What is this “intimate portraiture” stuff all about?
Intimate Portraiture is simply my all-encompassing word for boudoir photography, which has been around almost as long as photography itself. Although it has remained more of a “dirty little secret” in most conservative areas, boudoir photography is quickly gaining the popularity and respect it deserves. This style of photography is about capturing you at the best, most confidant and sexiest time in your life. Maybe you just graduated college, or landed that job you have worked so hard for. Maybe you are getting married and want a super special surprise gift for the love of your life. But who needs a reason? It’s fun. It’s empowering. You look great and you know it! Make yourself a gift for posterity with a boudoir session and you won’t regret it.
I’m ready to book! Where do I start?
First, please read this page in it’s entirety. There are many questions you will have, and this page isn’t here just to look pretty! When you’ve done that, slink on over to my contact page and fill out the form. It has a few questions about what you want out of your boudoir session that will be helpful during our initial consultation, which we’ll schedule within a few days.
Can I request to keep my images private?
Absolutely! Because of the intimate nature of boudoir photography, I have a separate Model Release that gives you complete control over what images I use publicly. This option is discussed thoroughly in our initial consultation, and we are usually able to come up with a few image ideas you are cool with sharing with the world.
Can I bring someone with me?
I understand that having a male photographer may make some women uneasy or uncomfortable, although no one has had this issue so far. Please know that you are welcome to bring a friend with you for moral support. However, I advise strongly against bringing a significant other or anyone who may act over-protective, as they can make you even more self-conscious or actually try to get involved in the shoot. Keep in mind that you are ultimately responsible for the behavior of anyone you bring with you.
And of course, no children are allowed so please plan accordingly.
Is there a deposit or retainer fee?
A 30% non-refundable retainer is due at booking time to secure your session date. Any remaining amount is due on or before the date of the shoot. Payment plans are available if necessary, but the total amount must be paid before the session date.
What is your cancellation policy?
There is a 48 hour cancellation policy. If you must cancel or reschedule for any reason, I ask that you do so before 48 hours of your scheduled session. Because I have set aside specific time for your session, your retainer fee is non-refundable, and will apply toward the new date if you are rescheduling. Any subsequent reschedules will require another retainer fee.
What clothes should I wear?
We will discuss wardrobe during our consultation, but in general I recommend you choose clothes in which you feel your most sexy and glamorous. A bra & panties, a tank top & shorts, teddies, men’s shirts or anything else. Corsets, bustiers, garters and stockings are all out of the ordinary that always look great. This is a great time to go shopping, and I have a convenient list of online lingerie and pin-up clothing retailers you might check out. Don’t forget the sexy shoes and jewelry!
Will you retouch my photographs?
All of your images intended for print will have retouching performed to remove blemishes and even out the skin tone. I can also hide small scars, moles and other imperfections on request, and even even out a few bulges if necessary. Most retouching takes place after you have selected your favorites, so the images you see during your viewing will have minimal retouching performed. You can get a general idea of what’s available by reading my post on retouching.
When will I see my pictures?
In general, it will take about one week before your images are ready for viewing. We will generally schedule a personal viewing to take place one or two weeks after our session. At that time I will come to your home, or some other place of your choosing, to show you your images and discuss product options. 10 days or so after that your images will be available online in a private, 30-day gallery.
What else do I get with my session?
Every session gives you the best of your final images in a private, 30-day online proofing gallery where you can download branded, web-ready images sized for emailing to your boyfriend/girlfriend/husband (or even your ex!), or posting to social networking sites like Facebook since you’ll be so proud of them.
Can I just get a CD/DVD of my photographs?
As a professional photographer and artist, the quality of my photographs is very important to me because the prints you display in your home or share with others are a direct reflection of my work. I prefer to provide all of the printing services for my clients rather than allow customers to take their pictures to a one-hour printer and get low-quality prints. Believe me, I’ve tried it and they butcher my beautiful images every time!
