Pro Tips to Prepare for a Glamour or Boudoir Photoshoot

Doing a photoshoot is an exhilarating experience that allows anyone to capture their true selves in a timeless manner. There are quite a few differences between boudoir and glamour photography, and each of these artistic areas has its own unique history.

 

Boudoir photoshoots have a more sensual vibe but don’t always have to be necessarily risque or shot in the bedroom. The goal of the boudoir shoot is to capture the feeling of sexiness, and that doesn’t mean that shooting in the nude or lingerie is for everyone. This style of photography fits into the portrait photography family and pulls in elements of other shooting styles, such as portraiture, fashion, and fine art.

Glamour shots are all about capturing the organic beauty of the individual and is an art form for all ages. Fashion photography seeks to sell a particular product, whereas glamour is all about the model. Shots are focused on the face, and props are secondary. Glamour shoots can capture many sides of the model, and well-known celebrities such as Diane Keaton, Meryl Streep, and Maggie Smith all have legendary glamour shots that stand toe-to-toe with the best professional models in the industry.

The History of Boudoir and The Beginning of Glamour

The word Boudoir is a French term that alludes to the private space of a woman. In many houses, the actual boudoir was a private room that was different from the bedroom, yet secluded enough to entertain romantic partners. Boudoir photography originated in the 1920s and was commonly staged in a studio or luxury hotel. Images captured the real nature of a woman in her element and were often taken for suitors or spouses. The classic pin-up girl was the first wave of mainstream boudoir before the age of Marilyn Monroe took the movement to another level. From that time on, boudoir photos became a symbol of sexual liberation for women.

 

Modern-day boudoir sessions have changed because many women currently do photoshoots just for themselves or even to share with friends. The art form has evolved dramatically over the decades and is now more widely accepted. Boudoir has grown into a celebration of the power of femininity that all women share and a way for women of all shapes and sizes to express themselves. Many brides still often book boudoir sessions as a surprise present for their future husbands and enjoy the spirit of freedom that this art form cultivates. Boudoir photography is just as much about telling a story and capturing the Mona Lisa-Esque mystery that every woman holds than merely being just sexy. Women of all ages have taken part in this transformational work that has inspired adventure and self-discovery since the 1920s.

Early black and white images of early Hollywood stars advanced the glamour shots style movement, and paved the way for early pioneers, photographers George Hurrell and Ruth Harriet Louise, to lead the way. These two legendary artists brought the glamour shot to life and were able to capture the stunning beauty of the stars amid the cinema era that was entering a new evolution. As other photographers started to rise in popularity, new styles and poses began to gain more traction. Photographer Bruno Bernard crafted “the posed candid” and the art of the elongated leg with his models. Bernard was known to take detailed notes in his journal about how to capture the perfect glamour shot. He noted that by shooting from a lower angle, photographers could create an illusion of longer legs on their models.

 

Glamour photography today is all about pushing the limits and bringing a deep sense of human existence to the forefront of each photo. A wide variety of glamour photos can be seen in modern portfolios. From classic looks to breathtaking sensuality, glamour shots have a broad interpretation in the art world. Yet, above all, beauty reigns in every glamour shot that you come across.

How to Prepare

When you are ready to book your photoshoot, make sure to take a good look at your calendar and pick a day well in advance so that you have time to prepare. Scheduling a date at least six weeks in advance is highly recommended. Taking time away from work if you need to might be necessary to help you focus on your shoot, and planning around your menstrual cycle will help you bring your best self to your photoshoot.

Wardrobe and Props

Once your date is booked, plotting out your wardrobe, makeup, and any props you’d like to include in your shoot should be your very next step. When it comes to wardrobe, you have a lot of options. Trying pieces on and moving around in them to make sure that you feel comfortable and sexy is essential before your photoshoot. Lingerie is a popular choice, but there are many different options, even in this space. If you have an outfit that you feel especially attractive in, that will always be your best bet. Having too many options is always better than not having enough. If you don’t know if you’ll be comfortable in lingerie but think that you may change your mind during the photoshoot, it doesn’t hurt to bring along any pieces that you may want to change into at a later time.

Props consist of any small or large items that you want to add to your photoshoot. It could be as simple as a book, jewelry, feathers, or flowers. Stay away from bringing dangerous items, such as weapons or any novelty items that may be distracting. The night before your shoot or as you solidify your selections, be sure to pack everything you need carefully to avoid a last-minute scramble. Also, remember to pack a light robe for you to don between takes.

 

Hair, Makeup and Skincare

Your skin and hair care regimen will be more crucial than ever leading up to your shoot. Stay away from doing anything drastic to your hair, face, or skin. If you want to get a trim or redo a standard hair service that you have gotten before, feel free to do so but still allow yourself at least a week before your shoot. If you are planning on doing a nude shoot, taking time to care for your skin is vital. Spa treatments at home can even do the trick. Again, try not to use new products to avoid skin reactions or make sure to test a small part of your skin before using the product on your entire body. Exfoliating is essential, especially if you have dry lips because it isn’t easy to airbrush dry lips away in the touchup process. In general, no beauty regimen such as tanning, waxing, plucking, or shaving should be done on the day of your photoshoot. 

 

Hair and makeup looks should also be planned in advance, and capturing your sexy is the key to great styling. For vintage-themed shoots, a cat-eye, pin curls, and other sexy pin-up styles would work well. Looks for more natural shots can be anything from a messy up-do to flowing locks or rocking a shorter hairstyle. Tousled and playful is a fashionable and trendy look many models use, and bold colors add an eye popping flair to images.

 

The key to great makeup is to feel comfortable in your own skin. Keep in mind that how your makeup looks in the mirror is very different from how it will be captured in a picture. If you can, try and work with a professional makeup artist either before your shoot or on set. If you are tackling hair and makeup on your own, play around with looks that will go with all of your chosen wardrobe. A smokey eye coupled with a beautiful lip is a popular choice, but the color’s robustness on either the eyelid or mouth can be either a deeper or lighter color if you want a more natural look. Don’t forget about your finger and toenails, and make sure to either get or give yourself a manicure and pedicure beforehand.

 

Practice Posing

Knowing the most flattering positions for your body will help you make the most of your time with your photographer. It can take a little time to get comfortable in your own skin in a new environment, so practicing in front of a mirror will help you work out the kinks before your shoot. Stretching and taking time to unwind is recommended before starting your practice sessions and before your actual photoshoot.

Photoshoot Play-by-Play

Boudoir and glamour photographers are professionals. They know the tricks of the trade that will make you look your best. It’s essential to work with someone that you trust and be in constant communication with your photographer as they help you with poses. Do your best to be kind to yourself and be open. Be prepared to push yourself mentally and communicate your boundaries. Many photographers are aware of the obstacles that models face and will do their absolute best to make you feel comfortable. Music is helpful, and you just may be able to request a special soundtrack that will help you to feel at ease. Ultimately, don’t be afraid to ask for what you need, and coming prepared will help you to hit your rhythm quickly.

 

Enjoy the Adventure

Hitting the right pose takes more skill and focus than you might think. Detoxing your body and mind will help you to tap into your full potential. Taking care of yourself and sticking to a healthy diet while taking time to relax will ensure that you are 100% prepared for your big day. Drinking lots of water will give your skin a healthy natural glow. Avoid excessive alcohol and get a good night’s sleep before your photoshoot. Enjoy the artistic process of it all, stay loose, and have fun. Be positive and know that the end result will be the perfect depiction of your beauty.