Bold Portraits. Thoughtful Direction. Timeless Imagery.
Boudoir Prep Guide
Thank You For Booking Your Boudoir Photo Session With Cody Van Horn!
I'm looking forward to meeting and photographing you! In the meantime, here is your guide to help you prepare for your shoot.
​Prelude
Cody Van Horn Photography is not only about creating intimate portraits, but most importantly it’s about celebrating YOU - who you are, your life’s journey and what has brought you here. You’re ready to make a statement; about yourself, how you feel about your lover, or a situation you’ve conquered.
Maybe you’re planning a sexy, sultry gift to give to your partner on your wedding night. Or perhaps you just want a little something for yourself- to celebrate your beauty, growth, courage and confidence.
No matter what your reason - Cody Van Horn applauds your decision, and wants to do everything in his power to help you feel calm, comfortable and deeply connected with yourself during your experience. Whatever it is that you want to express, he will capture that moment for you, with beautiful and unique images.
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Cody Van Horn is proud to offer his clients over a decades worth of experience working with models of all shapes, sizes and personalities! He has captured and edited several boudoir experiences during his time in the industry and is dedicated to delivering the highest level of professionalism, guidance and encouragement possible to each and every man or woman that steps through his studio doors. That’s why he created this preparation guide.
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Read on for valuable information about what to expect during your boudoir shoot, including wardrobe suggestions! Cody also included a few of his favorite boudoir posing tips with instructions just in case you want to give some of them a try in the comfort of your own home!
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Where To Begin
First thing's first, there is one thing that I would like to make very clear: Every single person is nervous to have their photo taken and it's totally normal. It is Cody's job to create a space where you will feel completely safe to be yourself. There is no pressure, no expectations. During the shoot, it will be more relaxed than any other photoshoot experience you might have had. I want to capture you, and my mission is to make you feel safe, comfortable, and free to be your 100% self. You’ll be guided through the entire process and posing. Don't stress over this, I promise it will be a lot of fun! There is really nothing you have to do other than trust me. I guarantee we will get stunning images that you will love!
You are welcome to create a mood board on Pinterest or collect screenshots as a digital album on your mobile device to get an idea of what theme/style of images you desire to capture. Please note that these images will not be replicated, but used as inspiration.
About The Studio
Photography Studio Address:
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TBD...
Cody Van Horn Photography studio is a creative space, with an industrial feel that is located in Indiana.
The studio offers plenty of lighting equipment, seamless/ hand-painted backdrops, a private dressing room booth, and ample rooms to set up a variety of themes.
This studio is a place to let go of your inhibitions and find the confidence you deserve! Here, you will be empowered to find your flirtatious, cute, happy, sexy side... whatever you want.
What Is Boudoir Photography?
Boudoir Photography is a photographic style featuring intimate, sensual, romantic, and tastefully erotic images where the luxury experience is created in a photographic studio, bedroom, or private room environment to enhance the feeling of romance and richness. It is more than just a photoshoot in lingerie. It is a reminder that you are courageous and strong. For most people, having their photos taken half-naked is most certainly overcoming a huge fear! It can be a unique gift for your spouse/partner, a celebration of important milestones, a sexual rediscovery, but most importantly a celebration of you.
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A place where you can be sexy, fun, flirtatious, sensual, erotic and completely free! A room that you can run around naked in- and express your sexual side in- without fear of judgement or pervs! The place you feel completely accepted, loved, confident and safe. All of these feelings, translate perfectly into what you deserve to experience during your Boudoir Photo Session.
Did You Know?
The term "Boudoir" literally means- a woman’s bedroom or private room/changing room.
While "Boudoir" technically means "ladies bedroom or private space" times are changing and this resulted in the introduction of "Intimate Lifestyle Photography" which encompasses "people" instead of just women. Intimate lifestyle Photography is for everyone, it's a powerful way to experience yourself, be treated like a star for a day and take home stunning images with the memory of you absolutely killing it in front of the camera. I lead and demonstrate through the whole process, entire photo shoot is dedicated to you and your session so you can soak up the experience and focus on being in the moment. Boudoir photography sessions are all about you celebrating you in a comfortable, connected professional environment! The photos from your session are timeless- eternal- and all yours! They’re meant to always remind you of special moments in your life when you completely accepted who you are- how you look, and how you feel, and how you’ve grown- free of inhibitions and reservationsThese sessions are perfect for owning your uniqueness, embracing change or celebrating victory over past traumas. They’re designed to help you feel bold and beautiful from head to toe! Everybody is deserving of a feel-good self-love session to see for yourself the power it has.
Interlude
In this section you will be guided through the types of images you may want from your photo session, what to wear, things to avoid on the days leading up to your shoot, and tips to help you pose like a pro.
Types Of Images
Detail Shots
Showcasing the beautiful bits that grace the human body. Legs, jawlines, shoulders, collarbones, tattoos that are special to you, etc. These types of images are perfect for adding visual balance to printed photo albums and wall art displays.
Classic Boudoir Style
Most of these images are shot in nude, wrapped in bedsheets, lingerie, or some form of loungewear. Other ideal wardrobe for this would be long skirts, gowns with excess fabric, jeweled lingerie, and statement pieces such as over-sized coats, cowboy hats, etc. With or without clothing, these images can be photographed either on-location in a bedroom environment or in a photo studio. Cody Michaels has white, beige, and hand-painted backdrop options for different aesthetics.
Fine Art Nudes
Modern, yet classic and elegant Fine Art Nudes by Cody Michaels Photography are a timeless display of the human form. Tasteful nudes, implied nudity with sheets, in nature, or somewhere in between – the option is always there at the end of the session to get a little steamy! A super easy, low maintenance, and FREE wardrobe option.
Wardrobe Selection Tips
Push-Up Bras Are Okay
If ever there was a time for more support it is during a boudoir session. Push-up bras add visual power to almost every pose and will have your chest looking its best. They are not a requirement, but worth your consideration.
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Use Hangers And Bags
We want the outfit to look as pristine as possible. Bring your clothing to the shoot on hangers and using bags over them to help them stay pristine and prevents any annoying detail from finding its way into the photos.
It Does NOT Have To Be Only Lingerie
Lingerie is a natural choice for boudoir. However, it isn't the only option for boudoir. Simple outfits such as a button down shirt and panties can be equally as powerful as lingerie. Find some piece with emotional value or that displays your personality. A tank top and a flowy skirt? Awesome! A crop top with thigh-high fishnets? Fantastic! However, if you choose to wear lingerie for your session, I recommend going to a local lingerie boutique to have yourself properly fitted.
Bring A Handful Of Bras And Panties
Having simple and complex bras and panties will offer the most flexibility. These can be paired together or with any other outfit so that they can add some spice to outfits with a small change. Having a small grab bag of these will allow you to add some color or texture to outfits with little hassle.
Try On Your Outfits
Loose lingerie or lingerie that is too tight does not lend to making your feel or looking as sexy as you can. The perfect-fitting outfit will highlight your curves and not add detriment to them by creating creases in skin or hanging off of you, especially once you get into some more involved poses. You don’t want to find out that your outfit doesn’t fit or has a loose section on the day of the shoot, so try it on!
Trust Your Gut!
Find items that naturally draw you to them. Sessions are about YOU. Be honest with what you want. You will feel twice as good on the shoot day when you honestly like your outfit. You want to let your personality shine here, so being honest with what you like is the best first step in that process.
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Structured Pieces & Solids
Look great on camera as well as items with texture and those that are form fitting to show off your figure. Examples could include your favorite blazer or jacket, a cocktail dress with an interesting neckline, or simply just a bodysuit and jeans.
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Have Several Outfits Picked Out
We can go through them together before your session to determine what will photograph best. We will have time for 2-3 outfits. (Nudes also count as an outfit, in case you were wondering).
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Try To Incorporate A Variety Of Pieces Into Your Wardrobe Selections
Having 5 different bra and panty sets won't allow for me a whole lot of variety in your photos. Instead, have something formal, something casual, something super textured and fun, something more modest, to something black, sleek, and chic. It doesn't have to be complicated... in fact, I welcome simplicity!
Don't Chase After Trends If You Don't Like Them
Pressure to select pieces that feel trendy or don't match your personality can often lead to people picking pieces that don't fit them well in personality or body type. Your style is the most important thing in the shoot, don’t pick things you don’t really like to try to fit in with a stylistic fad. Be true to what you love and I will help you highlight that in your images.
Get Variety
Pick out several outfits to bring and we can go over them on the day of the shoot where I can guide you towards the pieces that will fit the style that we are working with. We will use one outfit per 15 minutes of shooting time (nude counts as an outfit). That’s four outfits for the default session.
Check For Tags
Clothing tags may be easily missed on shoot day. I am usually very good about catching hanging tags during shooting but if it slips through, there are situations where it cannot be edited out (e.g. complicated back tattoo). Consider removing these from your outfits or securing them to the inside of the piece.
Don't Be Scared Of Color
It's very common for clients to feel that they have to bring all black lingerie to their shoots, which removes some of the character that colorful pieces can offer. Black outfits are completely acceptable, but don't shy away from color to add a pop of energy and personality into your outfit.
Grab A Pair Of Sexy Shoes
High heels force a posture that will shine in boudoir. These also bring interesting shots with focus on shoes (so make sure that you love them!) and dynamism and personality to the shoot. They aren’t required, but if you have a set of red bottoms that you want to show off, bring ‘em on! If you have high heeled boots, or even cowboy boots that you love, and maybe never get to wear, this is the perfect opportunity to bring them! Please make sure all tags and stickers are removed.
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If Wearing Thigh-Highs, Buy Them 1-2 Sizes Bigger According To The Package Size Chart
Buying them in a size that supposedly "fits" according to the package size chart will likely result in the stockings giving a bit of thigh muffin top.. We can get them to stay up for each pose, or you can wear a garter belt to keep them from slipping.
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Pressed And Pretty
Make sure your wardrobe selections aren't wrinkled, and please cut every tag off of your sheer items before arriving.
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New/Barely Used Is Best
That new feeling will help you enter an uncomfortable space feeling fresh. Also, you are preserving this look forever in a keepsake that you will look at in 30 years - you want to make sure this experience is tied to the outfit that isn't one that looks beat up. Let the outfit be new and part of the experience.
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Consider Artistic Nudes
As always, I highly recommend ditching all the outfits for just your birthday suit. Tasteful nudes, implied nudity with sheets or somewhere in between – the option is always there at the end of the session to get a little steamy! A super easy, low maintenance, and FREE wardrobe option.
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Clothing Examples For Women
Something Casual Or Classy
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Your Favorite Pair Of Jeans
A Simple White Tank Top
Silky Pajamas
Cocktail Dresses
Simple Bodysuits
Your Partners Favorite Button-Up
Business Suits / Pant Suits
You Or Your Partner's Favorite Sports Team Jersey
Silk Slip Dresses
Oversized Vintage Band / Boyfriend Tees
Oversized Sweater Or Cardigan
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Lace Lingerie & Fancy Lingerie
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Fitted Lace Bodysuits / Teddys
Babydolls And Chemises
Corsets And Bustiers
Luxury Lingerie Sets
Sheer Mini Dresses
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Your Everyday Simple, Basic, Lingerie Set
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Normal Bras
Cheeky Undies Or Tangas
Thongs
Hip Huggers
Boy Shorts
Shrugs Or Lace Shaws
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Sensual Lace, Silk, And Satin Outer Garments
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Camisoles
Bath Robes
Gowns
Kimonos
Slip Dresses
Nightgowns
Ballerina Tulle Skirts
Lace Trimmed Slips
Lace And Satin Capes
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Something Classic, Vintage, Timeless, Pin-Up Inspired
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Retro Two Piece Bikinis And Swimsuits
Antique Bloomers
Vintage Leather Or Denim Jackets
Fur/Faux Fur
Oversized Trench Coats And Pea Coats
Lace, Silk, And Bath Robes
Old School Kaftans
Vintage Halters, Sweaters, And Pencil Skirts
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Something Kinky, Erotic, And Powerful
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Full Leather Body Suits
​Catsuits
​Latex Lingerie
Leather / Spandex Pants
Front Buckle Corsets
Fitted Leather Mini Dress
Studded Bras And Panties
Super Short Crop Tops
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Accessories
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Bridal Veils And Garters
​Garter Belt With Clip
Fishnets
Floral Arrangements
Body Chains
Cuffs And Light Restraints
Hats
Jewelry​
Stockings
Heels
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Clothing Examples For Men
Something Casual Or Classy
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Your Favorite Pair Of Jeans
A Simple Black Or WhiteTank Top
Well-Fitted Button-Up Shirts
Business Suit Attire
Business Casual Attire
Your Favorite Sports Team Jersey
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Underwear Sets​
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Briefs
Trunks
Jockstraps
Boxers
Boxer Briefs​
Midway Briefs
Bikinis
Thongs
Strings
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Boudoir Attire​
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Calvin Klein Boxer Briefs
Suits
Robes
Cardigans
Classic Blazers
Neck Ties
Mesh Tops And Bottoms
Basketball Shorts​
Light Or Dark Grey Sweatpants
Male Crop Tops
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Something Classic, Vintage, Timeless
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Well-Fitted Polos
Simple T-Shirts Or V-Necks
Oversized Trench Coats And Pea Coats
Bath Robes
Retro Tees, Sweaters, And Dress Pants
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Something Kinky, Erotic, And Powerful
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Full Leather Body Suits​
​Latex Lingerie
Leather / Spandex Pants
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Accessories
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Chain Necklace
Military "Dog Tags"
Sporting Equipment
Floral Arrangements
Body Chains
Cuffs And Light Restraints
Hats
Jewelry​
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Self Care / Boudoir Beauty Tips
Waxing: If you are planning to wax for your session, please allow 3-5 days for you to heal before the session to avoid any bumpiness or redness.
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Eyebrows: Make sure your eyebrows are nicely shaped and groomed. You want to have your eyebrows waxed or threaded, be sure to schedule the appointment for at least a few days before your boudoir session. Otherwise, an eyebrow trim/touch up at home could be done a day or two before the shoot. Don’t try anything new here, you don’t want a small mistake to be documented and be feeling self-conscious.
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Salon: If you’re planning to visit the salon for a haircut or color, then give yourself a few days to make sure you are happy with it.
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Manicure: You want your nails to look their best. Natural nails are perfectly fine for your photoshoot, just as long as they are well maintained and clean. A manicure can help achieve this, but is not required. If you’d like to get a mani/pedi, it is advised to aim for soft, neutral, or gem tones colors. Be sure to get a salon manicure and pedicure if you want a flawless finish. You can stick with neatly shaped, clear nails. Soft, neutral colors work well for fingertips. Toes can get away with any color. Think about the outfits you’re bringing and be sure to choose a color that will compliment your choices.
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Clean Your Bling: If you're wearing a wedding ring, make sure it looks its best. You'll definitely want to be showing it off in your session.
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No Sunburns: Stay out of the sun for the week prior to your shoot! – while a base tan will be nice in photos, red, blotchy skin will not. Day to day exposure is fine, but avoid long hours in the sunlight to avoid sunburns. Photoshop can do amazing things, but sunburns will have a negative impact on your shooting experience, and will likely be present in your final images. It will be significantly more expensive to have to remove sunburns during retouching. Be sure to wear sunscreen when you know you're going to be in the sun!
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Do NOT Spray Tan: If you want to have a faux glow, please have it done at least one week prior to the shoot at a professional salon and do so in the nude. You want to avoid creating tan lines that can show up when you’re not wearing a lot of clothing. No matter how natural tanning sprays and lotions may seem, they create an orange glow that cannot be retouched after your session.
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Salt: Lower your salt intake and avoid alcohol if you’re worried about retaining water.
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Shaving: Shaving can be done the night prior to the shoot, avoid shaving several days prior to the session to keep your skin smooth and not irritated. Consider products designed to help minimize razor burn if that is often an issue for you. Shaving the night before the shoot or the day of can help avoid this.
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Hydrate And Moisturize: Drink plenty of water, and maintain a great skincare routine for luminous skin.
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Skip the alcohol: Avoid partying or drinking the day before your shoot, as alcohol depletes the skin of vital nutrients and can have it looking dehydrated and dull, even in small doses. This goes hand in hand with the last bullet point on hydration.
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Tattoos: Don’t get a new tattoo right before your session. If you want to have a new tattoo for your boudoir experience, be sure to get it done well in advance to allow healing time. You don’t want to be sticking to sheets or having any pain during your session. Having to constantly alter poses and outfits to account for this can result in less images from your session and an overall less enjoyable experience.
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Bath Tub Session: If having a bath-tub session on the day of your photo shoot, please wash all lingerie that you plan on wearing in the water, prior to your photo session. This way the colors will not leech into the water.
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One Last Fitting: Try on your outfits and lingerie to make sure they fit properly; remove all tags and labels. Steam or iron your ensembles and hang them properly so they keep their shape as you travel to the studio. Remove all price and sizing tags from lingerie. Even the permanent ones. They can ruin otherwise great photographs.
Flattering All Figures
"I don't look like the men/women in your portfolio!"
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Actually, you do! You just haven’t had the chance to see yourself from Cody's perspective yet! Come into the studio and let him show you how beautiful you really are!
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There is no such thing as the perfect body. Say it with me, Boudoir is for EVERY BODY!
Curvy Figures: Bring on the form-fitting items! For recommendations: bodysuits, tight dresses, or nothing at all will flatter almost all voluptuous bombshells.
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Flat-Butts: Thongs tend to make a butt look fuller than full-coverage bottoms or g-strings. Play around with different styles to see what you like best. Don't worry, I am skilled at creating curves in posing where there aren't any otherwise! ​
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Shorter Legs: High heels with a thin heel instead of chunky! Avoid shoes with thick ankle straps or a square toe. Tip: Nude shoes naturally elongate the legs.
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Thin / No Curves: This will work itself out in the posing! Form fitting options and nothing at all works great as I pose you to make you look and feel amazing!
Small Chest: Underwires and balconette bras, or no bra at all would work best!
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Mom Boobs: If you feel like your breasts are a bit lower or "floppier" than you'd like them to be, just snag as bra with some support, or form fitting bodysuits. Posing also plays a huge role here. Don't worry, I got you!
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Surgery Scars & Stretch Marks: My personal belief is that all scars tell stories. Sometimes clients wish to not be reminded of that story, and other times, clients embrace their scars and say that they are a part of them. For this reason, I will not edit out a scar or stretch mark unless it is specifically requested. If you do in fact request retouching, I will happily do so at no additional charge. This is a very personal subject and it is not my decision to make. I welcome all scars and stretch marks, but I also respect and support a woman's choice.
Tips To Help You Feel And Pose Like A Pro During Your Boudoir Experience
Create A Music Playlist
Music can help you get into the super modeling zone! Cody has a bluetooth speaker to stream your playlist. Throwing on your favorite playlist is a simple yet highly effective way to set your mind and body at ease! You’re in full control of the tunes during your session. Sing, move your body- loosen up and set the mood for a fun-filled session!​
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Bring A Soft, Lightweight Robe
This will be perfect for preventing makeup from getting on the garments you will be photographed in. It is also helpful for those "in-between" moments for clients to quickly cover up, especially when doing fine art nude portraits. ​
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Plan Ahead
Nobody wants to arrive to a relaxing photo shoot feeling rushed or late. Try to plan for traffic and arrive about 5 minutes prior to your scheduled session time. ​
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Trust Your Photographer
This is incredibly important! It’s Cody's job as a Boudoir Photographer to make sure you’re feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin. Let’s discuss your intentions, your emotions and why this session is important to you. Let’s talk about any insecurities you might have, and how we can work together to set your mind at ease. He will not do anything that is going to make you look bad. As a professional, Cody Michaels has both the experience and proven ability to make you look fantastic with unique posing, strategic lighting, and flattering camera angles. We’ll throw on your favorite music, get loosened up, take a few deep breaths and dive in. During the session we will review a few images as we go to make sure you understand how amazing this photo set will be!
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*Posing Tips*
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Keep Your Back Straight Or Arched As Much As Possible
Straight & Arched backs elongate the body and help emphasize your curves on camera by creating a pleasant and gentle S shape.
Practicing Lip Control Will Make A World Of Difference
Practice full, ¾ , ½ smiles and closed lip smiles- Practice parting your lips slightly in front of a mirror to understand what’s too much and what’s too little.
Give Your Hands & Fingers Something To Do
Experiment with running your fingers through your hair, or running them slowly down and across your body. Hands on your hips- a finger slightly grazing your lips or gripping your clothing/accessories- Can’t think of anything to do with your hands? It’s totally ok! Let them fall gently and completely relaxed- never stiff and rigid.
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Relax---Breathe
Don’t force it! When you find a pose and lock your body in- take a moment to breathe through your diaphragm (the middle of your chest) and relax your muscles and facial expressions until they feel natural and comfortable.
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Never Hesitate To Look Up Images, Watch Tutorials, Or Ask For Help
When you book a session with Cody Michaels- He is all yours for the entire journey. Here to help, coach, inspire- and answer all of your questions. Video platforms like Youtube and Image directories like Pinterest also have some amazing reference material that you can practice on your own schedule in the comfort of your home.
Confidence Booster Tips
Create A Music Playlist
Throwing on your favorite playlist is a simple yet highly effective way to set your mind and body at ease! Music will help you get into supermodel mode. I have a bluetooth speaker at the studio to stream your tunes. You're in full control of the music during your session; sing, move your body - loosen up and set the mood for a fun-filled photo session!
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Bring A Soft, Lightweight Robe
Write Something Here.​
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Plan Ahead
Write Something Here.
Trust Your Photographer
Write Something Here.​
Postlude
In this section you learn what to expect before, during, and after your photo session.
What To Expect
48 Hours Before Your Shoot
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Expect to receive a booked session reminder email from Cody along with the address, where to park, start/end times, and a phone number just in case of a last minute contact. He will also ask if you have any last minute questions.
The Day Of Your Photo Shoot
Use clear deodorant please.
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Wear loose-fitting clothing to your session to avoid red marks on your skin (no jeans, tight socks or tight clothing).
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Eat something light but filling before you leave your home.
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Arrive with hair, and makeup camera ready (whether by a MUA or yourself). Bring lipgloss or lipstick for re-application.
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Have your final payment ready (check, credit card, or cash).
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Most important: Take a deep breath and RELAX. It’s completely normal to be a wee bit nervous before your shoot, but please don’t worry because you will be in very good hands. Cody will show you exactly how to pose and work with you to get the perfect shot.
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Upon arrival, you may enter through the main entrance of the building. Once you are in the lobby/waiting area, someone (or Cody) will greet you at the front desk. If you arrive before Cody, just say that you are here for a photo session with Cody, and he will meet with you as soon as possible.
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Once we arrive to the set, we will go through your selected outfits and take a moment to get to know each other a little more. We will hang up your clothes on a rack and look through them together. I accept mood boards to get a good idea of what style you want your images to be. However, please note that these images will not be replicated, but used as our inspiration.
The entirety of the photo session itself lasts about 1 hour.
During The Photo Shoot
During the shoot, it will be more relaxed than any other photoshoot experience you might have had. I want to capture you, and my mission is to make you feel safe, comfortable, and free to be your 100% self. You’ll be guided through the entire process and posing. Don't stress over this, I promise it will be a lot of fun! There is really nothing you have to do other than trust me. I guarantee we will get stunning images that you will love! ​
After The Photo Shoot
When the shoot is over, you will pack up and go to lunch (or a break) for an hour as your images will be prepared for you when you get back for your same day viewing and ordering appointment.
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When the hour is up, you will receive a text to meet back with Cody. We will go over images, pricing, and narrow down the images that you want selected for your choice of pricing package.
Once you've made your decision, I will then retouch your purchased digital images.
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*You will receive your completed images within 3-5 weeks after your session via online gallery.*