Intimate, comfortable and authentically you – everything you need to prepare for your boudoir shoot.

There’s a misconception that boudoir photography is about nudity and overly-sexualised images – but here at Maru Collective, it couldn’t be any more different. Boudoir photography is a celebratory experience. An opportunity to explore your femininity, practice self-care and appreciate your body for all that is, in any given moment.

To settle any nerves and allow you to relax into your upcoming photoshoot, here are all the answers to how to prepare for boudoir photo shoot.

What is boudoir photography?

Boudoir photography falls somewhere between erotic photography and intimate portraiture. The direction of your photoshoot is entirely up to you, ranging from cheeky and provocative through to empowering and feminine. The focus is how the session makes you feel and we’re here to guide you through the experience.

Above all, it is an artform where you can move, pose and express yourself however you feel comfortable – no matter your body type, gender, sexuality or age.

01. Skincare, body prep and spray tans

While there’s no pressure to bare all during your photoshoot, you’ll likely be showing a little more skin than in traditional photography. Along with the skincare recommended in our Prep Guide, here’s what else you can do ahead of your session:

Drink plenty of water and fill up a water bottle on the morning of your shoot to keep sipping away at
Moisturise morning and night, beginning at least a week prior to your photoshoot
Read our spray tanning guide for that gilded, photo-ready glow.

02. Boudoir lingerie & outfits

During your boudoir session you’ll have time for 2-3 outfit changes. We recommend planning for:

1x boudoir lingerie set, camisole, babydoll or bodysuit. Remember to let us know at least three days in advance if you’d like to book a free private lingerie shopping experience before we begin your photoshoot
1x item of clothing or conservative option. This can be a nice way to ease into the whole experience (especially if you’re nervous). Think along the lines of a button down shirt, slinky dress or chemise
1x nude or nearly-nude set. There are plenty of sheets and props in the studio we can use to tastefully shoot nude photos, however you’re welcome to bring along a g-string for these photos too.

03. Hair and makeup for boudoir photos

All of our boudoir sessions include professional makeup and hair styling. You’ll need to come along to the studio bare-faced with no more than a light SPF applied. Our artist gravitates toward natural and glowy makeup looks that photograph beautifully and enhance your natural features; however you’re more than welcome to organise your own stylist and artist if you’d prefer.

04. To pedicure and manicure or not?

Beyond hair and makeup for boudoir photos and boudoir lingerie, it’s important to keep your hands and feet in mind! You can opt for high heels in some photographs, but going barefoot gives your imagery a warm, relaxed feel which adds variety to your final gallery. We recommend:

Booking in for a manicure and pedicure 1-2 days before your photoshoot
If you’d rather not head to a salon, simply remove any chipped nail polish and give your nails a gentle buff and shape
Avoid choosing bold nail colours as they’ll detract from the photoshoot.