Are you considering scheduling your London boudoir photography session? Then, perhaps you’re thinking to yourself “How long does a boudoir photo shoot last”? If so, read on.
The simple answer is that the duration of a boudoir shoot differs depending on the boudoir photographer you choose, and on the photo shoot package you decide to book. Boudoir shoots can range from one hour right up to half a day or more in duration.
Boudoir Photography London
With me as your London boudoir photographer, the sessions I offer typically last for half a day, equivalent to approximately 4 hours.
In this article, I’ll elaborate on why I believe that this timeframe is ideal for capturing intimate boudoir photographs. Let’s take a closer look at how your boudoir photo shoot day with me will unfold!
Related reading: How to prepare for a boudoir photography session
A Step-by-step guide to a typical boudoir photoshoot
1. Your arrival at my boudoir photography studio
On your arrival at my North London boudoir photography studio, you’ll receive a warm welcome.
I completely understand that you may have travelled some distance to get to me. You may also feel slightly nervous about the photo shoot. Because of this, I’ll encourage you to take a moment to unwind and relax after your journey.
An intimate photography session is not something you do every day. I appreciate that being photographed by a boudoir photographer may push you well out of your comfort zone! This is why I’ll encourage you to take time after you arrive to get settled. It’s important for you to feel relaxed and not rushed before we get started.
2. A relaxing start to the session
This is also our opportunity to properly greet and meet each other! Although we may have had several exchanges over the phone or through Zoom sessions before your boudoir shoot day, this will likely be our first in-person encounter. We can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee together while you unwind and ease into the session.
It’s important to appreciate that your boudoir photo shoot is much more than the final images; the unforgettable experience is every bit just as important.
Although the boudoir shoot may last around 4 hours, I encourage my clients to set aside this entire day for self-care if possible. Allow yourself the opportunity to indulge yourself for this entire day, without the worries of work or daily chores. While this may seem indulgent, see it as important ‘me’ time dedicated to yourself. It’s also a chance to just be you (rather than wife, mum, friend, agony aunt or colleague).
Taking the time to relax and get into this mindset will ensure that you will fully immerse yourself in the experience. It will also help to ensure that you get the most possible enjoyment from it. So, allow yourself to be pampered and transformed.
Remember, this day is all about you. So sit back, relax, and I will work my magic.
3. Boudoir outfit review
During our pre-shoot consultation, we discussed various wardrobe choices and possibilities. Now, as you settle down before the photo shoot, it’s an opportune moment for us to review the items of clothing that you have brought along.
This allows me to assess what you have packed and determine how it can be complemented by any additional items I may have available in the studio.
Together, we can ensure that your selection of clothing and any boudoir props align with your vision and enhance the overall aesthetic of the photographs.
4. Professional boudoir photoshoot makeup and hair styling
A boudoir photo shoot is all about exploring and enhancing your natural beauty, leaving you feeling empowered and invincible. Therefore, in my opinion, no boudoir experience would be complete without professional hair and makeup.
To me, every aspect of preparation is crucial, and a stunning makeover is an essential part of the process. Not only does professional hair and makeup complete the overall look, but it also adds to the pampering you experience as a client on the day of the shoot.
I am a trained hair and makeup artist as well as your photographer, so when you book with me you will get the complete experience!
Often my clients find their spirits are lifted immensely by having their hair and boudoir photoshoot makeup done. When was the last time you were looked after by a makeup artist? Many of my boudoir clients tell me that they’ve not had professional makeup done since their wedding day (which could have been decades ago). Others tell me that they have never experienced it before.
Whether you prefer a natural, fresh-faced appearance or a sultry, smoky-eyed look, my goal is to enhance your natural beauty. I will perfect your face for camera action with expertly applied makeup. Seeing the sparkles in your eyes, as you catch a glimpse of your reflection in the mirror, will give you a huge boost!
How long does a boudoir photo shoot last? Well, the above boudoir photography session preparation elements would normally take 1.5 hours of the half-day session
5. Next, we get started in the studio with guided posing
Have you ever felt disappointed by the way you look in photos? Do you feel like your true essence isn’t captured, or that you always appear different in every picture? The truth is that posing plays a vital role in how you appear in photographs, and this is a time for us to take control. Other elements such as lighting, styling and technical equipment also play a part in your photographic appearance.
During your boudoir photo shoot experience, I will be your expert photographer, providing you with the posing guidance you need to look your best. With years of training and experience, I will break down the technical elements and ensure that every detail is taken care of.
Many photographers may not offer posing guidance, but I believe in the power of expert direction to bring out the best in my clients.
From the moment we begin our session, I will guide you through a series of poses, breaking them down into every single detail. Whether you’re unsure or feel shy at first, I will provide patient and clear instructions. I will ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. Together, we will create captivating images that highlight your unique beauty.
I understand that rushing through a photography session can hinder creativity and limit the potential for stunning results. That’s why I allocate ample time for your guided photo shoot. I allow you to relax, warm up and fully embrace the artistry of the process.
We’ll take the necessary time to prepare and capture artful images that showcase your individuality and leave you feeling thrilled and empowered.
Further reading: Magazine style portraits
6. Multiple boudoir outfit changes
I strive to provide the best value to my clients by offering a boudoir photo shoot experience that captures your imagination and beauty. I encourage clients to bring multiple outfits, enabling us to create a variety of captivating looks.
During our planning session, we will discuss the possible looks we can achieve with your chosen wardrobe. Some of these looks may involve your favourite lingerie, while others can incorporate everyday items that hold special meaning to you.
As we transition between outfits during the shoot, that is my chance to adjust the photo studio setting to perfectly complement and enhance your look. This may involve changing the backdrop, rearranging furniture and introducing props. Creating exceptional photography requires careful planning and coordination. Every detail contributes to the final result!
For our boudoir photography session, I recommend aiming for 3-5 sets of looks or outfits. This range allows for a diverse and captivating collection of images. They will showcase your beauty and fulfil our shared vision of you in your photo shoot.
Further reading: What to wear for a boudoir photo shoot
7. It’s a wrap!
A boudoir photo shoot experience is fulfilling, exciting, and exhilarating. Based on my experience, a half-day session provides an ideal amount of time for clients to thoroughly enjoy the shoot without feeling excessively exhausted by the end.
As we wrap up your boudoir photo shoot, it is your chance to unwind while still basking in the adrenaline rush of the photo shoot excitement!
How long does a boudoir photo shoot last? Typically, the guided boudoir photo shoot will last around 2.5 hours across multiple sets and outfits.
8. Same day photo-reveal
I provide my clients with two options for reviewing their photos:
- The first option is to schedule a separate occasion at the photo studio to go through the photos.
- Alternatively, you can choose to review your photos right after the session while the experience is still fresh in your mind. This way, you can see your photos first-hand and get a true sense of the results.
How long does a boudoir photo shoot last? If you decide to review the photos immediately, I recommend allowing an extra half to one hour.
This allows for a leisurely review session, where we can enjoy some tea or drinks. During this time, you’ll be able to witness how our planning and creativity have come together. I’ll showcase a stunning new perspective of yourself that you may not have seen before.
You’ll leave with a powerful understanding of what you are capable of before anyone else gets to see them!
9. Time to celebrate your beauty
As you leave my London boudoir photography studio you will feel a much more confident person than when you walked in. With professional hair and makeup still in place, you should go out and celebrate with your bestie, friends or partners.
Go ahead and indulge the rest of your day in self-care!
Further reading: Beautiful plus-size boudoir photography
After the boudoir shoot
Post-production of your London boudoir photography images
The boudoir shoot does not stop there for me as a photographer. I will further retouch and enhance your images. I’ll also skillfully translate them into your products of choice.
This final stage can be the most satisfying part of the experience. It’s when I deliver the final prints and wall art to you. You get to see the incredible results! You can enjoy them every day thereafter as you look at them on your walls at home.
How long does a boudoir photo shoot last?
I hope that this deep dive into what’s involved has helped you to understand the process. Now, instead of wondering “how long a boudoir photo shoot last”, I hope that you are starting to get excited about the thought of a session of your own!
As you’ll now appreciate, a boudoir photoshoot is not just about the duration; it’s about the incredible moments and experiences that unfold during the process. From pre-shoot preparations and glamorous transformations to striking poses, embracing empowerment and relishing your emotional photo reveal, every step is an opportunity to celebrate your unique beauty.
Join me for a London boudoir photography session
I am experienced, passionate and committed to capturing the essence of you. Choose me for your London boudoir photography experience and I will guide you every step of the way. I will support you throughout and help you to present the best version of yourself. Together, we’ll transform your perception of yourself in photographs, creating images that truly represent you.
Get ready to sparkle with joy and excitement! See you in the studio very soon!
If you’ve yet to get in touch about your London boudoir photography session, contact me today to get one step closer to true empowerment!
