7 Things You Should Consider When Selecting a Boudoir Photographer | Kansas City Boudoir Photographer

booking a boudoir session is a HUGE deal. It’s not something you likely do everyday - or typically even every year. a boudoir session is an experience much more than just a photoshoot - with all the bells & whistles. therefore this isn’t a decision you should take lightly.

Just as you would research any important purchase, attention to detail should be given when selecting a Boudoir Photographer. Selecting the right photographer not only means you will have a positive experience before, during, and after the shoot, but that you will also walk away with tangible proof that makes you feel confident & empowered every time you look back on the experience.

Boudoir photography is such an intimate & personal experience. Here are the top 7 things you should consider when selecting a boudoir photographer.

no. 1 - Do they have experience?

Experience is an important factor to consider when choosing your photographer. The seasoned photographer focuses on making the client feel relaxed & comfortable while capturing the beauty in each of us. they are able to use the skills they have acquired & polished to bring out the absolute best in their clients.

Photographers Specializing specifically in boudoir - & only boudoir - have a unique advantage in that they have exclusively mastered capturing the human form in a flattering & intimate nature.

do they have experience photographing all body types? does their portfolio show a diverse array of clients? An experienced photographer will able to confidently direct you into poses with ease, letting you relax and enjoy the moment.

no. 2 - do they make you feel comfortable?

actually speak with the photographer beforehand, not just in email. If they have a phone or in person consultation before booking, that’s perfect! Trust your gut. If something in the communication or process makes you feel uncomfortable - don’t ignore it!

this is someone who is about to see you nearly naked. nervous jitters are 100% normal & expected when you book a boudoir photoshoot. but, you definitely want to feel safe & at ease. An experienced boudoir photographer strives to provide clients with support leading up to the session to help make them feel comfortable. if they have a private facebook group, join that! It is a great way to get to know your photographer’s style, mission, & philosophy. Word of mouth referrals, reviews, and testimonials are also a great way to find a photographer you feel confident trusting.

no. 3 - do they have a privacy policy?

You are considering a photoshoot of an intimate nature. It is imperative that you consider the privacy of your images. Some clients love having their images featured in the photographer’s portfolio & social media accounts - & that is awesome! The confidence boost you get when one of your stunning images is shared is incredible. However, sharing intimate images publicly is not for everyone.

An experienced boudoir photographer will have privacy measures in place to ensure your images are safe from the wrong hands. They will also leave the decision on whether to allow sharing entirely up to the client without any pressure.

no. 4 - do you love their work?

Like all artists - & really all humans in general, each photographer has their own distinctive style & personality. Technology is so incredible that it allows photographers to edit the exact same image a million different ways making each one unique in style & feel.

Select a photographer whose style matches the look & feel you are looking for. Style goes beyond wardrobe, set options, & editing techniques. It also includes things like lighting, posing, & intent.

Are you looking for a “light & airy” feel or something more “dark & moody?” Maybe you want a photographer than can provide both in one session. Do you want something more modest & beautiful or more adventurous & sexy? Maybe you love warm vintage vibes or a clean timeless look?

no. 5 - what is their process?

Something you need to consider before booking a boudoir photoshoot is what the photographer’s process is. I recommend finding a full service photographer that offers the works, especially if this is your first time. A boudoir photoshoot is about SO much more than just getting some sexy images on a USB. It is an entire experience dedicated to making you feel empowered & confident while getting pampered for the day.

A full service boudoir experience should include a variety of guides to prepare you leading up to the session so you know the do’s & don’ts to create a positive experience. A full service session should also include professional hair & make up services to make sure your best features are highlighted & you look & feel like a million bucks. Does the photographer offer a Client Closet you can utilize for your session in a full range of sizes? An experienced boudoir photographer will! While you should bring some of your own wardrobe options, it is nice to have a closet to look through to try out new looks you might not have otherwise tried.

What about after the session ends? An experienced photographer’s job does not stop there. Make sure the photographer you choose is still there to help you select your favorite products & images.

no. 6 - is their pricing clear?

Finally, let’s address the elephant in the room - Price. This is hands down the #1 & generally the very first question I get asked when a client inquires for a session. After researching the different Boudoir Photographers you are considering, make sure the pricing is spelled out clearly.

There will always be Boudoir Photographers that are more expensive & those that charge less. Selecting the right Boudoir Photographer ensures your experience is an amazing one!

Keep in mind, especially in boudoir photography, the saying “you get what you pay for” applies greatly here. I encourage you to save up for this life changing experience, because you do NOT want your photographer choice to be purely from a budget standpoint. Remember, boudoir is meant to show you how beautiful you are right now, but with an inexperienced “cheap” photographer, it can do quite the opposite because the photographer does not have the experience that a professional does. This isn’t the time to trust your neighbor with a camera, friends.

no. 7 - Does the photographer “Walk the Walk”?

One more helpful thing to note in your research is whether the photographer has done a boudoir photoshoot for themselves. It is incredibly beneficial for the photographer to know the exact emotions you would go through booking your session and experiencing the same nerves.

If you are interested in booking a boudoir experience for yourself, I would love to chat with you more about what you are looking for! Follow the link below to contact me!