Issue link: http://digital.canadawide.com/i/171645
Boudoir Photography Tips Price & Time: Boudoir shoots typically take an hour and start around $250, going up to $500 and even $900 depending on the package selected. Some packages include options like hair and makeup styling, a hotel room or loft setting and photograph albums. Banish the Bulge: It's important to have a conversation with your shooter about how much editing you want, says Chong. "If you prefer a more natural approach then it is important to set that expectation earlier than later." Goodwin uses Photoshop to edit the images of other women as she would edit her own. "I'm conscious of small bulges and skin retouching but I don't edit anything major because I like to preserve your natural beauty," she says. What to Wear: Wear anything that makes you feel sexy or confident. Corsets, garters, swimsuits, funky lingerie, pearls and heels are popular. If your significant other is a chef, consider donning an apron. If he's musical, bring along his guitar as a potential prop. Some studios offer clients a variety of props and jewelry such as hats, veils, headbands, gloves, boas, shoes and lollipops. Don't Judge: Yourself, that is. Poses that might seem silly, exaggerated or outlandish at the time of the shoot may well surprise you when you see the photographs. Trust your photographer, relax and have fun with the experience. "My boudoir shoot helped remind me that I am beautiful and that I need to give myself a break on the little insecurities I have about my body," Smith says. "It can be a real confidence boost, so if you're going to do it, have fun with it and treasure just how beautiful you really are!" Photo by Gina Chong Gina Chong Vancouver based Gina brings over 10 years of professional experience to her boudoir photography. www.butterboudoir.ca Kelsey Goodwin Influenced by fashion and fine art, Kelsey specializes in boudoir and is based out of Victoria, BC. www.kgoodphoto.com Ellen Ho Ellen hosts boudoir sessions from her French Couture Loft or from the comfort of your home. www.hong-photography.com 32 RW21_part 1.indd 32 A glass of wine ahead of time didn't hurt either, she says. "My photographer made me feel like I was a brilliant, sexy, flirtatious model—and it shows in the shots. The photos turned out amazing; I may even frame a couple for our bedroom." Her fiancé was "blown away" when she presented the images to him, Smith says. "He loved them, and said they look like photos right out of a magazine. I took a couple of me in a Canucks jersey and he thought those were the hottest ones. I think what he likes most about them is how much I opened up in the shots." Trinh says other brides considering a boudoir shoot should go ahead and do it. "Not only is the experience memorable but it makes a great, personal wedding gift to your fiancé. The photos are a keepsake and a constant reminder of your inner foxy self," she says. "Don't think too hard about it and don't take yourself too seriously. Enjoy the process and just laugh at yourself when you need to ease your nerves. I learnt that I enjoyed my images as much as my now-husband!" rw r ea l weddings 9/19/11 3:00:29 PM