When it comes to something as intimate as boudoir photography, choosing the right photographer is crucial for many reasons. Not only do you want to ensure that you feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience, but that you will also end up with beautiful, intimate images that you'll treasure decades from now.

I have covered some of this before but it has been several years so I thought the New Year was the perfect opportunity to touch on the information again.

here are 7 things you should consider to make sure you find the right fit:

DO THEY HAVE EXPERIENCE AND A DIVERSE PORTFOLIO?
Experience is an important factor to consider when choosing your photographer. AN EXPERIENCED photographer focuses on making the client feel relaxed & comfortable while capturing the beauty in each of us.
Photographers Specializing specifically in 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.
ARE THEY PROFESSIONAL AND 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. FINDING A PHOTOGRAPHER THAT YOU CONNECT WITH WILL MAXIMIZE HOW AMAZING YOU FEEL AFTER THE PHOTOSHOOT.
DO YOU LOVE THEIR WORK?
Like all artists, each photographer has their own distinctive style & personality. THE PHOTOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE AND CREATIVITY ALSO IMPACTS THE FINAL IMAGE. IF YOU TAKE 5 DIFFERENT PHOTOGRAPHERS AND PUT THEM IN THE SAME ROOM WITH THE SAME SET AND MODEL - ALL OF THEIR IMAGES WOULD STILL LOOK VERY DIFFERENT, Technology is ALSO 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 DRAWN TO. 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? THESE ARE ALL THINGS TO THINK ABOUT BEFORE YOU INVEST IN A BOUDOIR EXPERIENCE.
DO THEY HAVE AN IMAGE PRIVACY POLICY IN PLACE?
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 YOU without any pressure.
IS THEIR PRICING CLEAR?
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. There will always be Boudoir Photographers that are more expensive & those that charge less. WHILE PRICING SHOULDN’T BE YOUR PRIMARY FOCUS WHEN SELECTING A PHOTOGRAPHER FOR AN INTIMATE AND VULNERABLE EXPERIENCE, YOUR BUDGET STILL NEEDS TO BE CONSIDERED. After researching the different Boudoir Photographers you FEEL CONNECTED TO, make sure the pricing is spelled out clearly.

Keep in mind, especially in boudoir photography, the saying “you get what you pay for” WILL applY 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.. This isn’t the time to trust your neighbor with a camera, friends. HIRE A PRO.
DO YOU KNOW ANYONE THAT HAS WORKED WITH THEM?
Read reviews and testimonials from other clients to get a sense of their experiences and to see if they were happy with the final images. SINCE BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY HAS BECOME MORE POPULAR WITH THE BODY POSITIVITY MOVEMENT - YOU PROBABLY KNOW SOMEONE THAT HAS HAD A SESSION BEFORE SO ASK AROUND! WORD OF MOUTH REFERRALS ARE A GREAT WAY TO GET A TRUE TESTAMENT TO WHAT THE EXPERIENCE IS LIKE WITH A CERTAIN PHOTOGRAPHER.
do they communicate their process?
Make sure that you are able to communicate your needs and preferences clearly, and that the photographer is responsive to your questions and concerns. an experienced photographer will provide you with guidance leading up to your session to help you feel more prepared. Look for a photographer who offers a pre-shoot consultation - or is willing to hop on the phone - to discuss your needs and preferences, and ensure that you're on the same page before the shoot takes place.
during the photoshoot, an experienced boudoir photographer will demonstrate poses and direct you every step of the way, letting you relax and enjoy a day of pampering and empowerment!

Considering these factors will help you select someone that is the right fit and makes you feel like a million bucks! If you are located in the Kansas City area and thinking about booking a boudoir photoshoot, I would love to chat with you more about the experiences I offer!

inquire with me