First of all, if you’re reading this because you’re considering a bridal boudoir photoshoot—congratulations! Not just on your upcoming wedding, but on taking this bold, beautiful step for yourself. Bridal boudoir is one of my favorite types of sessions to photograph because it’s such a meaningful way to celebrate love—both the love you’re about to commit to and the love you have for yourself.
Now, I know that planning a boudoir shoot (especially in the middle of wedding chaos) can feel a little overwhelming, but don’t worry—I’ve got you. I’m here to walk you through how to prepare for your session so you can show up feeling confident, relaxed, and ready to shine.
Start with the Why
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let’s take a moment to talk about why you’re doing this. Bridal boudoir is more than just a gift for your fiancé—it’s a gift for you. It’s a chance to celebrate this exciting chapter of your life and capture your beauty in a way that’s intimate, timeless, and uniquely you.
Whether you’re doing this to create an unforgettable wedding gift, boost your confidence, or simply mark the start of this new adventure, keep your “why” in mind throughout the process. It’ll help you feel more connected to the experience and remind you that this is about you as much as it is about them.
Choosing What to Wear
One of the most fun parts of preparing for a bridal boudoir shoot is picking out what to wear. Lingerie is the obvious choice, but don’t feel like you have to stick to traditional pieces if they’re not your style. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable and confident in whatever you choose.
Here are a few ideas to consider:
- Classic White: A nod to your wedding day, white or ivory lingerie is always a beautiful choice. Think lace bodysuits, delicate bralettes, or silky robes.
- Something Personal: Bring something that represents your partner, like one of their button-up shirts, a favorite tie, or their sports jersey. It adds a sentimental touch that they’ll love.
- Veils and Accessories: If you have your wedding veil or bridal jewelry, bring them! They’re the perfect way to incorporate a bridal vibe into your photos.
- Bold and Sexy: If you want to go for a more daring look, bring that bold red set or that black lace number that makes you feel like a total goddess.
I always tell my clients to bring a variety of options—at least three to four looks. That way, we can mix things up during your session and create a range of stunning images.
Prepping Your Skin and Hair
When it comes to prepping your skin, less is more. Make sure to moisturize the night before and avoid any new skincare products that could cause irritation. If you’re planning to get a spray tan, do it a few days in advance so it has time to settle and won’t transfer onto your lingerie.
For your hair, whether you’re going for soft waves or a sleek updo, choose a style that makes you feel your best. Many brides opt for a professional blowout or styling session before their shoot, but you can absolutely style it yourself if that’s your preference.
The Importance of Professional Hair and Makeup
If there’s one thing I recommend investing in for your bridal boudoir shoot, it’s professional hair and makeup. My team works with talented artists who know how to enhance your natural beauty and make you feel like a total queen. Plus, having your hair and makeup done takes some of the pressure off you, so you can just sit back and relax before your session.
And don’t worry about looking “too done up.” Professional artists know how to strike the perfect balance between natural and polished, so you’ll still look like yourself—just an extra fabulous version.
What to Bring to Your Session
Along with your outfits, here are a few essentials to pack for your shoot:
- A pair of nude and black heels (or any shoes that make you feel amazing)
- Strapless or seamless undergarments for certain outfits
- A favorite playlist to help you relax and get into the vibe
- Any special props or accessories you’d like to include, like your wedding garter, your engagement ring, or a bottle of champagne
Don’t stress if you forget something. The studio is stocked with plenty of extras to make sure you have everything you need.
Relax and Trust the Process
It’s totally normal to feel a little nervous before your session, especially if it’s your first time doing a boudoir shoot. But I promise you, once we get started, those nerves will melt away. My job is to guide you through every pose and make sure you feel comfortable and confident the entire time.
I’ve worked with women of all shapes, sizes, and experience levels, and the one thing they all have in common is that they leave the session feeling amazing. Trust me, you’re going to rock this.
What Happens After the Shoot
After your session, I’ll work my magic editing your photos and putting together your final gallery. Many brides choose to create a beautiful album as a gift for their partner, and let me tell you, it’s always a showstopper. Just imagine their face when they flip through those stunning images on your wedding day.
But beyond the photos, the real takeaway is how you’ll feel. Confident, empowered, and ready to walk into this next chapter of your life with your head held high.
This is Your Moment
At the end of the day, your bridal boudoir shoot is all about you. It’s a celebration of your beauty, your confidence, and this exciting chapter of your life. So take a deep breath, trust yourself, and let’s create something unforgettable together. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait to capture it all.
xo, Critsey