While boudoir has been around for years, it seems to have really exploded over the last few years. With so many photographers to choose from, clients can be overwhelmed with how to select one.
There are several things to look for that will help make the search easier.
First is style. Take a look at the photographer’s body of work. See what I did there? 😉 Would you describe the style as dark with a lot of shadows, lots of black and white shots, or light, airy, and feminine? I do a bit of light and airy as well as dark myself.
Take note of the amount of retouching as well. Some photographers don’t Photoshop at all, while others take a heavier-handed approach. My editing style is to stay true to you, but remove a client’s “perceived flaws”. We discuss the level of retouching you desire when you view your photos.
Second is experience. Your photographer should really specialize in the genre and not just offer it in addition to weddings, or lifestyle portraits. There’s a different approach with boudoir photography and the photos require a certain eye for detail. Also, note if there are a range of body types represented. I’ve been photographing ladies since 2009 so I’ve photographed nearly every body type there is.
What types of products does your photographer offer? You should be doing something with your images besides letting them sit on your hard drive. First of all, you’ll appreciate them more if you display them, and secondly, they can be subject to file corruption or outright lost on a hard drive. Your photographer should offer heirloom quality products printed at a professional lab. After all, you probably don’t want a teenage boy at your local drugstore printing your intimate photos.
How is their customer service? Do they respond within one business day, or text you back right away? I usually respond to most inquiries within 24 hours or less, and try to respond ASAP if I get a text from a booked client. Additionally, I make every effort to inform clients on turnaround time on their products.
Make sure you’ve at least done a phone consult with your photographer. You should make sure they are easy to talk to. After all, you’re going to be getting naked, or nearly naked in front of this person. You want to make sure that he /she understands your vision, if you have one, and feel confident this photographer can capture it for you. These are things that you won’t know if you converse solely through text or an email.
Lastly, is price. It’s not the least important but should be last in priority of consideration because the investment with boudoir is almost a case of “You-get-what-you-pay-for.” For many women, a boudoir session may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s not something that should be scrimped on. There’s a lot of work and preparation that goes into a boudoir session, along with post-production. I offer clients a range of payment plans to make it more affordable.
I’d love to chat with you over the phone for a few minutes if you think, we’d be a good fit.
