Breaking the ice
One of the things I love the most being a boudoir photographer, is watching someone come alive in front of the camera. It’s inevitable, every time when someone opens themselves up to the process and connects with their body under my guidance, magic just happens. Because I don’t often work with models, and rarely have people even done a photoshoot before, it creates a situation where things could go one way or another. Incredible sunshine and rainbows, or horrible. Thankfully we truly haven’t experienced the latter. I like to think this is due to the care and consideration put into every step of the Speak To Me experience.
Step 1: the consultation
There is a reason we require a consultation. It allows you to get to know me, as much as I get to know you. The thing we hear most from our clients is how the entire experience is like being amongst friends, and this is where is starts. Walking you through the experience, learning what makes you feel confident and sexy, and forming an experience to best represent your dream experience. Creativity a unique and individualized experience, providing information for other accounts and sources of inspiration, reviewing options for looks and considerations for props and accessories. By the end, you have a better idea of what to expect and can get excited about the preparations.
Step 2: Continued conversation
In general, there tends to be time between consultation and photoshoot. During this time we maintain conversation and work closely together, messaging back and forth, with inspiration for poses and looks. Confirming lingerie and accessories. This allows for more transparency and in the effort of easing some of the nerves as you prepare for the day. This is another reason we highly recommend letting us take care of you the day of and let us do your hair and makeup.
Step 3: Getting ready
Speakin of hair and makeup, we find that this really helps to ease the nerves. As I serve your mimosa, Kasi and Leah work their magic. Leah pays incredible attention to prep of the face. Using skincare and consulting in the moment with your skin type so she can tailor products to what is going to work best for your skin type. We talk, get to know each other as a group, listen to music and ease into things. As we transition to Kasi running her hands through your hair, again, choosing products for the look you’ve selected, to ensure longevity past the photoshoot itself. Once you are styled, we like to do a big reveal. We take you to the bathroom to do the grand reveal to see your finished look.
After, we lay out the outfit options and all of the things you brought for the photoshoot on the couch. I generally say, the more the merrier. As we finalize the styles and outfits, we map out the day, which outfits in which areas and what type of poses in each. I take a lot of care in choosing optimal combinations to prove the most flattering photos. Choosing where to start, and how to progress, taking into consideration flow and timing.
Step 4: Time to shoot!
As your boudoir photographer, it is my job to warm you up to the process. Before we get started I walk you through some things to take into consideration. Such things like staying hydrated and counter stretching, things to be mindful that I will be reminding you of throughout the session.
When it comes to posing and warming up, I start slow. Poses that aren't very strenuous or provocative. Simple poses, showing you photos as we go along to show you how amazing you look. I make sure to let you know when things are looking amazing, and particular facial expressions or movements that are particularly striking and unique to you. I find the positive reinforcement and support goes a long way. Before we know it you are doing the things naturally and feeling more confident about it.
It may sound simple, and easier said than done. But this where faith and trust comes to play. All of the above steps are essential in building a relationship to allow for that faith and trust to translate into perfect photos and an experience you will never forget.
