10 Prep Tips For Your Boudoir Session as a Plus-Size Woman

Hey there, gorgeous. Have you been considering a boudoir shoot? If not, you should be – because you are beautiful in every way, in every curve, and in every light. But - the mere concept of posing in front of a camera gives a lot of women the heebie-jeebies, especially if you’re “plus-sized.”

It’s not hard to see why you might be anxious; society puts enormous pressure on women to look a certain way. But hear this – beauty isn’t black or white, flat or curved, stick-thin or voluptuous. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and it is the duty of a professional fellow-female boudoir photographer to turn you into that beholder.

So, without further ado, let’s take a look at 10 ways you can prepare for a boudoir shoot as a plus- sized woman, and how to step onto center-stage like the Goddess that you are!

1. Be Yourself

If you try to be anyone else, you’ll be wasting your money – and it’ll show in the final photographs. The whole point of boudoir photography is to showcase and celebrate YOUR unique beauty and form, so one of the most important props you can pack is your personality. After all, in reality, your biggest competition is staring at you in the mirror.

2. Breathe

As a professional female boudoir photographer, I’ve seen women of all sizes look at their preview images with utter surprise. Most can’t believe they’re looking at themselves, and the secret? They were relaxed when the photos were taken. No matter how you usually relax – be it with a cup of Chamomile tea or some breathing exercises – do what you need to do to chill, relax, and enjoy every moment. Otherwise, what’s the point?

3. Know Thyself

Boudoir photographers know what angles to use to flatter you, but only you know which parts of yourself you love the most. Be sure to chat with your photographer ahead of time about the features you feel confident enough to flaunt. And don’t be shy to ask for posing tips and ways to highlight your most-loved qualities.

4. Pick and Plan Your Style

Are you drawn to mysterious images that showcase the sensual physique through seductive silhouettes? Prefer portraits or editorial style? No clue at all? Now is a good time to start researching the types of images you want to walk away with, so that you can communicate this to your boudoir photographer in advance and she can start preparing accordingly. Consider creating a “secret” Pinterest board of concepts you adore.

5. Don’t Overthink it.

It’s easy to spiral into a whirlpool of self-doubt and fear, comparing yourself to images you find online. Something you might worry about not pulling off could just be the best idea for your body. And – once your photographer sees and meets you, she’ll be able to offer her own two cents on what works for you and why. You NEED to relax and let go, and you NEED a photographer you can trust, so you can simply show up and let her take care of the rest.

6. Location, Location, Location

Many boudoir photographers, like me, have a designated studio with brilliant lighting to capture your inner-Goddess. However, don’t be shy to request a shoot at your own preferred space if it’s not too far from the photographer’s location. Your comfort is the top priority, and this will show in your final photos.

7. Pack Different Outfit Options

Better to be safe than sorry – I always recommend my clients pack an option for every possible theme, like something formal, casual, and more textured/fun. Try to strike a balance between modest and classy, and seductive and daring. Your photographer can help you mix and match on the day.

8. Bring Accessories

Thigh-highs, scarves, sheets, white button-down shirts, coats, and jackets are all popular finds on boudoir shoots. Pack whatever you feel will accentuate your beauty and comfort on-set.

9. Shapewear

Spanx, corsets, and bodysuits are a plus-sized girl’s best-friend. These flattering additions to your wardrobe can easily be worn underneath your lingerie to smoothen out your curves and accentuate your figure. Tip: Avoid gowns or baby dolls, as these will do nothing to enhance your shape. In fact, they’re usually very unflattering. If you’re opting for a corset, be sure to measure your waistline ahead of time and select a corset that’s around 7” – 10” smaller than your natural waist.

10. Avoid “Busy” Patterns and Colors

These things often bring unnecessary attention to parts you may be trying to conceal, so try to stick with simpler color palettes and leave the busy-ness to the photographer. Tip: White, black, and pretty pastels are forever-classics.

I hope this helps you find the confidence to book a boudoir shoot ASAP! There are plenty of other tips for plus-sized boudoir shoots, but that’s up to the photographer, like shooting from above for slimming purposes, highlighting that booty, the infamous “3/4 Turn,” focusing on the eyes, and concentrating on details like lace and jewelry. Pointing your toes also does wonders for those legs- for-days vibes.

At the end of the day, plus-sized boudoir shoots are soaring in popularity, and for good reason. More and more women are finding comfort and confidence in the bodies they were born with, and I want to help you showcase and celebrate your intrinsic feminine beauty – no matter what shape, color, or size that might be.

If you’re interested in booking a shoot, contact Cindy Mari Boudoir today. I’ve got plenty of client stories to share with you, so you can see just how many lives I’ve changed through the power of seductive camerawork. The benefits of a boudoir photoshoot echo far beyond the day itself – you’ll discover newfound confidence that’ll last for the rest of your life.

The ball is in your court – all you need to do is make the first move.