I booked my Boudoir Session now what?

1. Do Bring Extra…Everything

You want to do this right, and every detail should be perfect.

If you’re investing time and money into your boudoir session, the last thing you want is to have a rip in your lace corset or a run in your stockings the day of your shoot. If you have a backup, you can switch, and save the session.

Although artistically “distressed” articles can look good in a photo, for most of us, unseemly rips (especially in certain areas) are the last thing that we want.

Also, make sure to bring some makeup along with you, especially if you’re doing the process sans stylist or makeup artist.

During the shoot, you’ll want to touch up the look so that you stay looking fresh and glamorous.

2.  Do Spend Time Trying On and Testing Outfits

It’s no secret that our bodies change over time, we gain weight, we lose weight, we have children, we spend more time at the gym. Some things that used to look great on us just won’t anymore, and some things that we couldn’t quite fit into we will rock now. Also, clothes that have been in the closet or in the drawer for a while, depending on the material, will change with time – thanks to humidity and gravity and us not wearing them. So, if you bring an outfit for your session that you used to love but haven’t worn in a while, you might be in for a surprise.

Instead of dealing with these potential “whoops” moments, take the time to try on any and all potential outfits.

The more you have to bring the better, because options are always good, but you don’t want to make the mistake of bringing a lot of things that aren’t right for you. The day of your shoot, you want to feel confident, sexy, on top of the world.

So bring those outfits. And if your closet doesn’t bring that va-va-voom you’re looking for, maybe it’s time to go shopping.

You never need an excuse to go shopping, but it’s nice to have one.

Your upcoming Boudoir session is definitely an excuse.

3.  Do Wear Loose Fitting Comfy Clothes to the Boudoir Studio

Skip the bra, skip the socks, skip the watch, and forget that belt, those tight jeans, and anything

else which could leave an impression in your skin. It may seem like a small thing, but these

lines can dampen the look of a great negligé.

Besides, you want to relax and feel confident, and tight clothes are only going to restrict you.

 4. Do Book your Appointment Date after Your Monthlies

Nobody wants to ruin a potentially empowering Boudoir session because they’re crabby, cramping, and bloated, Instead, book the week after your period when you’re high energy and feeling normal again. Your boudoir photos will look better with no strings attached, really.

 5. Do Drink Plenty of Fluids

Three words: Water. Water. Water. And make sure to avoid alcohol and salt, as these will turn your lovely skin to the texture of potato chips, which just isn’t pretty.

6. Do Rock Clothes that are Right for Your Body

Everybody’s different, and everybody is beautiful. Wear the clothes that you not only feel confident in, but accent your incredible body. If you’re on a thinner side and want some curves, wear brighter colors and horizontal lines, there are so many decadent varieties of bra/panty combos that you’ll want for nothing in your quest for fabulousness.

If you’re on the curvier side and want to add some balance, try super-slimming fishnet stockings.

Not certain how to dress your body the right way? Ask your boudoir photographer, they’ll have tons more tips for you as well, as they will know what will look great and what not so great.

 7. Don’t Fake Tan

No sprays, no gels, no lotions. If you want a natural sun-kissed glow, and if you’re lucky enough to live in or near water. head to the beach, get it the right way (but don’t forget to wear suncreen, SPF 15 or more, and watch out for those ghastly tan lines!), or, even better, book some sessions in a professional salon that has tanning beds, and do it in the nude (no unsightly lines this way).

The last thing you want is to a) look like a sexy pumpkin or b) pay more than you have to in retouching fees.

 8. Do Touch Up the Basics

If you dye your hair, get your hair done the week of your Boudoir Session.

Shave everything, the day of if possible, and spring for a mani-pedi.

You’d be amazed how these little details can make or break a photo session.

These pictures are going to be around for a while, reminding you of just how awesome you look, don’t skimp the small stuff.

9.  Don’t Think all “Boudoir Photographers” Are Made Equal

Do your research! Take advantage of free consultations, read reviews and testimonials, scour through online galleries and portfolios. Don’t be fooled into thinking that just because someone says they know what they’re doing and they happen to fit the right “price range” that they’re offering a quality experience. This is often a once in a lifetime event, and you should do it the right way.

Choose someone who is talented, professional, trustworthy, someone whose style you actually love.

And keep in mind that you will usually get exactly what you pay for.

It’s an investment, give it the attention it deserves.

10. Do Relax

It’ll be fun. Promise!

If you are still looking for something special for your sweet heart!

Come visit Southern Art for the best experience a girl could have

Here is my ultimate list of what to bring to your session:
+ Little black dress (or any color as long is solid)- this is to get some pictures you can show your mom. You can go commando right away if you want.
+ Tee and boy shorts (again solid or lacy)- This is also perfect for the shyer bunch. I’ll make you show me shoulder and maybe pretend to take it off, and if you actually take it off, I rule.
+ Boyfriend’s shirt- This is one of those things that are to your discretion. He loves hockey? you in his jersey and nothing underneath. He wears a suit? A nice shirt and tie.
+ And of course lingerie. I know sometimes is a waste of money, something to look at, not really comfortable. Get it on sale. Get it online. Again no prints, only if they are animal. No pucci. You only need one racy number make sure it fits properly.

DO NOT FORGET THE STOCKINGS. – on this one a small note. Very few people can pull off the ones that have the hold up plastic (or elastic band) that they have at la senza. There are some specialty stores that carry the ones without. 

New: 
+ Have you ever worn a uniform? even the school one. the real thing with socks its very kinky. Even the block Buster one. bring it.
+ Super soft sweater with nothing underneath. The bigger and softer the better. This one looks better sometimes than the boyfriend shirt.

Accessories: necklaces. shoes. 

And if you only have white Hanes for her, NAKED IS ALWAYS GOOD

Be Prepared & Get the most out of your visit to the Bridal Fair!

Just as bridal fairs help you prepare for your wedding, you should properly prepare for the fair. Like a good general drawing up battle plans before engaging his forces, you’ll benefit from your own plan of attack—making a checklist of required services, accessories and design questions will streamline your efforts.

Pre-registering for these events saves you time at check-in, and often a few bucks. Don’t forget to print out directions before you hit the road. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes—you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. Bring a large bag, backpack, or even a carry-on with wheels: you’re going to be grabbing a lot of brochures and free magazines. Pack your checkbook and also some cash. There are usually special sales on items such as jewelry cleaner or cool accessories, and not everyone takes plastic. You’re going to be exchanging business cards, so have a case to keep the ones you hand out and collect. Pre-printed address labels or an address stamp are handy when signing up for mailing lists.  This will save you loads of time!! for every vendor u need there will be 15-20 vendors of that particular type. So make plenty. Your Phone or appointment book makes for convenient scheduling. I suggests that brides who have already purchased their gown bring a color swatch along (brides maid gowns too!—useful when browsing jewelry, tiaras, and other accessories. And making sure linens match etc. And although you’ll be snacking at the fair, it’s a good idea to eat a small meal before setting out—it will keep you from wolfing down an excessive number of teriyaki chicken wings and mini-quiches.

The most important thing to bring with you is a companion, someone to bounce ideas off of or keep you from making an impulsive decision you may later regret. attending one show with a friend or relative, and another with your fiancé.

Many shows offer Makeup and Hair so If you still need these sans the make up and hair style before the show.

Ready, Set, Go!

So here you are at last, meeting and greeting prospective florists, caterers, DJs, etc. When you’re interested in a particular service, make sure you get current contact information, including the name and title of the person you’re speaking to. Find out if this individual will actually be involved in your event (he or she may just be helping out at the booth). The best way to get a “feel” for the service is to advance as high up on the proverbial food chain as possible, even if you have to wait a few minutes for a key person’s attention. For example, you think Pam’s Photography has the best photos you’ve ever seen, and you begin discussing your photographic needs with a charming woman in the booth who you discover is Pam’s assistant. That’s all fine and dandy, but you really should talk with Pam herself, since she’s the one who’ll be taking the pictures. And if you’re looking at say, invitations, and you don’t see a style that matches your vision, then ask the vendor. Many simply can’t bring all of their samples to the show.

It’s also appropriate to request references. If you’ve already set your wedding date and you cross paths with the DJ of your dreams (He’s playing our song! It must be kismet!) then go ahead and find out if he’s available. You should always feel comfortable with a vendor’s attitude toward your event. Here’s an insider tip from Pamela Noxon: “Notice which vendors listen to your needs. A quality vendor should ask you questions such as, ‘What have you envisioned so far?’ and ‘What do you want to avoid?'” A good rule of thumb is to proceed cautiously, yet decisively popular vendors book early. Besides, many of them offer special discounts at the shows and the savings can add up.

Another thing: we know you were raised to be polite, but you don’t have to give your contact information out to everyone—provide it only to those vendors that make your short list. Schedule appointments with your favorite professionals and have fun!

Wedding Day Timeline.. What I wish every Bride would realize about the Photography.

Many Brides Ask me what my time line is for a wedding… That’s completely up to her. I do have a list to go to when planning a wedding to show her how the portraits will be done.  I have created a booklet when I have the Contract Agreement meeting. I go through it with her detailing everything i need from her, Family list, How these will be shot, Importance of appointing someone to round up family for group shots, etc. Most Important Brides don’t realize the amount of time for formal/family photography after the ceremony. For every different photo add 2 minutes to the time to shoot. If you have a Lot of extended family this can take awhile! This is why its so important to write all of this down months before so we can get family to the site early to take the photos before the wedding. This way everyone isn’t starved and the food isn’t cold. Also if you don’t mind the groom seeing you before (if hes already seen your dress) then take most of your Alone pictures before the wedding. An hour of shoot time will only yield 10-15 photos for your album for you to choose from. If you only allow 15 min after all the family photos you wont have a bounty of good quality artistic shots of the two of you. most will be photo-journalistic style or candid photos. So the hour of the bride and groom is really essential to making your memories last a life time.

The Nitty Gritty questions every Photographer should be Egar to answer

Interviewing a wedding photographer…

Interviewing a wedding photographer can be a challenging task. Regardless of if you are interviewing Southern Art Wedding Photography or another photography studio, we have created a list of questions to help you find your perfect photographer for your wedding day. Make sure your photographer is comfortable answering your questions and make sure you ask the following questions, and come up with your own concerns. The photographer shouldn’t be hesitant to answer any of your questions.

How many photographers do we get, and who are they?

We have one Photographer on staff at the moment. It is our Studio Manager/co-owner. She handles everything from pre wedding to Reception without missing a beat. On request you can see a wedding beginning to end to see all the shots she gets around 500 for a 4 hour wedding.

We do Offer a second shooter $350/4hrs  & $500 6+ hours

Can one photographer get it all?

Yes. I have done it many times! Some People prefer 2 Photographers but that is a personal choice.  I have all the experience to capture all of your moments and not miss a beat.  I have a work flow list, sometimes things get moved around a little but it pretty much stays in the same format for almost all weddings. Before the Wedding I photograph:

• the Bride getting ready,
• Her Bridesmaids,
• The Groomsmen & Bridesmaids and Bride.
• Then Hiding the Bride we bring out the Groom, Groomsmen, and Bridesmaids.
• Individuals, Maid of Honor, Parents photos are also taken before the wedding.
• The Ceremony
• Formal Shots of the Family & Full wedding Party
• Fun & informal full wedding party photos
• Bride and Groom Photos
• Reception photos-cake, toast, tosses, and leaving

This is just a basic list of workflow not the final detailed

What is your primary shooting style?

This should be your first question that you need to ask your wedding photographer. I use a combination shooting style, mixing a photojournalistic style with a mix of more traditional posed formal and informal photographs we can offer many styles of photography to each couple we shoot. The most common way we shoot is photo-journalistic with an artistic flair while maintaining a level of traditional photography. We have also been known to shoot in a conceptual manner and often bring props to our shoots to add some more personality and humor to the shot. We possess the ability to shoot in traditional, classic, modern, photo-journalistic, high fashion, commercial, and natural light photography.

How are you going to tell our story through your photos?

When I photograph each Engagement shoot, Bridal session, or wedding I get to know each one of my clients on a personal level.  When you come in for a consultation, it isn’t just here’s my price here’s the dotted line, and I want my deposit. I want to know how you met, what caught his eye about you, when you knew he was the one. I want to try and recreate some little moment that shows that part of the relationship in your photos.  I want to show your journey as a couple in your engagement session. Everyone has seen that photo and said Wow, what an amazing couple, they are beautiful together. At that point it isn’t about each other’s attractive ness, it’s about me understanding you as a couple and portraying that to the world.

What do you think distinguishes your work from that of other photographers?

As stated earlier we approach each wedding focusing on the couple. We get to know the couple to the best of our ability and love to capture them in their element. Our personal service brings more to the table when it comes time to shoot since we are able to make you feel as comfortable as possible in front of the camera. We also guarantee Money back, No Questions Asked.  If you feel we did not exceed your expectations we offer 100% refund. We do however keep the photos but all money is returned. This is why we encourage a bridal or engagement shoots 6 months pre wedding.  Offering you time to find a photographer to meet your standards if we do not measure up to them, or we do not meet your style.

Wedding photographer’s experience?

The question you should ask wedding photographer is not how long have you been in business but how many wedding have you shoot. One can be in business 10 years and photography only 5 wedding per year and someone else can be in business 5 years and shoot 2 wedding per month. You can see my point.

Are you a lead photographer?

Many amateur photographers look for work over the weekend as a second photographer and wish to experiment as a lead photographer. Many of them will offer special price or even offer a free service in order to build their wedding photography portfolio. You need to make sure to hire an experienced wedding photographer who has shoot at least 20 to 30 wedding as a lead photographer. If you want to help someone with building their portfolio, do so, but make sure you hire an experienced wedding photographer! These are the only tangible memories you will have from your day you work so hard to plan! These will be around for your great grandchildren to view. You want something that will last and worth showing off now & then!

Is this the only wedding you are going to photograph that weekend?

Readers, beware!! Many photographers will double book in the wedding season and they will try to outsource the other weddings to a less experienced photographers, sometimes even amateurs. Southern Art Photography is owner operated business and we will book only one wedding per day.

What If I don’t have a wedding planner can you help with organizing and instructing me what needs to be done so I get all of my Moments & Family Photographed?

If you do not have a wedding planner/director you need to ask all vendors this. Are they going to be there to make sure their Service/Product is run smoothly?  I have done many weddings without a director. Pre wedding a month or we sit and go over every detail. I have a booklet I give to you to explain my workflow, how your list is made out for Family photos so no one is forgotten, and your time line so I know where and when events will occur.

Here is an idea for a director/planner… Maybe you have that one (or few) friends who love planning or throwing parties and has either done this before or has gotten married recently.  Maybe you didn’t have enough room for someone in the wedding party but don’t want them to feel left out? See if they will help you organize.  They will need to know or get familiar with your friends/family.  On the wedding day we will need someone to gather these people so we get the photography done in a smooth pace and we aren’t chasing everyone like chickens to get their photos.

Do you edit and color correct my images?

I cannot tell you enough about the importance of post processing. Many photographers will edit and correct only few images, some of them will never correct any. Some of them do not even have the professional tools to do so. This means that you will end up with a lot of pictures where your skin will have many different colors.
Southern Art Photography believes in perfection so we will touch every single image and edit & color correct if needed. We Color Calibrate Every Monitor we work with Office & at home. Yes …we take our work home, because we are just as excited to finish and show these off, as you are to see them!

Can we give you a list of specific shots we would like?

Of course, by all means, we love it when a couple takes charge and tells us what they love and need the day of the wedding. There might be something that stands out to you that we normally would not think of.  You may also want to compile a list of group shots you would like taken and designate a runner (bridesmaid, best man, or close family friend) to gather the people who are to be in these shots have a list ready for them as well/. So, bring on the list and we will try our best to complete it.

What kind of equipment do you use?

Southern Art Photography uses two top quality professional Nikon Cameras along with the finest quality Nikon lenses, For Crisp, Eye Catching Photos. Along with two Nikon Speedlight Flashes and Continuous Lighting for venues and offices who require no flash. Enough Batteries for 12 hours of continuous shooting. Memory Cards that hold 5,000 photos. We use Adobe Photoshop CS6 & Light Room 4.6 the newest Versions Available. We use 3 Back up Methods to protect your Images from ever getting lost or stolen.

What about the dress code?

Make sure your photographer understands the concept of being dressed appropriately for the occasion. We will be wearing a suit pants with a polo or dress shirt. In Business or Business Casual, Nothing Flashy. We like to stay low-key and blend into the crowd and capture the wedding event as photojournalists.

If my event last longer than anticipated, will you stay? Is there an extra charge?

Great question to ask! You don’t want to be in situation that your wedding photographer just leave after their time is up. Make sure you hire a flexible photographer who doesn’t have any other events to go to. Make sure to address issues like that in your interview to avoid any possible hidden cost.  Southern Art Photography will stay on the job until job is completed or until the grooms tell us “Look, there is no more booze and you should LEAVE now! “There is a per hour fee if you want me to stay longer ($150/hr.). All can be discussed and can be paid when you come in to receive your final disc of portraits. If you want me to stay longer I just need an ok from you at the wedding.

Will there be a wedding photography contract? Do I get a copy?

Many studios will not create a contract for their client. Southern Art Photography will email you a wedding photography proposal and when you agree on the proposal we will send you a contract. Wedding photography contract contracts are created for your protection, as well as ours. You should definitely hire a wedding photographer who will provide you with a contract.

When can I expect my photo disc, my wedding book, etc.?

For Bridal and Engagement sessions it general takes One week to process your images to our best perfection. Then you come in to review images, order prints, and pick up your DVD of images. It usually takes 2-3 weeks to edit a four hour wedding package and convert all the images from the wedding to Files your Computer can read(jpeg). We edit each image to make sure there are no noticeable blemishes and to make sure all the colors and saturation is adjusted.  At that point you will come into our Studio; we will have a review session. If you are Happy we order prints, Pick out the ones for your albums, and you leave with your DVD, of Images the same day as the review. If you want changes or dissatisfied for any reason, we go from there to correct the situation. If you wish to Have An Album created Design (depending on how large of an album) takes 1-2 weeks, you will review the Final Layout and it will be sent to the printer & binder Process take 2-4 weeks depending on album type and size.  Final Prints take 5-10 business days to return. Canvas takes 5-10 business days as well.

What Products Do you offer?

• We Offer a wide range of Fine Art, Canvas, Photo finishing Options.  Please come in to see our catalog and Examples in all paper types.
•  Photo books of all sizes with lay flat pages
• Albums with soft and hard story book pages. Covers can be in material or canvas photo.
• Canvas Gallery Wraps
• DVD photo Cases
• Calendar
• Custom Photo Box
• Prints of all Size
• Many more Just ask and we can create!

How many wedding images will I receive?

Be wary of wedding photographers that only offer 100-400 images and make you pay extra to receive the rest. Southern Art Photography typically provides between 800-1600 fully edited images to you depending on the length and speed of your wedding day.)

Do you edit every image?

Don’t pick a wedding photographer that only edits a few images and leaves the rest unedited. Southern Art Photography edits every single image to at least make sure the images are sharp and the color is correct, and we provide further artistic editing on average of at least 35% of the total images on wedding day and 50 for Bridal shoots and Engagement Shoots.

Do you shoot in RAW or Jpeg?

Avoid wedding photographers that only shoot in Jpeg to save space on their camera cards. The RAW format provides a higher quality file for the photographer to edit from, with a much broader range of image adjustments that can be made. It also allows the images to be edited faster and more efficiently. Southern Art Photography Always Shoots in Raw and Converts them to Jpeg for you to View.

Do you carry insurance?

Insurance is a no-brainer for any business to have, and be wary about choosing a wedding photographer that is not insured Southern Art Photography / Brandy Hoyle (Photographer) is fully insured with general liability, equipment, and malpractice through the PPA. Professional Photographers of America

Can we print them ourselves or do we have to buy prints through you?

Make sure you have a clear understanding with your wedding photographer with what you can do with your images once you receive them. US Copyright law states that the images belong to the photographer that creates the images and they will always hold the copyright unless it’s legally transferred to another owner; therefore it’s up to the wedding photographer to decide what you can do with them. Some wedding photographers may not allow you to make your own prints and may insist that you buy prints directly through them. Other photographers may not want the hassle of creating professional prints and may leave the burden to you. Southern Art Photography includes a print-released DVD of all high-resolution images in Some Packages, Can be Added to Other Packages. Print-released DVD meaning you can make unlimited prints for yourself. For utmost professional quality, we do recommend that any enlargements are ordered directly through us. Please View the Photo Below at the end of this report.  to reference why High Quality P renting is Essential for the Best Photo!  Photo is Courtesy of Paint the Moon!

Do you have backup equipment?

Things can and do go wrong. Equipment can fail or get lost. Make sure you hire a photographer that has ample backup equipment available. Southern Art Photography has a plethora of backup equipment available for the wedding day, and we also backup your images immediately after the wedding in three locations to prevent loss.

Have you worked at my wedding venue before, or are you willing to meet me there to scout out good locations at the venue or discuss ideas?

Preferably, it’s a good idea to find a wedding photographer that has shot at your venue before, but it may not always be possible. Photographers that have will have firsthand knowledge of where everything is, and where the best spots are and what lighting to use. Southern Art photography has shot weddings at many different locations around the Queen City & Foothills Area. If we haven’t shot a wedding at your venue before, we are always willing to meet you there a few months or weeks before the wedding to discuss what will work best for your wedding day.

How far in advance do I need to book with you?

Most Couples book 6months to one year in advance.  We are always willing to shoot if the date is open and we are available.

Do you Travel

Yes we love it! There is a travel fee outside of 25 mile radius from out Studio.  It is $0.20/mile.  If your wedding ends after 8pm and it is more than a 3hr drive home room accommodations are required.  For Extensive Drives over 8 hours Plane Tickets & accommodations are required.  No I don’t expect a 5 star Penthouse for the weekend, but they must be 3-4 star hotels with reputable ratings.

PRINT COMPARISON PHOTO :

Important Starter Tips On hiring the Perfect Wedding Photographer

Tips on selecting the right wedding photographer

You’re in the planning stages of your wedding, and it’s finally time to decide which wedding photographer to hire. It’s important to find a good wedding photographer that can accomplish what you expect with your wedding photography, and someone who you will get along well with.

Personality, Charisma & Disposition.

Being able to connect or “click” with your wedding photographer is one of the most important things. Your wedding photographer will be there your entire wedding day, documenting one of the most important days of your entire life. It’s important that you get along well with this person and that they have an understanding of your needs, and what you want from your wedding photos.

Quality.

When meeting with a photographer, it’s important to inspect the quality of their work. Are the photos in focus and sharp? Is the color correct? Is the composition and crop of the photos good? Do they shoot with professional equipment? These are all things you should consider.

Style and Method.

It’s important to find a wedding photographer that has a style you appreciate. Many photographers have different styles of composition and editing. Some wedding photographers tend to favor black and white images over color images. Some tend to go easy on the editing or do no editing at all; some tend to intensely over-edit every image. Some wedding photographers go for a more formal approach to their photography; some favor the photojournalistic/documentary style of photography. Browsing through a wedding photographer’s portfolio and viewing their sample albums are a great way to get an idea of their style, as they tend to apply the same signature style to most weddings they shoot.

Experience.

If you want quality wedding photos, it’s important to hire a wedding photographer that has experience. Experienced wedding photographers will know how to pose people correctly for the formal photos, they will know how to tackle difficult lighting situations, they understand the flow of the day and know how to compensate for any problems that might arise, and they know when the special moments happen to capture them efficiently. When it comes to wedding photographers, you get what you pay for. If you want professional quality images, it’s best to stick with a professional with experience, rather than choose someone who is just starting out and only has budget-level equipment.

For My complete Free Consumer Report On detailed questions when interviewing a Photographer Please Email me at Southernartphoto@gmail.com

What to ask when Hiring a wedding photographer

It is almost Wedding Season! Most of you maybe have gotten engaged over the holidays or New years. So start looking Now for your Photographer! The Best of us are booked 6 months to a year in advance. YOU DO NOT want to get stuck with someone who doesn’t know what they are doing. I have Prepared a few Questions you should ask the photographer to ensure you are getting some one who is Responsible, and can deliver what they promise. If Interested in the Tips Please Email me at SouthernartPhoto@gmail.com for the Exclusive 25 question/facts to know on what to ask when interviewing your wedding photographer!