What to ask when booking your intimate Boudoir Shoot, and things to listen for.
No one wants to live with decision regret, and when it comes to choosing a boudoir photographer, it’s really surprisingly trickier than daily decisions. There’s a lot of information out there and a lot of photographers advertising great deals. It’s hard to know where to start and not get sucked into a seductive offer. Booking a boudoir session is a big decision. For most, it’s an intimate experience. For some it is like a bucket list adventure or permanent tattoo. Whatever your reasons, you really need to know you can trust the person you’re booking with and that you connect with their work.
To help you make your decision, I’ve created posts to guide you through the process. In another post to come, I will share the most important things every future boudoir client should consider when choosing their photographer. While checking out reviews, bios, and portfolios is a place great start, to ensure you’re happy for years and years to come, I suggest getting answers to these 20 questions when interviewing a studio or photographer.
QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE BOOKING YOUR BOUDOIR SESSION
What is your experience shooting boudoir?
Look for someone with experience photographing a broad range of clientele, i.e. age, size, comfort level, etc… Many photographers will have experience with semi or professional models, but it’s much more important to have shot real clients in a variety of scenarios.
Why do people choose you over other photographer’s?
Is the photographer a wiz with Photoshop? Amazing with lighting? A goof ball and able to make clients laugh? Consider what really matters to you and look for that in your choice.
What’s your experience with posing/directing?
This is suuuuper important for anyone who isn’t a professional model. “What do I do,” is probably the most common question running through a client’s mind. A great photographer will not only guide you through different poses but also facilitate a flow/environment where you’re free to express yourself in a way that feels natural.
How many outfits does my package include?
How long will the session last?
This is a luxury experience. You want to feel pampered and not rushed.
Do you retouch the final pictures?
Ask if it is an extra fee and if so, how much? Make sure your expectations and photographers policies are in line with each other.
What’s your turn-around time?
This is especially important if you are doing the shoot for a gift and need your images/package back within a certain time frame.
What differentiates your style from other photographers?
Remember, boudoir photography is both an art form AND a business. In the best case scenario, you’ll find a photographer who is talented and highly professional. One thing that sets me apart at Studio RE is my passion for creating cinematic and fine art images. I love movement! We don’t want too stiff and cliche, like going back to the to the same six poses for every client. *borrring*. I am inspired differently by each person who walks through my door. I totally love to leave room for collaboration, but I also have plenty of experience knowing how to create inspiring and empowering images for everyone.
Can I bring a friend?
The answer to this is a bit sticky. Because boudoir is such an intimate experience and for many can be a bit nerve-wracking, you want to be surrounded by positivity. Even the best of friends, without meaning to, can actually make you feel more self-conscious. We always say, as long as you know they’ll be 100% positive, then sure! Also, it’s important to remember why you chose your photographer. If you’re looking to a friend for guidance throughout the shoot rather than trusting the photographer, the final outcome could suffer because your distraction may come through on camera. It happens, it has happened. And in the end, no one comes out of the shoot 100% satisfied. You nor I. Same goes for your significant other. I offer couples shoots for this very reason. The expectation is there and makes it easier on all of us.
How will you help me look my best?
From hair and makeup, a pre-shoot consultation, to lighting and posing, what does a photographer/studio do to make sure you look and feel your best?
How important is posing?
A great pose can really make an image go from “eh” to "hot damn!” Being able to guide someone into a flattering pose should not be undervalued. Also being able to direct someone to a place where they feel comfortable moving on their own is a true art. It’s a bit magical when you can achieve both a beautiful form and compelling expression.
Do you offer b&w photos as well as color?
Do you use natural or artificial light?
Where do you shoot? Do you have different sets?
At Studio RE I customize my space to your vision. We work together to give you your best most beautiful images.
Do you shoot everyone the same?
This goes back to experience and style. A great photographer will be adaptable and have experience with shooting all types of people.
What happens with my image files after the session? Do you use them in your marketing?
A client’s privacy should be top priority. For example, a privacy policy detailed in my contract says I will not use a client’s image without explicit permission. When booking with a studio make sure you know and are ok with what’s being done with your photos post-shoot.
Up next: The three most important things every future boudoir client should consider when choosing their photographer... *Stay tuned, it's coming soon!*
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