5 Tips to Help You Prepare For Your Boudoir Shoot

#1 – Decide if you want to do your own hair and makeup, hire a hair/makeup artist, or use our in-house hair and makeup artist for a $250 fee. Properly and beautifully done hair and makeup will make a HUGE difference in the final outcome of your images. We use studio lighting, and professional hair and makeup artists know how to apply makeup for these lighting conditions.

#2 – Use our Lingerie Guide to help you choose outfits for your shoot! We ask that you bring a MAX of 3 outfits to your shoot.  If you don’t own a lot of lingerie or are just unsure of what will look best on you, we do offer the option of using our client closet for a $150 fee. We have literally hundreds of outfits in sizes S-4X in our client closet, as well as heels!

#3 - Hydrate Your Skin: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your shoot to keep your skin hydrated. Well-hydrated skin appears smoother and more radiant in pictures and makes it easier to apply makeup.

#4 Stretch Daily - For 1-2 weeks before your shoot, we recommend that you incorporate daily stretching into your routine to improve flexibility and posture. Stretching will help you feel more comfortable during poses and increase your capability to do more difficult poses. Calf, neck and back stretches are going to be the most beneficial.

#5 = Embrace Self-Care: Engage in activities that make you feel pampered and confident in the days leading up to your shoot. Take a relaxing bath, indulge in a massage, practice self-affirmations, and prioritize self-care to boost your mood and radiate confidence. Relax and Rest: Prioritize a good night's sleep before your photoshoot. Relaxing and resting will help you feel refreshed and ready to shine in front of the camera.

 By following these tips, you'll be fully prepared to embark on your boudoir journey with Allure Imagery. Remember, this experience is about celebrating your unique beauty and embracing your confidence. Trust us, relax, and allow yourself to shine, as these moments captured on camera will be cherished for a lifetime.

Why Boudoir is The PERFECT Gift….for Yourself!

During the complimentary phone consultation that we do with each prospective client, quite often, we hear that their main reason for wanting to do a boudoir shoot, is for their significant other. Now…we aren’t saying that that’s bad….in fact, we’ve said COUNTLESS times that boudoir is the PERFECT gift. And it really IS! And that’s because, they think that it’s all about them, but we know, that a boudoir shoot is REALLY for YOU!

In a world that can be pretty demanding, it's crucial to find ways to celebrate who we are and give ourselves some much-needed love. A boudoir shoot definitely isn't just about photos—it's about giving yourself an epic confidence boost.

We live in a world that's always telling us how we should look. It's easy to forget how uniquely beautiful we are. A boudoir shoot lets you rediscover yourself, flaws and all. It's about owning your body, every curve, scar, and quirk. It's like a reminder that you're already stunning, just the way you are.

A boudoir shoot isn't just about taking some cool pictures; it's like a journey of self-discovery. It's a chance to explore and celebrate your sensuality and femininity. It's like looking in the mirror and seeing a side of yourself you might not know so well. This often leads to more self-confidence and a deeper understanding of who you are. Sometimes our self-esteem takes a nosedive, and that can really hold us back. But guess what? A boudoir shoot can be a serious confidence booster. When you see yourself through the camera lens, you'll realize how fierce and captivating you are. Those pictures are a reminder that you're worth it and that you're a total knockout.

Life is a wild ride filled with ups, downs, and all sorts of crazy stuff. A boudoir shoot is like a way to throw a party for yourself, no matter where you're at in life. Whether you're marking a big life moment or just celebrating your everyday awesomeness, it's like a high-five to yourself for being amazing.

Boudoir photography is all about embracing vulnerability in the most empowering way. It's stepping out of your comfort zone and letting your true self shine. The trust you put in us as your photographers and in yourself during the shoot is a reminder that you can be open and real while still feeling strong and super empowered.

Your stunning boudoir pics aren't just for today; they're timeless treasures that increase in value, each year. As the years roll by, your beautiful album will remind you of your beauty, strength, and sensuality. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, lifting your spirits and reminding you that you're beautiful, strong, and totally deserving of love and admiration.

A boudoir shoot isn't just a fancy treat; it's like giving yourself the best gift ever. It's a shout-out to your uniqueness, a journey of self-discovery, and a mega confidence booster. It's like a chance to be vulnerable while feeling strong and confident. Most importantly, it's an investment in yourself, a reminder that you're already stunning, strong, and totally worth celebrating. So go ahead, treat yourself to a boudoir shoot, and let it be a big ol' celebration of you! 📸💃💕

Why I Shoot Boudoir Photography

In this blog post, our owner, Reina, discusses her WHY, in her own words.

”Almost every person I meet, once they hear that I own boudoir studios, the very next thing they are curious about is, how I came to settle on boudoir. Honestly, there is no quick answer for this, it is something that slowly built over decades, long before I was a photographer, much less know what boudoir photography was.

 The short story is that I am a seeker of beauty. I find it all around me, in the every day moments and things. I especially notice it in other people, primarily women, and boudoir is my way to capture, create & show women how beautiful they are.

The long story starts in my early 20s. I was a wife and a mom of a new baby girl, and that is when my passion for photography began. I became determined that my daughter would have better than what I had growingup. Only one single snapshot even exists of me as a baby, and just a few more of me as a young child, and I was wanted my daughter to have photographic proof that she mattered and that she was loved. Pictures are SO important to me, because I know what it feels like to not have them.

Over the years, I gradually turned my hobby into a career as a family and child photographer. While I enjoyed some parts of photographing families, it honestly drained me in many ways. I much preferred being able to photograph women in a artistic way that really fed my creative soul, but not many women seemed to want portraits of themselves like that. Eventually that led me to specialize in photographing high school senior girls, which was so much fun! But something was still missing for me….that deep connection and taking more than just a pretty picture, parts, were missing.

At this point, I did know what boudoir photography was, but had immediately ruled it out. I grew up very conservatively, and was uncomfortable with the idea… PLUS, what would my family say?!?! Probaby very similarly to what my clients feel when they first contemplate a shoot, I at first told myself, that boudoir was NOT for me. I couldn’t possibly be a boudoir photographer! I don’t have the right kind of personality! And when I eventually did dip my toes into boudoir, I felt like that fear was confirmed for me. I did a boudoir shoot for a friend of a friend and we were not a good match in style, expectations and personality, to the point where I decided that I definitely was not meant to be a boudoir photographer.  

Thankfully, a few years later, I decided to try again, but this time, I realized that I needed to maintain control of the environment and to set clear boundaries and expectations from my clients. It was such a HUGE difference! Because I brave enough to put out who I was, I begin to attract clients that wanted the same from their photographer. My clients wanted sexy & classy images and a safe experience, and that’s what I wanted to give them. Very quickly after that, things fell into place. Showing my clients their pictures and helping them see how beautiful they really are became my addiction….I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT. I found my home.

Many women have NEVER seen themselves as beautiful or even pretty. Most women are working on overcoming some sort of childhood or relationship trauma. We all have stories and experiences that have shaped our views on how we see ourselves, and I can absolutely relate to all of that. My studio is a safe place to talk about all of that, and to heal. I think that a boudoir shoot is one of the most powerful and empowering experiences a woman can do for themselves. It gives the opportunity for each woman to take charge and responsibility for how they see themselves, to smash down walls and boxes and the limitations we put on ourselves.

I consider it one of the biggest privileges of my life to be a part of each client’s journey, whatever it is! Let me show you how beautiful you are, you deserve to know it and feel it to your core. You deserve to exist in beautiful pictures of yourself. You matter and deserve to be seen.”

Alicia’s Boudoir Shoot…in her own words

Embarking on a boudoir photography session was a significant step for me, especially since I've always had trouble recognizing my own beauty. I was pretty nervous as I entered this unknown territory, but little did I realize how much this experience would impact me. When I initially booked the session, I had no idea about the emotional journey I was about to embark on.

Upon reaching the studio, a mix of nerves and excitement flowed through me. The welcoming smiles and genuine care from the photographer and the hair/makeup artist (DEFINITLY took advantage of their in-house hair and makeup services!) quickly put me at ease, creating a trustworthy and comfortable atmosphere. Their professionalism boosted my confidence and allowed me to fully engage in the process.

After my hair and makeup were done, I couldn't believe the person staring back at me in the mirror. It was a transformation, a more beautiful version of myself that I didn't know existed. It 100% boosted my confidence.

As their photographer directed and took my pictures, she showed me several along the way. Initially nervous, as we progressed, I saw more and more amazing images. It became evident that this was more than just a photo shoot; it was an intimate exploration of my inner self. It revealed layers of vulnerability and strength, exposing a side of me I had ignored for a long time.

After the shoot, it was time to see the final images. My heart raced with anxiety and anticipation as we went through them on the TV. I couldn't help but be overwhelmed. You see, I had never seen myself as beautiful before. NEVER. Yet, the woman in those photos was undeniably beautiful, and SHE was ME. That realization shattered the walls of self-doubt that had surrounded me for years.

The album I purchased was even more beautiful and special. I couldn't help but tear up again as I looked at the woman in the album. Her radiance and confidence resonated deeply within me, erasing the remnants of self-doubt that had haunted me for years. It was an emotionally profound experience, a moment of pure self-acceptance and self-love.

My boudoir experience went beyond a typical photoshoot, leading me on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. The images in my custom album are timeless reminders of the strength and beauty within me. To anyone who has ever questioned their worth and beauty, I wholeheartedly recommend a luxury boudoir experience with Allure Imagery. It has the potential to uncover a profound sense of self and ignite a newfound appreciation for the remarkable and beautiful individual you are.

Our TOP 10 Reasons Why EVERY Woman Should Do A Boudoir Shoot

While we don’t all value the same experiences in life, boudoir photographers, we have seen the TREMENDOUS value and transformative power that a boudoir shoot brings to a woman’s life.

Here are our top 10 reasons why we think that EVERY woman should do a boudoir shoot!

#1 Confidence and Self-Love: Boudoir shoots can help women appreciate their bodies, boost their self-confidence, and cultivate self-love. By celebrating your unique beauty and sensuality in a supportive and empowering environment, women gain a more positive body image and a greater appreciation for themselves.

#2 Embracing Vulnerability: Participating in a boudoir shoot can be an opportunity for personal growth by stepping outside one's comfort zone and embracing vulnerability. It allows women to challenge societal norms, overcome insecurities, and embrace their authentic selves. We are here to help you smash down the limiting beliefs that you’ve told yourself!

#3 Empowerment and Liberation: For some women, boudoir shoots can be transformative experiences that promote empowerment and liberation. By reclaiming ownership of your body and expressing your sensuality on your own terms, you can challenge societal expectations and embrace your personal autonomy. Yes, you do own your body. It is the only one you get, why not learn to love it?

#4 Celebrating Milestones and Personal Journey: A boudoir shoot is a unique way to commemorate special occasions or personal milestones. Whether it's a wedding, anniversary, birthday, or personal achievement, capturing these moments in a glamorous or intimate setting can create lasting memories and serve as a reminder of personal growth and accomplishments. Life is hard, but you’ve persevered. It’s time to celebrate YOU!

#5 Inspiration for Others: Sharing the experience or images from your boudoir shoot can inspire and empower other women. By openly celebrating their bodies and promoting self-love, women may positively impact others, encouraging them to embrace their own beauty and self-worth. These times are all about celebrating ourselves outside of societal beauty standards, and we are HERE FOR IT.

#6 Creating a Timeless Legacy: Boudoir portraits can serve as timeless keepsakes that capture a woman's beauty at a specific moment in her life. They can be cherished by the individual and passed down through generations, leaving a lasting legacy for family and loved ones. Your great-granddaughters will be IMPRESSED, trust me!

#7 Surprise your partner: Boudoir photography makes for a unique and intimate gift for your partner. It can be a sensual and romantic gesture that will surely make their heart skip a beat. It's a beautiful way to celebrate your connection and love. Like I always say….boudoir is literally the PERFECT gift. Your partner thinks that it’s all about them….while we know that it’s all about YOU! It’s a true, WIN/WIN!

#8 Embody different personas: Boudoir shoots allow you to step into different personas and explore various aspects of your personality. Whether you want to channel your inner seductress, or embrace a softer side, boudoir photography provides a safe space for self-expression. Women are multi-faceted. We are not just wives or partners, or mothers, or employees….we have layers and levels and facets, and boudoir is an opportunity to discover more of what lies below the surface.

#9 Experience a professional photoshoot: A boudoir shoot with Allure Imagery is not just about the final images; it's also about the entire experience. We guide you through your session with our expert poses and coaching. Your confidence will SOAR when you see yourself through our lens!

#10 Embrace your sexuality: Allure Imagery Boudoir is a safe and supportive environment to explore and embrace your own sexuality. It's an opportunity to celebrate your sensuality and feel empowered by your own desires.

At Allure Imager, we fully believe that every woman needs and deserves to know how beautiful they are.. While physical beauty is not the only thing that matters, of course, IT DOES MATTER, at least, in as much as how we see ourselves. Seeing our own, physical beauty isn’t about trying to achieve some impossible beauty standard, it is about seeing the beauty that already exists in us. Whatever your motivation in wanting to do a boudoir shoot, at Allure Imagery, we would absolutely LOVE to be part of your journey. We have studios in both Scottsdale, Arizona, serving the Phoenix area and Castle Rock, Colorado, serving the Denver and Colorado Springs areas.

Why We Don’t Recommend “Babydoll” Outfits For Your Boudoir Shoot.

When it comes to choosing outfits for a boudoir shoot, the most important factor is selecting items that make you feel confident, comfortable, and reflect your personal style. So while most anything goes, we will almost NEVER recommend or give the thumbs up for a babydoll outfit.

Babydoll outfits can be very feminine and alluring, of course, with lots of beautiful movement. IN REAL TIME. However, caught on camera, the excess flowy fabric of a babydoll outfit can make almost anyone look heavier than they are, and hide their beautiful curves. In all our years of photographing women, I have yet to hear from one that they'd like to appear heavier than they are. And with so many other beatiful, curve-hugging lingerie options out there, there really is no reason to take chances with a babydoll outfit.

Busting Excuses - Why You Don’t Need to Fear Boudoir

As women ourselves here at Allure Imagery, we understand the complex emotions that we experience when considering a boudoir shoot. It's a vulnerable and intimate experience that can trigger a range of fears and hesitations. Here are some common fears that might be holding you back from embracing this empowering journey of self-discovery.

My Body and Face Aren’t Good Enough, and Definitely Not "Perfect":

We've come across countless women who express their fear of not meeting the unrealistic beauty standards perpetuated by society. But boudoir photography is not about being perfect; it's about embracing your beauty and individuality, and letting go of the importance we place on our “imperfections”. Trust me when I say that at Allure Imagery, we know how to capture your essence and highlight your best features. Allow yourself the freedom to be seen as the breathtaking woman you truly are. We are here to tear down the walls you’ve built around yourself and the limiting beliefs that you’ve told yourself. You ARE beautiful, and I’ll prove it to you.

I Don’t Have Time To Do a Boudoir Shoot:

As busy women, we juggle multiple roles, it's understandable that you may feel apprehensive about taking time for yourself. But here's the truth: self-care is not selfish; it's a necessity. A boudoir shoot with us at Allure Imagery is designed for the busy woman. In under two hours, we will do your shoot, and you’ll be able to view your images! But even that short time allows you to reconnect with your sensuality, rediscover your inner strength, and boost your self-esteem. Consider it an investment in your overall well-being. You deserve this time to embrace your femininity and celebrate the incredible woman that you are, both inside and out.

I’m Afraid of What My Friends & Relatives Will Think:

The fear of being judged is a common concern that often holds women back from experiencing the transformative power of a boudoir shoot. Remember that this experience is about you and your journey towards self-acceptance. The opinions of others should never dim the light that radiates from within you. Surround yourself with a supportive and empowering network, and know that we will create a safe space for you to express yourself authentically. This is a deeply personal experience and decision, and one that you don’t even have to share with anyone. 

I’m Afraid That This Experience is Out of My Budget:

We completely understand that the cost of a boudoir shoot may raise hesitations. However, it's essential to view it as an investment in yourself, your self-confidence, and your personal growth. The experience of a boudoir shoot goes far beyond just capturing stunning images; it's about embracing your sensuality, reclaiming your power, and celebrating your unique beauty. We offer flexible pre-payment plans to make this empowering experience accessible to as many women as possible, because we believe that every woman deserves the opportunity to indulge in this transformative journey, regardless of their budgetary constraints. So, don't let financial concerns hold you back from embracing the incredible experience of a boudoir shoot – let us work with you to create a plan that suits your needs and helps you invest in yourself!

And these are just SOME of the fears that we hear about when we talk to women….there are plenty more! What are your fears? If you’re ready to face them then and have your OWN boudoir experience, we are ready and waiting for you!

It’s such a privilege for us to be part of a movement of women, wanting to move forward and take charge of their self-love. It would be an honor to be part of your journey, as well.

Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions about Boudoir

#1 - I don’t know how to pose, do you help with that?

ABSOLUTELY, we do! We promise that we won’t just throw you out there and expect you to know what to do. Your session is completely guided, beginning to end. We will show you what to do, coach you through facial expressions and fix those pesky little details, like hair and what to do with your hands!

#2 - Do you share my images?

Given the extremely personal nature of boudoir photography, we ONLY share client images, when they give us written permission to do so. Each client will receive a model release form that is completely up to them to sign, or to not sign. Want to keep your pictures private? Not a problem! Some clients want to wait until after their session is complete, to decide, and that is just fine as well!

#3 - What should I wear for my shoot?

Most women wear lingerie for their shoot, but if that is outside your comfort zone, an lacy or extravagant nightgown or robe would work as well. Some women like to include something personal of their partner’s as well, such as a dress shirt or even something relating to their profession, like a fireman’s jacket! Our favorite lingerie type is bodysuits, because they flatter EVERY figure, are comfortable and incredibly sexy! Click here to get a copy of our Lingerie Guide!

#4 - Is hair & makeup included?

Hair and makeup are NOT included in our session fee, but they CAN be added on for $250. Using a professional hair and makeup artist for your shoot is HIGHLY recommended, whether you use our in-house HMUA, or find your own. We want each of our clients to look and feel their very best for their shoot, but allow you to do what works best for you.

#5 - Do you Photoshop my images?

Yes, your purchased pictures will be fully retouched. However, since you will see your images the same day of your session, you will actually see them un-retouched, first. We do this for a few reasons. #1 - This allows us show you your images the same day as your shoot. #2 - We like our clients to know and see just how beautiful they are, WITHOUT retouching of their images. #3 - This gives our clients the opportunity to discuss the level of retouching that they would like for their images. Some women want to see their scars and stretch marks, while some do not. We honor you and how you’d like to see yourself.

 Our preferred retouching “style” is a polished glam look. We generally smooth out skin, remove bruises and blemishes and can do some light body contouring on request.

#6 - What type of print options do you offer?

At Allure Imagery, we specialize in printed artwork…it makes our hearts happy to hand over GORGEOUS printed portraits to each client. We offer Print Boxes, Luxury Albums, Wall Art (canvases & metal prints), and more! We are always happy to accomodate specific print requests as well.

 We also have some really, just for fun!, print items as well. We have calendars, ViewMasters and more. These are bonus gifts that are included with the purchase of a collection.

#7 - Do you offer digital images?

While the focus is definitely on printed artwork at our studio, we do offer some digital options as well! Collections will include both printed and digital images, bundled together.

#8 - Do you offer payment plans?

Yes, absolutely! We know that this is a investment for many women, and we want everyone to have the opportunity to have this experience. After the session retainer, we can set up manageable payments for your print purchase, that works for you. Some women will schedule their sessions up to 12 months out, so that they can have the boudoir shoot of their dreams!

#9 - I’m freaking out, what can I do to calm my nerves?

Deep breaths, girl. We got you! This is completely normal, you are not alone. The first thing I recommend, is to reach out via text or email, or even better, schedule a call! It really just helps to talk it out, pinpoint what exactly you’re nervous about, so I can walk you through it. You will still be nervous walking through our door, but we expect this, and know how to distract you. We promise, within 5 minutes, we are just having fun and the nerves fly out of the window!

#10 - Where is your studio located?

We have TWO studio locations: Our first location is in downtown Castle Rock, CO. Castle Rock is a suburb of Denver, and about right in the middle of Colorado Springs and Denver proper.

 Our second location is in Scottsdale, AZ. Scottsdale is a extremely popular suburb of Phoenix, and we serve the entire Sun Valley.