Embarking on a boudoir photo shoot can be an empowering and exhilarating experience, but it's completely natural to feel a bit nervous beforehand. Pre-session nerves often stem from concerns about body image and being vulnerable in front of the camera. Here are some tips to help you ease those boudoir session nerves and feel confident for your experience:
1. Talk to me:
Start by having an open and honest conversation with your photographer. Share your expectations, boundaries, and any concerns you might have. A clear understanding will create a comfortable environment, allowing us both to be on the same page. I encourage all of my clients to reach out to me at any point with any questions or concerns they might have. I'm always happy to help!
2. Choose the Right Photographer:
Research and select a photographer whose style aligns with your vision. This is more important than anything else in my opinion, including price. You could pay top dollar for a session, but if the photographer's style is not aligned with your vision, you're probably not going to be happy with the results.
Experience is also a big factor: a photographer who specializes in boudoir shoots will have the expertise to guide you through poses and create an atmosphere that brings out your best self. Photographers who "do it all" may still capture beautiful images of you, but they may lack experience with boudoir, which will be reflected in your images.
If I have someone inquire about wanting a style I don't offer, I'm always happy to refer them to someone who does! Ex: shibari sessions, milk baths, erotica, etc.
3. Treat Yourself:
Take some time for self-care before the shoot. Whether it's a relaxing bath, booking a massage, or a new lingerie set, pampering yourself can boost your confidence and help you feel more comfortable in your skin.
If you're looking to book a spa day before your session, I highly recommend The Spa At Riverview. Ask for Tonya!
4. Practice Makes Perfect:
Spend some time in front of a mirror practicing poses that make you feel confident. This will not only help you feel more comfortable during the shoot but also give you an idea of which angles and poses flatter your unique features.
Need posing help? Give this one a try:
You'll need a solid color bed sheet and a full-length mirror.
Let the sheet fall down the center of your body
Gather the top in one hand, just over the girls
Bend one knee, and bring that same knee slightly over the other, with the sheet falling between them
You're going to put your weight on the straight leg
Arch your back, bring your chest up to the ceiling
Your free hand can go up into your hair or rest on top of your thigh
Take a deep breath in, and let out a lovely, relaxing sigh
Try out some different angles by turning your body, shifting your weight, and trying different things with your hands.
You can film this on your phone, hold the pose for 3 seconds, a take screenshots for killer selfies! ;)
5. Put on Some Music:
The morning of your session, put on your favorite playlist while you get ready. Dance around while you get dressed or have a karaoke sesh in the car on the ride over. It will help get the nervous energy out and boost the happy chemicals in your brain.
My go-to song recommendation: Man! I Feel Like A Woman by Shania Twain
7. Find Your Zen:
The brain is a powerful thing and as someone who struggles with anxiety and body image issues too, sometimes we have to tell the mean girl in our head to STFU! Easier said than done, right?
Incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises can really help calm your nerves. Taking a few moments to center yourself before the shoot can make a significant difference in how comfortable and confident you feel.
Try this breathing exercise and see if it helps:
Close your eyes and take a deep breath in, down into your belly for 4 seconds.
Hold it for 4 seconds.
Slowly release the breath for 4 seconds.
Repeat as many times as you need.
If you need to do this during your session, just let me know. We can take a break if you need to!
8. Celebrate Your Journey:
Consider this boudoir shoot as a celebration of your journey thus far and a chance to embrace your body as it is. Appreciate the imperfections and focus on the positive aspects of yourself.
We photographers are professionals who aim to capture your beauty in the best possible light. Trust in our expertise and the creative process. Let go of perfectionism and focus on embracing what makes you, YOU. We're artists, and we already think you're absolutely STUNNING.
Remember, boudoir photography is about celebrating your unique beauty. Embrace the experience with an open heart and a positive attitude, and you'll likely find that the nerves transform into a sense of empowerment and self-love.
Ready to book your boudoir experience? Click below to get started!