Have you ever booked a photoshoot and then panicked about how to time your beauty appointments to look your absolute best? Trust me, you’re not alone. Planning a boudoir shoot is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming when you’re trying to coordinate hair, nails, waxing, tanning, and everything in between. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. Let’s talk about how to plan your beauty routine so that you look and feel flawless for your big day.
Start with the Right Mindset
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of beauty prep, let’s set one thing straight: You are stunning just as you are. The purpose of a boudoir shoot isn’t to transform you into someone else—it’s to celebrate the unique, gorgeous person you already are. That said, if sprucing up makes you feel more confident, go for it! The key is to focus on what makes youfeel amazing.
Hair Care: When to Cut and Color
If you’re planning to get a haircut or color, timing is everything. I recommend scheduling your appointment about a week before your shoot. This gives your hair time to settle into its new style while still looking fresh. If you’re doing something dramatic, like a new color or a bold cut, try to plan it a month in advance just in case you want time for adjustments. You’ll also want to ensure your roots are touched up and your ends are healthy.
For those with longer locks, consider whether you want soft curls, waves, or a sleek style for your shoot. Communicate this with your hairstylist so they can cut or style accordingly. And if you’re adding extensions, give yourself at least a week to get used to them.
Nail It: The Perfect Mani-Pedi Timing
Your hands and feet will likely make an appearance in your photos, so a fresh mani-pedi is a must! Schedule your nail appointment 1–2 days before your shoot to avoid any chips or smudges. Keep in mind that neutral colors like blush, nude, or soft pink are timeless and complement most lingerie choices. However, if bold colors are more your vibe, go for it! Just make sure it aligns with your overall aesthetic.
Waxing or Shaving: Timing for Smooth Skin
If you prefer waxing, aim to schedule your appointment 2–3 days before your shoot. This allows any redness or irritation to subside, leaving your skin smooth and photo-ready. For shaving, the night before or the morning of your shoot works best. Don’t forget to exfoliate gently to avoid ingrown hairs and achieve the smoothest results.
Pro tip: Moisturize daily in the week leading up to your shoot. Hydrated skin photographs beautifully and gives you that healthy, glowing look.
Tanning: Natural Glow vs. Spray Tan
When it comes to tanning, less is more. A subtle, natural glow is always better than an overly bronzed look. If you’re opting for a spray tan, schedule it 2–3 days before your shoot to give the color time to settle and look its most natural. Make sure you exfoliate and moisturize beforehand for an even application.
Avoid tanning beds—they can leave your skin red or uneven, and long-term, they’re just not worth the risks. And if you have a natural tan from being out in the sun, don’t forget to even out any tan lines with your lingerie choices.
Skincare: Prep for Radiant Skin
Your face is the star of the show, so taking care of your skin is essential. Stick to your regular skincare routine and avoid introducing new products right before your shoot to prevent unexpected breakouts or irritation. If you’re planning a facial, schedule it at least a week in advance to allow any redness to fade.
The night before your shoot, cleanse, exfoliate, and apply a hydrating mask to give your skin that extra boost of radiance. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your shoot—hydrated skin always looks its best.
What to Do the Day Before
The day before your shoot is all about relaxation and last-minute prep. Pack your outfits, accessories, and any special items you want to include in your session. Double-check that everything fits and feels comfortable.
Avoid alcohol and salty foods, as they can cause bloating or puffiness. Instead, focus on staying hydrated and getting a good night’s sleep. The more rested you are, the more energy and confidence you’ll bring to your session.
Trust the Process
Here’s the thing: Even if you don’t check off every single item on your beauty to-do list, your boudoir photos will still be incredible. Why? Because boudoir is about capturing you—your essence, your confidence, and your unique beauty. Perfect hair or nails are just the cherry on top.
As your photographer, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. From posing to lighting, I’ll make sure you look and feel amazing. So take a deep breath, trust the process, and know that you’re going to rock your session.
Ready to Shine?
If you’re thinking about booking a boudoir shoot, let’s make it happen! Together, we’ll create a memorable experience that celebrates your beauty and confidence. Whether it’s for yourself, a partner, or just because—you deserve this. Let’s chat about how we can make your vision come to life!