What’s Included in a Boudoir Session – Exactly What to Expect

So you’ve been eyeing boudoir photography, scrolling through photos thinking, “Wow, they look amazing, but I’d never know what to do in front of the camera.” Here’s the secret: every woman you see in those photos thought the exact same thing. And guess what? They all walked away with jaw-dropping images and a confidence boost they didn’t see coming.

If you’re wondering what actually happens at a boudoir session and what’s included, let me take you behind the scenes. Spoiler: it’s a lot less scary and a lot more fun than you imagine.

Pre-Session Support

The experience starts before you even set foot in front of the camera.

Consultation – We chat about what you want from the shoot. Maybe it’s bridal boudoir, maybe it’s a confidence boost after kids, or maybe it’s just because you feel like it. I want to know your vibe.
Wardrobe guidance – Don’t stress about showing up with a Victoria’s Secret haul. I’ll guide you on what to bring – whether it’s lingerie, a favourite oversized shirt, or even just a chunky knit sweater. I also help you figure out what photographs well, which isn’t always the same as what feels good in the mirror.
Prep tips – From what to do with your nails to when to wash your hair, I’ll give you a simple checklist so you don’t overthink. No, it doesn’t involve starving yourself or buying 15 outfits.

During Your Shoot

This is the part that makes most women nervous, but it’s actually where the magic happens.

Warm-up time – We don’t start with you striking dramatic poses. We chat, laugh, and ease into it. Before you know it, the nerves are gone.
Full posing guidance – You don’t need to know a thing about posing. I’ll literally tell you what to do with your hands, where to look, and how to breathe so you don’t feel like a mannequin. Most clients say, “Oh thank goodness, I thought I’d just stand there awkwardly.”
Atmosphere – Music is playing, I’m probably making inappropriate jokes, and the whole thing feels more like hanging out than a stiff photo session.
Sneak peeks – I’ll show you the back of the camera as we go. This is usually when I hear, “Wait… that’s me?!”

My Approach to Editing

Boudoir editing is a big deal, and I have a light hand. Here’s what that means:

Temporary fixes only – Bruises, blemishes, uneven fake tan, or makeup smudges? Gone.
Skin smoothing – Gentle retouching to even out tones. Think “best version of you,” not “plastic mannequin.”
No body morphing – I don’t shave off hips, inflate cleavage, or give you a new face. You’re already stunning. The point is to recognise yourself in these photos.

Funny enough, I’ve had husbands say they prefer the unedited previews because they love seeing the “raw” version of their wives. (I still edit, don’t worry – but it says a lot about how powerful just being yourself really is.)

What You Take Home

Here’s where boudoir is different from a spa day or a new pair of shoes – you don’t just walk away with the memory.

Digital images – Professionally edited and ready to keep forever.
Optional albums and prints – Perfect if it’s a gift, or if you want something to flip through when you need a reminder of that version of you.
Confidence – This is the bit you can’t put a price on. You leave feeling bolder, more comfortable in your skin, and sometimes a little shocked at how amazing you look. That feeling sticks.

FAQs I Hear All the Time

Do I need lingerie?
Nope. Some of my favourite images are women in white sheets, a simple robe, or their partner’s button-up shirt.

What if I feel awkward?
You will, for about five minutes. Then we’re laughing, and suddenly you forget you were ever nervous.

Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely. If it helps you relax, bring someone to hype you up. (Although most clients leave saying, “I didn’t even need them – it was easier than I thought.”)

Why It’s Worth It

A boudoir session isn’t about showing up in lingerie and hoping for the best. It’s an entire experience designed to make you feel incredible. From the prep guidance to the posing help to the editing style, everything is there to make sure you walk out thinking, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”

The truth is, every woman walks in nervous. And every woman walks out with photos that make her fall in love with herself a little bit more. That’s what’s included – the confidence to see yourself the way everyone else does.

Ready to Book?

Take a peek at our FAQ page for more answers.

Browse the portfolio to see real shoots.

Or skip the thinking and book your own boudoir session.