I am SO excited to be photographing you! The absolute JOY of my job is the privilege of showing women how amazing they are. Not just that they’re beautiful, but that they’re strong and brave and resilient and worth being seen. I’m honored you’ve chosen me to walk through this experience with you. 

Over the years, I’ve collected all the questions women have asked me regarding their boudoir photo experience and combined those, along with so many questions you didn’t even know to ask, in this prep guide. Feel free to skim through it for the specific questions you were looking for OR grab your favorite beverage and settle in for a little read. 

First things first: Start Reflecting

We are all on different journeys with our acceptance of ourselves and our bodies, and I don’t take that lightly. Some women are ready to embrace every part of themselves and others are just sticking their toe into the water. Where are you are on this journey? Are you ready to embrace every curve and roll and dimple, or are you wanting to see the most glammed up version of yourself? This is important for both of us to know as we’re preparing for your shoot. No matter where are you, there’s no judgement. Loving your body is a process for many of us, and I’m here to hold your hand. 

Secondly, think a little bit about what types of images you’re hoping to walk away from your session with. Do you find yourself drawn to anonymous images that show off the body? Portraits? Editorial style? Have absolutely no idea? It can be difficult to articulate your own style, so I won’t ask you to. Instead, the first thing I’d like for you to do is create a “secret” Pinterest board for your photo session. If you are not a Pinterest user and don’t want to be, feel free to just send me some photos, but I find this secret board on Pinterest to be the best way for both of us to get a good visual of the concept we’re going for. Sometimes, you don’t realize you have a style until you see 20 or so photos that you love all together.

So, go ahead and follow me here, then you’ll have to invite me to your board so I can see it. My username is Caley or search Caley Newberry Studios.

Once that’s done, I want you to create a new board called Your Name Boudoir. It’s important to use your first and last name. Otherwise, I’ll have a dozen “Jessica’s Boudoir”, and I need to be able to keep everyone straight. :) 

Now, without thinking too much about it, I want you to Pin anything that speaks to you and your style. I have a few boards on my page if you want to reference those, or you can pin anything from the rest of our website or other websites you’ve run across. While you do this, try not to overthink it, and be especially sure to turn off that inner critic in your head. Do away with the “OHHH that’s so beautiful, but I would never be able to pull that off!” That’s not the point of this exercise. We’re going for a vibe. 

After pinning 25 or so images, I will very easily be able to get a visual of your style and the type of photos you are interested in. Do you like sweet and romantic? Do you like dark, moody and seductive? Are you drawn more to an editorial or high fashion look? Do you like full bodyscapes, or do you prefer detail shots? You may not know the answer yet, but your board will start to reveal your preferences. The purpose of this is not to find images to replicate. It is inspiration, and it will be easier to deliver a set of photos that you love and are your style.

Now let’s make you feel WELCOMED because you’re family now!

Coming in from out of town? 

Check out our “Welcome to Nashville” guide for recommendations for accommodations, food, and fun to make the most out of your time here! With about a third of our clients traveling in from out of state for their experience, we want to make sure you have a solid lay of the land. Also, good to note: We can arrange a remote video photo reveal for you so you don’t have to travel back to Nashville for your reveal a few weeks after your shoot unless you’d like to! I LOVE doing reveals in person, but not at the expense of your budget or sanity. :) 

Join the Sisterhood. 

You can always reach out to me via email, but if you want a broader audience, a safe space has been created so you can engage with other women who have experienced a Caley Newberry Studios shoot or have one coming up! Start to get pumped about your shoot, ask any questions, calm last minute nerves, and interact with other empowered ladies through the Caley Newberry Studios group! 

Our Location

Most of our clients come to us at Caley Newberry Studios on 5th Avenue North in Germantown. Our space is built for photos. Gorgeous, natural light, and stunning, clean, simple sets. HOWEVER, I also love shooting in new places! If the schedule permits and for an additional fee, we can discuss having your session in an alternate location. 

WARDROBE TIPS

Honestly, and I’m not exaggerating here, wardrobe is really not that important for the way that I prefer to shoot. Please, please, please, don’t stress out over wardrobe. Don’t feel the need to run out and buy all new things. I can do a completely versatile and awesome shoot with a single scarf, a sheet, or a sweater. Combine that with the sheer collared shirt and lacy robe we keep in the studio, and you really don’t need anything but a pair of black or nude panties. Truly. 

But, most people like to be a little more styled and prepared ahead of time, so here are some general wardrobe tips to calm your nerves and help you decide what to bring. So, here are my top wardrobe tips for your Nashville boudoir session. All the photos throughout this guide are also links you can shop from, so be sure to check those out if you like what you see.

1. Don’t bring outfits you don’t love! I can’t tell you how many women show up with outfits that prompt them to say “I really don’t like the way I look in this one, but I’ll leave it up to you.” If you don’t like the outfit, it’s likely that you won’t like photos of you in the outfit. Leave it at home. 

2. Lingerie is not a must for boudoir. Don’t be afraid to get creative! For a boudoir-style shoot, a garter belt and thigh-high fish nets would go great with a cropped sweater or graphic tee. A gorgeous bra paired with a long flowing skirt. Your favorite tank top can be paired with no pants. A SHEET can be used for everything. Your favorite t-shirt paired with cheeky bottoms will get the job done just perfectly. This is about YOU and your authentic personality, not about being someone you aren’t. 

3. For beauty portraits, structured statement pieces work amazing. Your favorite blazer or jacket, a cocktail dress with an interesting neckline, a bodysuit and jeans, or a bra and trousers. We want you to look and feel like yourself, just on your best day. j

4. When in doubt, just bring in some of your favorite wardrobe items and let me style them for you. It’s part of the service, and I’m happy to do it while you’re having hair and makeup done. 

5. My shoot style is very “I’m-not-trying-too-hard” chic. We go for the “I woke up like this” look as often as possible. For that look wardrobe is even less of an obstacle. 

6. Structured pieces and solids look great on camera as well as items with texture, and those that are form fitting to show your figure. 

7. If wearing thigh-highs, buy them 1-2 sizes too big. Buying them in a size that supposedly “fits”, according to the package size chart, will probably result in the stockings giving, well, a thigh muffin top, honestly. I’d rather play with them a bit to make them stay up than you feel uncomfortable with a pooch in the middle of your thigh. 

8. Have yourself properly fitted for lingerie if you will be wearing it for your session. I recommend going to a local lingerie boutique to have yourself properly fitted. OR if you’re interested in online ordering, True & CO has a really amazingly helpful website and quiz that will help you to determine what styles and sizes work best for you. I also used the website abrathatfits.org and was shocked to learn the bras I was wearing were four (!!) cup sizes too small.

9. AVOID tiny, busy patterns, ruffles, and neon colors. They are often harsh on camera and a bit unflattering. Not to mention those bright colors reflect back onto your skin that you’ll have worked so hard to take care of, so let’s just avoid them altogether. We much prefer neutrals and solid colors.

10. Have several outfits picked out, and we can go through them together before your shoot to determine what will photograph best. We will have time for 3-4 outfits (nude and/or a sheet set count as an outfit). 

11. Variety is key. Try to incorporate a variety of pieces into your wardrobe selections. Having four different bra and panty sets won’t provide much variety in your photos. Instead, have something formal, something casual, something super textured and fun, something more modest, to something black and sleek. You get the idea. 

12. Don’t make it complicated. We welcome simplicity! We love to work with pretty scarves, sheets, white button down shirts, jackets and coats, or anything you love. If you feel overwhelmed by wardrobe, I’ll wrap you in a sheet and we’ll still get 75 amazing photos. The great thing about working with me is how much I believe in the beauty of simplicity, so no need to stress over wardrobe.

13. Avoid props. Props and uncertainty go together like… awkward school portraits. We want to focus this session on you in your own skin with timeless portraits rather than you and your guitar and your boots and your own skin. See how that gets complicated quickly? This is for you to show yourself off rather than hide behind props. 

14. Consider artistic nudes for a super easy, low maintenance and FREE wardrobe option. 

FLATTERING ALL FIGURES

It sounds cliche, but all women, I truly believe, are beautiful. Curves, no curves, all shapes, all sizes, are beautiful. I often get questions from clients saying “I’m curvy — what should I wear?” or “I have no butt!” Or “What about my ‘mom boobs’?” While I never try to change anything about your natural shape, if you’re looking to enhance or minimize certain parts of your body, I have a few suggestions.

1. Curvy Bodies

Bring on the form-fitting items! I adore bodysuits, tight dresses, and nothing at all, especially for you voluptuous bombshells. We often see curvy women trying to cover up more, but often that has the opposite effect they think it will and adds bulk instead. Allowing me to pose you so that we can see your figure and celebrate it is the way to go! 

2. Tiny Booties

Thongs (or this one for a lower traditional cut) tend to make a butt look fuller than full-coverage bottoms or g-strings. Play around in the mirror with different styles to see what you like best. And always keep in mind, creating curves in posing, even when there aren’t any, is one of my greatest talents. :) I can get a killer booty shot with any level of curve (or lack thereof). 

3. Shorter Legs

While my favorite photos are barefoot, I recommend high hells with a thin heel if you want to add leg length. (These, for example.) Avoid shoes with thick ankle straps or a square toe. I also recommend French Cut pieces that really give that leg line a visual lift. 

4. Small Chest

Underwires and balconettes are lovely. Please know, you do not need to create extra “oomph” unless it’s something that really concerns you. If you choose a push-up bra, be aware of gaping that may occur between your skin and the cup (even when you’re laying down!), and avoid those. I recently learned about Boobas. If you’re set on adding some extra cleavage and lift, you can add these to a bra or outfit for some extra curve.

5. “Mom Boobs”

If your breasts are a little… floppier… than you’d like them to be, I’d recommend embracing them just the way they are. But, if you aren’t ready for that for this session (next time?), just be sure to snag a bra with some support. Form-fitting bodysuits will also will also help out. Boobas will also work well for you. Posing will play a huge role here to, and I’m really good at that. So, bring your mom boobs my way and we’ll embrace the hell out of them! 

6. Surgery Scars and Stretch Marks

My personal belief is that scars tell a story. Sometimes clients wish they didn’t have to be permanently reminded of that story, and, other times, women embrace their scars and say they’re a part of them. For this reason, I will never edit out a scar or stretch mark unless a client specifically requests it. If you have a concern here, please let me know at your session, and I’ll happily retouch that at no additional charge. This is a very personal topic, and it’s not my decision to make. I welcome scars and stretch marks, but I also support a woman’s decision to conceal them if she would like. 

SOME IDEAS

I so have a few staples that I think photograph beautifully. I keep a running Amazon list here if you want to see my recommended products on the cheap to get your juices flowing.

1. A crop top and panties. I did this for my own boudoir session and was really pleased with the turnout. This is the crop top I wore. I also love the idea of a crop top tee shirt and fishnet stockings, like the photo at the beginning of this guide.

2. Want tummy control? Me, too. I recommend this Spanx thong all the time. I also wore it in my own boudoir session and it helped me feel much better about my tummy insecurity that I hadn’t worked through yet.

3. A black bodysuit. You could keep it really simple with this one-sleeve option, or this one for a classic high neckline. I also love long, sheer sleeves, so something like this one would be nice, while showing off a pop of cleavage. Or, for a super casual, more athletic look you could do something like this.

4. A semi-fitted slip is a classic and lovely look. Think something like this one.

5. A pajama set. I love this set, and it’d be great with or without a bralette underneath. ;)

WHERE TO SHOP

Of course, there’s Victoria’s Secret, which works for a lot of people but is not particularly size-inclusive.

For Love and Lemons is hit or miss for me, style-wise, but can definitely have some gems.

Torrid has amazing products from women approximately size 10+. I also love their kimonos for some added coverage and detail.

SavageX is also size inclusive and have some incredible pieces.

AdoreMe can also have some good finds and also has extended sizes.

You can also check out Intimissi, Skims, Negative Underwear, and even somewhere like Nordstrom.

If you’re looking to splurge on some incredible badass pieces, Honey Birdette is your spot.

Speaking of splurging, if you’re going to splurge and you’re local, Nashville Darlin is worth a visit for high-quality pieces, and they’ll help size you and flatter you as well. Tell them I sent you if you check them out!

YOUR TO DO LIST

Get your beauty sleep! 

If you don’t read the rest of this list, this is your priority. Make a serious effort towards getting some rest for your session. You deserve it. 

Brush Your Lips

If you haven’t done this before, I know it sounds weird, but dry lips are actually quite difficult to fix in post processing. In the days leading up to your photoshoot, use your toothbrush while brushing your teeth to also make a few passes over that pucker of yours. This will help shed dead skin. After that, apply a moisturizing lip balm. I love the Dr. Lipp’s Miracle Balm that you can buy here. It’s a jack-of-all-trades balm that was originally released as a lip conditioner, but because it’s 100% lanolin and odorless/tasteless/colorless, people discovered you can do nearly anything with it from cracked nipples from nursing to luscious lips and cheek highlight. I’ve heard people using it for dry heels and elbows. For less than $15 a tube, this stuff will last you a long time.

I’ve also recently discovered and love City Lips. It’s supposed to be a lip plumping gloss without the irritated, tingly feeling. I may have noticed a slight plumping, but what I really love about it is that the primary ingredient is hyaluronic acid and it’s an amazing lip conditioner without creating further need for the moisture like chapstick does.

Pamper Yourself

Go a few days before you shoot to get a manicure or pedicure or both! I personally love Poppy and Monroe because they do dry pedicures that are more sanitary and environmentally friendly, and all of their products are free of knows toxins. They also offer facials, skin consultation, and sugaring services for hair removal that’s more gentle that waxing. They are located a block up from the studio, and their space is so beautiful and relaxing. Because I truly love them so much, we have a referral program with them for 20% off one service. You can get that information here.

Lather On The Lotion

Supple is key for beautiful skin! Be sure to moisturize twice a day for the week leading up to your shoot. On the day of your shoot, we’ll ask you to moisturize again before we start, so if you have a lotion you love, feel free to bring it. 

Drink Lots of Water

Speaking of hydration, drink tons of water the week of your session. It’ll make your skin more supple, help with bloating and boost your energy. I’ve also been loving the LMNT electrolyte packs for adding a little extra hydration when I need it.

Have Extra Wardrobe Options

If you’re on the fence on a few different outfits, we recommend bringing as much as you want! We’ll help you decide which ones will photograph best and ask a few questions that will reveal which ones you actually like the best. Also be sure to bring a pair of black undies you like if that isn’t already on your list.

Make A Playlist

Music will really help you get into the super model zone! Try to select music that matches the concept of your shoot. We have a speaker at the studio to stream your tunes if you bring them! We also have a few photo shoot playlists that tend to jive well with most people, so no pressure if that feels like too much work. 

Work Out

This isn’t for the purpose of changing your body. I assure you my posing will do more than weeks in the gym, but working out helps you feel confident in your own skin. It gets those endorphins flowing, and that’s important. Also, these poses can be difficult and require some flexibility you absolutely aren’t used to. If you lift weights regularly, be especially sure to stretch your back consistently. Everyone will benefit from the flexibility yoga provides. I *love* the classes on the Peloton app, and they have classes for all fitness levels and time lengths. 

Bring a Robe

We recommend bringing a lightweight, soft robe to wear while having your hair and makeup done. An oversized sweatshirt or button up will also work. This will allow for any marks from bras or leggings to even out so they don’t show up in your images. Avoid your big fuzzy winter robe as that will tend to leave little dimples in your skin. I also find that your nerves will give you a higher body temperature, so best to not risk getting sweaty. :) 

Trust Me

I won’t make you do anything that is going to make you look bad. I’m a pro. I’ve been doing this for a long time, and I know how to make a women look good with killer poses, strategic lighting, and appropriate camera angles. I’ve photographed hundreds of women and have quite literally worked with every body type. I’ve got you covered. Don’t stress. 

Speaking of Don’t… I have a list of things that I swear you’d better not do. Let’s go over those now.

DON’T YOU DARE…

Spray Tan 

If you have light skin, look, I know you think you look better with a tan, but I assure you, you do not need it. You will photograph a lot more tan than you think you look, partially because you’ll be against a white wall and the only one in the photo and also because cameras oversaturate oranges. A spray tan will make you look more orange, and we really, really don’t want you to look like an Oompa Loompa. Even more importantly, it takes the most skilled of spray tan artists to get in every nook and cranny and fold if your body. These aren’t family photos. You won’t have clothes on, and all those little lines will show. Save your dollars. We cannot spend the time it takes to correct every problem a spray tan causes. 

Bring A Construction Hat (Or Other Props)

If you have simple jewelry that has sentimental value, feel free to bring it. But please avoid jerseys, military apparel, flags, weapons (yes, it’s happened), sports equipment, stethoscopes, Micky Mouse ears, masks, etc, etc, etc. This session is about you, not your boyfriend’s guitar to hide behind. We like to keep things simple, classic, and timeless so that you really shine and have images you’ll still love decades down the line.

Party The Night Before

If you’re nervous, try a bubble bath or a yoga class. Don’t undo all that amazing hydration you’ve worked on. 

Forget To Stretch

Many of these poses, while they look effortless, are quite unnatural feeling. Take a few minutes on the morning of your shoot (and ideally the days and weeks leading up to it) to stretch your arms, legs, hips, and especially your back. People are surprised to see how sore their muscles get after something as silly as a photo shoot, so any extra flexibility you can add by a quick yoga flow will only benefit you. 

Get A New Haircut/Color Immediately Before Your Shoot

Now is not the time to experiment with a whole new look. Of course touch up and maintain the look you already love, but let’s not do any risky experimenting.

Talk Smack On Yourself

I don’t want to hear about how you hate your hips. I want to hear about how you LOVE your legs. A great attitude will go a long way in having a fabulous and upbeat experience! That said, if you really feel the need to discuss something that bothers you the most about your body, just let me know by saying, “I love my ____, but my biggest insecurity is my ______.” I will be extra careful to play down your “flaws”, but I will also make it my challenge to take the best damn image featuring your ______ so you have a newfound appreciation for it. I’m mean like that. 

SOME FAVORITES

I’m a big fan of sharing favorite products among friends, so here are a few of my personal favorites for skincare, hydration, etc. These are things that are in my daily care routine, and I truly love all of them.

TROUBLESHOOTING

It happens all the time. A client’s shoot is a few days away, and she begins to panic. I get a terrified email in the middle of the night begging for me to talk them off the ledge. They want to cancel, they just haven’t had the time to prepare. You name the excuse, I’ve heard it. So let me be proactive here and tackle the most common trepidations I hear, so that maybe you won’t be hyperventilating in the middle of the night on the day before your session. 

1. Stress Acne

It happens. Pimples suck. If you think for one second that every woman you see pictured on my website was magically pimple-free on the day of their session, you’re kidding yourself. We retouch blemishes and bruises with ease on every photo you see. No problem. No stress. Let that pimple try its hardest to ruin your day, but your photos will not be a permanent reminder of it. However, if you have a few days, the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion can dry those babies out so fast. I’ve literally had it work overnight. You can get that here.

2. Body Issues

I long for the day that women are comfortable in their skin at all stages, for the day that women embrace their wobbly bits and beautiful side creases. That said, I know women well enough to be realistic and understand that many women struggle with self love, and no matter how much I tell them that they’re beautiful, they wish they would have lost just a few more pounds before their session. If that is you, I can assure you, this isn’t my first rodeo. The majority of the women that come in to see me are working on loving themselves, but struggle. They don’t approve of the size of their thighs, their belly pooch, their dimples. I take women’s feelings very seriously and never want to make anyone uncomfortable. While this is a body positive studio, I will also light and pose you in the most flattering possible way while I photograph you from the best possible angles. I will meet you where you are in both posing and editing.

I’ve spent the last ten years photographing all kinds of women, all extraordinary in their own way. I’ve learned all the tricks to ensure that I am featuring the attributes that women most love about themselves, while paying special care to downplay areas of concern. While I’m going to make it my very best effort to change your mind on what you consider to be your “flaws”, I don’t expect every woman to be ready for that. 

So one more time, louder for those the back: You are amazing today. Not 15 pounds from now, not post-plastic surgery. You are amazing today. And I can’t wait to show you. 

3. Pose Anxiety 

This one’s easy. You don’t have to know how to pose, not even a little bit. I will walk you through every step of the way. I will get into the poses myself and have your mirror me. If we didn’t get it right the first try, I’ll gently redirect you. It’s not your job to take amazing photos. It’s mine. And I’m an enneagram 3, so I’m pretty competitive about taking amazing photos. 

4. Being On Your Period

Uuuuuuuuugh, the worst. No, it will not affect your photos. We run an all-female studio, and we all understand the plight of menstruation on photo shoot day. We keep extra strength Tylenol and feminine hygiene products on hand, and we have zero qualms with 30 bathroom breaks. Start your morning with some fresh fruit and a heating pad, and we’ll take it from there. No worries about bloat or blemishes. 

5. Being the One Client I’m Unable to Get a Good Photo Of

If you’re thinking that all of the women featured on the pages of my website and social media are models, you’re sorely mistaken. I have never ever had a client who didn’t love their photos. You don’t have to love every single one of them, but you will love most of them. And you will be shocked that you could love photos of yourself this much. I will rock out your photo session, and I will get a whole bunch of killer images of you. I always do. But if you come into the shoot with an open mind and with trust in me, we’ll get extra. And extra is always good. I’ve never met a women who I couldn’t capture beautifully. That includes you. 

Whew, it’s almost here. You’ve done all the prep, you’ve read this entire guide and earned a gold star. Now what?

You’ll get a few reminders from me along the way to hydrate and take care of yourself. And a few days before your session, I’ll reach out to confirm time and give instructions for parking at the studio. 

On the day of your shoot, your hair and makeup will be done by a member of our glam squad. You should have your face clean and moisturized and arrive with your hair clean and dry and ready to be heat styled when you arrive. Make sure to wear loose-fitting clothing or a lightweight robe while getting makeup done, and let us know in advance if you have any skin allergy at all. While you’re getting lovely, I will take a peek at your wardrobe selections and start putting together looks so we can hit the ground running when you’re done with hair and makeup. 

Once the shoot begins, you can expect me to give you tons of encouragement and direction. I love what I do, and I get excited for you. I will not expect you to super model pose throughout your shoot. I’ll show you what to do and encourage improvising whenever you feel comfortable. I will say things to elicit laughter, so be prepared for my cheesy jokes and embarrassing stories. Don’t hold back your emotion. That’s where the good stuff is.

The poses generally aren’t very comfortable and your shoot will give you more of a workout than you anticipate. Get a good stretch in the morning of your session, and you may want to pop an ibuprofen and get another stretch in afterward for those backaches, but it will alllll be worth it. 

Your shoot time will FLY by, and that’s a good thing! That means it wasn’t awkward or boring. We try not to invade your schedule by going over the time we’ve scheduled you for, but still let us know if you have a firm time you need to be finished, and we’ll be extra sure to wrap.

At the end of your shoot, we will help you pack up your things, we’ll get your scheduled for your photo reveal appointment so you know exactly when you’ll be seeing your images. Within three weeks of your shoot, you will have your photo reveal appointment with me so that you can see all of your proofs and order anything you’d like. You should be prepared to place your full order with payment the day of your photo reveal and ordering appointment. Most everyone gets one of our packages with a luxury album and at least one piece of wall art.

At your photo revel appointment, we’ll relax on the couch and show a slideshow of some of the lightweight images from your session before diving in to viewing your entire collection of at least 60 images. You’ll have the opportunity to flip through our beautiful album options and see all of our other available products. We know you’re going to love your images, and these reveal appointment are so much fun.

Within six weeks of your paid invoice, all of your purchased products will be ready for pickup. It’s occasionally sooner, and we’ll keep our fingers crossed! We’ll send you an email letting you know when your products are ready for pickup or with your tracking code if you’re out of the area and we’re shipping to you. 

Within six months of receiving your album? You’ll want to do this again. Trust me. Existing clients get dibs on photo shoot time slots and available weekend slots because we believe in special treatment. 

And that’s it! So, immediate reminders:

• Make a Pinterest board and share it with me. 

• Reflect on what you want from this experience.

• Collect wardrobe items but don’t stress about them. Feel free to use my Amazon list.

• Start taking care of your skin, hydrating and stretching.

• Make a playlist (preferably on Spotify) if that sounds fun.

• Start budgeting for alllll the images you’ll want because you’re going to absolutely rock this.

Gosh, I cannot wait to rock your world by showing you how amazing you look. And I hope, by the end of this, you’re able to see beyond your outward appearance and recognize how amazing you are. You’re already brave for taking this step, and I admire that.

As always, I’m an email away if you need anything at all.