Achieve a gilded, honey-toned glow with spray tan Maitland expert, Rhani Martin.

My inbox is often overflowing with questions and last-minute flusters about getting a spray tan before photoshoot. So, to put your mind at ease, I’ve partnered with mobile spray tan Maitland expert, Rhani Martin, to create this ultimate tanning guide. I promise it’ll be your gateway to gilded, honey-toned skin and flawless final photos.

Important preparation for spray tan before photoshoot

While sun-kissed skin adds depth and contrast to your boudoir photos “excess sun exposure can have catastrophic consequences in the long term”. With the right preparation, fake tan/a professional spray tan will create the same illusion, shadows and definition – minus the risk of uneven spots, sunburn or sun damage.

Rhani stresses the importance of preparing your skin for a tan and answering detailed pre screening forms, “it’s important that every tan is personalised. There are many factors that can interfere with colour development – including hormone changes in pregnant or lactating women, medications and even your age”.

A consistent skincare routine which involves regularly exfoliating your body, followed by a nourishing moisturiser (especially on the elbows, feet, hands and knees) is important – however you’ll need to adjust your post-shower ritual before your spray tan Maitland if you want to avoid patchiness:

Avoid exfoliating 36 hours before getting a spray tan Maitland
Avoid waxing 48 hours before tanning
Avoid shaving 12 hours before tanning
Skip the moisturisers on the day of your tan – you want a blank, oil free canvas.

On the day of your spray tan before photoshoot

In terms of preparation, there isn’t much difference between self-tanning and opting for a professional spray tan before your boudoir photoshoot. On the day you plan to tan, don’t apply any moisturisers, serums or creams to your skin.

You’ll also need to set aside at least 6-8 hours of doing nothing. No groceries, errands or bustling into a busy work office: the longer you can allow your tan to develop without disrupting it, the more even you will glow.

Rhani approaches photoshoot spray tans the same as any kind of stage performance or event. “To help you prepare for your boudoir photoshoot, I’ll choose a type of tan consisting of a base and top coat: normally in the darkest shade violet base because it’s a really great foundation to blend with and photographs beautifully. I’ll also apply a finish spray for longevity!”

Post-tan, you’ll want to choose loose clothes in light fabrics to avoid sweating and rubbing. If you’ve tanned later in the day, sleeping in an old doona cover naked or buying a tanzee will save your sheets.

So, when should I get a spray tan before photos?

Spray tan Maitland expert Rhani recommends getting your spray tan 24-48 hours prior to your boudoir photoshoot.

Aftercare: Prolonging your golden glow until ‘shoot day

Once your tan has finished developing, you’ll need to have a warm shower to rinse the excess tan off your skin. If you’ve had a professional spray tan, follow your tanners post-care instructions. When showering, avoid all soaps and cleansers. And when it comes to drying off, reach for a soft towel and use a gentle, patting motion to dry your skin thoroughly. .

To prolong your spray tan radiance and ensure it fades evenly, moisturise morning and night using gentle strokes. This will keep the colour rich and luminous until you’re in front of the camera.

For a limited time, you can book a spray tan Maitland with Mobile Tanning Solutions by Rhan and receive xy off your spray tan. Just mention Maru Collective at the time of booking.