Boudoir Photography – 10 most Frequently Asked Questions
The thought of a boudoir session can be scary. When talking to women about their session, I get asked all kinds of questions. So I wanted to compile a list of most frequently asked questions to give you some insight on preparing for a boudoir session with me!
Do you share my images?
Our number 1 priority making sure our clients are comfortable, especially with boudoir! It can be a life changing experience, but that also makes it nerve wracking! Sometimes, you are learning how to love your body and you aren’t quite ready to share the images with the world, or sometimes these photos are specifically for your partner aren’t for anyone else’s eyes. These are all great reasons for not sharing your photos, and it all depends on your personal preferences! If there are photos that I would like to share, I will ask your permission first, and only share what you are comfortable with! There is a permission form that is signed by you stating, “yes I can use you as a model.” or “ Hell, NO! These images need to stay under lock and key.”
Do I have to wear lingerie?
You definitely don’t have to specifically wear lingerie. It depends on your personality! There are a BUNCH of outfit ideas other than lacy little things! Or do your birthday outfit. Go sultry magazine glamour!
Do you have payment plans?
There is a 50% booking retainer to book your shoot, and the balance is due 1 week before the date of the shoot. If you want more time to be able to pay off the shoot, you can schedule it a few months out. These days getting creative with your finances is not too difficult.
Is hair and makeup included?
Hair and makeup is included in all of our boudoir shoots and I think it’s really important for you to feel pampered, and having your hair and makeup done is a great way to do that! Our amazing team can help you complete your look, whether that’s “I just woke up like this” or “Full on sultry glam". You can send us any ideas you want for your makeup & hair and we can try to use it for inspiration!
Do you Retouch my images?
YES! This includes standard retouching on every image ordered. Example: sharpness / color / brightness / cleaning of backgrounds / removing spots / skin blemishes / eye bag / wrinkles reduced / teeth & eyes whitened / stray hair removal, AND MORE… so ask.
Extensive and additional retouching STARTS at $35 per image. This advanced retouching includes: rebuilding & slimming body parts, fixing clothing malfunctions, changing background elements, Changing hair color, complete removal of wrinkles or veins, adding or removing objects or people to the image, removing braces , tattoo removal or applying one, adding special effects on images, compositing and everything else needed.
With all the above said, I am not a fan of over retouching to the point of looking plastic. Part of the process of accepting yourself and seeing your beauty also means not over photoshopping. If there are parts of yourself that you are learning to love and aren’t thrilled about, that is okay! I am very skilled in posing and lighting to make you look your absolute best.
Do you offer digitals?
Short answer is YES. All of our packages include some sort of print product, but there is also an A La Carte list that you can choose from as well! Our higher end session collections include the companion digital negatives.
I’m freaking out! How can I calm my nerves?
Nerves are all part of the experience! I always say that it would probably be weird if you WEREN’T nervous. The nervousness in the beginning of your shoot make your moment of “WOW” seeing your photos for the first so much better! P.S. We offer calming tea or a bit stronger adult libation.
How many outfits should I bring?
UNLIMITED!!! I always say to bring more if you can’t decide and I will help you decide at your shoot.
Should I get to my shoot early?
You should always plan on getting to your shoot about 10 minutes early so we can talk about your outfits, discuss your inspirational board ideas , get comfy with a calming beverage and make a plan for hair and makeup!
Where is your studio located?
We are located in San Jose CA in a turn of the century big vintage house. We love the old rustic feel of the building plus the half acre of outside space. There is so much history and creative options here. Seeing is believing so watch the ABOUT T video.
Want more info on our boudoir shoots?