How to Prepare for a Photoshoot: Easy and Informative Guide
Don't you love it when you look amazing on camera? Let's walk you through how to prepare for a photoshoot, from wardrobe, to skincare, to appointments and more.
Why Preparation Matters More Than You Think
While photographers can work magic with lighting, angles, and editing, there’s only so much they can do on the day of your shoot. The real magic starts with you—how you prepare before you even step on set.
Photoshoots are a collaborative effort between you and your photographer. While the technical expertise of your photographer and hair and makeup artist matters, your personal preparation has the power to enhance your natural beauty and make you feel your most confident. With the right steps, you’re setting yourself up for a session where every click of the camera feels effortless. Proper skin prep, a thoughtfully chosen wardrobe, and intentional self-care can take your photos from great to absolutely breathtaking. The bonus? Doing this preparation gets you excited, reduces stress, and ensures you can enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Consult with Your Photographer
our photographer is your biggest ally when planning your boudoir photoshoot. They have the experience and expertise to guide you through every detail, from selecting lingerie to perfecting your poses. Here’s why consulting with them is so important:
Personalized Recommendations: Your photographer knows what looks amazing on camera. They can suggest lingerie styles, colors, and fabrics that complement your body shape and the overall mood of your shoot.
Session Customization: Discuss your preferences, and vision for the session. Whether you’re going for soft and romantic or bold and sultry, they’ll tailor the shoot to align with your personality.
Wardrobe Guidance: If you’re unsure what to wear, your photographer can help you narrow down your options or recommend specific pieces that work well in photos.
Build a Relationship: A consultation helps you feel prepared and confident to work with your photographer the day of the session. By establishing trust and communication beforehand, you’ll feel more comfortable and relaxed during the shoot itself. This is also a great opportunity to communicate your needs and boundaries before you’re caught up in the moment on set.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your photographer as you prepare. They’re here to help make your boudoir experience unforgettable!
Plan Your Wardrobe
You want to find pieces that make you feel amazing! Whether it’s delicate lace lingerie, a flowing gown, or a chic blazer, choose items that highlight your personality and make you feel confident. Share your wardrobe ideas with your photographer for guidance. They can help you select colors, textures, and styles that complement the shoot’s theme.
Get Your Measurements: Especially if this is a boudoir photoshoot, visit a local lingerie boutique to get professionally sized, ensuring a perfect fit for any pieces you shop for. You can also take anything you plan to wear at your shoot to the tailor to ensure a perfect fit.
Find Pieces That Make You Feel Beautiful: Choose outfits that complement your unique shape, size, and colors. Celebrate what makes your body special.
Don’t Over-Focus on Comfort: Beauty is worth a little effort! For a photoshoot, you’ll only wear each look for 5–15 minutes, so it’s OK to embrace stunning sets that might not be practical for everyday wear.
Embrace Your Personal Style: Let your wardrobe reflect your personality, whether it’s elegant and understated or bold and daring. Choose pieces that resonate with you.
Don’t Forget to Accessorize: Add extra flair with jewelry, stockings, heels, or even hats and props. Accessories can elevate your look and add a personalized, polished touch to your session.
You can also read our Cheat Sheet to Finding Sexy Boudoir Lingerie for specific tips on where to shop and what exactly to look for.
Timing Your Beauty Appointments
Preparing for a boudoir photoshoot is like getting ready for a big event — everything should align so you look and feel your absolute best. Your usual self-care routine is the foundation for a polished and radiant look, and you don’t need to do anything extra or out-of-the-ordinary for you to look beautiful.
Here’s how I recommend timing your beauty appointments for optimal results:
Hair Appointments: Schedule your haircut or color touch-up 7-14 days before the shoot. This allows time for any fresh cuts to settle in and ensures your color looks vibrant without showing new growth.
Tanning: If you’re planning to tan, aim for 3–5 days before your shoot. This gives your tan time to even out and develop naturally while avoiding the risk of looking too fresh or orange. Be cautious with self-tanning products to prevent streaks, and exfoliate beforehand for a smooth finish. If this is not part of your usual routine, skip it. It can go horribly wrong if you don’t know what looks best on you yet.
Waxing: Book your waxing appointment 2–3 days prior. This minimizes redness and irritation while ensuring smooth skin for your session. Whether it’s a brow, leg, or bikini wax, proper timing is key to letting your skin recover.
Manicure and Pedicure: Fresh nails are a small detail that can make a big difference in your photos. Schedule a mani-pedi the week of your shoot to avoid chipping while keeping your hands and feet camera-ready.
Skincare: Stick to your usual routine and avoid trying new products right before the shoot to prevent breakouts or irritation. Exfoliate gently a few days in advance for a smooth, glowing complexion, and keep your skin hydrated.
Facial Treatments: If you’re planning a facial, book it at least a week ahead of your session. This allows any redness or sensitivity to subside while letting your skin absorb the full benefits.
By scheduling your self-care appointments with precision, you’ll not only look flawless but also feel like a million bucks on the day of your photoshoot. Think of it as part of the excitement and anticipation—after all, this is your moment to shine!
How to Prepare Your Skin for a Photo Shoot
Skip prep plays a pivotal role in achieving flawless makeup on set. After all, your skin is the canvas for your makeup, and taking the right steps beforehand can make the difference between makeup that looks natural and radiant, or makeup that feels unnatural and cakey (a fear that many of our clients express before booking their sessions). A little extra TLC beforehand can make all the difference.
Here’s why it matters:
Creates a Radiant Base: Hydrated, exfoliated, and prepped skin reflects light in a flattering way, giving you that natural glow that makes your skin look fuller and more youthful on camera.
Prevents Cakiness: One of the most common concerns is that makeup will look heavy or cakey under professional lighting. Proper skin hydration and exfoliation ensure that makeup glides on smoothly, preventing it from settling into dry patches.
Start Building Your Confidence Early: Investing time in skin prep doesn’t just enhance your makeup — it also reduces your stress and builds your confidence. Every time you see your beautiful, radiant skin, you’ll get a little more excited to show it off on camera!
Steps to Prep Your Skin for the Camera
Here’s how to prepare your skin for flawless makeup application and photo-ready perfection:
Stick to a Daily Routine Starting Now: Consistency with a nightly routine will minimize the appearance of your pores and enhancing the glow of your skin. If you don’t already have one, the best routines are simple: all anyone really needs in an ongoing skincare routine is a gentle face wash, a moisturizer, sunscreen, and retinol.
Wear Sunscreen Every Day: Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is a game-changer for achieving radiant, even-toned skin in your photos. Daily sunscreen use helps prevent redness, dark spots, and uneven texture caused by sun damage, making your complexion smoother and more luminous. Plus, it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time, giving you a naturally youthful glow that shines through the lens. Start your sunscreen habit now, and your future self (and your photos) will thank you!
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Start hydrating your skin from within by drinking plenty of water, especially in the days leading up to your shoot. If this isn’t already a part of your beauty routine, you will be shocked at the difference you see in your skin from a care tip that’s literally free!
The Night before Your Photos, Start by Cleansing Your Skin: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove any makeup, dirt, or oil from your face.
BONUS STEP - Steam Your Face: This step is for the girlies who are extra, like I am. Facial steaming is a simple yet luxurious skincare practice that can elevate your beauty routine and prepare your skin for glowing, photo-ready results by opening up your pores. You can use a machine designed for this, or you can boil water over your stovetop, pour it into a heat-safe bowl, and hold your face about 8-12 inches above the bowl. Sometimes I’ll even drape a towel over my head to create a tent and trap the steam. Then all you have to do is wait for about ten minutes for your pores to open up.
Exfoliate: Remove dead skin cells with a gentle exfoliator the night before the shoot. This helps create a smooth surface for your makeup to adhere to, reducing the risk of patchiness or cakiness. Chemical exfoliants are healthier for the skin than physical exfoliants; I really like this exfoliating serum from The Ordinary, but in emergencies I will just gently scrub my face with water and sugar.
Dermaplane: Dermaplaning is a gentle exfoliation technique where you shave your face to remove dead skin cells and peach fuzz from the surface of your skin. This creates a smooth base for makeup application, allows your skin to reflect light more evenly on camera (making you look even more radiant) and prepares you for flawless close up shots.
Lip Scrub: You to buy anything fancy for this step. I'll literally just use a little bit of sugar from my kitchen and rub it gently just on my lips. Then rinse it off with water. This will help to de-chap your lips if they're dry, and remove any dead skin as well.
Finish with a Sheet Mask: Choose a mask with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera for a boost of hydration that gives your complexion a radiant glow perfect for photos!
Use a Moisturizer: Opt for a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer that keeps your skin plump and smooth without creating shine or stickiness.
WARNING: Stick to What Works! Avoid trying new skincare products that could irritate your skin. Stick to your usual routine and only incorporate trusted, gentle treatments
Consider How You’ll Keep Your Photos
Whether your photoshoot is for boudoir, portraits, or a special occasion, your images are more than just pictures—they’re memories. Deciding how you’d like to keep and display your photos in advance can make the process smoother and more enjoyable, ensuring you’re prepared when it’s time to make decisions after the shoot.
Here’s how to get ready:
Explore Your Options: Think about how you’d like to preserve and enjoy your photos. Here are some options that are popular at our studio.
Albums: A thoughtfully designed photo album lets you revisit your favorite moments anytime, with all your images beautifully curated in one place.
Wall Art: Printed and framed photos can add personality to your home or office. Whether bold or subtle, they’re a timeless way to display your favorite shots.
Digital Files: High-resolution digital images give you flexibility to share your special moments online.
Prioritize Your Favorites: Reflect on what matters most to you. Would you like a keepsake album that tells the story of your shoot? Or maybe a couple of large, impactful prints for your walls? Deciding your priorities can guide your choices.
Set a Budget
Knowing your preferences ahead of time can help you prepare a budget. Whether you’re interested in a single standout piece or a collection, planning ensures you’re not caught off guard during the ordering process.Consider Financing Options: If premium products like luxury albums or wall art are part of your vision, check if your photographer offers financing plans. Breaking the cost into manageable payments can help you enjoy your keepsakes without stretching your budget too thin.
Ask Questions Beforehand: If you are unsure about anything, ask your photographer about available products, packages, and pricing. Having this information early helps you plan and avoid any surprises after the shoot.
Thinking ahead about how you want to preserve your photos helps you feel confident and excited when it’s time to order. Whether for yourself or to share with someone special, your images deserve to be cherished in a way that feels meaningful to you.
What to Pack for Your Photoshoot
Bringing the right items to your photoshoot ensures you’re prepared, stress-free, and ready to shine. I reccomend packing your things the night before so you can relax the day of your shoot. Here’s a checklist of what to pack and a few key tips to make the day run smoothly:
Wardrobe Pieces: Pack all your chosen outfits, from lingerie sets to dresses or casual looks. Bring backup options if you’re unsure or want variety during the shoot.
Hang your outfits: Avoid wrinkles by hanging your wardrobe pieces in garment bags or on sturdy hangers. This ensures your clothing looks polished and camera-ready.
Accessories: Include jewelry, shoes, or any props that match your wardrobe or the theme of your session. Don’t forget important details like your wedding ring or engagement ring—they can add a meaningful touch to your photos.
Beauty Essentials: If you’re doing your own makeup, pack touch-up makeup and hair tools, like a brush, hairspray, or your favorite lipstick.
Snacks and Water: Bring a small bottle of water and snacks to keep your energy up, especially if your shoot is lengthy.
Wear Loose-Fitted Clothing: Plan to arrive on set in loose, comfortable clothing that won’t leave marks or indentations on your skin. For example, opt for a flowy dress or a soft tracksuit. This keeps your skin smooth and free from unwanted lines in your photos.
What NOT to do Before a Photoshoot
Preparing for a photoshoot is all about putting your best foot forward — but it’s just as important to avoid common pitfalls that could detract from your big day. Here are key things to steer clear of before your session:
Don’t Try New Skincare Products: Avoid experimenting with unfamiliar skincare products or treatments in the weeks leading up to your shoot. These could cause redness, breakouts, or irritation, making it harder for your skin to look its best. Stick to your usual routine and tried-and-true products.
Don’t Get a Last-Minute Spray Tan: While a tan can enhance your glow, getting a spray tan too close to the shoot could result in streaks or an uneven tone. If tanning is part of your usual prep, do it at least 3–5 days beforehand to allow it to settle and look natural.
Don’t Skip Meals: Some people skip meals to feel lighter, but this can leave you feeling low on energy or even bloated. Instead, eat a balanced meal before your session to stay fueled and vibrant.
Don’t Over-Exercise: Avoid intense workouts the day before or the day of your shoot. Over-exercising can leave you sore, swollen, or fatigued, which may impact your posture and comfort during the session. And trust me, with all of the posing you’ll be doing, your photoshoot will feel like a workout.
Don’t Wear Tight Clothing Before the Shoot: Tight bras, socks, or waistbands can leave marks or indentations on your skin that are visible in photos. Opt for loose, comfy clothing to keep your skin smooth and unmarked.
Don’t Overdo Beauty Treatments: Facials, waxing, or exfoliation treatments are fine if they’re a usual part of your beauty routine, but you don’t need to go out of your way to do them if it’s something you’ve never tried before. Overdoing these too close to the shoot can lead to skin redness, irritation, or sensitivity.
Don’t Arrive Without Rest: Staying up late or skipping sleep the night before can leave you looking tired, with dull skin or puffy eyes. Prioritize rest so you wake up refreshed and photo-ready.
Don’t Stress About Perfection: Overthinking every little detail or worrying about how you’ll look can take the fun out of your shoot. Trust your photographer to guide you and focus on enjoying the experience instead. We want you to look and feel amazing too!
By avoiding these common missteps, you’ll be set up for a smooth, stress-free session that lets your confidence and beauty shine through.
Bonus Tips for a Stress-Free Experience
Making the most of your photoshoot means finding ways to relax, have fun, and fully embrace the moment. The more your know how to prepare for a photoshoot, the more you can plan in advance to relax the day of. Here are a few extra tips to help you feel calm, confident, and ready to shine:
Create a Playlist of Empowering Music: Bring along a playlist of songs that make you feel confident, sexy, or just plain unstoppable. The right music can set the tone for your session, helping you loosen up and connect with the mood you want to create. Share your playlist with your photographer — many studios are happy to play your chosen tracks to make the experience more personal and fun.
Keep a Positive Mindset: Feeling a little nervous before the shoot is completely normal, but I promise: once you start, those jitters will melt away. Focus on the excitement of trying something new and the empowerment that comes with stepping outside your comfort zone.
Trust the Process: Lean into your photographer’s expertise and trust their guidance on poses, lighting, and wardrobe adjustments. They’re there to highlight your best features and ensure you feel confident throughout the session.
Treat Yourself Like a Star: Consider this your time to indulge in self-care and self-celebration. Wear your favorite scent, get your nails done, or pamper yourself with a facial beforehand. Small rituals like these can boost your mood and confidence, setting the stage for an incredible experience.
FAQ: How to Prepare for a Photoshoot
Should you shower before a photoshoot?
Yes, it’s a good idea to arrive at the studio with freshly washed and dried skin and hair. This provides the perfect base for any makeup or hairstyling done at the studio and help you feel confident and ready to shine. Whether you choose to shower the day of your shoot or the night before depends on your schedule and personal preference.
What to do the night before a photoshoot?
The night before a photoshoot, prioritize self-care to ensure you look and feel your best. Get a good night’s sleep to wake up refreshed. Stay hydrated and eat a light, balanced meal. Stick to your regular skincare routine, avoiding new products that could irritate your skin, and consider applying a hydrating mask for a radiant glow. Lay out your wardrobe and accessories, ensuring everything is clean and wrinkle-free, and pack a bag with essentials like makeup touch-ups and snacks. Lastly, relax — you’ve got this!
How to depuff your face before a photoshoot?
To depuff your face before a photoshoot, start by applying a cold compress, such as a chilled jade roller, gua sha tool, or even a cold spoon. This will help to reduce swelling and stimulate circulation. For under-eye puffiness, use cooling gel eye patches to soothe and refresh the area. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to flush out excess sodium and minimize bloating. It can also help to avoid salty foods and alcohol the day before to prevent water retention.
Discover the Confidence You Deserve
With the right preparation, your photos will be a stunning testament to your confidence and individuality.
At Earthly Venus, we specialize in creating empowering, elegant, and personalized boudoir photoshoot experiences. Our studio is the perfect place to capture your confidence and beauty.
Get started on your boudoir journey by contacting me for a consultation. You can also download my free Ultimate Guide to Boudoir to learn how to make your photoshoot experience amazing. If you’re ready to embrace your journey and see yourself in a new light, book your session with me today.
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