How to Prepare for Your Boudoir Session: The Complete Checklist
You've booked your session, chosen your outfits, and now the day is approaching. Here's everything you need to know to prepare, from the week before right up to arrival.
One Week Before
Skip the Fake Tan
This is important: do not use fake tan for at least 7 days before your shoot. Under studio lighting, fake tan can appear blotchy or uneven in ways that aren't visible in normal light. If you want a bit of colour, stick to gradual tanning moisturiser applied evenly and well in advance, or embrace your natural skin tone - it photographs beautifully.
Start Hydrating
Good hydration shows in your skin. Drink plenty of water in the week leading up to your session. Your skin will look healthier, more supple, and will photograph better.
Moisturise Daily
Keep your skin soft and healthy with regular moisturising. Pay attention to areas that might be visible in photos - arms, legs, décolletage, and anywhere else depending on your planned outfits.
Avoid New Products
Now is not the time to try that new skincare product or switch moisturisers. Stick with products you know work for your skin. New products can cause unexpected reactions, breakouts, or irritation - the last thing you want before your session.
The Night Before
Prepare Your Outfits
Lay out or hang all your pieces so they're wrinkle-free and ready to pack. Check that everything you need is together - the matching knickers for that bra, the right heels for each look, any accessories you want to include.
Get a Good Night's Sleep
Rest shows in your face and energy levels. Try to get a proper night's sleep so you arrive feeling fresh and ready for your experience.
Avoid Alcohol
A glass of wine might seem like it would help with nerves, but alcohol can cause puffiness and affect your skin. Save the celebration for after your session.
On the Day
Hair & Makeup
This is entirely up to you. Arrive already styled if that's easier, or do your hair and makeup when you get here - we have space and a mirror available. Either way works. The only thing to avoid is anything you're not confident in, since this isn't the day to debut a look you haven't tried before.
Clothing
Wear loose, comfortable clothing to the session. Tight waistbands, bra straps, and fitted jeans can leave marks on your skin that take time to fade. Opt for:
- A loose dress or maxi skirt
- A soft, wire-free bra or no bra
- Loose-fitting underwear
- Slip-on shoes
What to Bring
- All your outfit options
- A robe or loose cover-up for between outfit changes
- Any specific accessories (jewellery, props)
- Heels for your session
- A positive attitude
Stay Hydrated
Continue drinking water on the day - just not so much that you're uncomfortable during the session. We'll have refreshments available throughout.
Mental Preparation
It's Normal to Feel Nervous
Whether you're feeling excited, nervous, or a mix of both, that's completely normal. Most clients experience some butterflies, but they fade quickly once the session begins.
Trust the Process
You don't need to know how to pose or what to do. We'll guide you through everything. Your job is simply to turn up and let us take care of the rest.
Remember Why You're Doing This
Whether it's to celebrate yourself, mark a milestone, create a gift, or simply do something just for you - hold onto that reason. This experience is for you.
The Bottom Line
Preparation is mostly about avoiding things that might affect your photos (fake tan, tight clothing, new products) and arriving in the best possible condition (rested, hydrated, and feeling like yourself). The rest is our job.
If you have any questions about preparing for your session, just ask during your consultation call - we're happy to help.
Ready to book? Get in touch and let's create something beautiful.