How to Prep For Boudoir: Advice from an Ohio Boudoir Photographer

If you're jumping into the art of boudoir for the first time, I'm so excited for you. I've had an incredible time at every single one of my boudoir portrait sessions, and it's a special honor to offer the same experience to my beautiful clients. And if you're back for your second, third, fourth session... I'm excited for you, too!

I promise every single person who books with me that I'll guide you every step of the way, and that includes before we come face-to-face! Everyone who works with me receives my free Boudoir Prep Guide, but I'm gonna take bits of advice from the guide and break it down in even more detail.

Choosing Your "Looks"

It's a common assumption that boudoir portraits absolutely require someone to wear lingerie. I completely disagree! If you're not feeling lingerie, everyday clothing works too. Think oversized sweaters, button-up dress shirts, nightgowns, etc. It's all about what makes you feel sexy, and what accentuates your favorite features! Go with pieces that vibe with your style & make you feel good. Don't hesitate to prioritize your comfort.

Every Boudoir Package includes two "looks" (aka outfits), so mix it up! Incorporating different colors, textures & styles adds variety to your gallery. Stockings, garters, knee-high socks, & jewelry can be the smallest touch that completes a look. If you don't want to be barefoot the whole session, consider bringing along a pair of shoes!

I have some more straight-to-the-point advice for you, too:

• Solid colors are recommended, especially neutral and softer tones. Light can reflect off your clothing and cast color onto your skin: the brighter the color, the harsher it will reflect.

• If possible, incorporate different fabric textures into your outfit! Layering is the easiest way to do this, and it adds so much depth to your look. Jackets, cardigans, & button-ups are just a few examples.

• Accessorize! Less is more, in most scenarios. We want the focus to be on YOU! Go for simple jewelry, hats, scarves, bags, etc. Accessorizing is an easy way (along with layering) to add depth and variety to your images!

Lingerie Recommendations

If you're not sure where to begin, here's a list of lingerie shops recommended to me by other photographers and my clients!

• Playful Promises

• Thistle and Spire

• Yandy

• Chic Lingerie (Etsy)

• Her Room

Hair & Makeup:

If you want to go the extra mile and treat yourself to professional hair and makeup, I highly recommend the lovely women below. Tap their name to book!

Makeup Artist: Lindsey, Shadowplay Artistry

Hairstylists: Katie, CutbyKT; Deanna, @deejdidmyhair

How to Prep the Week Before

One BIG piece of advice I want to emphasize: try on your looks a few days in advance! One too many times, I've had clients/models procrastinate until the day of their session, realize they hate their outfits, and have to completely pivot with only hours to spare. Trying on your outfit ahead of time gives you plenty of time to decide if you're happy with the result!

In the days leading up to your boudoir session, drink lots of water, eat well, and avoid the sun if possible (you definitely don't want to be sunburned in your photos). Also, be sure to plan any waxes, hair/skin treatments, or spray tans at least 5 days away from your session.

We want you to glow, be hydrated, and feel your best!

How to Prep the Day Before

The boudoir process is all about admiring yourself, even before we come face-to-face. Take some time to pamper: clean your fingernails, moisturize your skin, touch up your eyebrows, etc. Give yourself lots of special attention and carve out some time the night before for some extra self-care!

I also recommend checking your outfits for wrinkles and ironing/steaming if necessary. Remove any tags from your looks, too.

If you're planning to wear shoes with one of your looks, make sure they are clean! This is a simple way to ensure your entire wardrobe is in pristine shape from head to toe! It's also a professional courtesy for in-studio sessions to keep the floors as clean as possible.

It doesn't hurt to bring a "Touch-Up" bag with any items you may need during your session, as well. Here are a few recommendations from my awesome clients on what to include in your touch-up bag, but literally anything you might need is encouraged: a water bottle, lip balm, makeup wipes, a comb, bobby pins, etc. I'll also remind you at the beginning of your session remove any hair ties or smartwatches from your wrists, so you'll need a safe place to keep these items, as well!

Tips for the Day of Your Session

Remember (especially if you wake up feeling nervous), this entire process is all about empowering yourself, embracing your natural beauty, and loving & admiring your body.

• Stay hydrated to enhance your natural glow.

• Eat a light meal beforehand.

• Moisturize!!! Use your favorite, trusted moisturizer, body butter, etc.

• Avoid alcohol; I know it can help with nerves, but it can dehydrate you faster and make your skin appear puffy.

• Do some light stretching to warm up your body before you head out the door.

• Before you leave home, throw on loose-fitting clothes and shoes that won't leave any weird marks on your skin. That includes tight socks, sports bras, jeans, etc.!

• If possible, get to the studio/location a few minutes early; this way, we can chat for a bit, show you around, and make sure you've got plenty of time to change into your pieces without stressing!

Still Feeling Unsure? Just Ask!

Don't stress. If you're still feeling unsure or overwhelmed by any step in the process, don't hesitate to contact me.

And yes, I know, there's a LOT of information to digest here! You can read through and download all of my guides for free HERE. And for your convenience, I also made a free, downloadable Prep Checklist, in hopes that it'll help you feel more prepared and confident before your session!

As promised to every person who steps in front of my camera, I'll be here to guide you every step of the way. There are no dumb questions. My #1 desire as an Ohio Boudoir Photographer and business owner is that you feel comfortable, relaxed, confident, and happy during our time working together.

My books are open for 2026-2027 and beyond! I can't wait to connect with you & make Art.

XOXO - Joella Algarin, Ohio Boudoir Photographer