Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and while it’s often a day mapped out for couples, let’s not forget about one of the most important loves of all: self-love! Whether you’re hanging solo this February or just looking to celebrate your beautiful, fierce self, a DIY boudoir shoot is an amazing way to embrace your curves, confidence, and creativity. My fellow plus baddies, it’s time to reclaim the spotlight, grab that camera, and click away!
Not only can a DIY boudoir shoot help you celebrate yourself, but it also allows for loads of fun and creativity without breaking the bank. Photographers can be pricey, but with a little prep and the right attitude, you can create stunning, professional-looking images all on your own. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of DIY boudoir shoots!
Why a Boudoir Shoot?
- Self-Love Boost: Every time you see that gorgeous photo of yourself, you’ll be reminded of your beauty. Plus, looking fabulous can do wonders for your self-esteem! It doesn’t stop there, frame it and put it on display in your home – a constant reminder that you are the one!
- Creative Expression: Customize your shoot however you want—props, outfits, locations! Create a vision in your mind and bring it to life!
- Memorable Keepsake: Years down the line, you’ll look back at those photos and remember how fierce you felt during the shoot. It’s a time capsule of love!
So, alright TCF Fam, fasten your wigs because I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about trying your own DIY boudoir shoot at home! Whether you have a person you want to surprise or you want gorgeous pictures for yourself, I’m going to give you the 411! We have already talked about why you should rock a plus size boudoir shoot and today we are going to help you rock out your own, with a DIY Boudoir Shoot!
See, I’m the proud owner of Donna Lane Photography and I specialize in boudoir photography. I should be encouraging you to work with a professional but with V-day right around the corner, time is of the essence and you need to get the ball rolling!
Disclaimer: I’m an Amazon Prime gal because I love anything that arrives in 2 days or less; you can find all of the products I’m recommending anywhere on the net but these links are for Prime products so you have everything you need right away!
Steps to Create Your DIY Boudoir Shoot
Step 1: The first thing you need to do is find inspiration..
First step in creating a DIY boudoir shoot is finding inspiration that resonates with your personal style and preferences. Search for “curvy boudoir poses” or “boudoir inspiration” on Google, IG, TikTok or Pinterest, searching for boudoir photography that evokes the feelings and aesthetics you want to capture. When you see images you like, copy them and add them to a document you can print before you begin taking pictures (trust me, you’ll need large, printed images when you start posing!).
Look for the poses, lighting, and themes that speak to you, and save images that inspire you. Take note of where the pictures are being taken; are they on a bed, against a wall, or on the floor? Once you’ve gathered enough visuals, create a mood board using Canva. This user-friendly tool allows you to upload your favorite images, arrange them creatively, and visualize the overall vibe of your shoot. Include various poses, colors, and themes to help guide your photo session, ensuring it reflects your unique personality and comfort level.
Step 2: Make sure you have the right equipment.
I know you have a smartphone with a timer but the last thing you want to do is lie on the floor with your legs up a wall and have to stand up, start the timer for the next pose and get back down on the floor again (trust me, I’ve tried it and it’s no bueno!).
Amazon sells awesome Bluetooth camera remotes for under $10 and they are essential! Be sure to remove the wrist strap so it doesn’t create an eyesore in your pictures. You will also need a stand; no selfie wrists allowed!
Great lighting is everything! If you intend to take pictures during the day using natural light, make sure your windows are only covered in white, sheer curtains. If natural light isn’t available, purchase a ring light. The beauty of a good ring light is that it can be adjusted for different heights, it emits either a warm or cool glow and it’s dimmable. Be sure to order one with a smartphone mount and stand for the best result!
Step 3: Thoughtfully choose your wardrobe items.
Choose outfits that make you feel confident and sultry. I love corsets in boudoir photography but only if they fit well; you don’t want bulges created by lingerie you bought 10 years ago! A well-fitting matching bra and panty set always works. Bodysuits are fantastic because they are inexpensive and come in a variety of styles; mesh, covered arms, and maximum cheek exposure!
The key here, is to wear what feels good to you! Picking the right outfit for your DIY boudoir shoot is all about showcasing your style and feeling fabulous! Don’t shy away from experimenting with colors and textures; bold reds, soft pastels, or classic black can bring out different vibes. Accessories like statement jewelry, thigh-high stockings, or even a playful hat can add a fun twist! Remember, it’s not just about what you wear, but how it makes you feel.
Once you have chosen your prized items, remove all tags! Those pesky little things have ruined many a picture for me!
Step 5: The day before your shoot…
It is all about the right preparation! Get a mani/pedi and take care of any desired shaving/waxing. Do a quick review of your poses and set up your equipment. Practice pairing your camera remote with your smartphone so you don’t get flustered later. Drink plenty of water and avoid staying up too late resulting in unwanted dark circles (no ladies, they don’t accentuate a smokey eye!)
Step 6: Strike a Pose
Now, it’s time to capture your gorgeousness! Use your phone or a camera on a tripod. Set a timer or use a remote shutter to make it easier. The application Lens Buddy will take your pictures for you on a timer and will even spew compliments at you! Picking the right outfit for your DIY boudoir shoot is all about showcasing your style and feeling fabulous!
On “shoot” day, blast your favorite jams and start your glam session; be sure to apply a pore minimizing primer and mattifying powder for a “photoshopped glow” and don’t skip the mascara! Once you’re feeling sufficiently gorgeous, pair your camera remote with your phone, grab your pose guide and start shooting!
Don’t shy away from experimenting with colors and textures; bold reds, soft pastels, or classic black can bring out different vibes. Accessories like statement jewelry, thigh-high stockings, or even a playful hat can add a fun twist! Remember, it’s not just about what you wear, but how it makes you feel.
Pro tip: Practice some poses ahead of time! Look at inspiration on social media to see how to highlight your curves. Experiment with angles to find your best side.
Step 7: After Your DIY Boudoir Shoot
When your shoot has come to an end (and you’re sufficiently exhausted!) review and edit your pictures as needed. Snapseed is a highly recommended free editing app for iPhones and Androids. Play around until you find your preferred look. Editing and sharing your DIY boudoir pics online can be a blast! Grab your favorite editing app and let your creativity flow—play around with filters, adjust the brightness, and maybe even add a fun border!
Once you’re feeling good about your final images, it’s time to share the love! Choose a platform that vibes with you and consider adding a cheeky caption to keep it playful. If you want to keep it a bit private, share them with close friends by creating a cute, password-protected album. Remember, confidence is key—embrace your gorgeous self and have fun showing off your masterpiece!
Please don’t put forth a gargantuan effort to only have beautiful pictures on your phone where no one can see them! Put those beauties on the wall because you’re worth it! Head over to Mixbook.com and create an album, wall art, or high quality prints.
A DIY boudoir shoot is a fabulous way to love yourself this Valentine’s Day, regardless of your relationship status. It’s all about expressing who you are and celebrating your beautiful body. Say goodbye to pricey photographers and hello to being your own glam squad! Get ready to embrace the magic of self-love and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Have a blast with this! I’d love to see how this turns out for you so please find me on Facebook.com and share your DIY Boudoir shoot stories!
Have you tried a DIY boudoir shoot? Would you? Let us know in the comments!
About Donna Lane:
I am a zany and outspoken UK native cozily settled in the Washington DC area. When I’m not in my studio taking pictures of phenomenal women in their knickers, I am fawning over curvy girl lingerie, the latest gadgets and Jason Momoa. Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest!
I absolutely appreciate the DIY boudoir photo shoot advice. It’s everything needed to be known for someone who’s shy and wants to do something this valuable. Thank you for this!
I just wrote a blog on this myself 🙂 I guess it’s kinda odd that on a site encouraging someone to call me to schedule a boudoir photography session that I would encourage you to do it yourself. Cell phones today are all you need to get amazing boudoir “selfies” of course. I have found that the experimentation by a client, who’s tried to take her own shots, tends to appreciate my work more. lol
What a fantastic idea! A DIY boudoir shoot sounds like a fun way to celebrate self-love. I can’t wait to try it out and capture some beautiful moments for myself. Thank you for the inspiration!