Boudoir in a rustic setting
My Boudoir Shoot Experiences
It is now 12 months since we launched our ‘My Boudoir’ portrait service, and to mark this occasion, I decided that it was only right that I should have one myself! To put myself in the shoes of my clients, and experience what exactly it is that makes a boudoir shoot so compelling and rewarding.
I really do feel that being a female photographer has been a contributing factor to the success of my shoots over the last year – both in terms of putting my clients at ease, being sensitive to issues about body confidence (or lack of it!) and being able to shoot women in a way that is flattering and a celebration of their strengths!
And so, with this in mind I arranged my shoot with a good friend of mine – Sue Westwood Ruttledge – a fabulous Cheshire based photographer, whose style I love, and someone I feel most at ease with!
Preparing for my shoot…
I booked my shoot a couple of months in advance, to give myself time to get organised – both in terms of buying some new lingerie, and also to get a little fitter… the latter being laughable really, I think perhaps the dog had a couple of extra walks!
It was lovely to have a good excuse to treat myself to some new lingerie, and choose something a little more decadent that I would usually opt for. I had some very strong ideas about choosing lingerie with a vintage flavour –and underestimated the availability of such things off the high street. Interestingly, I ended up buying some gorgeous stuff out of Anne Summers, where their staff were incredibly helpful! In addition I picked up some great buys through online stores.
Hair and make-up..
Well, actually this was very easy! I’m a very natural sort of person, and don’t really spend a great deal of time titivating…. however….. having worked with some great beauticians and make-up artists over the last year, I have come to really appreciate the contribution that these professionals can make. I booked Bridget Foster to come along on the morning of my shoot, and sort me out! I was genuinely delighted with the outcome, and felt all the better for indulging in a bit of pampering.
The Shoot…
Oh, boy, the location of this shoot made it a bit of a challenge for my photographer! I really fancied the idea of an outdoors shoot, with a bit of a rustic flavour – for me personally, I like settings that are distressed, and unkempt!
A friend of mine kindly offered me the use of a semi-derelict school house, leading onto the Alston moors! This allowed the opportunity of shooting outdoors, with the backup of some shelter – perfect! I really enjoyed the shoot – Sue made me feel very comfortable, she gave me lots of direction, but at the same time managed to capture lovely shots that weren’t just about positioning, but captured a little bit of the ‘essence’ of me too.
The weather was simply dreadful, but towards the end of the shoot, the rain eased off, and we headed off onto the moors – complete with chaise longue – if anyone saw us they would have thought we were mad! This was actually my very favourite bit – for me there is something about the great outdoors that I find very relaxing and liberating… just a shame about the nettles and cow pats!
Out on the Alston Moors!
The Outcome…
After an agonising week of waiting to see the shots, my gallery was finally ready to view! Glass of wine in hand, I sat back to see what would unfold in front of my eyes – by the time I had viewed the images 3 times I sat back grinning like the Cheshire cat! Yep, it was me alright, looking pretty damn good! A fabulous mixture of artistic shots, a bit of cheekiness, and lots of detail – all thanks to the artistic eye of Sue!
My Conclusions…
Booking the right photographer for me was the most important element – as ultimately the images will have the photographer’s ‘stamp’ on. As I already know Sue, this made my decision very easy! I love her style of work, and she is someone I trust and feel very comfortable with.
Allow yourself plenty time to prep for your shoot. This may sound obvious, but I underestimated the time it would take to source some of the vintage style lingerie I really love. I will be posting some links to some great sites.
Hair and make-up – may sound extravagant, but it is one less thing to have to think about on the day, and helps set the tone for a great session.
Location – I was very keen on choosing my own location, which I feel reflects my personality well. However, it is important to have your photographer’s input, as you are relying on their vision to create something beautiful! I really think this is best achieved by having a good chat about your shoot well in advance of the day.
And finally… I love my images! As a mum, and business woman my time is very much taken up with everything other than me! To take that one day, and focus on myself was liberating, fun and memorable. I will treasure my Boudoir Album long into the future. As for my husband, I can say with absolute certainty that had I done it as a total suprise, it would have been up there, with his ‘best ever’ presents!
Distressed setting for Boudoir
