Bridal Boudoir 101: How to Have a Sexy Pre-Wedding Portfolio

At some point, we imagined our dream wedding. From the location, theme, or even the design of the dress, it’s a time in our life when we believe we’d feel our most beautiful and radiant selves. Not to mention, in utter love with our hypothetical significant other. To commemorate this eventual core memory, we’d like to capture pictures to reminisce about in the future. This gives wedding photographers another aspect to plan dutifully before your special day.

But if you’re someone with hidden desires that you want to treasure in photos, you can always consider Bridal Boudoir.

Unravel more about this sensual type of photography through this informative article and some creative ideas to consider that’ll bring out the best sides of you.

What is Bridal Boudoir?

According to photographer Ann Kete, Boudoir is a type of photoshoot that enriches the romantic mood between lovers. In most cases, they’re done in a bedroom. Boudoir is also a way to celebrate yourself and reconnect with your sexual side, posing and moving in ways you’d never thought yet enhances the sensual atmosphere. 

To insert the bridal context, Brides defined Bridal Boudoir as:

“an intimate form of professional photography in which a bride poses while wearing revealing clothing.”

We’re mainly talking lingerie, showcasing all your assets—the ones you like and dislike. Or you can even be naked. It’s up to how comfortable you are. As you gather all the photos you take, they are compiled into a photo book. This book is then gifted to the groom (or bride because anyone can get married) before the wedding. It’s like a means to tease them of you in less clothing because honey, we know there’ll be nothing under your wedding gown on D-day.

Aside from a photo book, pictures of this photoshoot can be gifted individually on other celebrations for your partner. It’ll be an avenue to look back on your wedding season; of your youth and your sensual thoughts toward each other. But as much as there is suggestiveness, it’s a reminder of the love and vulnerability you both share with each other.

Why Do People Take Part in Bridal Boudoir?

Bridal Boudoir can evoke many emotions in the future bride, making sure they tick this kind of experience on their life bucket list. Because if not all, don’t we want to get married once in our lives only? Learn more about why people choose to have a bridal boudoir photoshoot alongside the main wedding photo shoot with their respective partners.

1 It makes a great and bold surprise gift.

Think about it. Your partner has been by your side through thick and thin, through the pretty and ugly aspects of life. You’ve been through all the possible terrible situations, and yet nothing has tipped your relationship. By giving them a bridal boudoir photobook of you, you shed light on the parts of yourself you’re proud of. Just imagine their reaction! It also makes the entire wedding season more fruitful and exciting. Especially when you finally get to your honeymoon, where you can finally express your love (and erotic feelings) for one another.

2 Pictures are forever.

No matter how old you get, a photo book shall remain timeless. You can even pass it down as an heirloom to your family unless there are nude shots that you may prefer to keep hidden. Regardless, a bridal boudoir photo book of yourself is like no other one in the world. They stay when you’re no longer in the world.

3 It makes you more comfortable around the camera.

In a bridal boudoir photoshoot, it’s been you and the photographer. Perhaps a companion, although optional, but because it’s just the two of you, it requires you to give your trust and patience to each other. Things like this help develop a closer bond with each other, especially if you choose to strip down to your undergarments or fully in the nude. And when your bond is deep and unbreakable, that’s where the magic of delivering the best shots begins.

4 It gives you a major confidence boost.

Having your photos taken in lesser items is usually something out of our comfort zone. But fear not! If you choose the correct bridal boudoir photographer, they’ll highlight your best aspects and give you the queen treatment. They want to give you the most incredible experience, tapping into your femininity beyond your busy schedule and such. They’ll follow whatever makes you feel regal while motivating you to bring out your best sides. Bridal Boudoir reminds you that you’re worthy of so much good and shouldn’t let societal standards dictate you!

5 It makes a meaningful memory in your life.

As the bride-to-be, it only transitions into being someone’s wife. This part of your life is monumental, something we never want to forget. So by compiling a bridal boudoir photo book, you can look back on this when you’re older and recall all the emotions put into making this possible. Or even the wedding season in general, on how everything worked out beautifully before entering a future you didn’t know was possible or existent.

6 You can splurge on clothes and props!

Don’t we all love to spend ourselves every now and then? Well, if it’s your wedding season, you’d definitely want to go all out! Plus, you may also need an escape from the given wedding planning stress. For the times you need to rest, you can use the opportunity to shop for lingerie and extra items for your bridal boudoir photoshoot. Oh, and bonus, you’ll need a few extra items before your honeymoon.

7 You celebrate and empower yourself.

Bridal Boudoir allows you to rejoice in everything about you and your life. It can bring good spirits back into your system, and you can always return to them whenever you’re not feeling your best. It’s a self-love experience that urges you to embrace every aspect of yourselves. There’s no definition of perfection, so take this time to get in tune with yourself, appreciate all your past versions, and boost your mood before the big day through this photoshoot.

Steps on How to Have a Successful Bridal Boudoir Photoshoot

As much as we aim to have a successful wedding, everything before the ceremony proper should run smoothly and gracefully. That includes your bridal boudoir photoshoot, and here’s how you accomplish just that.

1 Research more on Bridal Boudoir.

Aside from this amazing guide, it helps to study more about this professional type of photoshoot so you know more about what you’re getting into. Knowledge is key in every aspect of our lives, making life more exciting. So if you’ve been interested in Bridal Boudoir for quite some time, the world wide web has your back. But in the meantime, get through this article before you search somewhere else.

2 Check out any nearby photographers.

Once you’re more acquainted with Bridal Boudoir, it’s time to find a designated photographer. Although it’s possible that your wedding photographer can be a bridal boudoir photographer, there may be cases where they may be separate. That may be because they don’t offer the latter service. For that, look up and narrow down photographers specializing in Bridal Boudoir around your area so you can still bring that plan to life.

3 Be in contact with them and their available dates and timeslots.

By this time, you decided who your prospective photographers are. Get their contact details, and get in touch with them individually. Ask them also for their portfolio of works so you can scan through them before and after getting in contact. Importantly, inquire about their dates of availability and see who aligns with your free dates. When you manage to meet them in person, observe yourself around them. If you feel at ease with them, place a higher rank on them. It’s crucial to feel comfortable with someone to whom you’ll show your skin.

4 Keep in mind your budget.

Before you decide from your list of photographers, consider their service rates. Generally, weddings and everything related to it is pricey. Make sure that your allotted budget for this bold photoshoot matches with any of your chosen photographers so you don’t create any extra debt. But at the same time, don’t sacrifice quality over quantity. You deserve the best, but ensure it comes at a reasonable price.

5 Once booked, explore various photoshoot ideas.

Yay! You finally finalized a photoshoot date with your photographer of choice, so on to the fun part. Perhaps you’ve saved some ideas beforehand or want to brainstorm more. Take extra time to decide what concepts and ideas you want to incorporate for your upcoming Bridal Boudoir photoshoot. You can always check out more ideas in the next section of this article.

6 Exchange those ideas with the designated photographer.

Stay in contact and have occasional meetings with your bridal boudoir photographer (physical or virtual) to ensure you’re aligned with your ideas. For the next meeting you have after the first, use that time to share your ideas with them while gaining extra ideas from them. Get their artistic insights so that you can maximize them. Diligently discuss the yeses and no’s for the photoshoot as well.

7 Plan an ocular day/s for photoshoot venues. 

If your bridal boudoir photographer doesn’t have a studio or you choose not to have your photoshoot done in one, take time to plan an ocular day/s to go venue hopping. That way, you can coordinate your and your photographer’s free time to explore, inquire, and try some sample shots. From those ocular days, book whichever locations you enjoy in advance to avoid future hassle.

8 Create a list of what you need to shop for.

By this time, you know what concept you want to do and such for your Bridal Boudoir shoot. So, gather all the things and clothing pieces you need beforehand to bring your concept to life. Writing down and creating a list encourages organization, so you don’t miss out on anything. Refrain from relying on your brain to remember; jot your thoughts and requirements down.

9 Bring everything to the venue on the day of the photoshoot.

It’s photoshoot day! Double-check everything on your list, then board them to your car before you leave home.

10 Have fun!

This is your moment to shine, so seize it! You only get married once, or that is the goal for a lot of us. Shine like the star you are and tap into your most sensual self!

Bridal Boudoir Shot Ideas

Now you have a clearer understanding of the breakdown on Bridal Boudoir, you must be excited to brainstorm or look up for ideal concepts. To get you started, we have a bunch of creative pegs you may want to add to your list.

1 Veil Shot

Veils are a gorgeous prop for a sensual photoshoot like this. Traditionally, they signify reserving yourself for your future spouse at the wedding. You can take and challenge this meaning to your Bridal Boudoir shot by wearing your ideal lingerie, reserving your entire physical self for their own eyes only. You can also use any thin fabric as a substitute for a veil, minimally showing your skin.

2 Mirror Reflection Shot

Posing by a mirror freely showcases all of your physiques from all angles. You may even see sides of yourself you’ve never even seen! You can lean your back against the reflective surface or arch it with your butt poking against it for a cheekier approach.

3 Using Your Partner’s Items Shot

This kind of shot is more personal and can get playful too. Because if you think about it, who doesn’t love it when your partner wears your items? Most of the time, it can ignite a heated invitation in bed. You can borrow their favorite jacket, hoodie, shirt, or hobby-centered items. Just make sure not to be obvious with your intentions if this Bridal Boudoir photoshoot is your surprise gift to them.

4 Flower Bath Shot

Soak yourself with elegant, gorgeous petals by achieving an eye-catching flower bath shot! Purchase your favorite flowers or get extra suggestions from your Bridal Boudoir photographer. On the day of the shoot, scatter those flowers in the bathtub before getting inside. Lay down on your side, and you may even bend your legs. You can also wear a white shirt or lingerie to heighten your sensual mood.

5 Mask Shot

If you’re into adding a mysterious effect to your Bridal Boudoir photoshoot, wear a lacy mask. It’ll be as if you and your partner are meeting in a masquerade. You can choose a mask that follows the color pattern of your outfit or against it to create a contrasting yet brighter image.

6 Silhouette Shot

Aiming for a more private approach yet still sexy and sultry? Request the photographer to angle and shoot your silhouette. Whether it be against the light at a window or bed, minimal to no parts of your skin will be shown, and only the beauty of your silhouette is angled.

7 Bed Shot

Professional photos of yourself in bed under Bridal Boudoir are popular and only intensify the overall mood. Since it’s a spacious furniture item, you can pose and move however you want. If you’re keen to tease your partner, you can put a blanket over your figure and/or incorporate wedding-related accessories like flowers or a veil.

8 By The Window Shot

This type of shot is very flexible to work with! You can have a photoshoot with the bright sun peeking through the window to shed light on your skin so your photographer can capture your shadows. Aside from this, you can work with the city lights outside once the sky has dimmed.

9 Vintage Style Shot

If you’re intrigued with retro, Old-Hollywood elements, pay homage to them through this kind of shot. Have your hair curled and follow the makeup looks of iconic celebrities to achieve the needed look. Outfit-wise, you can seek inspiration again from celebrities and their lingerie during that time or purchase a corset that matches the aura.

10 By The Water Shot

Up for a more outdoorsy vibe for your Bridal Boudoir photoshoot? Get bold by stripping bold with any body of water, like a lake, river, or private pool. Make sure to check the weather beforehand and that there aren’t unnecessary spectators nearby. Bring a light cover alongside your accessories and props.

Things to Bring to a Bridal Boudoir Photoshoot

Preparing in advance for your bridal boudoir photoshoot is always recommended so that no shot will leave you hanging or regretful. With that, here are the top things to bring for your bridal boudoir photoshoot so you can maximize your overall experience.

• Your outfits (2-3, depending on what you discussed with your photographer)
• Water for hydration breaks in between the photoshoot
• Snacks to keep you energized
• Lotion to stay moisturized
• Extra props (Veil, Mask, Flowers, etc.)

Bridal Boudoir Tips to Remember

Getting too excited to headstart your bridal boudoir journey? Well, hold on first. We gathered important tips to be mindful of as you venture through this intimate photo experience.

1 Be open-minded.

As much as the wedding season is your season to celebrate, it’s always inviting to get insights from your close companions, especially if they’re already married! For Bridal Boudoir, you’re closely working with a professional. Consider their ideas alongside others, and don’t be too quick to shun concepts. Hear the vision around them, and feel free to ask questions or add to their ideas. This is a creative process, so let others in on the fun but only at a certain length. Again, it’s still your special day, after all.

2 Know your boundaries.

Bridal Boudoir is an intimate type of professional photography that challenges one’s comfort zone. That means going to lengths you may not be comfortable with, especially concerning body image. With that, study and reflect on how far you can go with Bridal Boudoir. As much as it is a gift for your significant other, it shouldn’t be at the expense of your comfort level.

If you’re incapable of stripping until your undergarments or even in lingerie, that’s okay! This is going to be one of the things you’ll talk about with your chosen Bridal Boudoir photographer, so come clean with what you’re okay with and not.

3 Let yourself go.

This is your time to shine without having anything hold you back. Bridal Boudoir allows you to tap into your most beautiful and confident self, where no one can stop to ruin you. It’s a celebration of who you are and what you’ve become over the years, ready to take on a new chapter of yourself. Don’t let anything hinder you through your poses or outfit choices.

4 Wear items that make you feel confident.

Before your bridal boudoir photoshoot, only choose articles of clothing that bring out the best in you. Wear your favorite lingerie, whatever color, and pay attention to detail too. Most people would choose lace due to its intricate, unique designs. You can even consider customized lingerie, especially if you’re bringing them to the honeymoon. If not lingerie, pick clothing items that assert your best qualities. If it’s your partner’s items you’ll borrow, get your favorite ones. Don’t make the clothes wear you!

5 Have a hearty meal beforehand.

A bridal boudoir photoshoot is bound to be fun and hectic simultaneously! So, keep your energy up by consuming a hearty meal beforehand. But don’t get too full or else you might move slower or get a vomiting-like sensation mid-way, and nobody wants that discomfort! Feed yourself some snacks in between (as mentioned in the previous section) when you do get episodes of hunger.

6 Hydrate!

You’ll be conversing and moving a lot, so taking a sip in between shots would be great. Just make sure not to go overboard. You don’t want to have multiple trips to the restroom that’ll shorten your given time slot with the photographer.

7 Pamper yourself beforehand.

As much as you’re going to look your best on photoshoot day, investing in self-care prior brings out more natural beauty. Some examples of activities that cater to self-care are waxing and moisturizing your body. A bonus to adding more beauty to yourself would be a manicure and pedicure that matches your outfit and/or the concept of your bridal boudoir photoshoot.

8 Splurge responsibly.

Not everything you want for your bridal boudoir photoshoot will be provided by the photographer, so set aside a budget for the extra items you need. Because as much as you should explore assorted looks, minding your spending is crucial for a wedding. We want to avoid going over at an already expensive occasion.

Also if you’re not barefoot, don’t forget the shoes you’ll wear for the shoot! Oh, and investing in a robe would make a great accessory for the shot and even the wedding itself. Once again, be responsible for where your money is going for this photoshoot.

9 Show up on time for the photoshoot.

Continue to set a good impression by arriving on time. It pays respect to the photographer and anyone else involved in the shoot, and it showcases your professionalism. Plus, no delays would occur during the entire thing. As one said, early birds always get the worm first.

10 Reflect on how you’ll post your body.

It helps to study an array of bridal boudoir photos so you can get a few ideas on how to angle your body. Try it yourself after with a mirror, and make tweaks here and there to your liking. Try to relax your arms and hands also. Your back must be straight to embody confidence, and your legs should be crossed.

Remember your eyes too; they’re the window to the soul. Experiment with evoking various emotions through them. Take note of these things before the day of your photoshoot so your photos will be up to par with your standards. Listen to your photographer too mid-shoot if they want to try something new!

Frequently Asked Questions

Still curious to know more about Bridal Boudoir? We got you with these answered queries to prepare you for your intimate photo experience in the future.

1 How early should I book a session?

You can book anytime before your wedding day, but to lessen your given wedding planning stress, plot out a date 1-2 months before D-day.

2 How long does a Bridal Boudoir session last?

It can last between 1.5-2 hours.

3 Can I bring anyone to this Bridal Boudoir photoshoot?

According to most studios, they allow 1 person at max as moral support for the subject of the photoshoot.

4 Am I just limited to wearing lingerie?

Nope! Like the ideas we mentioned above, being sensual doesn’t mean reducing the amount of clothing you have. It’s up to you on how you make your everyday clothing sexy. You can also consider anything sheer or short that showcases your best assets without breaking the bank in buying new lingerie.

5 Is Bridal Boudoir for anyone?

Yes! Of all sizes and ages, this type of photoshoot is for anyone getting married.

Takeaway

Bridal Boudoir is a bridge of intimacy connecting you and your partner, readying for the life you will share together. Take this time to be in tune with your highest, most loving self so you can pass down the confidence to your future self. This time of your life is meant to be celebrated and highlighted, free from regrets.