9 Top Tips to pick the best Minneapolis Boudoir photographer

9 TOP TIPS TO PICK THE BEST MINNEAPOLIS BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHER

October 03, 20245 min read

Boudoir photography is an intimate and empowering experience, and choosing the right photographer is crucial to ensure you love the results. Whether it's your first boudoir session or you're looking to have another, here are nine things to consider before selecting a photographer to work with.

1. Pick a Photographer Whose Work You’ll Love for Years to Come

When it comes to boudoir photography, these images are going to be something you look back on for many years, possibly even decades. It's important to choose a photographer whose work resonates with you and whose style aligns with how you envision your photos. Think about how you’ll feel when looking at these pictures in ten years—do they capture you in a way you’ll still love?

Many clients say they cherish their boudoir photos years after the session because they chose a photographer whose style matched their personality. In fact, my own love for boudoir photography started when I had my first session.

2. Choose Someone Whose Personality Meshes with Yours

Having a great rapport with your photographer is essential to feeling comfortable and natural during your session. When you choose someone whose personality clicks with yours, it helps ease nerves and makes the entire experience more enjoyable. You’ll spend hours together, so it’s important to feel like you’re in good hands.

A boudoir session is an intimate experience, and when you trust your photographer, it shows in the photos. You'll be relaxed and confident, and that energy translates into stunning, authentic images that you'll treasure for a lifetime.

Minneapolis Boudoir woman laying on floor in body suit lingerie

3. Find a Photographer Who Makes You Feel Confident

Boudoir photography is more than just taking beautiful photos; it’s about giving you a sense of empowerment. Your photographer should make you feel special and confident during your session. One of the things that sets my sessions apart is the confidence boost I strive to give each client.

My goal is to help you see the beauty in yourself—whether you're a bit shy or already feeling fierce. The best photos happen when you're comfortable in your own skin, and I make it my mission to help bring that out in every person who steps in front of my camera.

Minneapolis Boudoir woman laying on couch in white feather lingerie

4. Experience Matters

Experience is key when it comes to boudoir photography. A photographer with years of experience not only knows how to use lighting, angles, and poses to create stunning images but also how to make you feel at ease throughout the process.

I have 15 years of experience photographing women, and in that time, I’ve learned how to work with all body types and personalities to create images that truly flatter and empower.

Minneapolis Boudoir woman kneeling on couch in black lingerie

5. Understand the Importance of Good Lighting and Posing

Lighting and posing can make or break a boudoir shoot. Under-experienced photographers might not fully understand how to use these elements to highlight your best features. It's crucial to work with someone who knows how to get it right the first time.

Boudoir photos are incredibly personal and intimate, and when done right, they capture your beauty in ways that are natural and authentic. Ensure that your photographer knows how to use lighting and posing to create flattering and stunning images, so you’re not left wishing you had gone with someone more skilled.

Minneapolis Boudoir woman kneeling on couch in leather lingerie

6. Check What’s Included in the Session

Before booking your session, find out what each photographer offers. Some sessions may include professional hair and makeup services, which can make a huge difference in how you feel and look during your shoot.

My clients love the extra pampering that comes with professional hair and makeup, done by my talented artist Amy, who knows exactly how to enhance each client’s natural beauty.

Whether you want a more natural or bold look, having an expert on hand to do your makeup ensures that your final images will have that polished, camera-ready glow.

Minneapolis Boudoir woman kneeling on couch in black body suit lingerie

7. Make Sure Your Photographer Gets to Know You

A personal connection is important when preparing for a boudoir session. I like to get to know my clients before their shoot, whether it’s through a consultation or a detailed questionnaire. This allows me to plan a session that’s perfectly tailored to who you are—from the wardrobe choices to the styling and posing.

By taking the time to understand your personality, style, and preferences, I can create a boudoir experience that feels unique and special to you.

Minneapolis Boudoir woman laying on floor in blue lingerie

8. Get Guidance and Support Throughout the Process

Your boudoir session shouldn’t just be about the day of the shoot. The best photographers will help guide you every step of the way, from preparing for the session to feeling your best on the day of the shoot.

I make sure to provide emails leading up to your session with tips and advice on how to prepare. This way, by the time your shoot arrives, you’ll feel calm, confident, and ready to enjoy the experience.

It’s not just about the photos; it’s about the entire experience of being pampered and celebrated.

Minneapolis Boudoir woman laying on floor in blue body suit lingerie

9. Choose a Photographer Who Helps with Printed Products

Finally, consider what happens after the shoot. A boutique boudoir photographer, like myself, will assist you not just with digital images but with printed products as well. From albums to canvases, I help you select the best way to showcase your beautiful images. Many clients prefer having someone guide them through the printing process rather than leaving it on their to-do list.

Often, photos get left on a disk and never see the light of day. Having someone to help you design and print products ensures you’ll have beautiful keepsakes to treasure forever.

Boudoir photography is an incredible journey of self-love and empowerment. By choosing the right photographer, you’ll not only get stunning photos but also an unforgettable experience. Whether you choose me or someone else, find a photographer who resonates with you and will make the entire process as special as you deserve! We can't wait to chat with you!

Owner and photographer of Belle Marie Boudoir located in Minneapolis, MN empowering women one session at a time.

Olivia Smith

Owner and photographer of Belle Marie Boudoir located in Minneapolis, MN empowering women one session at a time.

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Belle Marie Boudoir business owner portait

Hey there! I'm Olivia

I’m absolutely obsessed with empowering women through boudoir photography. For me, it's all about showing you how incredibly beautiful, confident, and fierce you truly are—just as you are! My studio is a space where you’ll feel celebrated, pampered, and totally you from the moment you walk in. So if you're ready to embrace your curves, feel like a total queen, and capture this amazing version of yourself, let’s start planning your dream session today so shoot me a message. I can't wait to help you see what I see—you're stunning!