Boudoir photography is powerful. It can shift the way you see yourself, give you a new perspective on your body, and build confidence in ways you might not expect. But walking into my first session, I made some classic boudoir photoshoot mistakes. I’m sharing them here so you can avoid the same pitfalls and feel fully prepared.
If you’d like a full step-by-step of what happens on the day, read my boudoir photoshoot guide.
I’m sharing my mistakes here not to put you off, but to help you feel more prepared. Think of this as your shortcut: the lessons I learned the hard way, so you don’t have to.
All the photographs in this post are from my own early boudoir shoots. They’re me, learning, experimenting, and making the mistakes I’m about to share.
Mistake 1. Not Eating Before the Session
I wanted my stomach to look flat, so I skipped food that morning. Big mistake.
Boudoir poses can be physically demanding, and without energy, I struggled to hold them.
Lesson learned: eat something light but energising before your shoot.
A banana, some nuts, or a slice of toast. Avoid heavy meals like pasta that might make you feel sluggish, but don’t go hungry.
Mistake 2: Choosing the Wrong Outfit
I picked a large teddy lingerie piece I thought would hide my tummy, but it didn’t suit my body type. On camera, it felt loose and unflattering.
Lesson learned: fitted clothing often photographs better than loose or baggy styles, especially if you’re curvier.
Don’t be afraid of body-hugging pieces. They can highlight your shape in the most beautiful way.
Mistake 3. Forgetting to Moisturise
I moisturised my face daily, but I never thought about the rest of my body.
Cue dry elbows and skin that didn’t quite glow under studio lights.
Lesson learned: moisturise in the days before your session, especially arms, legs, elbows, and feet.
It’s not a deal breaker (I can always edit), but hydrated skin
Why These Mistakes Mattered (and Why I’m Glad I Made Them)
These slip-ups taught me what boudoir photography is really about: not perfection, but preparation and mindset.
I’ve carried these lessons into every client session I run, so you’ll benefit from them too.
That’s why every boudoir experience with me includes:
A Style Consult, where we pick outfits, colours, lighting, and poses that work for you.
A Preparation Guide, filled with practical tips collected from years of experience (and from clients themselves).
Final Thoughts!
My first boudoir photoshoot was messy, unplanned, and imperfect, but it changed my life. It helped me see myself differently, and it’s the reason I now help others step into this experience with confidence.
If you’re worried about making common boudoir photoshoot mistakes, know that preparation is simple and I’ll guide you every step of the way.
If you’re curious about what boudoir might look like for you, take a look at my London boudoir photography packages or book a no-pressure discovery call.
