Boudoir Session Prep//St. Louis, MO

Boudoir session prep is a question I answer a lot in emails to clients! There isn’t a lot to do thankfully, but there are some key points to consider when prepping for your session. Be sure to read to the bottom because I have a checklist download for you!
To tan or not to tan?
This is probably the most asked question I get. I recommend spray tans, which I know some photographers are completely against. I happen to love that glow you get with the spray tan. I really like the mystic tan at Palm Beach Tan, but I know other salons have mystic tan booths as well. I also LOVE Just Fakin Tans as well. I have had several clients use her, and the spray tan is flawless, plus she contours your body as well!
One thing I will never ever recommend is tanning in the tanning bed. I am not here to support skin cancer.
What to wear?
What to wear is probably the absolute most common boudoir session prep question I receive. I have so many what to wear options on this blog post. It has tons of info about fitting and why or why not for certain types of outfits. If you are curvey, check out this post for tips to flatter your curves.
You will want to have 2-3 EXTRA outfits than what the allotted amount for your session. This allows for extra if something just isn’t working or if we possibly have a little extra time. You will also want at the minimum 2-3 bra and panty sets. Be sure they are a size larger than you normally wear to prevent stretching of the lace and to prevent muffin tops!
Should you wax?
Don’t wax just because you are having a boudoir session. But if you are a waxer, wax the week before to prevent bumps, redness, or rashes.
Some other things to consider for boudoir session prep.
- Drink lots of water the week before the session. Hydration is important for glowing skin!
- Eat your fruits and veggies the week before. I’m not saying go on a crazy diet. What I mean is just watch the salty/high fat snacks to prevent bloating!
- Moisturize the week before, and especially the day of your session for smooth, glowing skin.
- Come with clean, dry hair and a clean face for hair and makeup, unless otherwise discussed.

Tracy Lynn is a boudoir photographer for brides-to-be in the St. Louis area, and a mentor + coach for photographers looking to level up their businesses with better systems and processes.