01. OUTFIT SELECTION

Start with one or two outfits that you know you love! This can be lacy lingerie, a matching panty and bra set, a plain t-shirt, or your favorite jeans. There is no outfit requirement, so wear what you feel most empowered in. It also doesn't hurt to overpack, so feel free to bring one or two additional outfits! Bring an extra layer like a button up, sweater, loose tee shirt, or a pair of jeans so we have an option to pull on easily!

EXTRAS TO CONSIDER

Pantyhose, fishnets, tall socks, garter belt, etc.
Boots, sneakers, or stilettos
Something of your partner's (a hat, tie, button down, jacket, etc.)

AVOID BRINGING:

"Babydoll" lingerie (look great on a hanger, but not flattering in pictures)
Anything too tight or too small to raise your arms in or move comfortably in
Push-up or padded bras (unlined bras photograph best)
Things that have loose glitter that easily sheds or anything else that might be messy.
If you’ll be on the sling or silks, please avoid buckles, sharp objects that could snag on the fabric

ON THE WAY TO YOUR SESSION:

Arriving in loose fitting clothing is best! Bras, tight underwear, leggings, elastic waistbands, and tall socks all leave indentation in the skin that can last into your session. While it might not feel very glamorous, a t-shirt and PJ pants are a great option!

02. SKIN PREPARATION

THE WEEK BEFORE YOUR PHOTOSHOOT:

Exfoliate and moisturize head to toe during every shower
Drink plenty of water!
Manicure/pedicure (professional or DIY)
Consider a facial or other skincare treatment
Plan hair removal so you will not have redness by the day of your session (don't forget brows and upper lip!)
Stay out of the sun as much as possible. Sunburns take a long time to heal & peeling shoulders aren't something that I can just "photoshop out."
If you get a fake tan or spray tan, please do so at least 48 hours prior to your session! Fake tanner ruins sheets, rugs, walls, and furniture, so make sure it has at least two days to set!

THE DAY OF YOUR PHOTOSHOOT:

Follow your regular skin routine for your face and body (skip serums or oils)
Skip exfoliating, but still moisturize head to toe
Choose a clear deodorant (roll on or spray on work best)
Wear your favorite perfume or scented lotion, this is a special occasion!

03. MAKEUP

How you choose to do your makeup (or not do your makeup) is a very personal decision. You can use any makeup products that you prefer in any style you like, and how much makeup you want to wear is entirely up to you. In general, I encourage my clients to do their own makeup for their photoshoot. It creates a greater sense of “realness” when you see your photos, because you will look like you. Of course, if you would like to have your makeup professionally done, please do so! I encourage everyone to go to an artist they have worked with before, or to schedule a test run with them prior to their photoshoot.

TIPS FOR DOING YOUR OWN MAKEUP:

Use an oil-free primer to avoid shininess
Choose a hydrating foundation (light to medium coverage) or BB cream
Setting makeup with powder helps reduce shine
Using too much product can enhance fine lines, natural skin texture photographs best
Select a lip color one to two shades darker than your natural lip color
Blush or bronzer under your cheekbones, temples, and jawline help define your facial structure
Bring a small makeup kit with you in case you need any touchups! (especially lips!)

TIPS FOR PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP:

Please let your artist know that your makeup is for a photoshoot that will likely involve using flash
Lightweight and hydrating skin products are preferred

PLEASE AVOID:

Heavy false lashes (these make your eyes look darker in photos). Consider natural looking lash extensions or small lash strips on the outer corners of the eyes only.
Reflective or glittery eyeshadow, silvery or white highlighter, etc.

04. HAIR STYLING

Feel free to style your hair however makes you the most confident! I encourage all clients to embrace their natural hair texture, otherwise loose waves or gentle curls are always flattering and photograph beautifully. Please make sure your hair is 100% dry prior to arriving to the studio. Keep in mind that you will be in all sorts of poses, so make sure your hair can move around freely!

AVOID:

Drastically changing your hair cut or color before your session
Excessive hairspray and any products that make hair stiff or shiny
Updos, ponytails, hair clips, bobby pins, etc.

06. POSE SELECTION

If you are doing the aerial portion of the shoot, I always highly recommend making a list or having a saved album on your phone for easy access. I also have an inspiration album here (click!) if you’d like to save some of those photos. Aerial photoshoot amnesia is very real, so having a list or an album to reference is extremely helpful.

Keep in mind what you’ll be wearing for your shoot when considering poses. If you’re wearing minimal clothing, poses where you can elongate or arch your back usually look most flattering on all body types! While we normally want to show off all of our coolest, most complex poses during performances and photoshoots, during aerial boudoir, typically the simplest poses look the best. Take a look at the gallery at the top of the page for examples!

06. HOW TO FEEL YOUR BEST

Make sure to eat a healthy dinner and get enough sleep the night before. Practice positive self talk and consider meditation if it is something you enjoy. If you enjoy running or working out, an early morning gym session is a great idea too!

Be mindful of your salt intake leading up to your session date. Too much salt will make you retain water (especially in your abdomen and ankles). Sports drinks, some pre-workout powders, and other hydrating drink mixes such as Liquid IV have a lot of salt. They are hydrating because they make you retain water after sweating, but if you have not been sweating, these may cause excess water retention. A cup of coffee (or your caffeine source of choice) the morning of your session will help get rid of extra "water weight" as well as help with digestion. Just make sure you have some solid food too!

And that's it! It’s okay to be nervous, but we’re going to have so much fun! You will rock this, you will look fantastic, and your photos will be incredible. I can't wait for your photoshoot!

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