Everything You Need to Know About Wedding Boudoir Photography

Wedding boudoir photography provides an intimate way to bond with your future spouse. Present them with an album of sultry photos before your wedding ceremony, or pose for spicy shots together before the big day. It's also an empowering way to remind yourself that you're beautiful.

Look for an experienced photographer that matches your desired wedding photography style. You also want to hire someone who helps you feel confident and safe. From when to book your boudoir session to the info you need before you go, we spoke with expert wedding photographer Lauren Solano, owner of Lauren Cherie Photography, out of Albuquerque New Mexico for the tips and tricks you need to know for an amazing (and sexy) shoot.

In this story:

• What Is Boudoir Photography?
• When Should You Do a Boudoir Shoot Before a Wedding?
• How Much Is a Boudoir Shoot?
• What to Do With Boudoir Photos
• Boudoir Photography Tips
• How to Find a Boudoir Photographer

What Is Boudoir Photography?

Wedding boudoir photography is a sexy professional photo session to-be-weds can use as a gift for their partner and to build confidence in themselves. Photo outfits include lingerie or comfortable clothing that shows extra skin. Some to-be-weds choose to wear nothing at all but are partially covered with a sheet or pillow. Depending on your comfort level, poses can range from playful and flirty to as sexy as you want.

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When Should You Do a Boudoir Shoot Before a Wedding?

Solano recommends scheduling a boudoir shoot at least three months before your wedding. "This will allow plenty of time to get your photos edited and back to you," she said. This also gives you enough time to order a custom album of your favorite photos.

How Much Is a Boudoir Shoot?

Wedding boudoir photography costs range greatly from photographer to photographer and in different locations. Solano said packages can range from $750 to $3,000. "Do your research ahead of time to find a photographer that's not just within your budget but one that has the style you actually like," she said. "Remember this is not a regular photoshoot. This is a specialized type of photoshoot that is an investment and at the end of the day, you will get what you pay for. Be sure to ask if they offer payment plans. That may also be an option."

What to Do With Boudoir Photos

Boudoir photos make a great wedding gift for your partner. Surprise them with a sexy album right before or on your wedding day. They will go crazy over seeing your spicy snapshots. This stunning compilation of photos is also a gift for yourself. Remind yourself of your beauty and power every time you look through your boudoir album.

Photo: Bob Thomas / Getty Images

Boudoir Photography Tips

From choosing your bridal boudoir outfit to posing advice, follow these tips to help you feel confident and prepared for your boudoir wedding shoot.

Bring a Variety of Comfortable Outfits

Take along multiple outfits to your photoshoot. A bra and panty set, one-piece options and lace outfits are all good choices. Bring lingerie in a few different colors to give your wedding boudoir photography album variety.

"I always help my clients choose outfits that complement their body and the style that they're going for and outfits that they will feel comfortable in," Solano said. "If you choose something that is too far outside of your comfort zone, it will show in your photos. Also, keep in mind that sexy doesn't always mean less clothing. So be yourself and choose outfits that you like." Also, avoid clothing that is too tight. This leaves indentations in your skin that show up in your photos.

Accessorize Your Attire

Solano suggests bringing as many accessories as you can to your wedding boudoir photography shoot. Elevate your outfits with shoes, jewelry, pantyhose, a sexy robe and props. Don't be afraid to also bring bridal accessories including your veil and garter.

Prep Your Body

Shave and moisturize your body before your photoshoot, but skip the fake tan. "As much as you may want to be tanned for your photos, fake or self-tanners tends to look really orange in the photos and can be streaky," Solano said. "For a regular photo shoot, this wouldn't be an issue but with a boudoir session, you're showing lots of skin and it's much more noticeable."

Get a Mani/Pedi Beforehand

A day or two before your bridal boudoir photography session treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure. "Again, you'll be showing lots of skin and in boudoir sessions, details are everything," Solano said. "With all those close-up shots, those details will show."

Book Professional Hair and Makeup Services

"Professional hair and makeup is a must for your boudoir session," Solano said. "If it's not included in your boudoir session package, I suggest making an appointment to get your hair and makeup done right before your session. Bring some extra makeup to your session just in case you need to touch up during the session. Lipstick is one of those things that may wear off before the session is over."

Practice Posing

Slip on your lingerie and practice posing in front of a mirror at home and note which poses you love. This helps you feel more prepared and gives you a confidence boost before your photoshoot. A few tips: pull your shoulders back and tilt your chin slightly up for a flattering jawline, or pose with your body slightly turned for a slimming silhouette.

Include Your Partner

Wedding boudoir photography isn't limited to one person. Capture the love and passion between you and your partner by bringing them along. Choose outfits that make you both feel confident (bonus points for coordinating colors) and practice posing together at home. Revisit these pictures after your wedding as a reminder of each other's sexiness.

Don't Forget to Have Fun

The most important thing to remember is to have fun. Take a deep breath, relax and enjoy your photoshoot. "It's completely normal to be a little nervous before your shoot, but please don't worry because if you choose an experienced photographer, you will be in very good hands. They will show you exactly how to pose and work with you to get the perfect shot," Solano said.

How to Find a Boudoir Photographer

Find bridal boudoir photography near you by searching for professionals on The Knot Vendor Marketplace. "Be sure to find a photographer who is experienced and professional and be sure to read reviews," Solano said. "Also, make sure they have a private studio where you will feel safe and comfortable." Consider using your wedding photographer if they offer this service or a pro with boudoir photography experience. Ask questions before booking to ensure they're the right fit for you.