I've just had an enquiry from one of my brides whether I would do I boudoir shoot so she can give the images to her husband as a wedding gift...
Now I've never done one before but I'm always up for a new project... however...
what does one require for preparation? I guess I'm thinking more along the lines of mindset ?
Have people felt uncomfortable doing this? Do all boudoir shooters need to be into it or do you feel like a masseur would (I assume) feel that it's all in a day's work.
Just that I usually feel there's an emotional bond of sorts with my photography - bridal couples or children for that matter - so how does that mess with your relationship with the bride? IYKWIM?
I'm TRYING to explain what I mean, but hoping I haven't failed dismally!
Well, if you're not feeling into it or feeling uncomfortable I'm sure the client is going to pick up on that energy and that's not going to be good for the shoot. Just set up the right expectations, create a mood that you're comfortable with and do some great shooting.
I do boudoir sessions - fairly regularly, now. I've never felt uncomfortable due to the type of shooting - more nervous at first not having experience. I'm totally comfortable now. I did a session for MY husband several years ago and it has helped having been on "that" side of the camera. My clients, though, usually ARE quite nervous. I compliment them as we are shooting and that helps, I have them start in the outfit they are most comfortable in, and over time they loosen up. Some bring a "beverage" to help. My boudoir inquiries have really started increasing the past few months, and I really enjoy shooting them!
lisy78 wrote:
What's with these dudes with chick sounding handles. IT HAS TO STOP!
Ha ha, what about dudes with vague username but a girl avatar?
To the OP, I have only done like 2 boudoir/lingerie type of shoot, but I think the once advice I can give you (as a guy) is that you engage with the client constantly. When I shot, I actually so focused on my technical stuff (camera settings, lighting) that I didn't realize the girl on the other side of the camera until I was editing. I think at that point, it can become a bit creepy...
Although, I think if the client asks you to do it, when you are a dude, then she obviously trust you and like your work, so you got nothing to worry about. Just show up and have fun!
As for the "beverage", that's probably not suitable for a guy... in case something happens, and people find out "drinks" were involved, it may not be in your favor... Sounds like it works for female photographers though!
I will have a non-medicated root canal before I have a bodoir shoot without at LEAST one other female present... and preferably also a friend of the client.
In fact I just don't do sessions with females on their own period. I've had models contact me asking me for a session and that was always the rule.
always bring someone. if they don't have someone to bring, just get a hairstylist (female) to help take care of fly-aways. then it works well, and yes, the ladies I've shot usually have a drink, one. Its their decision. I never recommend it, but understand that we are shooting something under contract and they wanted it. If I were alone, I wouldn't allow beverages.
Boudoir shoots are kind of a whole different animal than wedding photography... You don't have to have an emotional connection with each client per se but they do require a lot more work both in posing/shooting as well as post processing. Clients tend to need a lot of direction for these types of shoots so in preparing (especially if you have never shot boudoir before) you may want to research poses/design your lighting before hand. When you think of pricing make sure you are compensated well for your time... You'll spent an eternity on skin smoothing, retouching and liquifying which can definitely take its toll on your eyes I would also recommend choosing your own location and adding the price of this into your fees.
I find that if you have some music it helps to lighten the mood a bit. I offer clients a glass of champagne as well.
If you are up to the challenge and maybe even looking to add this service to your portfolio I would definitely say shoot it. If you do a great job it will only strengthen your relationship with the bride. If you are NOT into it though I would recommend you refer her to someone who shoots boudoir on a regular basis... I am not going to lie it IS tough to shoot and takes a lot of time to edit.
Hope this helps Feel free to PM me if you have any questions I would definitely be willing to help!
on a more serious note... I'd suggest practicing with a model mayhem model... at least in terms of poses. You do it as a TFCD and get to play with someone who at least won't mind if things take longer than they should 'cause you can be open with them about it being your first time.
Before I did my first shoot, I grabbed my roommate at the time, and had a four hour shoot, no expectations of producing anything, and I could have a open dialogue of how to instruct someone in order to get the result I need. Invaluable.
And I disagree with Ardent. What was stated about PP time is true, if you want to do your work that way. Find the right light, attire, and style, and you don't need any PP. I haven't, ever, used Liquify or any smoothing software, and rarely use the rubber stamp or bandaid tool. My boudoir is my fastest growing photographic job. I address my clients, educate them on what I offer, and find my clients match my options in their desires.
I just did my 1st boudoir session. I was worried that I would be a little uncomfortable, but once I got shooting it all went away. I brought my wife along with me and it was a great asset to have her there. I would suggest having someone she's comfortable with (she was friends with my wife) who can help pose her, and make minor adjustments.
we really took our time with the shoot, you could tell as the shoot progressed she got a lot more comfortable and the pics really show it.
thanks all! I'm in two minds about it:
1) I'm always interested in trying something different...especially to change things up a little
2) Not sure about seeing other people in their undies!
