Boudoir Photoshoot FAQ’s
Tips, Ideas, & Outfits!
What is boudoir photography?
Boudoir photography is a sexy professional photo shoot for all women — from petite to plus-size and Millennials to Baby Boomers. Depending on the look you’re trying to achieve, your boudoir photo shoot can be fun and flirty, intimate and romantic, or very sexy.
During the photo shoot, you’d wear your favorite, fun lingerie that makes you feel confident and beautiful. Some women choose to wear nothing at all!
Women purchase a boudoir photo shoot for a variety of fun reasons. Maybe you want to pamper yourself and celebrate your sexy side. You may be planning a secret gift for a special someone. Or, you’re commemorating a milestone event — like a birthday, getting in shape or pregnancy.
Whatever your reason for purchasing a boudoir photo shoot, know the experience is amazing and empowering.
I’m not my ideal weight. Can you still get great shots like the ones that are on your website?
Yes! I use a variety of poses and lighting techniques that highlight your favorite areas and minimize those you like the least. You’ll be amazed at the results – check out our before and after boudoir gallery.
What are some classy boudoir photo shoot ideas?
Good boudoir photography is beautiful, sensual and always classy. Need inspiration for your shoot? Browse our boudoir photo gallery for ideas.
Do I have to have my hair and makeup professionally done?
Having your hair and makeup done by a professional is vital to a successful boudoir shoot, just like it is for models on magazine fashion shoots. You can have this service done by one of our stylists or by your stylist before arriving at the studio.
My stylists charge $120 for hair and makeup. If you choose to work with your own hair and makeup stylist, we give a $60 credit toward any images you purchase (please bring your receipt if you have it done by an outside professional).
Plus, my stylists are fabulous women who will put you at ease and provide an unforgettable experience. Learn more about my hair and makeup stylist team.
Is your name really Karen French?
Yes (I got lucky with that one since I specialize in boudoir!) Photography has been my life for 18 years. I’m the most published wedding photographer in the country, and “This is LA!” featured my boudoir studio! Learn more about me.
Are men allowed in your studio?
It’s important that the studio be a safe space for everyone. Our clients have shared that our women-only environment helped them feel comfortable, free, and more relaxed.
I’m a plus-size woman. Do other curvy women visit your studio for a boudoir shoot?
Yes! Many curvy women just like you have walked through our studio door for their boudoir photo session — and they loved the experience and their photos! Their photoshoot made them feel sexy, empowered, and unstoppable.
All bodies are beautiful, and we’re experts at photographing all shapes, sizes and ages. When we talk, you can tell me if there are body parts you want to feature (or hide) during your photo shoot (which is a conversation I have with all my clients.) I’ll use lighting and poses to get you exactly what you want.
Do you take your boudoir photos at a photography studio? Or, are the photo shoots in a hotel room or public area (like a field?).
Our 2,000 square foot studio is 100% dedicated to boudoir photography (in fact, we have the largest boudoir studio in Orange County!). You’ll enjoy a beautiful dressing room all to yourself with a fabulous selection of high heels you can use for your shoot. You can even sip Champagne and enjoy luxury chocolate during your hair and makeup session. Prepare to be pampered.
We use large softbox lights in our studio, which is the same type of lighting used for most fashion magazine covers. Plus, our studio has a fun variety of backdrops, furniture, and props we can play with and complete your look. Unlike shooting at a public place – where strangers can watch your entire photo shoot — your session with me is safe and private.
Do you recommend any lingerie stores?
Wondering what to wear to your photo shoot? You have so many sexy options! Here are some of our favorite stores (plus, some local to Los Angeles and Orange County.)
Do you retouch the photos?
Yes, unless you prefer that we don’t retouch your photos. If you do choose retouching, we can remove or soften wrinkles, cellulite, stretch marks, and blemishes. My retoucher used to work with Guess Jeans and is considered one of the best in California).
All women are beautiful, and we are skilled at showcasing that beauty.
How secure are my images? Will they be used on the Internet?
Your boudoir photos are kept safe and private. We never display pictures of our clients on our site, in print, or the studio without your express written permission. We fiercely protect our clients’ privacy, taking every precaution to ensure that all images are secure.
I’m so excited! When can I see my photos?
Your viewing appointment also takes place in our studio, one week after the photo session. Please allow an hour for this appointment.
What are some tips for a successful boudoir photo shoot?
It’s all in the preparation! Get plenty of sleep and stay well-hydrated the day before (and of) your shoot. Come to the studio wearing loose-fitting clothes that won’t leave marks in your skin. Have your hair and makeup done professionally (we can do that for you here!).
For more tips, including what to do if you spray tan and when to shave your legs, learn more about how to prepare for a boudoir photo shoot.
I’m not as young as I used to be. Can you make me look good?
Sharon Stone said, “I think that in the art of aging well, there’s this sexuality to having those imperfections. It’s sensual.”
Boudoir is for all women, no matter her age. We have photographed women whose ages range from 22 (our minimum age for a boudoir photo shoot) to well into their 60s.
Do I have to be nude in my photos?
Not unless you specifically request it! Some people search for “nude photographer” when they’re looking for a boudoir photographer — but nudity is entirely optional.
How long will I be at the studio?
If we’re doing your hair and makeup (our ladies are fantastic, and I highly recommend this option) plan on spending 3 – 3.5 hours. Otherwise, plan on 1.5-2 hours.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you cancel your session at least ten days before to your scheduled session, you may receive a refund. If you cancel your session within ten days of your scheduled session, there is no refund.
What if I want to reschedule my session?
We ask that clients try their best to make their scheduled appointments. We book sessions weeks and months in advance, which includes scheduling our hair and makeup stylists. When a client reschedules or cancels on short notice, we are often unable to re-book the vacant spot, and we’re left with a 1.5 hour (no makeup client) or three-hour (makeup client) empty block on our calendar. This means our photographer and makeup/hair stylist are idle at the studio while they wait for the next appointment.
If you need to reschedule, please contact us at least ten days before your session. If you contact us within ten days, you will need to purchase another session. Sessions may be rescheduled only once; after that, another session will need to be purchased. Thanks for your understanding.
How much do you charge for a boudoir photoshoot?
We’ve listed our boudoir photoshoot prices here. You can also hire our wonderful stylists for professional hair and makeup services.
Karen French Photography is hands down the best in Southern California! From start to finish, the entire team is incredible! The entire experience is second to none in the industry and I highly recommend it! Treat yourself to the phenomenal photoshoot I had and you’ll leave feeling strong, empowered and absolutely beautiful!
JoAnn Landreth., Los Angeles, CA
This was one of my most memorable and empowering experiences for myself! As a mother of a 3 yr old, I felt comfortable in my own skin again and Karen made every moment enjoyable! My photo prints turned out so beautiful! And my makeup was on point!!! Loved this experience!
Jay L., Artesia, CA
This was my first time experience shooting in lingeries. It was awesome. I cant believe I could pose like a model. Karen and her team are amazing and very professional. I love my pictures, very sexy!!! Highly recommend! you should try!!!
Jen W., Los Angeles, CA
I walked in feeling really nervous. But the moment they open the door they makes me feel so comfortable and at ease. …Karen guided me and made me feel comfortable. I had my photo viewing and let me tell you worth every penny I paid! She made me feel more sexy than ever! I definitely got my grove back :)
Lupe A., Santa Ana, CA
