Our first foray into Boudoir photography was a decade ago, when we hired a photographer to take some couples photos and Boudoir shots for Chanel. We were given no preparation or guidance and only told when to arrive. We were charged $100, which was all we could afford at the time, and promised five fully edited images.

The photographer simply told Chanel to look sexy, which was challenging for her as a mother and professional who had never met the photographer. Despite the lack of preparation, we were pleased with the final images.

Five years later, we had another Boudoir shoot and the experience was vastly different. We were offered professional hair and makeup services which Chanel thoroughly enjoyed. The photographer was energetic and passionate about her work, choosing outfits and complimenting Chanel's appearance and body, helping her feel beautiful and desired.

The results were stunning, with images so gorgeous that we ended up buying them all. This second experience was a turning point for Chanel, as she felt more beautiful and desired than ever before.

The difference between the amateur photographer we paid $100 and the professional we paid more for was experience and training. The professional had honed her skills through years of practice and study, resulting in a better overall experience and stunning images. We are looking to make your day, one of the best days of your life. If you’re photographer is not preparing you and gathering information about your likes and dislikes, decide if you want to potentially waste your time and money.

Here are the six mistakes amateur boudoir photographers make

Boudoir photography is a genre that requires a high level of professionalism, sensitivity, and technical skills from the photographer. While it is possible to capture stunning images with basic equipment, amateur photographers are often prone to making a series of mistakes that can significantly impact the quality of their work. Here are some of the most common mistakes that amateur boudoir photographers make and how to avoid them.

1. Lack of Communication

Communication is the key to a successful boudoir photo shoot. Before the shoot, it is important to establish a clear line of communication with the model. This will help to establish trust and ensure that both parties are on the same page. It is important to discuss what type of images the model is comfortable with and what they expect from the shoot. It is also important to explain your process and the types of poses you will be using. This will help the model to feel more relaxed and confident during the shoot.

2.Not Understanding Light and Shadows

Lighting is one of the most important elements of boudoir photography. Shadows can create depth and texture, while proper lighting can create a mood or atmosphere. Unfortunately, amateur photographers often struggle with lighting and shadows, resulting in flat and uninteresting images. It is important to understand the different types of lighting and how to use them to enhance the subject and create depth in the image.

3. Improper Camera Settings

One of the biggest mistakes that amateur boudoir photographers make is not understanding how to properly set their camera. This can lead to underexposed or overexposed images, poor focus, and poor color balance. It is important to understand the basics of camera settings, such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, and how they impact the final image. This will help you to control the light and create the desired effect in your images.

4. Ignoring the Background

The background is an important element of any boudoir image, and amateur photographers often ignore it. A cluttered or distracting background can detract from the subject and detract from the overall impact of the image. It is important to choose a simple, clean background that will not distract from the subject. Additionally, be mindful of the lighting in the background, as it can impact the overall mood and atmosphere of the image.

5. Not Paying Attention to the Model's Comfort

Boudoir photography can be an intimate and sensitive experience for the model. It is important to pay close attention to their comfort level and respect their boundaries. The model should feel relaxed and comfortable throughout the shoot, and it is important to be attentive to their needs. This can include providing water or a snack, adjusting the lighting, or allowing them to take a break if needed.

6. Not Using Props

Props can add an extra dimension to boudoir images, but amateur photographers often overlook this opportunity. Props such as lace, silk, and feathers can add texture and depth to the image, and can help to create a more intimate atmosphere. However, it is important to use props tastefully and avoid overloading the image with too many elements.

In conclusion, amateur boudoir photographers often make a series of mistakes that can impact the quality of their work. However, by avoiding these mistakes and focusing on the basics of photography, it is possible to create stunning boudoir images that are both beautiful and intimate. Good luck, and happy shooting!

Lee