10 Tips On Picking The Right Boudoir Photographer
Because it can be really hard to make a decision, I’ve come up with a list of 10 Tips to help you pick the photographer for you! Click “Get The PDF” below or just keep reading!
1. Location, Location, Location
It is imperatively important that you know where your session will take place- for some obvious reasons and some not-so-obvious reasons.
Obviously it’s a safety concern to know where you are going to be shooting. While it’s not an immediate red flag if a photographer shoots out of their home studio or a hotel, it’s important to know the area that these places are. No reputable photographer is shooting out of a Red Roof Inn in the inner city.
The not-so-obvious concerns are about location safety. If you are planning an outdoor session in the woods, how will things like bugs and wildlife be addressed? If you’re shooting in/near water, how comfortable is your photographer with those conditions? Don’t ever get on the edge of a cliff for the shot! Also, always let someone know where you’ll be.
2. Get To Know Them
This is a big investment, make sure you’re comfortable with your photographer. Most, if not all, legitimate boudoir photographers have a social media presence. Make sure you snoop their socials to get a feel for them. Also, as much as no one likes the phone these days, it is important to get on the phone with them to get a feel of how they will interact and vibe with you.
3. Check Out Their Work
Just like you are unique, so is every photographer. Most established photographers have spent years crafting a signature style of shooting and editing. An established, professional photographer most likely has a solid website with work that matches their social postings, so their potential clients know what to expect.
It may be a red flag if you see a photographer with various different styles across all of their social platforms and websites.
There are so many different styles from dark and moody to light and airy and so much in between. Some photographers use a lot of props and elaborate sets while some choose minimal set ups that make you the star of the show.
2. Get To Know Them
This is a big investment, make sure you’re comfortable with your photographer. Most, if not all, legitimate boudoir photographers have a social media presence. Make sure you snoop their socials to get a feel for them. Also, as much as no one likes the phone these days, it is important to get on the phone with them to get a feel of how they will interact and vibe with you.
4. Experience and Expertise
Boudoir photography can be empowering and give you an incredible boost in your self-confidence when done properly. It is important to take into consideration how long your potential photographer has been shooting BOUDOIR photography, specifically. It is very different from any other genre of photography out there and anyone who argues otherwise should be considered a red flag. Most professional boudoir photographers take continuing education to make sure that they are always performing at the top of their game to deliver you the absolute best experience they can. Is your potential photographer a “jack of all trades, master of none” or are they a “specialist”?
5. Privacy
Boudoir photography involves capturing intimate moments, and it’s crucial to choose a photographer who respects your privacy and maintains discretion when handling sensitive imagery.
Pay close attention to how the photographer handles privacy. Is there a model release? Do you have the option to retain full privacy, anonymous release or a full release? Full privacy means your photographer will not share any of your images socially, on their website or anywhere else. Anonymous release is similar to the image here! It is where your photographer is granted permission to share images that do not have your face. Full release means you allow your photographer to share any and all images taken during the session.
Keep in mind that if you are partaking in a “model call” or other discounted session, it may be a requirement to sign a full release, this is not a red flag but it is important to consider when signing up for special session discounts.
6. Professionalism
Contemplating a Boudoir Photoshoot is already a nerve wracking decision for most. Choosing a Professional – professional photographer ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish. Professionalism encompasses various aspects, including timely responses to inquiries, clear communication, adherence to deadlines, and respectful conduct during the shoot. Your boudoir photographer should NEVER make you feel like a burden or that they’re annoyed when you ask questions!
6. Gender
A boudoir photoshoot will capture some of your most raw and intimate images and feelings. You will be in various stages of dress and undress so its important that you feel comfortable with who is behind the camera.
It is important to consider your comfort level with the gender of your photographer. Some women only feel comfortable with other female photographers while some actually feel more comfortable with a male. There are even gender-neutral and gender-fluid photographers!
Something to consider: A male shooting boudoir is not an automatic red flag! There are a number of incredible male boudoir photographers out there who are just as passionate about empowering women as us women boudoir photographers are. That being said, it might be worth it to “vet” a male a little more closely.
8. Testimonials
Most established photographers should have some reviews on Google, Facebook, Yelp or some other review based site.
Look at the good reviews to get a sense of the experience that others have had with your potential photographer.
Look for negative reviews too to see if it seems to be a one-off bad experience or if there are any trends.
While not having reviews isn’t an immediate red flag (not all photographers have accounts where you can leave a review!)- It should, at minimum, raise an eyebrow.
You can check out all of my Google Reviews HERE
9. Pricing
In today’s world, price-shopping is second nature thanks to online shopping giants like Amazon, Temu and Shein. While it definitely has its place, price shopping for a boudoir photographer is not it. This is one of those situations where cheaper isn’t always better. More often than not, specialized and experienced boudoir photographers charge prices that reflect their mastery of the genre, and who else would you trust with memories that should last forever!
It’s also important to understand what is and what is not included and if there are any hidden “extras”. Ask if retouching is included? Is Hair and Make-up included? Is access to a client closet an option? Is the location an upcharge?
On the subject of pricing, many photographers charge a session fee, which includes the shoot itself and services such as Hair and Make-Up, the photoshoot itself and all of the consultations. Products are often sold separately so you have ultimate freedom to choose the items that you really want!
10. Trust Your Gut
Ultimately, trust your instincts when choosing a boudoir photographer.
Do they pass the vibe check?
Pay attention to how you feel during the consultation process and whether you feel a strong connection and sense of trust with the photographer. A photographer can check all of the boxes, but if something just doesn’t feel right it might lead to an experience that does not meet your expectations.
Your intuition can often guide you toward the right choice for capturing intimate and beautiful images that reflect your unique personality and style.
A Little Bit About me
Hi! I’m Rae, a Professional Boudoir Photographer out of Syracuse, NY.
I have been a professional boudoir photographer for about 4 years and I’ve photographed hundreds of women, helping them realize that they are beautiful exactly how they are, in this very moment! I have helped give them images that make them feel beautiful, confident, and proud!
I have spent years and years of my life feeling…less than. Hating the very body that has persevered with me through all of my wins and losses, obsessed with the images I saw on the screen and always comparing myself to others.
It wasn’t until I was in my 40s when I finally accepted my body for the miracle she is. A huge weight was lifted off of me when I stopped seeking validation based on my body and instead re-defined my own beauty standards.
I can do the same for you! I’d love to chat with you about how a boudoir photoshoot can help you become your own definition of beautiful! Simply pick a time below to schedule a quick, complimentary phone consultation!