Knowing the ins and outs of hiring the right professional photographer
Deciding to do a boudoir session is a big, empowering step! Whether you're doing it to celebrate yourself, capture your confidence, or as a gift for someone special, choosing the right photographer is key. After all, you want someone who makes you feel comfortable, captures your best self, and delivers an experience you'll remember forever. Here are a few essential things to keep in mind when hiring a professional boudoir photographer, so you can confidently walk into that studio knowing you made the best choice!
1. Check Reviews and Client Recommendations
One of the most telling ways to gauge whether a photographer is the right fit for you is by looking at their reviews and client testimonials. Past clients often share honest experiences, which can give you an inside look at what working with that photographer will be like. This can be especially important with boudoir photography, as it’s such an intimate experience.
Look for comments from clients who talk about how the photographer made them feel during the session. Were they comfortable, relaxed, and confident? Did they feel empowered by the experience? If you consistently see clients rave about how the photographer made them feel at ease, it’s a great sign that you’re in good hands. And if you come across any negative reviews, check how the photographer responds to them. Their professionalism in handling concerns will tell you a lot about their character and how they treat their clients.
Also, personal recommendations can be gold! If you know someone who has done a boudoir session and loved their photographer, don’t be shy about asking them for more details. Word-of-mouth recommendations are often some of the most trustworthy sources because you get real, unfiltered feedback from someone you trust.
2. Evaluate Their Experience and Portfolio
When it comes to boudoir photography, experience truly matters. The best photographers know how to make their clients feel comfortable, confident, and empowered, which only comes with practice and skill development. Don’t hesitate to ask a potential photographer how long they've been in the business or how many boudoir sessions they’ve done. The more seasoned the photographer, the better they will be at helping you feel at ease, and they’ll also have refined their skills in capturing your most flattering angles.
You should also spend time exploring their portfolio. Every photographer has a unique style, and you’ll want to make sure theirs aligns with the vision you have for your boudoir session. Do they lean more towards soft, romantic imagery or bold, edgy shots? Do their photos have an air of glamour, or are they more understated and natural? It's important to resonate with their work because, at the end of the day, you want to love how you look in the final product. Plus, a well-curated, diverse portfolio is a sign that the photographer knows how to work with different body types, styles, and personalities.
3. Visit Their Website for More Insight
A photographer’s website can tell you a lot about their business, their vibe, and what to expect from the experience. While you're browsing through their portfolio, take note of the overall professionalism and organization of their website. Is it easy to navigate? Does it provide detailed information about their services, pricing, and what to expect during a session? An experienced and professional boudoir photographer will have a website that reflects their business: organized, transparent, and client-focused.
Look out for blog posts or testimonials, as they often give you a deeper dive into client experiences. You may also find a FAQ section that answers some common concerns, which can give you peace of mind. The more transparent and informative their website, the more confidence you can have in their professionalism and approach.
4. Get on a Call to Gauge Your Comfort Level
Let’s face it—boudoir photography is an intimate experience, and feeling comfortable with your photographer is non-negotiable. One of the best ways to make sure you're comfortable with them is to get on a phone call before booking. Use this time to ask questions about their process, pricing, and availability, but also focus on how they make you feel during the conversation.
Do they listen to your concerns and answer your questions thoughtfully? Are they warm, friendly, and understanding? This initial conversation is a great indicator of how they will make you feel on the day of your session. Trust your gut here! If you feel relaxed and confident after talking to them, that’s a great sign. On the other hand, if you feel rushed, uncomfortable, or like they aren’t really listening, it might be worth exploring other options. Your connection with your photographer will set the tone for the entire experience, so this step shouldn’t be overlooked.
5. Ask About In-Person Consultations
Some photographers offer in-person consultations before your session, and this can be a great way to get an even clearer sense of their personality and style. During an in-person consultation, you can discuss everything from outfit choices to the different artwork and albums they offer. This allows you to have a more personalized, hands-on experience in planning your session.
It’s also a perfect opportunity to check out their studio or workspace. You’ll get a feel for their creative environment and see how they’ve designed their space to make clients comfortable. Plus, seeing samples of the final products, like albums or framed prints, in person can help you decide how you’d like to showcase your boudoir photos afterward. If you value this level of service, don’t hesitate to ask if in-person consultations are part of their process.
Final Thoughts
Hiring the right boudoir photographer is all about finding someone who makes you feel amazing, both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. From checking reviews and experience to taking the time to speak with them directly, these steps will help ensure that you find a professional who understands your vision and can deliver a fantastic experience from start to finish.
Here at Robyn Barkley Photography in Bonita Springs, Florida, I’m passionate about empowering women through boudoir photography. My goal is to make every client feel confident, comfortable, and celebrated during their session. Whether you’re looking to book a full session or a petite session, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. From personalized consultations to discussing outfit ideas and helping you choose stunning artwork to display your photos, my focus is on creating an experience that’s uniquely yours.
Most importantly, remember that this is your moment! Trust your instincts, take your time to find the right fit, and when the day comes, embrace every moment. You deserve to feel beautiful, confident, and empowered—and here at Robyn Barkley Photography, I can’t wait to help you capture that in every single shot.