For a boudoir shoot, wear whatever makes you feel confident and comfortable, and you don't have to buy a thing to get started. My Client Closet is full of outfits, robes, and body jewelry for you to borrow, and I'll help you choose in your wardrobe consultation. You can also wear your own lingerie, a bodysuit with jeans, or a cozy robe, and you do not have to be nude (unless you want to be).
Choosing outfits is one of the most common worries before a boudoir session, and it's also one of the most fun parts. Here's how I help my clients in the San Francisco Bay Area get ready.
What's in the Client Closet?
Every session with me includes access to my Client Closet, a collection of pieces you can try on and wear for your shoot. It includes:
Outfits to mix and match for different looks
Robes for a soft, cozy, or glamorous feel
Body jewelry to add a little sparkle and finishing touches
Whether you show up with a suitcase of favorites or with nothing at all, you'll have plenty to choose from. And if you'd like to buy one special piece for your session, I'm happy to guide you.
What should I wear to a boudoir shoot?
There are so many options that will look stunning in your photos. Some ideas:
Lacy lingerie
Jeans paired with a bodysuit
A trenchcoat with fishnets
A cozy robe or one of your favorite everyday pieces
A flowy robe or sheer dress for outdoor sessions, which creates beautiful movement in the breeze
A bra and panty set, which is also perfect if you choose a bodyscape
Most clients love flattering lingerie that shows off their favorite features and hides their "trouble spots." It's also always fun to come up with a creative theme and dress to match.
Do I have to be nude or wear lingerie?
No. The level of nudity is entirely up to you. You can wear lingerie or revealing pieces, or more modest clothing like jeans and a robe. If you're curious about an implied nude look, where a sheet covers you and there's lots left to the imagination, here are all your options.
Do I need to buy new lingerie?
Not necessarily. You may already own pieces you love, and between your favorites and my Client Closet, you'll likely have everything you need. I'm happy to help you decide in your wardrobe consultation.
How many outfits can I bring?
Plan on 3 to 5 outfit choices. That gives us plenty of variety (a soft look, a bolder look, maybe something that feels like you) without feeling rushed. Before your session, you'll receive a Boudoir Prep Guide covering what to wear and how to prepare.
How do I choose outfits that flatter me?
Start with what makes you feel good. If you love how it feels, it will show in your photos.
Tell me what you're self-conscious about. I ask every client ahead of time, and we can pick pieces that help you feel confident.
Add personal touches. Accessories, heels, body jewelry from the Client Closet, and a piece that represents who you are make your photos feel like you.
Show off what makes you unique. Tattoos, piercings, and scars are all welcome.
Choose a mix of looks, from soft and romantic to bold and sexy.
(Add anything from your Boudoir Prep Guide that you'd like to share here, such as colors, fabrics, or things to avoid.)
For more on your whole experience, read what to expect at a boudoir session, and for location ideas, here are my favorite Bay Area boudoir locations.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear to a boudoir photoshoot?
Wear whatever makes you feel confident and comfortable: lacy lingerie, jeans with a bodysuit, a robe, or a trenchcoat with fishnets. I'll help you choose in your wardrobe consultation.
What is a Client Closet?
It's my collection of outfits, robes, and body jewelry that clients can borrow for their boudoir session. Access is included with every session.
Do I have to wear lingerie for a boudoir shoot?
No. The level of nudity and the style of clothing are entirely up to you.
Do I need to buy new lingerie for my session?
No. You can wear pieces you already own and borrow from my Client Closet, and I'm happy to guide you if you'd like to buy something special.
How many outfits should I bring to a boudoir session?
Plan on 3 to 5 outfit choices for plenty of variety.
Ready to plan your outfits?
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 help you find pieces that make you feel incredible. Book your boudoir consultation and we'll start planning your wardrobe together.
xoxo, Jenn