The Ultimate Boudoir Photoshoot Checklist: Prepare Like a Pro
Get ready for a boudoir photoshoot you’ll never forget with this ultimate checklist. Whether you're nervous or excited, preparation is key to making sure you feel confident and empowered in front of the camera.
Stripping down to your favorite lingerie (or whatever makes you feel stunning) in front of a professional photographer can be both terrifying and thrilling, but we absolutely get it! The key to feeling at ease is knowing exactly what to expect. This checklist will walk you through everything from grooming tips to wardrobe essentials for your boudoir session, so you can step into your Full Body Empowerment Experience feeling confident, prepared, and ready to shine.
Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your boudoir session at our boudoir studio in Fargo, ND. Whether you’re here for the Full Body Empowerment Experience or just need more general photoshoot prep advice, this guide has you covered!
Body Prep For Head-To-Toe Perfection
You are literally the tits just as you are—and that’s the beauty we want to capture! No need for major changes before your boudoir photoshoot. The goal is to embrace your natural beauty and make sure your photos feel authentically you.
While prepping for your shoot is important, it’s not about transforming yourself—just polishing a little! Keep it natural and focus on feeling your best, and your photos will reflect that energy.
Here’s a quick list of what not to do before your boudoir session:
Avoid drastic changes to your usual grooming routine: Now’s not the time to experiment.
No self-tanning or spray tans! They can turn orange on camera, which we definitely want to avoid.
Skip the laser or chemical peels. These can irritate your skin, which isn’t ideal for photos.
Don’t change your hair color. Stick with the look that feels most like you.
Here’s what you should plan to do before your boudoir photoshoot to ensure you look and feel your absolute best:
Hair Removal Tips:
Wax or Pluck Facial Hair
Do any waxing or plucking (including eyebrows) at least 2-3 days before your boudoir session. This allows time for any redness or swelling to fade. No one wants a red mustache in their photos!
Body Hair Removal
If you prefer to remove body hair for your shoot, wax a few days before. If it’s your first time waxing, practice at least a month before your session so your skin has time to adjust.
Don’t Skip the Crack!
If you’d like to avoid hair showing in some photos (yes, even on your derrière!), make sure to remove any hair down there as well.
Skincare Tips:
Skip Fake Tan
While we love a healthy glow, fake tan is a no-go for boudoir photoshoots. It often turns orange under lighting and on camera, and we want your natural beauty to shine through.
Moisturize to Glow
Start moisturizing a week before your shoot to get your skin soft and radiant. Use a nourishing, non-greasy lotion that hydrates without leaving you oily.
Exfoliate for Smooth Skin
Exfoliate your chest, shoulders, back, arms, and ankles a few days before the shoot. This helps remove dead skin cells and gives your skin that smooth, glowing look. Be sure to do this 3 days before to avoid irritation.
Glam Time: Hair, Makeup, and Nails Prep
At STP, we’ve got you covered with our talented stylists who will take care of all your hair and makeup for the shoot. All you need to do is arrive with a clean, moisturized face and freshly washed, dried hair – they’ll handle the rest to make sure you look and feel your best.
Hair & Makeup Inspo
It’s a great idea to come prepared with some hair and makeup inspiration. We recommend finding a few looks you love beforehand so our stylists can bring your vision to life. Whether you’re going for sultry waves, bold lips, or a natural glow, we’ll make sure it’s exactly what you’re looking for!
Nails
A mani-pedi is always a great idea before your boudoir shoot, and here’s why:
Your hands, feet, and nails will be visible in many shots – so clean, polished nails will make a difference.
A little pampering before your shoot sets the mood and gets you in the right mindset to shine.
But here's the best part: If you're short on time or want a quick, professional touch-up, we offer press-on nails that you can purchase directly from our website ahead of time, or pick them up the day of your shoot. I’ll even apply them for you during your session, so you don’t have to worry about a thing! From chic to bold designs, we've got a variety of styles to match your vibe and make sure you’re photo-ready.
Even if you prefer not to wear polish, don’t forget to clean your cuticles and file your nails to perfection. We’ll be getting close-up shots, and neat nails make all the difference!
Extras
Have any sentimental jewelry, props, or something special you want to include in your session? Let me know ahead of time! We can work these elements into your shoot for a more personalized, meaningful experience.
Wardrobe: Look and Feel Your Best
Here’s where we get to brag a little: we offer a fantastic collection of lingerie, accessories, and more in our dreamy, size-inclusive client closet. Whether you want something sweet, sultry, or bold, we have a variety of pieces to choose from. To make sure everything is perfect for you, we offer the option to add a wardrobe consultation to your session. We’ll go through the pieces together and pick out what feels most like you. No stress—just fun and fabulous options!
If you’d prefer to bring your own special pieces, we recommend shopping a month or two in advance. This gives you plenty of time to find the perfect outfit and any accessories you want to bring into the session.
Pro Tip: For the best experience, here’s a little wardrobe prep advice. Wear something loose and comfortable to the studio—think about what you’d wear to a spray tan. Loose-fitting clothes and undergarments are key so nothing leaves impressions on your skin (you want to look flawless!).
Glasses Wearers: I’m afraid there’s a little bad news here. Glasses can cause glare during your shoot, even with anti-glare lenses (and those pesky flashes). If you want to avoid this issue, we recommend grabbing a pair of empty frames from your optometrist for the session. No glare, no worries!
Getting Your Mind Right: Prepare to Shine from the Inside Out
Alright, now let’s talk about the non-physical side of boudoir: your mindset. We won’t sugarcoat it—this can be intimidating. Insecurities and fears are completely normal as the day of your shoot approaches, and it’s okay to feel vulnerable. But guess what? You’re not alone—we’ve got your back through it all, and we’ll be there to hype you up.
Feeling nervous? That’s totally natural! Here’s what you can do to calm your nerves and get into the right headspace before your session:
Positive Affirmations
When doubt creeps in, repeat these empowering affirmations to yourself:
“I am grateful for this body.”
“My body is unique and beautiful exactly the way it is.”
“My quirks and differences make me who I am.”
“My body has overcome so much to get here.”
“I love myself exactly the way I am.”
Breathe Deep
If your anxiety starts to spike, try this quick relaxation technique called "box breathing":
Breathe in for 4-6 seconds, hold for 4-6 seconds, exhale for 4-6 seconds, and hold for another 4-6 seconds. Repeat until you feel more relaxed. This will help ground you and calm any nerves.
Posing Is Our Job
Don’t stress about the posing! You’re in expert hands. We’ll guide you through every movement, ensuring you look your best while feeling confident. Just trust us—we’re pros at making you feel like a goddess.
Stretch It Out
Some of the poses can feel exaggerated or awkward, but trust us—they look amazing on camera! To make it easier to get in and out of poses, stretch beforehand to stay limber and comfortable. A little stretching goes a long way!
Pump-Up Playlist
Let’s get the vibe going with music! Create a playlist of songs that make you feel sexy, confident, and ready to conquer the world. Listen to it on your way over, while you’re getting ready, or anytime you need that extra boost. Music sets the tone and helps you get in the right headspace.
Boudoir Photoshoot Prep Timeline
4+ Weeks Before:
Client Closet Consultation: Schedule your in-person consult to try on a variety of options in our size-inclusive client closet. Find the pieces that make you feel amazing!
Get Empty Glasses Frames: If you wear glasses, we recommend getting a pair of empty frames from your optometrist to avoid glare in your photos.
Hair and Makeup Inspo: Start gathering inspiration for your hair and makeup—check out our Pinterest board for ideas and help your stylist understand your vision!
2+ Weeks Before:
Start Moisturizing: Begin moisturizing your skin daily to keep it smooth and glowing for your shoot.
Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to ensure your skin is hydrated and radiant.
Stretch Daily: Incorporate stretching into your routine to stay limber and comfortable for the shoot.
3 Days Before
Hair Color/Trim: If you’re planning to get a fresh hair color or trim, now is the time to do it.
Exfoliate/Wax: Do your final round of exfoliation or waxing for the smoothest, most glowing skin.
1-2 Days Before
Mani-Pedi: Treat yourself to a mani-pedi—your hands, feet, and nails will be featured in your photos, so make them shine!
Day Before
Wash & Dry Hair: Wash and dry your hair the day before your shoot, so it's fresh and ready for styling.
Pack Your Boudoir Bag: Don’t forget any items you plan to bring, such as jewelry or special props.
Avoid Alcohol and Overly Salty Foods: Keep your body hydrated and avoid foods that can make you feel bloated or sluggish.
Day-Of
Dress in Loose Clothing: Choose comfortable, loose clothing that won’t leave marks on your skin.
Pack Your Go-Bag: Double-check your bag for all your essentials and any special items.
Listen to Hype Music: Get yourself in the right mood by listening to your favorite feel-good songs.
Eat a Light Breakfast: Have a nutritious breakfast to keep your energy up and avoid feeling hangry!
Leave Accessories Off: Leave hair ties, smartwatches, and tight bracelets that could leave an impression on your wrist.
Ready to Book a Boudoir Photography Session in Fargo?
Your journey to feeling empowered, confident, and unapologetically sexy starts here. Our Full Body Empowerment Experiences are designed to help you uncover the boldest, most powerful version of yourself—just for you.
Located in Fargo, my studio is a safe and welcoming space where you can let your walls down and embrace your sensuality. We’ll work together to create stunning, authentic images that you’ll love not just today, but for years to come.
Ready to take the leap and celebrate your beauty? Send an inquiry today to book your boudoir session and start your transformation!
📸 Bookings & Inquiries: https://samanthaturner.photography/contact
📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boudoir.samanthaturner
