How do I choose a boudoir photographer?

How thrilling!!

You are taking the first steps on the journey to having a boudoir session done. Not only that but you are conducting the essential research to ensure it’s truly exceptional!

Picking your boudoir photographer is the MOST important part of the whole process.

Choosing the wrong photographer can make something that is meant to be a positive and empowering experience into one that could leave a negative impact! So how do we make sure that doesn’t happen?

Follow these tips listed below and I am sure you’ll find a photographer who will make this one of the best things you’ve ever done!!

1: Be aware that there are different niches of boudoir photography

Be aware that there are many different niches of boudoir photography and not all photographers offer the same experience! Keep in mind that a lot of photographers may offer a few different types of boudoir.

For example, someone wanting to feel sexy but not sexualised may not want to book the photographer that is only showcasing whips and sex swings. The girl wanting to show off her gym progress may not want to go to a photographer who is plus size specific.

When looking for your photographer make sure the work they are showing aligns with what you are looking for. If you are unsure if they offer what you are interested in you can always just reach out and ask! Some photographers will even list all the niches of boudoir they offer on their websites.

2: Review their portfolio

When looking through a boudoir photographers work, ask yourself these questions!

• Do I like their style of photography?
• Would I be happy if this photo was of me?
• Are the images they are sharing flattering to the person in them?
• Do I like the way they edit?

A big part of boudoir sessions is the experience it gives, but it is important that you do like the photos as well!

3: Find someone you think you could feel comfortable with

When going into a boudoir session, you kind of have to embrace the uncomfortable. But choosing the wrong photographer could definitely make things worse!

Look for a photographer that seems like someone you could build rapport with. Search through their social media or website to see what they are like.

Maybe they have a video or photos showing their personality or maybe you can get enough of an idea by the way they type!

At Apricot Aura we are happy to have a video chat or meet up before booking in your session. You can always request this to other photographers before you are 100% locked in with them.

4: Make sure they are a trustworthy photographer

Check out their reviews. See what others are saying about them! Do they show themselves anywhere on their page or website?

Google the name of the photographer and google the name of their business. Do your own little background checks.

This is someone you are trusting with a very vulnerable experience and very personal photographs. It is okay to be cautious here!! There are plenty of incredible boudoir photographers with good intentions but like any line of work, there will be a few bad eggs that get into it. 

Click here to read about the red flags to look out for when choosing a boudoir photographer!

5: Don’t pick them out of convenience

You may live in a small town and the options of a boudoir photographer may be limited. Trust me when I say that this is an investment and experience worth travelling for! If you don’t love the photographers in your area then start looking at the surrounding towns and cities.

6: Think about your budget

From what I have seen boudoir photography can cost anywhere from $50 to $30,000.

A good boudoir photographer is not cheap!

The more you pay the more likely you’ll have a better experience. For a decent boudoir photographer make sure your budget is not under $1000.

If you want to look for the cheapest option out there you’ll be gambling a lot on if they are trustworthy, accommodating, experienced, and can produce the quality you are searching for.

It is important to know that a lot of boudoir photographers run their sessions in two parts. The boudoir session (where you have your photos taken) and then the reveal session (where you can purchase your images and products).

Some photographers may not show you the full pricing guide upfront. I understand why they do this as you don’t understand the value of each image until after you see them. Just be cautious as you may end up spending a lot more than you originally expected to.

It is completely acceptable to ask your potential boudoir photographer for more information on their pricing.

7: Trust your gut

Ultimately, trust your instincts. If you have a bad feeling that someone may not be the right fit for you, look for another photographer. Choose a photographer who makes you feel confident, comfortable and excited about your boudoir session!