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In addition to the lighting and posing techniques that I use to flatter every figure and illuminate every skin type, there are actually things that you can do, too, to prepare for your session. From my experience, these are the things that will help you have the best session possible as well as ensure the best possible resulted images. Approximately one week before your session, make sure that you start drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day. I know that sometimes this is easier said than done, but well hydrated skin will make a world of difference in your skin’s appearance. It is more radiant and luminescent, and will actually make you appear more youthful (and don’t we all want that?!). Likewise, it is a great idea to moisturize your body (especially the elbows and knees) with a good body lotion or body butter after your shower and before bed. Don’t forget about your lips, too! Exfoliating them with lip pumice every few days and applying lip moisturizer a few times per day will leave your pucker picture perfect!
One week before your session is also the perfect time to visit your esthetician to get your eyebrows groomed. As any professional makeup artist will tell you, your eyebrows are the frame to your face, much like a frame around a beautiful portrait. The portrait can be gorgeous on its own, but to really make a statement, finish it with an elegant frame. Such a simple thing can make a huge difference! Many of my clients like to start a teeth whitening kit around this time, as well. Nice white teeth help our faces look more vibrant and youthful (again, anything we can do to turn back the clock, right?!). If you haven’t whitened your teeth before, ask your dentist what kind of whitening kit they recommend for you. Practice your model face in the mirror. Don’t worry about feeling silly, it’s amazing how an expression can feel sexy but look unnatural. Feel free to experiment with looks that would seem goofy on their own, but look amazing in pictures. Browse my portfolio online to see what some of the girls before you have done or take a look at the models in magazines for some inspiration.
Keep in mind that this is not a good time to start tanning or try a new hair color/style. If you normally use a tanning bed, make your last tanning session one week before your scheduled time with me. Tanning up until the day of your session can lead to unnatural skin tones and a dry, leathery appearance to the skin. In regards to your hair, it is best to have any fresh color or highlights done one week prior to your shoot. That’s when it will look its most natural and healthy. The day before your boudoir session is an important one. In addition to staying well hydrated and moisturized, you will want to give yourself a manicure and pedicure; or treat yourself to one with your favorite nail tech! Choose whichever nail color or look best represents you and the mood you are going for in your session. For example, a French manicure/pedicure is a timeless classic, while a deep red nail polish is the epitome of seduction. For a darker, moodier feel to the session, choose a dark plum or black polish. You will also want to shave or wax the afternoon or evening before your session. Many of my clients find that the more they are groomed for their session, the more comfortable they are in their wardrobe choices. Last, but certainly not least, get a good night’s sleep. Being well rested will have a positive effect on your appearance as well as your disposition! And most importantly, be prepared to have a great time. We will laugh, dance, and even get a little crazy during the shoot. Even though the week before your session seems to be full of checklists and reminders, it is not meant to be a stressful time at all. It is a time for you to feel pampered and pay attention to your body. You will feel re-charged and re-sparked as a woman, and that’s before you see your images for the first time!