Frequently Asked Questions about Brooklyn Boudoir

Most women have never been professionally photographed (much less in her skivvies!), so naturally there are a lot of questions.  Here are some of the most common questions I get asked.

 I'm not photogenic -- can I do this?

Yes. “Photogenic” is mostly a social construct — like saying you need special shoes to walk.
The camera doesn’t love everyone equally without intention. It loves light, direction, and presence. That’s what we provide. You don’t have to know how to pose or “look good” in selfies — you just show up, and I’ll guide you through every step. It’s easier than you think, and we’ll make you look great in ways that feel honest, not manufactured.

What if I’m nervous / awkward / not feeling my best?

Totally normal. In fact, we expect it. Most clients take about ten minutes before they realize they’re not on trial, they’re in process. You don’t come in confident — you become confident during the session.

What is boudoir photography, exactly?

To me, boudoir is about capturing you — your presence, your shape, your energy — in images that feel intentional and real. Some people choose lingerie, some choose minimal clothing, some choose implied nude moments. It’s about how you want to show up, not anyone else’s definition of sexy.

Why should I do a boudoir session?

Because photos like this are rare. Most of us take pictures of others, not ourselves. This is a deliberately paced experience where you get to see yourself through the eyes of an artist Many clients tell me this shoot becomes a moment in time they remember, not a thing they checked off to gift to a loved one. And the resulting photos? They are the whipped cream on top. Your future self will thank you.

I see you also offer "Beauty" photography -- what's the difference?

Beauty portraiture is a bit more polished, demure, with a finished "fine art" look and feel.  This is a great option for a woman who wants images for personal branding, images that are wall-worthy, or for women who may be a bit intimidated by the idea of baring all for a boudoir session. Wardrobe for a beauty session can be a ball gown, little black dress, a lace bodysuit, fabric draping, a white shirt, or even nudity.  Beauty portraits always contain the full face and at least the shoulders up.

Why should I choose Brooklyn Boudoir for my boudoir, beauty, branding, or maternity shoot?

It's important that you find a boudoir photographer whose style you love, and who you connect with.  I’ve been told that there’s something different about my work, and I think what it boils down to is this: I am a woman, photographing other women, for women.  I'm a mom, I live the daily New York grind, I'm trying to maintain my relationship, my home, my business, my family... and I am tired a lot of the time from juggling all of that.  I GET IT. I want to give you an escape from YOUR daily grind and ultimately want to make my clients look amazing, FEEL amazing, and help them realize that they ARE amazing.  The studio is a woman-only zone and I strictly prohibit negative self-talk to create a safe, positive vibe. We feed off the positive energy together and you will walk out of your shoot walking six inches taller than you did when you arrived. Read more about my boudoir philosophy on the blog here and read more about the Brooklyn Boudoir Experience here.

How far in advance should I book my shoot?

If you want a specific date or weekend, sooner is better: these slots fill fast. A good general rule is about two - three months ahead if you have a timeline in mind (gifts, events, travel, etc.).

What do your packages include?  How much should I expect to spend?

The basic boudoir experience session fee is $799. This includes dry hair styling and makeup with lashes (if desired), a 1.5 hour photo shoot with me at my Bushwick studio, retouching of all your images, and an in-person or zoom photo viewing for you to order photo products a la carte. Discounted packages are offered & encouraged -- these packages are thoughtfully built on our clients most frequent purchases.  Clients are almost always shocked at how many photos they cannot live without from their session and booking one of our inclusive packages is the best way to maximize your investment. After all is said and done, clients tend to spend $3600 on average for their session and the photo products they desire.  Be sure to email me at studio@brooklynboudoir.com to get a full list of our packages and a la carte pricing. 

What will I wear?

Whatever you feel great in!  Lingerie, oversized knits, button-downs, leather jackets — it doesn’t have to be traditional. Many clients opt for some form of lingerie and many choose at least one nude or “in the sheets” looks. You’re welcome to bring options and we’ll help you decide what photographs best once you’re here. The most important thing is that you feel beautiful and comfortable.  In a 1.5 hour photo session, we will have time for up to 3 “looks” or outfits.  Once you've completed the booking process, you will receive a detailed guide that will help you with preparations and wardrobe considerations, including my favorite places to shop.  I’m also happy to consult with you before your shoot if you have any questions. Check out my blog and my Pinterest Page for some more suggestions.

Do you supply the wardrobe for my shoot?

I have a few accessories and fabrics on hand (robes, scarves, sheets, etc.), but most people feel more at ease in their own pieces — and wardrobe comfort trumps trying to squeeze into something that doesn’t feel like you.

Do I have to be nude?

No! Sexy doesn’t require nudity. You choose the level of risqué that’s right for you — from fully clothed to lingerie, to implied nude, to figure model nude… or somewhere in between. Your boundaries always come first and you can always change your mind.

What if I want to get a little more risqué than the photos I see on your website?

Get it, girl!  I showcase only the most tasteful and reserved images on my website for the privacy of my clients, but I also capture images that are more provocative. I am NOT a Penthouse-type photographer so if you are looking for explicitly sexual photography, I'm not the right photographer for you.   

Do I need to have experience posing or modeling?

No. And honestly, most people who come in don’t have any. You’ll be guided the entire time — where to stand, what to do with your hands, how to breathe. This is not a “figure it out” situation. So no worries!  I will coach you the entire time and it’s much easier than you think it will be.

Where will our photo session take place?

Your shoot will take place at my studio in Bushwick, Brooklyn. We’ve got polished concrete floors, floor to ceiling windows and gorgeous light. Some clients like being photographed in their homes, which lends a sense of intimacy and comfort to the shoot (not to mention having ALL your wardrobe right there with us), or in their hotel room if they are coming in from out of town. I am open to these options as well, for a small additional fee.  

Do you travel for shoots?

I absolutely LOVE to travel and am available for local or international shoots. Be sure to follow me on Instagram and sign up for my newsletter, because I'll post when and where I'm traveling, so you'll know if I'll be in your area available to shoot!  If you're bringing me to you, I ask that you cover my flight, a 2 night stay, and any location rental fees if applicable.

Do you provide a hair & makeup artist?  

Yes! Every Brooklyn Boudoir Experience includes professional dry hair styling and makeup application. Taking an hour for professional hair and makeup is a great way for us to ease into the shoot. We will talk before hand about the type of makeup you are looking for, but in general we like to use a light touch - glowy skin, some subtle shimmer or smoke for the eye, natural lashes, a subtle flush and your lip color pumped up a notch. It’s about you looking effortlessly sexy and about these photos feeling modern in 20 years time, so we generally shy away from trends, heavy “wedding day” type makeup or anything too glam. I believe women are most beautiful when they look like themselves.  The hair and makeup artist will leave once you are happy with your look to give us the most privacy.

Can I bring a friend?

Yes — one supportive friend is welcome during the session. But here’s the thing: you are the star of the day, and I want to give you the best experience possible. A little BTS is welcome, but if someone starts directing posing, offering unsolicited styling advice, or shooting behind my back, it derails the session for everyone. So, choose wisely.

Please note that no men are permitted on set while we are shooting, without prior discussions/arrangements. This is a firm policy.  

I'm a private person -- will my images appear on the internet?

Only if you want them to be. Your privacy matters. Some clients love sharing a few favorites; others want total confidentiality. I honor your preference — always. Your name is never used and you are never tagged without explicit permission.

Is this really worth the investment?

If you’re here for “just one or 2 pictures,” this won’t be that. But if you want images that feel like time well spent — the kind you’ll still look at years from now and genuinely think, “I’m so glad I did that” — then absolutely yes. Most clients tell me they’re surprised by how much the session stays with them long after the photos are delivered. Many reach out years afterwards telling me that their photoshoot was a turning point in their lives. And everyone tells me how much they love their photos and how grateful they are to have said yes to the photoshoot when they did.

I'm pregnant - when is the best time to schedule a maternity portrait session?

You'll want to come in when you are fully showing and still feeling sexy and strong.  This will vary between different women of course.  I find there is a sweet spot between 28-35 weeks, when the tummy is nice and round, but before labor is imminent.  I've had expectant mothers give birth the day before their session was scheduled so we want to avoid that!  

Do you shoot boudoir videos?

Yes! Boudoir videos are becoming more and more popular and are available as an add-on to any boudoir shoot. You can check out my Youtube channel for some examples of what we do, or scroll to the bottom of this page for a sample. Just like your photoshoot, you don’t need to do anything to prepare other than just showing up - I will direct you every step of the way!

I'm ready to book a shoot -- what happens next?

Shoot me an email and we'll find a date that works for us both.  I'll send you pricing and package information so you can chose the boudoir experience that works best for you.  I require a 50% deposit to secure your date.  Once booked, I'll send you lots of information about how to prepare and what to expect, AND give you some homework ;)  We'll discuss your style, personality, hair & makeup, and the mood you want to convey.   On the day of your shoot, we'll spend about 2 hours together so we can get comfortable, have fun & take our time styling your photographs.  My shooting style is low-key & relaxed - it really feels like 2 girlfriends having fun.  I'll coach you every step of the way from what to wear, how to pose, where to look and so on.  Before you leave, we'll choose a date for an in person photo reveal, usually about 2-3 weeks after your shoot, where we go through your session and discuss the products you'd like to order. And I'm always available to answer any questions you may have.  You can read more about what a Brooklyn Boudoir Shoot entails here.

What can I do with my boudoir images?

I am a firm believer that the EXPERIENCE of your boudoir shoot is as valuable as the products we create with them afterwards.  The experience is really for YOU and gift-giving is just a bonus.  That said, I LOVE a beautiful album - it's an excellent choice for memorializing yourself and casually displaying a good amount of photos of you looking your very best.  A 2-image folio is a discreet & tasteful choice for your bedside table.   More abstract shots make fantastic fine art pieces that you can display -- it can be your secret (or not!)  that the model in photographs is you!  Or hell, let EVERYONE know it's you!  There's nothing better than a casually displayed piece of art of you looking your very best.

How many photos will I get?

The finished product is typically a variety of about 75 images with a natural retouch (no “special effects” other than black and white).  I include "detail" shots such as legs, tush, breasts, back and shoulders, lips, as well as full bodyscapes and portraits that includes your face. 

When do I get to see my images?

Two to three weeks after your shoot we will meet for a private viewing & ordering session either in person or over zoom to look over your gallery of images. Once you have selected your favorites, I will design your album or print order.  Turnaround time for albums products is normally about 4-6 weeks, so keep this in mind if you plan on gifting images for a specific event.  Rush orders are sometimes possible when discussed ahead of time. I also offer a “teaser” as an add-on if you need something to gift sooner than an album can be turned around.

Will you retouch my photos?

Yes, light retouching is included in all portrait sessions.  The goal is not to change your looks or body shape, but to minimize blemishes, under-eye circles, scars, stretch marks, or any other artifacts on your skin that may bother you.  I rely on strategic posing and angles to accentuate the positive play down "problem" areas.  As far as stretch marks go, most women have them, and most of the time, my skin-smoothing editing technique will buff them out. If you would like to request extensive editing, we can quote that on a per-image basis at your photo reveal appointment after you've seen your images with our standard retouch on them.  But overall, don't worry - I will work with what you’ve got and prove to you that you are beautiful just as you are.  I do all the retouching myself, to respect your privacy.

Can you retouch out tan lines?

Every summer I get tons of messages about this. Tan lines are notoriously difficult to retouch away, but it’s not impossible. It all depends on where they are, how intense they are and if there is any cross over with your hair or lingerie in the shot. So the short story is: it’s better if you don’t have tan lines, but if you do, don’t panic and we will address the retouching needs on a case by case basis.

I have my period - can I still have my boudoir shoot?

OF COURSE! It won’t affect the way I photograph you or your finished product at all. If you are still concerned Thinx makes some great underwear made to be worn while on your period. They are a great brand with a great message and surprisingly fashionable designs.

Do you photograph men?

No.  I specialize in photographing women and do not photograph men or couples. 

What if I need to reschedule?

To book your session I require a 50% deposit.  This deposit is non-refundable, but it can be transferred to another date for no additional fee.  I ask that if you do need to cancel or reschedule, you allow 48 hours advance notice as a courtesy when possible.  Cancellations within 48 hours are subject and multiple reschedules are subject to a fee.

How do I book a session?

Email me here to start the conversation and learn more.  I look forward to hearing from you!