switch in Your Bedroom for Ultra Sexy SexHave Fun with the Finished ProductThese are not the kinds of photos you have taken only to hide them away forever. Make an album of your favorites, print a steamy collection of black-and-whites, or blow up one gorgeous shot to hang in your personal bathroom. Spinelle also thinks making playing cards, postage stamps, and calendars out of them can be cute.Whatever you decide to do with your images, appreciate the fact that you're getting to see yourself in a very different way. And as Rowe says, it's an empowering experience.

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