I highly suggest meeting/chatting with your potential photographer to ensure that you're able to connect! I find it super important to build a business relationship/friendship with my clients. Me personally, I want to ensure that we are able to giggle and laugh together, yet remain professional and deliver your session in a way that you'd expect.
Weather with me or another photographer; a boudoir portrait session can be amazing, empowering and a confidence building experience, but you have to make sure that the photographer you choose is right for you! (can't stress that enough) There are a lot of factors to consider, and many of them just depend on your preference and what you’re looking for. For a shoot of this nature, you want someone you trust and feel comfortable with, of course, but there are other factors to take into consideration beyond that. I hope you find my 3 tips helpful.
Tip #1 - Transparency
The biggest thing that I would recommend looking for in a boudoir photographer is transparency - in every aspect of their business! As a client, it’s important to feel like your photographer is being open and honest with you. You’ll want to know ahead of time where the shoot is going to be, whether it’s a studio, an outdoor location, etc.
ASK QUESTIONS! IT'S OK!!!!!
You should know ahead of time what you can expect during your shoot, how long you can expect the shoot to take, how many outfits you can bring, and how much skin you are going to show. You should be able to know ahead of time exactly what is included in the package you select, from taxes and fees to if any prints or physical products are included, and if digitals cost extra. Your photographer should be prompt and helpful if you have questions ahead of time.
Tip #2 - Style
Another factor to consider in choosing a boudoir photographer is their style. You’ll want to think about what kind of photos you would like to come away with before making a final decision about your photographer. Are you looking for a studio session, an in home session, an outdoor session? Make sure that the photographer you choose is proficient in the type of location you’d like.
"Be Yourself. Everyone else is already taken." – Oscar Wilde
Do you like dark shadows and moody editing? Or do you like bright, light editing? You can check out the photographer’s portfolio to be sure that you like the editing in their work. Do you like your portraits to be heavily edited and retouched? or are you looking for a natural, embrace-your-stretch-marks kind of shoot? Some photographers have mad retouching skills, and some are amazing at emphasizing and loving on all of you just as you are!
Tip #3 - Experience
You also want to ensure that your photographer is a knowledgeable and experienced photographer. Most photographers who are worth their salt will have a contract that protects you and them, clearly outlines policies, expectations, and timelines. Many boudoir photographers will also have a questionnaire for you to fill out before your session. This tool helps them get to know you more and have more information about what you’re expecting and hoping for from the shoot.
- Your photographer should be able to give you tips for what kinds of clothes or outfits to wear, recommendations for hair and makeup vendors, and be knowledgeable about studio policies and locations (if they don’t own their own studio).
In all of the things you must consider before booking a photographer, the most important is that they are someone you feel comfortable with and who will help you channel your best, most confident self.
I have heard many honor stories from clients, so I pray you found these tips helpful in your search.
Let’s chat about booking your boudoir session today!
