What Should I Bring to a Boudoir Photo Shoot?

The first question people often ask once they’ve decided to book a session is, “What should I bring to a boudoir photo shoot?”

For many, the thought of it can feel a little overwhelming. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through everything you need to bring for your boudoir photo shoot, so there’s no stress involved. You just get to experience an amazing day in the studio.

Your personal style should play a huge role in what you decide to bring to your photo shoot. There are no right or wrong choices—you just need to feel your best, no matter what you decide to wear. Here are some of the most common options people bring:

If lingerie is something you love and feel amazing in, bring a few pieces that make you feel confident. Opt for classic, elegant styles that align with the timeless and artistic aesthetic of your session. This could include a beautifully crafted bra and panty set or a soft lace piece that you adore.

Soft, flowing fabrics and robes can add an elegant, ethereal touch to your boudoir portraits and are a favorite among many of the people I work with. I also have a selection of beautiful pieces available for you to use during your session. If you have fabric or robes that you absolutely love, feel free to bring them along.

The boudoir portraits I create are often inspired by classic art and sculpture. Because of that, many people choose to go with a nude look for part of their session. With the use of light, shadow, and posing, we are able to create artworks that feel like they could be displayed in a museum.

Sometimes, simplicity is key. Consider bringing:

• An oversized sweater for a cozy, intimate vibe.
• A classic button-up shirt (your own or your partner’s).
• A favorite piece of clothing that feels comfortable and reflects your personality.

This is the golden rule: only bring items that you love and that make you feel absolutely amazing. Your confidence will shine through in your portraits.

Accessories can enhance your look but should be kept simple to avoid distractions. Here’s what to consider:

Delicate, minimal jewelry can add an elegant touch to your portraits. Avoid bold or chunky pieces that might draw attention away from you. Stick to items that feel timeless and understated—like a simple bracelet or a thin necklace.

The majority of people choose to go barefoot during their boudoir session, which can create a natural, elegant look. However, if wearing high heels makes you feel more confident, bring a pair that you love. If you decide to wear shoes for your boudoir portraits, I recommend sticking with simple black or neutral colors. Busy patterns can be distracting, taking the attention away from you (though there’s nothing wrong with a beautiful red sole).

The good news? You don’t need to bring a thing for beauty prep. My professional makeup artist team has everything you’ll need to look and feel your best. However, if you have a signature lipstick color or a specific product you adore, feel free to bring it along.

While props aren’t necessary, they can add a unique element to your photos. Some ideas include:

• Flowers: A bouquet or single stem adds softness and beauty.
• Heirlooms: A special piece of fabric or jewelry with personal meaning.

If you’re considering props, let’s chat beforehand to ensure they align with the vision for your shoot.

A successful boudoir session isn’t just about what’s in your bag—it’s also about your mindset. Here’s what to bring mentally:

You’re beautiful just as you are. Trust in the process and your photographer’s expertise. Be kind to yourself and embrace your uniqueness.

Be open to trying new poses and ideas. To be 100% honest, many poses may feel unnatural or even a little strange. As a general rule of thumb, if it feels ridiculous, it probably looks amazing on camera. Trust the process.

Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at the studio and settle in. Being relaxed will help you enjoy the experience fully.

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure a smooth session:

• Tight Clothing Before the Shoot: Skip tight jeans or socks that might leave marks on your skin.
• Excessive Accessories: Too many pieces can overwhelm the image. Stick to one or two key items per look.
• Last-Minute Purchases: Avoid buying brand-new items the day before without trying them on. Ensure everything fits and feels comfortable.

1. How many outfits should I bring?

I recommend bringing 3-5 outfits/looks to give you variety during your session.

2. Should I bring makeup and hair products?

You don’t need to bring anything—my makeup artist team has everything you’ll need. However, if you have a favorite product, feel free to bring it along.

3. Can I bring a friend for support?

You may absolutely bring someone with you to your session. However, I typically recommend they wait either in the makeup room or in the sitting areas outside of the working space while you are in front of the camera. The reason for this is many people are already a little nervous to have the camera focused on them. Having an additional set of eyes on them can sometimes cause a bit of stage fright.

That said, the makeup room and sitting areas of my studio are right next to the shooting space with open doors but walls for privacy. You get the benefit of your friend being right there without the pressure of additional eyes on you.

Bringing the right items to your boudoir photo shoot ensures you’ll feel confident, prepared, and ready to create stunning, timeless portraits. From wardrobe essentials to emotional preparation, a little planning goes a long way in making your session unforgettable.

If you’re ready to book your boudoir session or have more questions about what to bring, let’s chat. Together, we’ll create something beautiful.