How to select the RIGHT boudoir photographer for YOU!
Let’s be real, there are a lot of us out there!
In every major (and loads of small) towns across the US, you can find a boudoir photographer. So I can totally see decision paralysis being a problem. Who do you book with? How do you know they’re right for you? Are they trustworthy? AHHHHHH! Yeah it feels like a lot!
So how do you decide who’s right for YOU? Let’s dive in (don’t worry this isn’t about me telling you we are right for you, cuz it’s possible that we aren’t!)
Style
We photographers are artists. We use light, cameras, set styling, posing and of course editing, to create our unique style. No two photographers are exactly alike and that matters. So selecting someone who’s style you love is priority #1. If you select a photographer who’s style is dark and moody and edgy but want light, bright, airy boudoir photos, you should discuss this with them BEFORE booking. A good way to get a feel for a photographer’s style. Stalk their instagram, check out their images from the last 6 months. Take a look at their portfolio and website. Are the colors, and style shown in the images something you dream about for your own shoot?
Message
We boudoir photographers don’t all stand for the same things. Some are about providing a fantasy, heavily editing images and making your skin flawless and porcelain. Some are about body positivity, self love and embracing our “flaws”. There’s a wide spectrum in between all of those and nothing wrong with any of those choices. It’s important to select a photographer that aligns with your beliefs and goals. If you want to embrace your tiger stripes and have more natural photos, make sure you select someone who’s work reflects that. Want to have your Hollywood Glam moment and be retouched to perfection, make sure your artist knows that! Your photographer should be discussing this with you if they don’t have a retouching policy already.
Location
Let’s be frank, location plays a factor. If you love a photographer and they’re on the other side of the country, that could pose a lot of logistical problems and increase the expense. Airfare, hotel, and during this COVID-19 world, the concern on whether you can and if it’s even safe to travel. That said, if you LOVE a photographer’s work and can’t imagine working with anyone else, the travel might be worth it! At the end of the day, you want an experience and images that you’ll love for years to come, not just someone who’s close.
Cost
OBVIOUSLY this is something to consider. Boudoir is a luxury item and the expense needs to be something that you’re comfortable with. You might find a photographer that you love but can’t imagine spending that much on a boudoir experience. On the other hand you might find someone who you’re super comfortable with their rates but not in love with their work. It’s all about balance. Balance what matters most to you. Ask for an average client spend from your photographer, this will give you an idea of what most of their clients spend on an average session. Ask for a product and ala carte price sheet (like our Investment Guide) before you book. This will give you an idea of what you’re looking at for their packages before you commit. Check with your dream photographer and see if they offer financing or special payment options or save up. It’s all about what you’re comfortable with spending at the end of the day.