Everyone wants to do well during their photo session, that's a fact. Nobody wants to step in front of the camera feeling unprepared or unsure about what they are doing.

Have no fear though!

I have compiled this short list of 5 of the simplest and most often overlooked ways to ensure that you rock your next session, no experience required.

1. Do your homework.

Every client that books a session with me receives a pre-session homework packet and a photoshoot survival guide. Both are designed to help you fully engage in the experience you are embarking on. Don't worry, these aren't labor intensive or boring, they are fun! You get to think about what you love about yourself, how you see your shoot going and learn tips on how to set yourself up for success.

All of the homework is important, but for me, the most important part is assignment number 1. "What are your favorite features." This is where I learn about what you love about yourself and the things that make you uniquely you. This assignment is so important because it tells me exactly where to shine my light to present you at your best.

2. Practice

The one thing ballerinas, bodybuilders, and models all have in common is that they all practice in front of a mirror. And it is a great way to build your confidence before your session.

Throw on one of the outfits you are thinking of shooting in and strut your stuff in front of the mirror at home. Take the time to practice different looks, see which make you look and feel confident. Is that one expression sexy or are you giving the crazy eye? Find out by practicing! Most importantly don't take yourself too seriously. This is all about boosting your confidence, body positivity and helping you prepare, so don't be hard on yourself.

3. Drink water

Fun fact, most people, don't drink enough water. You probably knew that but it's good to remind ourselves. Especially before a photo shoot.

Make sure you are drinking enough water before your session, boudoir involves a lot of beautifully awkward poses that look great on camera but take some real effort, so treat it like you would any hard workout and stay hydrated.

4. Stretch

The most overlooked aspect of every boudoir session is stretching. As mentioned in #3. Boudoir is much more of a workout than people think, I like to look at it like a model yoga class.

I always tell my clients, "if it feels awkward you know you are doing it right." The poses look beautiful but to really sell them you have to exaggerate everything which makes for some excellent opportunities to workout your core.

Make sure you are stretching the night before you shoot. This combined with drinking plenty of water will help you avoid being extra sore the day after your session.

5. Don't Hold Back!

Boudoir is all about confidence, if you gotta fake it till you make it, do it. But give it your best effort. You can be nervous, I would be surprised if you weren't! But I promise after the first 15min in front of the camera you will be having too much fun to be nervous, so don't hold back. Go for it!

My job is to ensure that you look your best. That is why your session is specifically tailored to you. I wouldn't ask you to do anything that I would not do myself or anything that would make you uncomfortable, so commit to every pose, throw out an idea if you have one and enjoy your session to the fullest.

It's not every day you get to be the center of attention in your own photo shoot, so make the most of the opportunity.

You will be happy you did!

Want more information about your Fine Art Boudoir (FAB) session? Check out The Experience HERE!

Are you ready to book your shoot? Do you have questions? You can email me at jake@workhorsephotography.com. I can’t wait to hear from you!