5 Things boudoir photographers don’t tell you about boudoir photography

Alright, let’s spill some secrets. Boudoir photography might look effortless—flawless poses, dreamy lighting, confidence radiating from every shot—but there are a   few things we photographers don’t always tell you. Don’t worry, it’s nothing scary! Just some behind-the-scenes truths that will have you nodding along (and maybe even laughing) once you experience your own session. So, if you’ve ever wondered what really happens during a boudoir shoot, here are five things nobody tells you—but I think you definitely should know!

Secret #1: Everyone is nervous at first – and that’s totally normal!

If you’re feeling a little (or a lot) nervous about your boudoir session, you’re not alone! Every single client—yes, even the confident-looking ones in my portfolio—starts off with a case of the jitters. But here’s the secret: those nerves fade fast! Once you get into the session and see how fun and empowering it is, that initial anxiety turns into excitement. I’ll guide you every step of the way, so all you have to do is show up and trust the process.

Secret #2: Posing is hard work – “I’ve never worked so hard to look relaxed!”

Boudoir photography is all about creating stunning, effortless-looking images—but behind the scenes, there’s a bit of a workout involved! Arching your back, pointing your toes, tilting your chin just right—it’s all part of the process to create those jaw-dropping images. But don’t worry, I’ll coach you through every pose and adjust you down to your fingertips. And yes, you might wake up a little sore the next day, but it’s all part of the magic!

Secret #3: It’s an amazing investment in yourself

A boudoir session is so much more than a photoshoot—it’s an experience that can change how you see yourself. It’s a chance to step outside your comfort zone, embrace your body, and celebrate the woman you are right now. These images become a powerful reminder of your strength, beauty, and confidence. Every time you look at them, you’ll remember exactly how incredible you are—because you are incredible and that is always worth documenting.

Secret #4: Hair and makeup isn’t just about hair and makeup

Sure, professional hair and makeup make you look stunning on camera, but the experience is about so much more. It’s about slowing down, relaxing, and allowing yourself to be pampered. When was the last time you got to focus just on you? It’s a moment to sit back, sip a drink, and step into your most confident self before your session even starts. By the time you step in front of the camera, you won’t just look amazing—you’ll feel it too.

Secret #5: Size really doesn’t matter – Forget what the tag says!

Boudoir is for every body. It’s not about fitting into a certain size—it’s about celebrating your unique shape. I always recommend choosing outfits that fit well rather than focusing on the number on the tag. A well-fitted piece accentuates your curves, avoids awkward bulges, and makes you feel sexy and confident. And if you’re not sure what to wear, I’ve got a Client Closet full of gorgeous options that flatter every body type! I’ll help you pick out the best shapes and colors to make you feel like an absolute goddess.

Ready to experience it for yourself?

Now that you know what to expect, are you ready to take the leap? A boudoir session is one of the most empowering things you can do for yourself, and I’d love to help you create something truly special. Let’s chat about how we can bring your vision to life!

The Week Before Your Boudoir Photo Shoot: How to Prepare

Wondering the best way to prepare for your upcoming boudoir photo shoot?

Here are my top tips for preparing the week before your shoot:

7 days before your shoot: Drink plenty of water and gently stretch out your muscles.

Stretch, hydrate, and moisturize! Drinking plenty of water helps make your muscles more flexible, and it is going to reduce bloating and even plump and clear up your skin. It can even help you feel less tired! Under-eye bags? We don’t know her!

A boudoir session is a serious workout! I know it doesn’t seem that way, but holding the poses can really engage muscles that you don’t use very often! This can lead to sore and achy muscles the day after your shoot. The best way to avoid this is by starting to stretch prior to your session (a month before would be even better!) and drinking tons of water! The sooner you start these practices, and the longer you use them prior to your session, the better you will feel after! It doesn’t hurt to run yourself a nice, hot bubble bath after your session too!

Please AVOID trying any new skincare products or changing your skincare routine at this time. If you have a skin reaction, it will likely not have time to heal before your session.

5 days before: Get your roots touched up and wax (if you do).

Got roots? Now is the time to get those touched up! Five days before your session is a great time for a color refresh, but I don’t suggest trying a whole new hairstyle or wildly different color than you are used to.

What about “hair down there”? Natural is totally fine, shaving or waxing is also perfectly acceptable. However, trying something new in sensitive areas can sometimes cause a reaction like ingrown hairs, rashes, or red rash bumps. I suggest doing whatever you normally do! If waxing, 5 or so days before your shoot is normally ideal to reduce any prevailing redness or bumps.

2 days before: Get a fresh manicure (at a salon or diy) and shave and moisturize.

When you are thinking about your nails for your photo shoot- don’t think too hard! Sometimes simple and clean is the best! However, if you want your personality to shine, make sure you will love whatever color you choose 5 or even 15 years down the road! Natural nails are perfectly fine for your shoot, as long as they are well-maintained and clean. For colored nails, I suggest soft, neutral, or jewel tone colors.

If you prefer to shave, do so the night before your session to calm down any inflammation and make sure to moisturize your skin.

The day before: Layout and pack your outfits and accessories. Also, get plenty of rest!

It’s the day before and we’re so excited to have you in the studio! You’ve been planning out your outfits for weeks and now is the time to get them together. Layout each outfit separately so you can make sure you have all the pieces. Don’t forget the jewelry or accessories like stockings and shoes. If anything needs to be steamed or ironed, now is the time to do that. If you would like a copy of our packing list, visit our What to Wear blog post: https://michelleburroughs.com/what-to-wear-to-your-boudoir-photo-shoot/

Lastly, get plenty of rest the night before your shoot and wear loose fitting clothing to your session to prevent lines on your skin. Drinking lots of water helps with this too. Now get ready to have some fun!

New Flower Wall for the Boudoir Studio

Flower Wall Spring Lingerie Photo Shoot (2)

I absolutely adore the Spring in Michigan when flowers finally start to pop out of the ground and bloom into beautiful colors completely erasing any memory of Winter and the snow. I’ve had the makings of this gorgeous flower wall around forever, but recently cabin fever hit me hard during the Michigan Winter and I just had to make something to remind me that Spring is right around the corner.

Measuring a bit larger than 4 ft x 6 ft this flower wall took a LOT of flowers. Each individually hand-placed onto the backing. I did add a few extra rose garlands for interest and depth, but it took a lot of time and the help of my amazing assistant, Maria, to get everything in place. But the end result is well-worth the time and effort it took. I love the soft but bold colors and delicate look of the boudoir photos I’ve taken so far using it as a backdrop.

Some of the cool effects you can see in these photos are from differently shaped prisms I’ve collected over the years. Prisms are a great way to add fun miniature rainbows or even reflections and blurred special effects into your photography.

Want to be photographed on this gorgeous flower wall? Shoot me an email at hello@michelleburroughs.com or use the form on my Contact page.

Kim – Love who You are on the Outside

glamorous boudoir photo

If you are looking for a confidence boost, to feel more empowered, and to love who you are on the outside, Michelle is the photographer for you!! My experience with her was amazing!!

I have never felt beautiful. I am a confident woman, who has always succeeded in accomplishing my goals, but never loved who I am on the outside. Michelle brought out that beauty. I can truly see myself in a different way and am now more confident as a presence in any room.

I was nervous when I came in, as I am sure everyone is. I never imagined doing anything like this. Michelle’s “bedside” manner helped rid me of my nerves rather quickly. She has such a calming presence and her humor just brings out the smiles so they do not look fake and posed. I would recommend this experience to any woman I know!! The results were so artistic, feminine, classy, and beautiful!! I felt very empowered to make decisions, ask questions, and give ideas! Thank you, Michelle!!!

Corinn – Empowering to feel comfortable in my own skin

Intimate Boudoir Photo Shoot in Grand Rapids
How did you feel before your photo shoot?
A bit nervous but excited!
And after?
Confident and so sexy! Even though I arrived a little nervous my nerves were quickly calmed.
It was so empowering to be able to feel comfortable in my own skin and see these photos that show confidence and curves!!
What was your favorite thing about your shoot?
 The instant connection I felt with Michelle, she made everything fun!
How did you feel when seeing your photographs for the first time?
I was honestly shocked! They looked so beautiful. Before the shoot I wasn’t sure I’d be able to look at the photos without picking myself apart, instead it made me feel so much more confident in myself. It was hard to only pick out the ones I did since I loved them all so much!

What is your best memory from your photo shoot day?
Listening to Michelle talk about building a community of empowered and confident woman!! It’s a beautiful thing to see woman building up other woman!
Our mission is to empower women through photography. What does “empowerment” mean to you?
Empowerment to me means feeling proud to be you! Unapologetically yourself <3
What would you tell other women considering a boudoir photo shoot?
Do it! Even if you’re nervous just jump in, with Michelle behind the camera you won’t be disappointed!