A Day in the Life of a Boudoir Photographer

Being a boudoir photographer is about so much more than just snapping photos—it’s about creating an experience that empowers clients to embrace their beauty and confidence. Every day brings a new story, new energy, and new opportunities to celebrate self-love. If you’ve ever wondered what a typical day in the life of a boudoir photographer looks like, here’s a behind-the-scenes glimpse!

Morning: Setting the Intention

My day usually starts with a cup of tea while the I get my kids up and ready for school. I’ll review my schedule, go over my client’s preferences and vision for the shoot, and mentally map out the day. Creating a calm, welcoming environment in the studio is essential, so I always make sure my studio is tidy and ready before the client arrives.

Preparing the Studio

I set up the space to match the vibe of the session, whether it’s soft and romantic or bold and fierce. Lighting plays a huge role in boudoir photography, so I adjust natural light sources and test the setup to ensure everything looks dreamy and flattering. Gentle lighting, music, and light scents help create a relaxing atmosphere.

Welcoming the Client

When my client arrives, I take time to chat with them—catching up if they’re a returning client or getting to know them if it’s their first time. We’ll go over the outfits they’ve brought, discuss the look they’re going for, and ease any nerves with some light conversation. My goal is to make them feel completely comfortable and confident.

Hair and Makeup

If the client has opted for professional hair and makeup, I work with trusted stylists who help create the perfect look. We make sure to tailor the styling to match the theme—whether it’s sultry and smoky or soft and natural. This time also allows the client to relax, sip some bubbly, and get into the mindset of feeling glamorous and beautiful.

The Session Itself

During the shoot, I focus on guiding my client through poses that flatter their body and match the vibe they’re aiming for. I’ll give plenty of positive feedback and encouragement throughout, helping them feel empowered and gorgeous. We’ll switch up outfits and settings, moving from soft, glowing light to more dramatic, shadowy setups to capture a range of looks.

Post-Shoot: Editing and Selection

Once the session wraps up, it’s time for me to dive into editing. I carefully curate the best shots, enhancing the natural beauty and mood while maintaining a realistic and authentic feel. This part of the process can take some time, but it’s so rewarding to see the transformation from raw images to polished art.

Client Reveal and Delivery

After editing, I’ll set up a reveal session where the client gets to see their photos for the first time. This is one of my favorite parts of the job—witnessing their reaction and seeing how proud and beautiful they feel. It’s a powerful reminder of why I do what I do.

Reflecting and Preparing for Tomorrow

After the excitement of the day, I take some time to unwind and reflect. Whether it’s journaling, catching up on messages, or planning future shoots, I like to end the day with a sense of gratitude for being part of such empowering experiences.

Final Thoughts

Being a boudoir photographer is truly a labor of love. It’s about creating safe, empowering spaces where clients can celebrate themselves without judgment. Every day is different, every client unique, but the goal remains the same: to help people see their own beauty and strength. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.