How I Took My Client From So Nervous She Almost Cancelled to Ecstatic and Planning A Second Session
- Allison Nicole
- Sep 20
- 2 min read

What Really Happens at a Boudoir Photoshoot (And How to Calm Your Nerves)
Boudoir Before & After
I had a client who was SO nervous, she literally almost turned her car around while driving to our boudoir session. Somehow, she mustered up the courage and walked in the door to my studio.
And she was still SO nervous.
She's not the only one who has showed up nervous though. And it's totally MY job as a boudoir photographer to set clients up to move thru that because guess what? If you are that nervous the whole time, it's going to be hard to get all of the photos you booked the session for in the first place!
That's why I have so many things in place to help you move thru that I won't write the ALL out here, but here is literally just a handful to give you an idea!
How to Calm Your Nerves Before a Boudoir Photoshoot
A welcoming, hang with your girlfriends-style environment
I work with the same women on a rotating basis - this creates a really easy, light, comfortable environment from the second you walk in the studio - it's literally like hanging out with a group of your girlfriends. Also, this 90ish minutes gives you time to acclimate to the space, settle in, and take some time to just relax. So we really hit the perfect balance of luxury and casual ☺️

Music that feels like you
We ask you ahead of time what you would like to listen to when you are having your hair and makeup done, so you can hear what you want! I don't know about you, but music really helps me move thru emotions, so if I can listen to something that will make me feel good that is a huge help!
Clear expectations before the camera clicks
Before we start, I talk you thru language I will use during the session, and show you various elements of posing that will repeat throughout the session. This way, it's not all new information bombarding you when we shoot, and you can feel like you have a rough idea of exactly what to expect.
Practice shots to break the ice
We do some "practice shots" so that you can experience hearing and taking direction. Nearly all of my clients express feeling nervous in front of the camera. In fact, out of the 4+ sets/outfits we photograph, I consider the entire first set practice. Because about 7 minutes into being photographed, the nerves have subsided and you're basically having a little laugh at how big of a deal it became in your mind. And by the time we move onto the second set - you're feeling excited, ready, and TOTALLY hot!
If you're here but the thought of following all the way thru with a session makes you feel super nervous and unsure - think of this as your sign. The first step is to book a zero pressure consultation call, where we can connect, and find out if we are a good fit! You can fill out the contact form to receive the scheduler HERE.
Comments