What to Expect at a Boudoir Session: From Inquiry to Reveal
At a boudoir session with me in the San Francisco Bay Area, you can expect a pre-session consultation, wardrobe guidance, professional hair and makeup, about 90 minutes of guided posing, and a reveal and ordering appointment a couple of weeks later. Nothing is a surprise, and you'll never be asked to do something you're uncomfortable with.
If you've never done a boudoir shoot, it's completely normal to wonder what actually happens. Here's the whole experience, step by step.
Step 1: What happens when you inquire and have your consultation?
Before you book, we'll have a pre-consultation call. This is your chance to get to know me, ask questions, and talk through your vision. I'll ask about your comfort level, share the wardrobe options available, and walk you through the process. Not sure what you're comfortable with? You don't have to be nude, and here are all your options.
Step 2: How do you book your session?
When you're ready, a $500 session fee holds your date (it's non-refundable and separate from the images and products you choose later). There's no minimum spend, so you only buy what you love. Curious about the full picture? See what boudoir photography costs in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Step 3: How do you prepare?
Before your shoot, we'll go over everything you need to be ready:
A Boudoir Prep Guide covering what to wear and how to prepare leading up to your session day
Wardrobe guidance and access to my Client Closet
3-5 outfit choices, so you have plenty of variety
Step 4: What happens on the day of your session?
Your session lasts about 90 minutes and takes place [at a studio / on location around the Bay Area / in a hotel, depending on what we planned together]. You'll start with professional hair and makeup, and then we'll get to work. I guide you through every pose from head to toe, so you don't need to know how to pose. Most people are nervous in the first few minutes and then relax as we go. I'm also very nitpicky about the little details: I'll fix every strap, move stray hairs, and position your hands so your photos look amazing. Want ideas for your location? Here are my favorite Bay Area boudoir locations.
Step 5: What is the reveal and ordering appointment?
A week or two after your session, we meet again for your reveal. You'll see all of your edited photos, choose your favorites, and purchase a collection or items from the à la carte menu. This is when almost every client says something like "Wow! That's me?!?" Payment plans are available, so the investment fits your life.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a boudoir session take?
A session lasts approximately 90 minutes, not including your consultation and reveal appointment.
What happens during a boudoir photoshoot?
You'll have professional hair and makeup, then I'll guide you through poses in 3-5 outfits. The session ends with a reveal and ordering appointment a week or two later.
Do I need to know how to pose?
Not at all. I'll walk you through every pose from head to toe.
Do I have to be nude?
No. The level of nudity is entirely up to you, and we'll talk through your options before your session.
When will I see my photos?
A few weeks after your session, at your reveal and ordering appointment.
Ready to book your session?
I'm Jenn, a boudoir photographer based in Pacifica and serving the San Francisco Bay Area, with 15+ years of experience. I would LOVE to take you through every step of the experience. Book your boudoir consultation and let's talk about what feels right for you.
xoxo, Jenn