Boudoir Photography in New York is a powerful way to celebrate yourself, to embrace your body, and to step into your confidence. Whether you’re taking these photos for yourself or a partner, it’s normal to feel a bit nervous. I’ve put together some tips to help you prepare and embrace the experience, so you can walk away with amazing photos that make you feel empowered and transformed.

What is Boudoir Photography?

Here’s a quote from our own blog:

“In the context of photography, this word means images that aim to celebrate the subject’s beauty, sensuality, and power; and these photos are done in a way that invokes this same sense of privacy and intimacy as the french origin word. While most client’s choose to pose in lingerie for these photoshoots, it’s not mandatory or necessary; what’s the most important is that the subject feels gorgeous, empowered, and authentic in their photos.”

Choose the Right Photographer

The first and most important step to a successful boudoir shoot is finding the right photographer. Boudoir is an intimate experience, and it’s essential to work with someone who makes you feel comfortable, safe, and understood. Look for a photographer whose style resonates with you—whether you’re into soft and dreamy aesthetics or bold and edgy looks.

• Do Your Research: Spend some time browsing portfolios online. Look for reviews or testimonials from past clients who highlight the photographer’s ability to create a comfortable and supportive environment.

• Schedule a Consultation: Before you commit, schedule a meeting or call with your potential photographer. This is your chance to ask questions, discuss your vision, and gauge how comfortable you feel with them.

Prepare for Your Shoot

Feeling prepared can help you to get excited for your photoshoot, calm your nerves, and make your photos look even more amazing. A little planning and self-care will go a long way.

• Build a Relationship with Your Photographer: Communication is key! Before the shoot, share any concerns or preferences you may have with them. A good photographer will take the time to listen, and ensure that your boundaries are respected throughout the process.

• Schedule Your Usual Beauty Appointments Accordingly: Imagine you’re preparing for a big event, like a wedding, and schedule your routinely self-care appointments and tasks around your photoshoot day. This includes waxes, tans, haircuts, and anything else that’s a part of your normal routine. You don’t need to go overboard by scheduling a bunch of new appointments you’ve never tried before.

• Take Care of Yourself: A few days before your shoot, make sure to hydrate, get enough rest, and pamper yourself with skincare routines that help you feel refreshed and radiant. This isn’t just about looking good on camera; it’s about feeling your best from the inside out.

• Select the Right Outfits: Choose outfits that align with your style and comfort level. Lingerie is a popular option, but don’t feel limited. Think about incorporating pieces that express your personality, whether it’s an oversized shirt, a silk robe, or a stunning gown. Accessories like jewelry, heels, or even hats can elevate your look and add a personal touch. Remember you can always reach out to your photographer for help here! We’re happy to give advice on how to make your photos even more amazing.

Download our FREE Ultimate Guide to Boudoir to prep for your session like a pro >>>

What to Expect During the Session

The start of the session is the scariest part, but know that it’s normal to feel nervous, especially in such an intimate setting! Remember that your photographer is there to guide you and create a space where you can feel comfortable and empowered.

Your entire session from start to finish will be about three hours long. Here’s how it goes, in order:

• Professional Hair & Makeup: Many boudoir sessions, including ours here at Earthly Venus, offer professional hair and makeup services to enhance your experience. These experts work with you to create a look that complements your style, making you feel confident and glamorous for your session.

• Multiple Outfit Changes: Don’t limit yourself to one look! Boudoir sessions often allow for multiple outfit changes, giving you the chance to showcase different facets of yourself. This variety can also help create a dynamic and diverse photo collection that reflects different aspects of your personality. When our client’s arrive in the studio and sit down in hair and makeup, we ask them if we can get their wardrobe set up for them so that everything is easily accessible and ready to go for them.

• Guidance on Posing: Don’t worry about knowing how to pose — your photographer knows you’re not a professional model, and is there guide you! We’ll help you find flattering angles and direct you step-by-step into poses that highlight your natural beauty. If you feel confused about what to do with your hands or face, don’t be afraid to ask. We want you to feel relaxed and supported.

Once your session is done, you’ll have an ordering appointment with your photographer about one week later to see all of your gorgeous photo previews, and to make any purchases of photos, albums, wall art, or digital copies you may want to keep.

Embracing Vulnerability and Empowerment

A boudoir shoot isn’t just about the photos; it’s about the journey of feeling comfortable in your own skin and celebrating who you are. It’s okay to feel nervous or vulnerable — these feelings are part of the process and can actually make the experience even more transformative. When you see your photos you will start to see yourself differently new light. Focus on the experience, embrace the moment, and trust that your photographer is there to guide you every step of the way to create stunning images that reflect your true essence. By the end of your session, you’ll not only walk away with incredible photos but also a renewed sense of confidence and self-love.

FAQ: Boudoir Photography New York

How much should I expect to pay for boudoir photos?

Your session and photos will likely cost you somewhere between $1,000 to $5,000 by the time you’re finished, depending on your budget and needs. Most clients at our studio choose to spend between $1,500 and $3,000. You can check out this article for a detailed breakdown of boudoir photography prices.

Are boudoir sessions worth it?

Absolutely! Just listen to these stellar reviews from our clients:

“I had an amazing experience working with Haley. I was a little nervous at first but she really made me feel comfortable. I walked out of my boudoir session feeling empowered and confident. I recommend this for every one it is liberating and fun.” - Selena R.

“AMAZING work! Every shot was a work of art. Sooo very pleased with the portfolio. Could not ask for anything more. If you want the very BEST, you definitely must use Earthly Venus. I can’t give her enough ✨ Stars +++” - PHT

“Such an absolutely fantastic and empowering experience! Not only is the quality of the product great, the team you work with was amazing!!” - Elisha

Why do girls do boudoir shoots?

Our clients do boudoir shoots for a variety of deeply personal reasons that often blend confidence-building, celebration, self-expression, and empowerment. Whether for themselves or for someone they love, the experience offers a chance to connect with and honor their bodies in a transformative way.

What is included in a boudoir session?

Every boudoir phtographer offers their client’s a different experience; here’s what our photoshoots include at Earthly Venus:

• Complete Privacy: We don’t share your photos without your explicit permission.

• Stunning Photo Studio Location: We’ll host you! Come into the studio and you’ll immediately feel like a real model.

• Personalized Wardrobe Guidance & Style Consultation: Don’t worry about what to wear, we’ll help you pick out outfits that will look amazing on you.

• Hair & Makeup Styling: Our professional artists will make you feel like a celebrity by highlighting all of your best features.

• Step-by Step Posing Direction: Don’t worry about knowing how to pose — we’ll guide you through each and every image.

• Magazine Grade Retouching: That little pesky pimple that showed up the morning of your session? Gone.

• Secure Photo Delivery: All digitals are sent directly to you via a personal, password protected link.

• Image Reveal & Ordering Appointment: Narrowing down your favorites is the hardest part of the process when you look amazing in every shot. We’ll help you find a package that you feel amazing about and help you to figure out how to make it work with your budget.

• Profound Confidence Boost: Because how could someone who looks like you not feel like the hottest bad ass on the planet?

Are boudoir shoots awkward?

Boudoir shoots can feel a bit awkward at first, especially if it’s your first time. However, a professional boudoir photographer is skilled at creating a comfortable and supportive environment. It’s our job to guide you through poses, and make sure you feel comfortable. With the right photographer, the initial nerves quickly fade, and the experience becomes fun, empowering, and confidence-boosting.

Do guys do boudoir photos?

Yes, guys do boudoir photos too! Some call it "dudeoir," but since men make up about 20% of our clientelle here at Earthly Venus, we just call it good old fashioned fun! Men can use these photos to celebrate their bodies, boost their confidence, or create a fun and personal gift for a partner.

Can you do a boudoir shoot on your period?

Yes, you can do a boudoir shoot on your period. Just communicate with your photographer beforehand about any concerns you may have so they can accommodate any needs. Wearing a tampon or menstrual cup, along with selecting outfits that make you feel comfortable, can help you feel confident during the session. Photographers are experienced in working around these situations to ensure you still have a great experience.

Don’t Be Afraid of Embracing Confidence

Feeling nervous before a boudoir shoot is completely normal, especially when it’s your first time. But with the right preparation, photographer, and mindset, it can be an incredibly empowering experience. New York’s vibrant boudoir scene offers endless possibilities for creating an experience tailored to you—whether it’s chic and elegant, bold and edgy, or something uniquely your own.

If you’re ready to step into your power and embrace this transformative experience, contact Earthly Venus for a consultation. Let’s create a boudoir photography New York experience that not only captures your beauty but also celebrates the unique and incredible person you are.