I’m nervous about having a boudoir photoshoot. Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely — you’re welcome to bring a trusted friend to your boudoir photoshoot. I often recommend it if having a familiar face nearby will help you relax.
Almost everyone feels nervous beforehand. After all, being photographed in your underwear isn’t an everyday activity! However, the nerves usually disappear within the first 15 minutes. I’ll guide you through the poses, help you feel comfortable and keep the atmosphere relaxed — usually with plenty of chatting and laughter along the way.
What should I wear for a boudoir photoshoot?
Bring a selection of outfits that make you feel comfortable, confident and like yourself. I recommend bringing at least one lighter-coloured outfit and one darker outfit so your finished gallery has plenty of variety.
Popular boudoir outfit ideas include:
- Lingerie or bodysuits
- An oversized shirt or jumper
- Your partner’s shirt
- A fitted jacket or blazer
- Stockings or hold-ups
- Heels
- Jewellery and meaningful accessories
Try not to bring only black outfits, as they can make your images look very similar. A little colour, texture or contrast can make a big difference.
Props are welcome too, especially if they have a personal meaning. And yes, bring the heels — but don’t worry, you won’t be doing laps of the studio in them!
Is your Bournemouth boudoir photography studio private?
Yes, the studio is completely private and strictly appointment-only. It is located behind my home in Northbourne, Bournemouth, with private access, so there are no unexpected visitors or members of the public walking through during your session.
Your boudoir photoshoot will take place in a relaxed, comfortable and discreet environment where you can take your time and enjoy the experience without interruption.
What styles of boudoir photography do you offer?
Your boudoir photoshoot can be as subtle, stylish or daring as you want it to be. You are always in control of what you wear and how much you choose to reveal.
Styles can include:
- Cosy oversized jumpers and shirts
- Fashion-inspired portraits
- Classic lingerie photography
- Tasteful implied images
- Bridal boudoir
- Black-and-white boudoir photography
- More daring or topless images, if that is what you want
There is never any pressure to do something you are not comfortable with. Many clients become more confident as their session progresses, but your personal boundaries will always be respected.
Will my boudoir photographs be kept private?
Yes. Your boudoir photographs are private and will be uploaded to a secure online gallery protected by a personal password.
Your images will never be shared on social media, used on my website, included in advertising or added to my portfolio without your clear permission.
I occasionally offer discounted model-call sessions for people who are happy for me to use a small selection of their photographs. This is always discussed and agreed in advance, and it is entirely optional.
Can I bring my own boudoir photoshoot ideas?
Definitely. If you have saved photographs, poses, outfits or styling ideas that you like, send them to me before your session. They can help me understand the look and mood you would like to create.
You can send your ideas through WhatsApp, and we can discuss what will work best in the studio. We can use them for inspiration while creating photographs that suit you, rather than simply copying somebody else’s shoot.
Do you provide professional hair and makeup for boudoir photoshoots?
Hair and makeup are not currently included. Most clients prefer to use their own trusted hairdresser or makeup artist, as this helps them feel comfortable and ensures they still look like themselves.
You are also very welcome to do your own hair and makeup. If you would prefer professional help, I’m happy to recommend some excellent local hair and makeup professionals in the Bournemouth area.
Can you retouch my boudoir photographs?
Yes. Your chosen boudoir photographs will be professionally edited and retouched as required at no additional cost.
This can include adjustments to colour, lighting, cropping and small temporary marks or blemishes. The aim is to help you look your best while keeping the finished images natural and recognisably you.
When will I be able to view my boudoir photographs?
Your photographs will normally be ready to view approximately five to six days after your boudoir photoshoot.
I don’t ask you to choose your images immediately after the session. I first need time to carefully edit the photographs, refine the colours and prepare your private online gallery.
You can then view everything at home in your own time. There is no uncomfortable studio sales appointment and no pressure to purchase. Many clients prefer to look through their gallery with a glass of wine and a trusted friend — preferably one who is honest, but not brutally honest!
What happens if I need to cancel or rearrange my boudoir photoshoot?
Life happens. Children become ill, work gets in the way and dogs occasionally eat things they really shouldn’t.
Booking fees are non-refundable, but if you give me sufficient notice, I will usually be happy to move your photoshoot to another available date or provide a credit towards a future session.
Please contact me as soon as you know you cannot attend. Missed appointments or very late cancellations may result in the booking fee being lost.