Boudoir Shoot: An Experience Every Woman Should Have+ Tips

Happy Valentine’s Day yall! The time has finally come and what a better time to do this than in love month. I have been sitting on this post for years. Literally. This photoshoot was almost 2 years ago. I honestly don’t know what took me so long. Nevertheless I’m ready to let everyone in own how it was for me and some tips I would give for your experience!

Prior to actually finally doing the shoot it was something I wanted to do for a long time. Originally I was waiting for a milestone birthday (or a milestone weight let’s be honest) for it to be justified. Although a great gift idea, it was not possible (party of 1 here.) The milestone birthday came and went along with the milestone weight loss turned right back into weight gain after 2020 sent all our worlds into complete chaos. I finally decided that instead of waiting for some ideal time that did not exist I would do just do it. I was in an uncomfortable time physically and mentally but needed to push myself through the fear – they say you grow from that kind of stuff right?

If there is a #1 tip I would give it would be this – make sure you are 100% comfortable with the photographer you choose. At the beginning of 2021 I contacted my photographer friend (isn’t it fun and convenient to have super talented friends?!) and let her in on what I wanted to do. She of course was super supportive and was ready to get to work! I knew in order for me to be able to get what I wanted out of the photos I would have to be extremely comfortable with the photographer. Especially for someone who might have body insecurities – which is completely normal because who doesn’t in some capacity – you want to be able to feel safe and at ease. We’ve known each other for over 10 years, been through some things together, and that was important to me. She’s seen me in some extremely ugly crying face moments so…we were good. I knew there would be no judgement and I didn’t feel awkward trying to be “sexy” Patience in front of the camera. We had a good ole time laughing the entire day.

Next tip: Be intentional about your vision. Outside of actual shoot day, this was the best part of the experience for me. I knew that I wanted to personally curate my own pictures and experience. My friend was definitely a big help as she brought the expertise of what would visually look great but I really wanted to bring something particular to life. I think also since I took these pictures with myself only in mind I was able to think about what I wanted to see captured, how I wanted to feel and look. I already knew I wanted to incorporate, lavender as a color. Purple is my favorite color with lavender being one of my favorites in the purple family and it makes me feel extremely feminine. A black look was a must because who doesn’t feel amazing in black. I also knew that I would not be incorporating heels. Although heels are always a sexy addition heels are not personally my thing and aren’t necessarily what makes me feel the most confident. Do what makes you feel your best and that is going to create the best product!

Also very important was the location. My friend again came through when she suggested Angad Arts Hotel in St. Louis. If you have not seen or heard of the hotel you are in for a treat. The rooms are divided into 4 separate colors that you can choose from based on how you want to feel or what you like. When I saw the hotel I was immediately drawn to the yellow room and thought yellow, lavender, and black would really play well together.

Finally after selecting a location I picked my date and was set to go. I planned like two months in advance. For one thing, I traveled back home and I also wanted time to really get everything that I would need for the shoot without feeling rushed at all. Over the couple months I spent my time making Pinterest boards, planning my looks, and getting mentally prepared for what was about to happen. I can take pictures all day every day but this was a different experience.

Another note -make sure your clothing items are cute, fit to your liking, and make you feel amazing! That is another reason I did not rush with the shoot. I wanted to make sure I had time to order anything that I needed and if things did not fit the way I wanted them to I would have time to return/exchange alternatives.

Finally, get ready to set your inhibitions aside and have fun! The night before the shoot I checked into the hotel. I wanted to be there so I could just have a night to myself and get ready. The next morning, I took my time doing my makeup – I of course wanted some on (I wasn’t going without my brows) but I also wanted to look more natural. I did try last extensions for the first time. I also got my hair braided. I couldn’t risk not liking my hair when the pictures came back and I knew that would not be an issue with braids (shoutout to my cousin who never misses!) I also made sure to have my music ready to go!! Don’t forget that ladies! Have music that you love to dance to, that makes you feel like THAT girl! It goes a long way in setting the mood and giving yourself permission to let go and be in the moment!

If you made it this far shoutout to you! You made it to the prize LOL! Now that I got out all of that out of the way, here we go! Here are a couple of my favorite shots from the day.

There you have it. Of course it’s just a peak. Some are for my eyes only LOL. Honestly I had an absolutely amazing time. I cherished the experience even more when I received the pictures back. I am still in awe of them. I know I am attractive but actually seeing myself as a sexy woman is a totally different feeling. Not just sexy though. Powerful, pretty, happy, confident, in control. All of the things. Every woman should experience feeling that free and having it captured. Significant other or not. Special occasion or not. I look at these photos more than I should probably admit but they are just that good in my opinion. I have no regrets and can’t wait to do it again. If you needed a sign to plan a boudoir shoot – HERE IT IS!