A good manicure and pedicure is an essential to making your boudoir photos looking high end. I’m about to walk you through ideas for nails for boudoir shoots, types of nails that are great for different types of sessions, and all the other details of how to make sure your nails get done perfectly.

The Best Nail Colors For Boudoir Shoots

Nail colors that consistently look good on camera for boudoir are reds, blacks, nudes, natural pinks, and french tips. However, what’s most important is that you choose a color that looks cohesive with each of your looks. I recommend bringing pictures of your lingerie sets to the nail salon, and considering how the color you choose will work with each piece individually. You can also check out extra inspo on our Pinterest.

Red

If you want to look like an absolute seductress, this is your color choice. It’s literally scientifically backed to be the most sexy color to wear, and it’s a such a classic choice for nails for boudoir shoots.

French Tip

French tips are timelessly elegant, and always go well with every single outfit. This is the manicure and pedicure to go for if you want to look like a “natural” beauty, or if you just want to look rich AF.

Nude

I love nude nails for boudoir shoots. They’re elegant and and timeless. Choose a color near identical to your complexion for a cool monochrome visual effect that will draw extra attention to your outfits.

Black

Black is a fantastic nail color for boudoir if you want a more dramatic or vampy look. Plus, this color goes well with almost any look.

Pink

Pink is a soft and girly classic that is great for getting into your feminine energy. Go for a gentle pink that compliments your complexion (think warm and cool tones).

Where to Get Your Nails For Boudoir Shoots Done

If you’re doing a shoot with us in New York City, I highly recommend getting a manicure and pedicure at Honey Nails. They have locations all over, so they’re easy to get to, and they always are super detail oriented and really do a phenomenal job.

Keep Your Nails Looking Fresh

After you get your manicure and pedicure, maintain your manicure by using hand lotion throughout the day. It will keep your hands looking soft, your nails looking fresh, and prevent your cuticles from peeling. If you do happen to have a nail chip, go back to the salon — most stylists will remember you, and are happy to re-do new nails for free if you run into any problems.

FAQ

What is the most seductive nail color?

The most attractive nail color is red. And that’s not just a personal opinion, it’s science! A 2008 study from the University of Rochester looked into how women wearing read impacted men psychologically, and they found that ”Under all of the conditions, the women shown […] wearing red were rated significantly more attractive and sexually desirable by men than the exact same women shown with other colors.”

What nail color makes you look rich?

If you want to look rich, wear a simple and neutral color and get a manicure that is done well. The french tip is a perfect option for this. And while I’m personally a huge fan of nail art, you’ll want to stay away from it if looking expensive is your goal.

When to Get Your Boudoir Nails Done

Get your nails done no sooner than one week before your photo shoot. This will prevent your nails from chipping too soon, or simply growing out.

Want Help Planning Your Session?

Get my FREE Ultimate Guide to Boudoir

It walks you through the entire boudoir process and gives you plenty of tips on how to style yourself and prep to make the most out of your photoshoot. Plus you’ll get a $100 print credit to spend at your session! Get the guide here.

If you have any questions about our photoshoots I’d be happy to talk with you. Reach out here and we can plan a time for a quick chat. Talk soon!