5 tips for finding the right boudoir photographer

We’ve all wanted to have sexy photos taken of ourselves, but it can be daunting. Can you take a friend? How do you know who is reputable? Professional boudoir photographers will be above all else, professional and compassionate not pushy. Here are 5 ways to tell if the boudoir photographer you are speaking to is “the one.”

1. Are they respectful? All photographers that mean business are RESPECTFUL. They don’t giggle when you mention you want to have boudoir portraits done. They don’t look you up and down and then quote a price. Their business and their name is on the line… they need to be respectful in a way that makes you comfortable as a boudoir photography client.
   
2. Do you like their work? They should have samples in an online gallery ready to display and share with you. Not just an Instagram or Facebook feed, but a legitimate website. They might also ask you if you can sign a model release so they can use your portraits to further their advertising of boudoir portraiture, that is normal. In fact, your name must be signed on some type of model release before any of your photos can appear online. You MUST give consent.
   
3. Where are they taking you? Do they have a studio? Either at a commercial office or in their home, is their studio professional? Ask to see where you’d be doing the portraits first before signing on. Sometimes boudoir photographers will rent a fancier hotel room to set the mood and ambiance for your session, that is normal, but they must have a solid idea and plan in place — or suggestions for you to book your own space — before hiring them.
   
4. How responsive are they to your queries? You may feel like you’re bugging them too often with questions, but boudoir photography can be a sensitive and nerve wracking subject. So, try really hard to put yourself first and make sure you are comfortable with their guidelines and suggestions before moving forward.
   
5. Can you take a friend? If this is a gift for a significant other and you want to keep the session a surprise, I highly suggest taking a second person with you. It can be your best friend or a family member, even if it may be awkward with them staying in the waiting room… or them being asked to hold a lighting modifier and help out with the session, it is always best to go somewhere in pairs.

So there you have it… before making your boudoir mood board on Pinterest, or getting your nails and hair done, vet your photographer. They want to give you the best service and create a lasting client relationship, the ones that are worth working with absolutely do.