Why Every Bride Should do a Boudoir Shoot

Ludovica Lanzafami

August 5, 2017

Boudoir shoots are nothing new. Hell, I had one when I was engaged in 2007 (and no I’m not going to show you them!) While lots of brides might consider doing them, I’d have to hasten a guess that a lot of you reading this might have dismissed the idea as something silly, vein and super embarrassing. While in 2007 the main marketing push for boudoir photos was an “a gift for your man” (vom) ten years later and I’d still like to encourage you to consider doing one, but as a gift for YOURSELF.

A boudoir shoot is a great way to celebrate what a gorgeous bad ass you are and to create some amazing photographs to reflect that. It’s often easy to get swept up with work, life and current insecurities and not celebrate who we are. It’s a cliche, but when you’re much older I guarantee you’ll look back at photos of yourself now and think “Wow what a babe I was back then!” This is your chance to take some photos for you, but also for future you!

I was submitted this gorgeous set of images by Italian wedding photographer Ludovica Lanzafami recently, and I thought as well as sharing them, I’d use this post to share some things to think about if you’re considering your own boudoir shoot.

Choose the right photographer

This is obviously really important. You want to find a photographer you feel happy with, who will make you feel comfortable. You also want someone who’s on the same wavelength, who understands the style of imagery you want to produce.

Meet them in advance

If possible, I think its always a good idea to meet any photographer before you hire them (whatever the shoot) but especially if you’re doing a boudoir session. It doesn’t matter if the shoot is going to be tame or risque, you’re going to be in a potentially vulnerable situation so you need to be sure you feel good about who you’re hiring.

Set some boundaries beforehand

Show the photographer some examples of the kind of photos you like, but also some that you really don’t like! Explain the vibe of the shoot, what you’re going to wear and how you’d like the photos to look. If they’re thinking of creating something really raunchy and overtly sexual, whereas you want something cute and playful… Well that would be a terrible day for everyone involved!

Trust them

Don’t be afraid to ask if you can speak to their past clients before you book, or read some testimonials.

Also, don’t be worried about them critiquing your body! Yes, they’ll be looking at you, but to figure out poses and lighting that will work best for the shot, they won’t be thinking about what your belly looks like, I promise!

That being said, if you are super nervous, there is no harm in asking if you can bring a friend or your partner along to the shoot too.

Wear something you feel GOOD in (sexy lingerie does not have to be it) 

This is the perfect opportunity for you to buy something new, something you feel your most fabulous in. This is your shoot so your underwear style is more Agents of Shield themed boy shorts over Agent Provocateur lingerie, wear the damn boy shorts! You’ll love the photos more if you look and feel like yourself.

Speak up if you ever feel uncomfortable

It’s a good idea to go into the shoot with a clear idea of how much skin you’d like to show. If the photographer wants you to show more than you’re comfortable, or wants you to pose in ways that you don’t happy about, do not be afraid to say something! Remember this is your shoot, you’re in control. This should be a fun and empowering experience, not a scary one!

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