Hey there! I’m Critsey, the proud owner and lead photographer of Couture Boudoir®. Boudoir photography isn’t just my job—it’s my passion, my purpose, and my way of empowering women to feel confident, beautiful, and completely themselves. Every day is a little different, but if you’ve ever wondered what a day in the life of a boudoir photographer looks like, let me pull back the curtain and give you a peek behind the scenes.
Morning Rituals: Coffee, Emails, and Planning the Day
My day typically starts early, and like many of you, it begins with coffee. That first cup is sacred—it’s my time to wake up slowly, set my intentions, and prepare for the day ahead. Between sips, I check emails and messages from clients. Some might be inquiries about booking a session, while others are follow-ups or sweet thank-you notes from past shoots. Let me tell you, nothing brightens my morning like hearing how much someone loved their photos or how the experience boosted their confidence.
Once the caffeine kicks in, it’s all about planning. If I have a shoot that day, I’ll review the client’s questionnaire and mood board to make sure I’m fully in tune with their vision. I like to create a personalized experience for each client, so knowing their style, preferences, and story is key.
Setting the Stage: Preparing for the Shoot
If it’s a shoot day, the location becomes my playground. I arrive early to prep the room—preparing my lighting, setting up gear, and arranging furniture. Creating a warm, inviting atmosphere is so important. I want every client to feel like they’re stepping into a luxurious, safe space where they can let their guard down.
I also make sure there’s music ready to go. Music is such a great icebreaker and mood booster! Whether it’s sultry jazz, empowering pop, or chill acoustic, I curate a playlist based on the vibe my client is going for. (Pro tip: A little Beyoncé can work wonders to unleash your inner diva.)
Welcoming the Client: The Real Magic Begins
When my client arrives, it’s all about making them feel comfortable. I know boudoir photography can feel intimidating—heck, I’d be nervous too! So we spend some time chatting and easing into the experience. I remind them that they’re in good hands, and that my job is to guide them every step of the way.
From there, it’s off to hair and makeup! I work with some insanely talented artists who know exactly how to enhance each client’s natural beauty. Watching my clients transform during this process is one of my favorite parts—it’s like seeing a spark of confidence ignite before the shoot even starts.
Behind the Camera: Capturing the Magic
The shoot itself is where the magic really happens. My job isn’t just to take photos; it’s to create an experience that leaves my clients feeling strong, radiant, and unapologetically themselves. I guide them through every pose, offering plenty of encouragement along the way. And let me tell you, there’s no greater feeling than seeing someone go from shy and uncertain to totally owning their power by the end of the session.
Boudoir is about so much more than sexy photos. It’s about celebrating your body, your journey, and everything that makes you uniquely you. Whether I’m working with a bride-to-be, a mom rediscovering her confidence, or a woman celebrating a milestone birthday, every story is different—and every story deserves to be told beautifully.
After the Shoot: Editing and Reflection
Once the shoot wraps up, it’s time for me to dive into the editing process. This is where I get to bring the photos to life, enhancing the lighting and tones to match the mood of the session. My goal is always to create timeless, elegant images that you’ll cherish forever.
Editing is meticulous work, but I genuinely love it. It’s like adding the finishing touches to a masterpiece. Plus, I get to relive the session and reflect on the joy and confidence that my clients brought to the experience.
Why I Love What I Do
Let’s get real for a second. Being a boudoir photographer is so much more than pretty pictures. It’s about creating a space where women feel seen, celebrated, and empowered. It’s about helping someone reclaim their confidence after a tough season or reminding them of their worth when life gets overwhelming.
I’ve had clients tell me their session was life-changing. Some cried tears of joy seeing their photos for the first time, while others told me they finally saw themselves in a new light. Moments like those? That’s why I do what I do.
Ending the Day: Gratitude and a Little Self-Care
At the end of the day, I make sure to take a moment for gratitude. I feel so lucky to do what I love and to connect with such incredible women. Whether I’m sharing sneak peeks, brainstorming new ideas, or planning future shoots, I go to bed feeling inspired and fulfilled.
Of course, running a business and balancing a creative career has its challenges, but it’s all worth it when I see the confidence and joy in my clients’ eyes. Every session reminds me of why I started Couture Boudoir®: to empower women, celebrate their stories, and capture their beauty in a way that’s uniquely their own.
So, there you have it—a day in the life of a boudoir photographer! It’s a mix of creativity, connection, and a whole lot of heart. If you’ve ever considered a boudoir session, let me tell you—it’s not just a photoshoot. It’s an experience that can transform the way you see yourself. And trust me, you deserve it.
