Friday, March 13, 2009

How to prepare for your boudoir session

BOUDOIR PREPARATION

IT'S OKAY TO BE NERVOUS
If you’ve never participated in a photo shoot like this before, then a few fluttering butterflies in your stomach are to be expected. But even with the most nervous of clients, just 10 to 15 minutes in front of the camera is all it usually takes before a subject’s confidence level skyrockets and she’s posing like a supermodel! If you feel inclined, a cocktail or a glass of wine just prior to the session can help jumbled nerves. However, avoid getting tipsy. If you’re at all drunk, it will show in the photographs, and the drunk look is neither flattering nor sexy. Take a deep breath, relax, and trust your photographer. Embrace the experience and you’ll be having fun in no time!


WHAT'S YOUR FANCY?
As every lady's fancy is difference, It’s always a good idea to gather magazine clippings or Internet pictures showing examples of the type of posing, lighting, and editing styles you’d like to capture during your own boudoir photography session. If possible, forward these images to your photographer a few days prior to your session. This will help the photographer plan your shoot more efficiently so that when you arrive, your photographer can spend less time setting up equipment and moving sets around and more time clicking shots! Be sure to bring copies of these samples with you; print-outs make ideal quick reference material for use during the shoot.


MAKEUP AND HAIR
If you opt to have your hair and makeup professionally styled, Kensington Makeup Artists will make you camera ready, whether you want sexy smoky eyes or an all natural look! Even if you’re going for the natural look in your photos, properly applied foundation and blush can greatly enhance your look in the final photographs, and is worth the investment. We carry our own line of make-up, so don't bring your own unless you have particular allergies or sensitivities. If you come in with makeup on please avoid eyeliner & mascara.

Hair - Come in with your hair clean and dry and we'll style it to your satisfaction. A recent haircut and fresh hair color are suggested.


OH, WHAT TO WEAR?
Wear loose-fitting clothes to the session in order to reduce marks on the skin caused by tight bra straps or waistbands. It takes about an hour for marks caused by bra straps and waistbands to disappear. Drawstring pants and zip-up hoodies are ideal. Also, it’s a good idea to bring a robe to the session. Depending on your choice of lingerie (or choice to not wear lingerie) you might need to cover up between poses or during set changes.

Bring in 4 to 6 of your favorite outfits. Our background system does a wonderful job making every color look good on you. When choosing lingerie, form fitting, under wire and push-up styles make the best choice. Also for lingerie shoots, a black thong is necessary for certain poses.



Some ideas include:

* Cute and fun undies.
* Does he have a favorite sports team? If so a jersey from the team is always fun.
* Lingerie, corsets, stockings, garters, Boy shorts , etc.
* Jewellery - strands of pearls are always a hit!
* Swimwear, jeans, skirts can all be very useful.
* Robes and long jackets.
* Heels are always a winner.
* Costumes can be fun.
* Shear and thin tops and dresses. Maybe a wet t-shirt if that's your style.
* Anything that you feel sexy wearing.



BOUDOIR PREPARATION CHECKLIST

  • Research - gather magazine clippings or Internet pictures showing examples of the type of posing, lighting, and editing styles you’d like to capture during your own boudoir photography session.
  • Props - Be creative. Your photo session will be more personalized with the addition of special items of your own. Anything you or he collects or any sports you are active in make great props.
  • Outfits - Bring as many as you can! We'll help you choose the best for the different backgrounds and lighting.
  • A playful attitude!
  • Bring your Make-up, hair products, favorite jewelry and shoes.
  • Music CD's you love. We can use your music during your shoot...
  • Do your hair and makeup if you are not having it professionally done.
  • Paint all 20 nails and shave or wax pretty.
  • Eat a light meal before the shoot.
  • Cocktails and soft drinks












TAGS AND LABELS - PLEASE REMOVE
Please remove all tags from your lingerie and underwear (especially if it is see though or lace). These are an eye sore in your pictures and they take up your studio time if we have to remove them in the middle of your session. Tags and labels on your shoes (or on the bottom) are another item to remove before your session. Doing this before your session means your full time will be spent shooting and we'll get those amazing shots (without tags in the pictures).















UNWANTED HAIR
Shaving, waxing and other hair removal. In order to reduce the chance of razor burn on the day of the shoot, it’s best to shave the day before your session. If you must shave any areas the day of the shoot, be sure to soak or rinse your skin in warm water for at least 5 minutes first, use a moisturizing shaving gel and fresh razor blade, and take your time! Waxing the day of your session should also be avoided in case redness or irritation occurs. If you decide to wax prior to your session, allow at least 7-10 days between waxing and your photo session so that your skin enough time to recover should you experience a negative reaction to the wax. Also avoid any type of chemical hair removal, such as Nair or Veet, for at least 7 days prior to the session in case of irritation, burn, or discoloration. And if you’re undergoing laser hair removal, avoid having a laser treatment on the same day as your session.














NO TANNERS, PLEASE
Do not get a spray-on tan or use any self-tanning or bronzing lotions on the day of the session, as these will discolor the backdrops, sheets, chaise lounge, cloth wraps, and/or your clothes used in your shots. Spray-on tans or bronzing lotions should only be used on days prior to the session. Do not use any body make-up on the day of the session for these same reasons. If you have any bruises, scrapes, scars, or other areas of concern, we can take care of them all with our Premium Editing Services.







ARRIVE ON TIME

Time is of the essence, especially during group sessions when you’re sharing camera time with friends. It’s important not to be late to your session. It’s also important to be no more than 5 minutes away from stepping in front of the camera. Some shots are perfect at first click; others take a lot of adjusting—pose changes, lighting or camera settings, even wardrobe changes—to get it exactly right. The more time you allow yourself to have in front of the camera, the better your images will be and the more you’ll have to choose from at final selection.








Brides for Brides Photography is Arizona's premier boudoir studio. Located in Phoenix, Arizona, our modern boudoir studio is the perfect atmosphere to take your boudoir photos for your wedding day present, for his birthday, anniversary, or just because!

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Real Boudoir Photography Stories

Boudoir Sessions: Liberating experience for all!

Boudoir Photography is one of the hottest trends of 2009. But, women are nervous. After all, who really does something like this every day? The good news is, it really isn't that scary. Many women are surprised to discover that a boudoir photography session is actually liberating, fun and something they'd recommend to all of their friends. Brides for Brides Photography works along with the finest stylists to present you at your absolute best. Our photographers are all female and work with every lady to help them feel as comfortable as possible and to encourage each lady to have fun with it. Almost all of our ladies are shocked at how comfortable they felt after just a few minutes in front of the camera. We surveyed some of our recent clients from late 2008 and early 2009. Here are their stories....
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

"I was very nervous before shooting the pictures. When I first got in front of the camera I was completely clueless as to how to pose or where to look. Sara walked me through a couple poses and from there on I just got more and more comfortable feeling sexy and looking natural in front of the camera. She helped me feel great and continued giving great advice throughout. It was so much fun and I definately felt like a professional model for the day.

My final shots are amazing! I was stunned to see them and realize that I was the one in the picture. It really made me feel gorgeous and helped me realize that I worry to much about how others percieve me. The photos gave me so much confidence in myself and changed my attitude about a lot of insecurities. I want to go back and have another boudoir session because of the great outcome. I already have ideas of outfits and props I want to bring to my next photo shoot!" 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

"At first I was nervous, but I was also very excited. I had my hair and makeup done by Kensington Makeup Artist while I sipped on a cocktail. My hair and makeup turned out fabulous and sexy. So having that done got me in the mood a little bit.

The shoot was awesome. I was nervous for about ... 2 mins. Sara was wonderful, so comfortable and relaxed. We had some music on and we just had fun with it. In the end, I loved all of my pictures, they turned out great. Sara really knows how to work the angels and got some great shots. She really highlighted my better features, and was able to hide what I wasn't so fond of." 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

"I was very nervous, but very excited. Once I booked the appointment, I figured there was no turning back. The shoot was a lot of fun. I was still nervous but Sara was awesome with telling me that I was doing great and reassuring me. She also gave me privacy as I changed my outfits.

I LOVE the final photos!! When I first saw the photos online, I actually started to blush - I was shocked at how great they came out. I would recommend all of my girlfriends to do this, not just for their boyfriend or husband, for themselves. It's a real ego booster and confidence builder :) Plus, you can always look back after a few years and admire your bod :)" 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

"I was a little nervous, but, Tamara made me feel really comfortable and at ease talking on the phone before I got there. My experience was very comfortable and fun, which is difficult, because i am a very insecure person and I was so at ease.

They made me look great!I love the final result and would love to do it again, lol" 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

"Yes, I was nervous. I didn't really know what to expect. It was somewhat difficult just because it takes a little while to get comfortable...but the photographer made me feel very comfortable. It was more my own inhibitions and lack of knowledge on how to model!

I love my final pictures! Of course they were kind of funny to look at, when you see yourself modeling, but Sara just did such a great job! She turned what felt like complete awkwardness in front of the camera in to a sexy pin up!" 

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

"I was fine -Im just not a nervous or shy person. I had the best time, you guys were great!!!

My husband LOVED the pictures! He thought it was the best present he has ever gotten! They were absolutely beautiful!!" - 

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Boojum Tree Engagements

In case you haven't heard.... the Boojum Tree is a hot spot for engagement photos and weddings! This location is unlike any other in the Valley and when you visit, it's easy to see why. As photographers, we LOVE shooting at this location because of the vast array of background options and beautiful lighting. You can find anywhere between Spanish style features to desert landscape to a lush indoor green house. Talk about options for your photo shoot!

Terri and Steve Patton took advantage of Boojum Tree's beautiful property for pictures before thier wedding. Here's what they had to say: "Thank you Brides for Brides for capturing so many priceless pictures of our wedding day. I can't tell you how many compliments we receieve of the love and tenderness that shows through in your photography. We felt so comfortable with you that we almost forgot we were being photographed. Your suggestion of the Boojum Tree for our photo shoot was absolutely perfect. We have so many different backgrounds, props and angles that it was literally like being photographed all over the world in one magical morning. Who could imagine paradise resided here in Arizona? Thanks to you, we will have our memorable day captured forever."

To make this location even sweeter, the Boojum Tree will be offering a 20% special off any photo shoots during the Spring season! This offer will be running through the month of May so you have plenty of time to schedule your engagement session or photo shoot! Please call us 602-978-9364 to schedule your session at the Boojum Tree.

Sunday, February 22, 2009

Gena and Todd's Engagement Session


Gena and Todd are getting married in just a couple of weeks and they prepared for their big day of excitement and LOTS of pictures by participating in an engagement session. The two of them were so natural in front of the camera and they were relaxed and comfortable. Needless to say, their love was easy to capture on film! Gena and Todd chose the Scottsdale Civic Center for their engagement pictures. Easily the most popular location in the Valley for engagement photography, their choice was superb! Known for the famous LOVE sculpture and beautiful landscape, the Scottsdale Civic Center is both inspiring for photographers and at any time of the year provides a beautiful backdrop. 

Some other engagement session location ideas are Brides for Brides Photography studio at Tlaquepaque in North Phoenix, Sedona, Val Vista Lakes in Gilbert, The Boojum Tree in North Phoenix, and Downtown Phoenix. See www.bridesforbrides.com for some engagement session portfolio work. 

Wednesday, February 18, 2009








THE PERFECT SURPRISE GIFT & IT'S FREE!!


Get a free boudoir photography sessionwhen you book your wedding photography with Brides for Brides Photography!

This is the perfect gift for your husband-to-be! You will receive a premium 1 hour boudoir photo shoot with one of our award winning female photographers in our beautiful, modern studio in North Phoenix. In addition, you'll also get unlimited outfit changes and a private online gallery! We will work with you privately, so it can be the ultimate surprise gift for his birthday, wedding day, or just to make him feel extra loved! This is the hottest trend for brides today and Brides for Brides Photography is the premier boudoir and wedding photography studio in the Valley!

Offer available to the first 5 bookings! Call Today!

Schedule your free consultation today! Call 602-978-9364 or email info@bridesforbrides.com.
Click here for a custom online quote for your wedding or special event.

Visit www.bridesforbrides.com and www.simplysexyphoto.com for portfolio work and more info.



*Offer valid to the first 5 bookings. Must book a full wedding package (in value of $2,000 or more) to qualify for the offer. The free boudoir session includes an hour photography shoot at our studio with unlimited outfit changes. You may opt to purchase additional merchandise or get your hair and make up professionally styled. Not valid with any other offer.

Monday, January 26, 2009

Boudoir Photography Featured on ABC 15

We are excited to announce that ABC 15 did a story on us over the weekend. It aired on the 10 o'clock news and featured a boudoir party that we hosted. I cannot begin the explain how well worth it these photo sessions are! They are a gift to both you and him, and we are having a blast capturing timeless moments for so many beautiful ladies.



See the full story on ABC 15  click here  or on our home page of www.simplysexyphoto.com

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Boudoir Photography and Parties

Well, we're back online with our blog - yeah! And, just in time, too. We have a lot going on in 2009 and we are excited to share!!!

CHECK OUT THE SEXIEST GIFT FOR VALENTINE'S DAY!








Brides for Brides Photography introduces 2009’s sexiest Valentine’s Day gift – YOU! Celebrating the beauty of each woman’s body, Brides for Brides Photography’s boudoir sessions and photo books are a sexy, classy and fabulous way to say “I Love You.” Brides for Brides Photography offers both “Diva Boudoir Parties,” as well as individual sessions. Either way, you’ll end up with the ultimate personalized gift for Valentine’s Day or any other special occasion.



“As artists, we see the beauty in every woman’s unique shape and form,” said Sara Cruz-Mora, founder and photographer. “We want to inspire women to see that in themselves though our photography. With boudoir photography, women can celebrate their distinctive beauty in such a natural and intimate way and share that with their special someone.”

Brides for Brides Photography’s award-winning female photographers provide total comfort in front of the camera and produce photos of each lady that shows her individuality. “Sessions are offered fully nude, partially nude and fully clothed - everyone has a different level of comfort. We work with every woman to make sure she gets exactly what her and her partner wants,” says Sara Cruz-Mora.

Local women can also gather their girlfriends for a fun night in and have a complete makeover and a private photography session with our “Diva Boudoir Parties.” Available for groups of three or more, these parties are an excellent way to celebrate a girl’s night out, bachelorette parties, birthday parties and other special occasions. Around one hundred dollars a lady, this service is both affordable and a unique option for those occasions.

Visit www.bridesforbrides.com/boudoir for more details