Boudoir FAQ
Having questions is normal, especially when you’re considering getting down to your skivvies in front of a camera! Please read through the following to see if we have answered your burning questions. By all means though, if you don’t see the answer you’re looking for, please do not hesitate to contact us.
What do I bring with me to my shoot?
Whatever makes you feel sexy! We always recommend a black bra & panties and a white bra & panties as they tend to photograph well. It doesn’t hurt to have some options so we also recommend a couple colourful outfits as well as a couple pairs of pull up stockings in either black, fishnet, or seamed up the back. You might also think about bringing a tight-fitting pair of your favorite jeans, your partner’s favorite sport jersey or baseball cap, or maybe one of his comfy old t-shirts or a work shirt. You can also bring along your iPod with your favorite play lists and a bottle of wine to loosen you up. You are also more than welcom to utilize the outfits, accessories, shoes, wigs and/or jewelry available in our “backstage” area. We also provide a robe for you to wear for hair & make up styling and in between your photo sets.
Does Be Beautiful Photography have a studio?
Yes, our studio that has been designed specifically with boudoir in mind! We have a beautifully designed ‘backstage’ dressing room, various props and backdrops and accessories to use, plus a photo viewing area where you can enjoy snacks and refreshments. There is free parking in front of our building.
Where is the studio?
We have a residential studio in the Blackwolf area of Uplands in Lethbridge. It is a private and intimate studio that is easily accessible from 26th Street North. Once your session is booked, we will send an email to you with a map and directions on how to find us.
Do you shoot in a hotel? Or on location?
We prefer to shoot in our studio as we have numerous backdrops, props, and accessories on site. We can however come to you for an additional $150 plus the charge of the hotel room if applicable.
What can you tell me about the photographer?
Be Beautiful Photography is the dream of owner Tracy Somerville, a female photographer from Alberta. Tracy has studied photography for many years at various locations, including California, Maine, New York City, Las Vegas and Seattle. In 2012, she was awarded Best Fine Art Image by the Alberta division of Professional Photographers of Canada. In 2010, she received the Vincent Versace Award for Photographic Excellence in Las Vegas, Nevada. You can be assured that you’ll be in good hands!
Will you help me pose?
Absolutely! Your photographer will coach you through the entire session, including how to sit, what to do with your hands, and how to obtain that “sexy” look with your facial expressions. She will talk you out of feeling nervous and get you feeling strong, empowered and beautiful.
What if I’m a larger woman and don’t like (insert body part here)?
Be Beautiful Photography celebrates women of all sizes and helps you embrace your body as it is. Size doesn’t matter. What truly does count, and what makes a great image or portrait, is the attitude of the subject. What makes somebody sexy is their confidence and comfort level. We have an arsenal of poses and lighting techniques that can hide any areas that you may feel self conscious about. But we assure that that by the end of your shoot, the last thing you will be thinking of is your ‘problem area’.
What if I am really nervous?
Absolutely everyone is nervous when they walk into my studio. And I understand why! Getting into your intimates in front of a camera is not easy! However, we will coach you the whole way. We also have suitable refreshments on offer if you need something to take the edge off. We promise you will be just fine and even enjoy being in the spotlight!
Do I have to get naked?
Not at all! We can do strategically covered topless shots but there is never any full nudity in a typical shoot. Leaving a little to the imagination will drive any man wild! However, if you are interested in nude shots, we can do that too. Before your shoot, we'll send you a questionnaire to fill out with any shots you have in mind so that we’re all on the same page.
Who is your typical customer?
Our ladies come from all different backgrounds ranging in age from 18 to over 60. They are modern ladies who want to celebrate who they are at this moment, plus maybe give a perfect gift for her partner.
Do you retouch the photos?
Yes, we do some beauty retouching to all of your final images that you have chosen. Our beauty airbrushing includes reducing a few (but not all) wrinkles, stretch marks, cellulite, etc. We do not believe in making you something that you are not, therefore we do not artificially contour your body, nor do we remove your natural birthmarks, moles, etc. We completely feel that your beauty marks, and everything that you are, make you uniquely beautiful and we want to celebrate that!
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, our full retainer fee must be received before booking your session. Retainers are non-refundable and non-transferrable. The cost of your chosen albums, prints and/or digitals are due when ordering.
How can I pay?
We accept cash, cheque or payment via Paypal.
I think this is a great gift idea…do you offer gift certificates?
Yes, we have professionally designed gift certificates that can be made out in any denomination that you wish.
Will my images appear on your website or in your promotions?
We will never post anything on our site or in our promotional materials unless we have your written approval to do so. We respect all our client’s wishes and there is absolutely no pressure to allow us to use your images.
How do I view my images after the shoot?
Once your shoot is complete, we do an edit of all your shots to pick out the shots where you look nothing less than fabulous. We will book a purchasing session one week after your shoot, where you will be able to view your images and purchase your products.
Will you delete the images from my session?
We will keep your images for 30 days after your purchasing session, after which they will be deleted.
Can I print my pictures if I purchase a disc?
Yes, when you purchase a disc of high resolution files we also include a letter with usage rights and permission to print. These images will also not have any watermarks on them.
What if my anniversary/wedding/his birthday is next week and I want to surprise him?
It's generally best to leave as much lead time as possible when planning a boudoir shoot. Remember that it's not just the shoot. There's also editing, design of product, printing time and then delivery to you! So please bear that in mind when you plan this. That being said, we do understand that spur of the moment ideas crop up so please do not hesitate to contact us to see if we can make your special surprise happen.
What do I do to prepare?
Once you have booked your shoot we also recommend getting hair touch-ups, waxing, and manicure/pedicures done to help you get ready for your shoot. We suggest staying away from self tanners unless you are an expert at application. The last thing you want is streaky legs and orange palms! On the day of your shoot, drink plenty of water and don’t forget to have a little snack before you come. If you are getting your hair and make up done at our studio, please come with a fresh clean face and clean dry hair.
Should I moisturize?
Yes! You want to look your best. Moisturizing the entire body prior to a shoot is a standard procedure for professional models - and today, you're the model!
Can I bring my own music?
Absolutely. We have an ipod dock and CD player available.
How will I feel after the shoot?
After the shoot you'll feel absolutely fabulous, confident and beautiful! So maybe plan a date with your partner, or an evening out with the girls, and let that confident diva inside come out!
How do I book?
Book here online using our secure form! We'll contact you later to schedule your shoot. Or call 403.892.4627 or email tracy@bebeautifulphoto.com
