DEARJOHNNIE

So here it is ladies! This is my blog post with tips and suggestions for your boudoir session with Dearjohnnie photography. Woman to woman, I understand that it is not easy to get half nude with someone who's practically a stranger - so, the most important thing I can do is do my best to make you feel comfortable!

First off, let's talk about why I am even getting into the business of boudoir photography. (Feel free to skip my rambling and get straight to the list of tips if you want.) Yes, I do believe that sexy professional magazine quality photos of yourself would make an amazing and creative gift for your boyfriend, fiancee or husband, but to be honest that's not why I am interested in this field.

Too many of us woman are not comfortable enough in our own skin. Some of you might be skeptical on whether you want to do this or not because you may not feel you have the right "physique" for it. But if no one else has told you, let me be the first: BABY YOU LOOK FABULOUS! Boudoir photography is meant to be classy, sensual and empowering for women of all ages, shapes, sizes, and shades! Even, if not for someone else - having a boudoir shoot is an experience on it's own and a gift to yourself!

Check out this photo I took of my gorgeous mother - almost 50 years old and she looks sexaaay...

So, back to business. I will be your cheerleader and coach from start to finish, playing music during your shoot, and I even will be providing champagne and cupcakes for a relaxed atmosphere :) Here are just some tips on things you can do to make the shoot run smoothly. If you have any further concerns, feel free to contact me direct to chat or to discuss the creative/artistic direction of your shoot!

1. Be comfortable. This is definitely #1! If you are not relaxed and comfortable during your shoot, it will absolutely show in your final photos. Don't think for a second that it's awkward for me as your photographer - this is what I do for a living, and I enjoy it! However, this also means:

You will need to wear outfits, lingerie that you are comfortable in. (I will touch on this more later)
Arrive early - rushing to your shoot will only stress you out, which won't allow you to relax during your shoot
Bring a friend if it makes you more comfortable. (a friend, not a posse - thanks!)
Eat smart, and drink enough water leading up to your shoot - when you feel good on the inside, you look great on the outside! Nothing beats a natural glow :)

2. Professional hair & makeup is a plus! Now, I know the economic option is to do our own hair and makeup - but shoots like this are usually a once in a lifetime, so let's do it right :) Although your photos will be professionally retouched, just like a high quality magazine photo would - having your makeup done professionally will photograph flawless and natural. You can always go to your local beauty shop or mall and have your makeup done with Sephora or MAC, or you can book one of the freelance MAC makeup artists I recommend and know personally:

Angel Merino (Check his work on instagram: mac_daddyy) for booking: merinoartistry@yahoo.com
Kiah Kinard (www.kiahkinard.wix.com/tokyolakaiartistry) for booking: kiahkinard@gmail.com

3. Wear loose clothing to the shoot. The last thing you want are sports bra lines or EWBL (that's 'elastic waist band line', for you acronym novices). Again... getting there early gives you time for these lines to fade. Button-down shirts work perfectly, especially if you've just had your hair gorgeously done up :)

4. Wear a gel deodorant. Not the chalky white stuff, 'cause that ain't sexay.

5. Find pictures and poses you like, first. Have an idea of what to do when you go in there. Even I, as the photographer, refer to other photographer's work for inspiration and ideas. I'll give you lots of direction, but it's also good to know what you do and don't like beforehand. It will save us both time!

6. Wear something that compliments not only your shape, but you're personality! Now we get to it! We all have different shapes, tall, slender, thick, plus size, petite, etc. And there are so many different types of lingerie - very sexy and edgy, or more traditional and conservative. No matter... there's something perfect for every shape and personality! (Note: you do not have to wear lingerie to your shoot, a sexy dress or "boyfriend's shirt" works too!)

Here are some photos, all different styles artistically and various types of women, from my favorite boudoir photographer, based in London: www.rebelandromance.com

Here are some links to some style guides online to help you choose the perfect style for you!

Mark and Spencer style guide: http://www.marksandspencer.com/Lingerie-Fit-Style-Guide-Lingerie-Underwear-Womens/b/57537031
Pinterest Lingerie Style Guide: http://www.pinterest.com/misskylaaa/lingerie-style-guide/

Shop lingerie! Check out these sites to get an idea of what you're looking for - however, if you do choose to shop online, be sure to get your sizes correct, and order with enough time to receive for the shoot.