Chicago Boudoir Photography Frequently Asked Questions
Chicago Boudoir Photography FAQs
Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions page for Chicago Boudoir Photography! We know you might have questions about this unique and empowering photography experience. Whether you're curious about what boudoir is, how to prepare, what happens during a session at our luxury Winnetka studio, or how your privacy is protected, we've gathered the answers here. Our goal is to help you feel informed, comfortable, and excited about celebrating yourself - and we will be with you every step of the way!
What exactly IS boudoir photography?
What is boudoir photography?
Boudoir is an intimate photography experience designed to celebrate the human form. Boudoir is a sensual photoshoot for the modern woman who wants to capture her beauty and document her unique journey.
Why do people book a boudoir session?
Many people choose to do boudoir photography for personal empowerment, as a gift for a partner (like for a wedding, anniversary, or birthday), or simply to celebrate their body and promote self-love.
How do you pronounce “boudoir?”
“Boudoir” is a French word that means a woman’s bedroom. Some people like to be fancy and say “bood-waaah,” but most English speakers say “bood-wahr.” Here’s a video to help you out.
Has boudoir photography been popular for a long time?
Yes! Boudoir photography has been around for almost as long as photography has existed. The concept of intimate portraits dates back to the 1930s when women posed for artistic, sensual photos inspired by Hollywood glamor. The modern version of boudoir photography took off starting in the 1980s. With the development of digital photography and the influence of the internet, a modern style of boudoir photography has emerged that emphasizes a body-positive, and empowering approach. Boudoir today is less about creating the “perfect” sexy image and more about confidence, self-love, and authenticity.
I don’t have a partner - can I book a session just for me?
Absolutely! While a boudoir album does make a great gift, this experience is really for you. Many women book a boudoir session as a way to celebrate themselves, boost their confidence, mark a milestone (like a birthday or body transformation), or just to have fun!
Is boudoir ok for religious women?
Yes! I believe that boudoir is compatible with religious beliefs and lifestyles. Your boudoir session at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio will be tailored to fit your personal values and comfort level. Read more about my thoughts on boudoir and religion here.
Do you offer bridal boudoir sessions?
Yes! Bridal boudoir is an amazing opportunity to create a special, intimate gift for your partner for your wedding day. Boudoir is also a powerful way to celebrate your status as a stunning bride! Many brides choose to wear white lingerie and a bridal veil during their bridal boudoir session. You may also want to incorporate personal details such as your partner’s shirt, your wedding shoes and wedding jewelry. Check out a gallery of bridal boudoir photos here.
Do you offer maternity boudoir sessions?
Yes! A boudoir photoshoot is a beautiful way to celebrate your baby bump! Check out maternity boudoir sessions here.
Is your business LGBT friendly?
Yes! We welcome women of all orientations at the studio. If you are straight, gay, bi, lesbian, queer, trans, non-binary or none of the above, we would love to photograph you in all of your fabulousness! We are a safe, judgement free place. Check out more here.
I was assigned male at birth, but I now identify as female. Do you photograph trans women?
Yes! We would be honored to capture your journey through an empowering boudoir photoshoot. Check out Rita’s boudoir session here.
Can I be nude for my boudoir session?
Yes! We specialize in creating artistic nude photos at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio. We can also create implied nude images using bedsheets, wraps and robes. Check out more info on implied nude photos here.
Do I have to be nude for a boudoir shoot?
No. How much skin you show is entirely up to you. You don’t have to bare it all!
What is a bodyscape boudoir session?
Bodyscapes are nude photos that offer a unique perspective on the human body by playing with light and shadow and high-contrast tones to emphasize the details of the body. In a bodyscape image, knees become mountains; collar bones become valleys and bellies become rolling hills. Check out bodyscape images here.
Do you photograph women over 50?
Yes! Over 50 is the perfect time for a boudoir photoshoot. The truth is, many women miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime because they fear that they are “too old” for a boudoir photoshoot. In reality, we’ve found that mature women can get as much out of a boudoir session as a younger woman—or perhaps even more! As a woman over 50, you’ve walked a longer journey. You’ve developed a certain kind of wisdom and that only comes with years of experience. You have a comfort level in your body now. You are able to celebrate your body for the life experiences it has given you. You are living life on your terms. You’re done with many of the hang-ups and insecurities from years past and you’re ready to just be YOU, in all your glory. And all of that adds up to an incredible boudoir photo session where you are willing to get creative and push your limits. The end result? Incredible images from your photoshoot that you will cherish for years to come. Check out some photos of women over 50 here.
Do you photograph plus size women?
Yes! We photograph women of all sizes and shapes. There is no such thing as a perfect body for boudoir. Our studio specializes in creating beautiful images of every woman. We have photographed hundreds of women of all shapes and sizes and we guarantee to make you look and feel gorgeous during your boudoir photoshoot. The Chicago Boudoir Photography studio is a safe place where bold women come to splurge on themselves and indulge in some well-deserved self-love. Kick your anxiety out the door and allow yourself this expression of self-love - because you absolutely deserve it! Click here to view beautiful images of curvy women in the studio.
Do you offer body-positive boudoir sessions?
Yes! This is what we do! The Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio specializes in a body-positive, female centered experience.
Can I read reviews of real experiences at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio?
Yes! We have photographed 2,000+ women and you can hear what they have to say about their experience here.
What is the best time of year to book a boudoir photoshoot?
It’s always a great time to book a boudoir photoshoot! January and February are good times to book for Valentine’s Day. March through August are wedding and anniversary months. Starting in September, we are booking for holiday gifts. And of course, birthday and self-love celebrations happen all year long!
About The Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio
Where is the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio located?
The Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio is the North Shore’s premier boudoir studio, located at 896 Green Bay Road, Suite 12, Winnetka, IL 60093. The studio is a 30 minute drive from downtown Chicago, a 20 minute drive from Lake Forest, IL, a 15 minute drive from Deerfield, IL and a 45 minute drive from Hinsdale, IL. We are just 5 minutes from Northbrook, IL, Glenview, IL, Wilmette, IL and Glencoe, IL. We are a 7 minute drive from the I-94 Tower Road exit. Click here to see a map of the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio.
Will my boudoir session be in someone’s home?
No. Your session will take place in our luxury, fully furnished commercial studio.
Will my boudoir photoshoot take place in a hotel room?
No. We do not photograph outside of our professional studio. Be aware that in Illinois, it is illegal to operate a photography business from a hotel room.
Do you have studio lighting?
Yes! We will use studio lighting to highlight your best assets! This also means that we don’t have to rely on a sunny day in Chicago in order to create beautiful boudoir images.
Do you have multiple sets at the studio?
Yes! Our fully furnished studio includes beds, furniture, backdrops, draperies, chandeliers and everything I need to create beautiful images of YOU! We can easily create light and bright images as well as dark and moody images so that your gallery has a lot of fun variety.
Do people travel for a boudoir session?
Yes! People travel from all over the Chicago area and Chicago suburbs to experience a boudoir session at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio - including from Cook County, Lake County, Schaumburg, Park Ridge, Oak Park, and Lincoln Park. Women also come from all over the Midwest, including Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois. It’s a fun weekend trip idea or a girls trip idea to come here for a sensual boudoir photoshoot!
Do you have free parking at the studio?
Yes! There is a free all-day parking lot right by the studio. Check out directions and a map here.
Is the studio accessible via public transportation?
Yes! Take the Metra to the Hubbard Woods stop. The studio is a 3 min walk (.1 mile) from the Hubbard Woods Metra station.
The Photographer at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio
Who will be my boudoir photographer?
Hi, I’m Liz Hansen! I’m the owner and photographer at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio and I can’t wait to meet you!
How did you get into boudoir?
I had been professionally photographing families, kids and weddings for 6+ years when I saw an opportunity to work at a luxury boudoir photo studio in my area. I had never done a boudoir photo shoot before, but as soon as I got started, I was hooked. I loved watching women gain confidence! After working there for a few years, the studio owner relocated her business and I decided to open my own boudoir company and commercial studio. I renovated a vintage space by adding walls, hardwood floors and all new finishes to create a studio for Chicago Boudoir Photography. I absolutely love shooting in my studio space and feel a genuine honor that women trust me to capture their beauty in this way. Every woman that steps into my studio gets to feel like a supermodel for the day and leaves with an extra spring of confidence in her step! You can read the full story of how I got into boudoir here.
How long have you been a professional photographer?
I have been a professional photographer since 2011 and a full-time boudoir photographer since 2015.
How many women have you photographed?
I have photographed more than 2,000 women and enjoyed every minute of it!
What do you love about running a boudoir business?
I love seeing how beautiful photos can build confidence. I believe that every woman deserves to feel like a supermodel and I'm honored to make that happen!
Have you ever done a boudoir photoshoot for yourself?
Yes! Lots of times! I love the feeling of freedom that I get during a boudoir session. And my husband said that the boudoir album that I gave him was the best gift that he has ever received. Here is a write-up of one of my own boudoir photoshoot experiences.
Getting Ready for your Boudoir Session
What do I need to do to get ready for my session?
Mostly, you just need to show up! We’ll be with you every step of the way. We do recommend a manicure and pedicure before your photoshoot. You might also want a fresh haircut and color. Check out some more tips here in “Your Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Boudoir Shoot” ebook!
Should I spray tan before my photoshoot?
It depends. For most people, we do not recommend getting a spray tan. Your natural skin tone will usually look better on camera than a spray tan. However, if you get spray tans frequently and know that it looks good on you, then go for it! But this is probably not the time to try your first ever spray tan.
Should I wax before my session?
Sure, if that’s your thing. If you do choose to wax, we recommend making the appointment at least a couple of days before your session to avoid redness or irritation.
Should I arrive at the studio with my hair wet or dry?
Arrive at the studio with dry hair.
Should I come to my boudoir photoshoot with my makeup done?
No. Come to the studio with a clean face and no makeup on.
Do I need to lose weight or go on a diet before my session?
No, you do not need to lose weight or go on a diet before your session. But I understand why you are asking this question. We live in a society that emphasizes thinness. But we don’t buy into that here at Chicago Boudoir. You are fabulous right now, just as you are. Let’s celebrate YOU in all of your glory! I sometimes hear people say that they want to lose weight before their photoshoot, but I never hear someone say that they wish they had waited 5 years to do it. Let’s do this now!
Should I get a manicure and pedicure before my session?
Yes, we recommend a professional manicure and pedicure because your hands and feet will show in many of your photos.
What do I need to bring to the studio on the day of my boudoir photoshoot?
Bring a form of ID. We photograph women ages 21+ and check ID for everyone for liability purposes.
Wardrobe. Pack the items that you would like to be photographed in.
Cash or debit / credit card to purchase your photo collection.
Your best boudoir energy! We’re going to have a great time together!
Do I need to arrive early for my photo session?
No. The time listed on your booking is your arrival time. But you also don’t want to be late! Late arrivals may reduce your time in front of the camera.
The Boudoir Photo Session Experience
What does my boudoir session include?
Your boudoir session at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio includes:
Professional makeup and hair styling
Wardrobe consultation and styling
Empowering photoshoot at our luxury studio
Same-day image reveal and ordering
Photo retouching
Free shipping
100% happiness guarantee
How long will I be at the boudoir studio?
Plan to be at the studio for about 3-4 hours from start to finish. This includes time for professional makeup and hair styling (~60 minutes), your photoshoot (~60 minutes) and your photo reveal (~60 minutes).
Who will be at the studio during my session?
Our 100% female staff will be with you every step of the way. Liz Hansen will be your photographer.
Do you have age requirements at the studio?
Yes, we photograph women ages 21+.
Should I bring a friend with me to my boudoir session?
Typically, we don’t recommend bringing a friend to your session. For most people, having extra people in the studio makes the person being photographed feel like they have to perform in front of an audience. Our staff will be with you every step of the way for moral support. If you do invite a friend to come with you to your shoot, we ask that you make sure that she is 100% positive and 100% on board with you spoiling yourself for the day at the studio.
Should I bring my husband / boyfriend / partner with me to the shoot?
Typically, we don’t recommend bringing a romantic partner with you to the studio. Most people want to create a boudoir surprise for their partner or have the space to enjoy this experience for themselves. If you do decide to bring your partner to the studio, they are welcome to hang out while you are getting your hair and makeup done. Then doing the photoshoot, we will ask them to leave the studio so that you can really focus on your experience without the distraction of an audience.
Can I bring my baby and / or kids to the photoshoot?
No, we don’t allow anyone under age 21 at the studio. As I’m sure you can understand, boudoir is not an appropriate experience for the kiddos!
Can my friend come to the studio at the same time for our photoshoots?
No. Because we want to give each of our clients the attention and experience they deserve, we only photograph one client at a time. We would love to chat with your friend and get her set up for her own private photoshoot date!
What should I do after my session?
Make plans to go out after your shoot! You are going to feel glam and confident. Don’t let that sizzling energy go to waste!
Hair and Makeup at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio
Is makeup and hair styling included with my photo session?
Yes! Professional makeup application and hair styling is included with every session. You’ll look glam, feel great and be ready for the camera! Check out some before and after photos here.
Can your beauty team make all skin tones look good?
Yes! Our experienced beauty team has worked with thousands of women over the years and is ready to help every woman look fabulous for their photoshoot. Check out examples here.
Can I get a discount on my session because I don’t want hair and makeup services?
No. Professional hair and makeup services are complimentary with the photoshoot, so there isn’t a discount for not taking advantage of those services.
I have really short hair. Does a pixie cut work for boudoir photos?
Yes! You are going to look fabulous. Some women worry that short hair might limit their styling options for boudoir photos, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Our expert team will bring out your unique beauty, no matter your hair length. Check out boudoir images of gals with short hair here.
I have hair extensions. Can I wear them for my photo session?
Yes! Tape-in and sew-in hair extensions add both length and fullness and will look great on camera.
I wear a wig. Can I bring it to my boudoir photoshoot?
Yes! Wigs look great on camera, so if you have a wig you love, please bring it! If you plan to bring a wig for our beauty team to style, remember that only 100% human hair wigs can tolerate the heat of a curling iron or flat iron. If the wig is a synthetic blend, it will melt. Sometimes wigs ordered on Amazon are labeled as human hair, but are actually a synthetic blend (look for authentic Remy 100% human hair wigs with an intact cuticle layer). If you aren’t sure, do a test with a curling iron at home to see if the hair will curl. If you are unable to curl the wig at home, the stylist won’t be able to curl it either.
Does makeup include faux lashes and airbrush makeup?
Yes! The makeup and hair styling at our studio includes faux lashes and airbrush makeup to get you camera ready. False lashes are key to getting that super glamorous look in your boudoir photos, as many of your boudoir photos will be taken with your eyes closed. If you’ve never worn temporary lashes before, they may feel heavy at first. But after the lashes are fully dry (about 5-6 minutes), you will hardly notice they are there. To remove the lashes after your photoshoot, just rub gently with warm water and/or makeup remover and they will peel right off.
What is your signature hair and makeup look for boudoir photos?
The signature look for boudoir photo shoots is a subtle smokey eye, eyeliner, faux eyelashes, sun-kissed cheeks and a pink or red lip. Every woman is unique and we will customize your hair and makeup styling to YOU! Check out examples of hair and makeup looks here.
What if I want a natural look for my boudoir shoot?
Great! Our beauty team is happy to use subtle colors and earth tones to create a more natural and subdued look for your shoot. Be aware that the camera and lighting that we use at the studio requires a heavier makeup look than what you may be used to wearing. Our beauty team is very experienced at using the right kind of makeup for a boudoir shoot and will make sure that you look fabulous for your shoot. Even a natural look requires some makeup to read well on camera.
What if I want to look very glam and dramatic for my boudoir session?
Love it! We are happy to style you with a dramatic look for your photo session! This might include darker makeup tones, a red lip and extra volume in your hair.
Can I incorporate multiple hair and makeup looks into one photo session?
Yes! If you want a variety of hair and makeup looks for your session, you can purchase extra time with our beauty team. For example, if you would like to incorporate both a natural look AND a super glam look at your shoot, contact us at least 7 days before your shoot to purchase and schedule the extra time needed for both looks.
Lingerie, Outfits and Wardrobe for your Boudoir Session
What should I wear for my boudoir photoshoot?
One of the fun parts of a boudoir experience is planning your wardrobe items. This might be an excuse to do a little shopping! Most women bring 1-3 lingerie pieces to their boudoir session. Pick items that fit well and that you love. If you don’t love it, don’t bring it. There are lots of lingerie options that work great for a boudoir shoot, including bra and panty sets, body suits, babydoll slips and corsets. Many women worry that they are bringing the “wrong” wardrobe items to their shoot. Don’t worry - we can make almost anything look great on camera. This photoshoot experience is less about what you’re wearing and more about YOU. If you need some wardrobe inspiration, check out our Amazon lingerie shopping guide here.
Which colors of lingerie look best on camera?
Black lingerie is always classic and sexy. Jewel tones such as purple, navy, red, turquoise and crimson also look good on almost everyone. Lingerie in white, cream or pastel colors work beautifully for a soft and natural aesthetic.
What if I don’t want to wear lingerie?
No problem. There are lots of options for a boudoir photoshoot besides lingerie including an oversized shirt or sweater, a silky robe, a form-fitting dress or a jeans + tank look. You might also consider a nude or implied nude look.
Can I bring multiple lingerie outfits?
Yes! You are welcome to bring a variety of outfits and we will help you select the best ones for the camera.
What if I want outfits with more coverage?
You don’t have to bare everything. A bodysuit or corset that covers your middle is often just as sexy (or even more so!) than a bra and panty set. Other items that provide coverage include lace robes, thigh-high stockings, high-waisted panties and garter belts.
Can I bring props and personal items to my session, such as a sports jersey, sentimental jewelry, my boxing gloves or my boyfriend’s hat?
Yes! We love personalizing your photoshoot for YOU! Please bring anything to your photoshoot that is meaningful to you that you would like to incorporate into your boudoir pics. Check out fun props and accessories here.
Should I bring jewelry to my boudoir photoshoot?
Sure! If you love jewelry, feel free to bring it to your session. You might want to bring your engagement and/or wedding ring and any sentimental jewelry pieces that are special to you. We also have earrings and necklaces at the studio that you can borrow for your session. Also, if jewelry is not your thing, you do not have to wear it!
Do you have wardrobe items at the studio that I can wear for my boudoir pics?
Yes! We have lace robes, red-bottom high heels, earrings, men’s shirts, and angel wings that you can borrow for your session. We do not have bras and panties to share, so plan to bring your own.
Is there anything that I should NOT bring to my boudoir session?
At our studio, we do not allow drugs, cigarettes, weapons, guns or minors under age 18.
Do you have Victoria’s Secret style angel wings?
Yes! We have gray and pink angel wings at the studio that you are welcome to wear during your boudoir session. They are 6 feet tall and constructed with real ostrich feathers. You will feel like a bombshell when you wear the boudoir wings! Check out images with angel wings here.
Boudoir Posing
Do I need to practice posing in front of a mirror before my session?
No. We will tell you exactly what to do and how to pose during your session. We will tell you what to do with your hands and with your face. I will demonstrate all of the poses for you so that you know exactly what to do. You don’t have to practice in front of a mirror beforehand or know what you’re doing. We’ll make you look great - promise!
Do I need to have modeling experience to book a boudoir photo session?
No. The Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio is a place for regular women, including those with no modeling experience. I will guide you through every pose, expression and movement. Your job is just to show up. My job is to make you look and feel fabulous.
Which boudoir poses do you recommend?
There are so many stunning boudoir poses to choose from and every woman is unique. When you come to the studio, we will talk about your preferences and make sure to incorporate poses that will work best for the look you want to achieve. Here are some of our favorites:
Standing against the wall with the back arched
Lying on your back with your legs propped against the wall
Lying face down with your head in your hand
Straddling a chair backward
Kneeling on a bed with your hands in your hair
Check out some of our favorite boudoir poses here.
What if I’m nervous and awkward about posing?
Feeling nervous and awkward is totally normal—most people aren’t used to being in front of the camera, especially in such an intimate setting! But don’t worry—I will be there to guide you every step of the way. The Chicago Boudoir Studio specializes in awkward people and those who have never done a boudoir photoshoot before. We have women in the boudoir studio all the time who say that they feel awkward in front of the camera, but then end up raving about their photos. We got you!
What if there are parts of my body that I don’t like very much? What if I am self conscious about my tummy?
That’s completely normal! Almost everyone has areas of their body they feel self-conscious about. We will use lighting, wardrobe and posing to highlight your best features. Boudoir is about capturing confidence, sensuality, and empowerment—not perfection. You might even surprise yourself by loving parts of your body you never thought you would!
I have mobility concerns - I’m not sure that I will be able to pose.
No matter your ability level, you will be in good hands at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio. I am an expert at posing women with a range of fitness and abilities. There are hundreds of options for boudoir poses, so together we will choose poses that work well for you. Each and every boudoir pose can be modified to ensure your comfort during your entire shoot.
I’m so nervous! What if I look nervous in my photos?
It’s very normal to feel nervous about a boudoir photoshoot - especially if it’s your first time. Part of the fun of a boudoir photoshoot is that it’s out of your comfort zone. Try not to worry - we will be with you every step of the way. We are boudoir experts and we will make sure you look fabulous in your photos. We will coach you on how to stand, sit or kneel and also show you what to do with your face and your hands so that you look amazing in every image.
Boudoir Retouching
Will you Photoshop my boudoir photos?
You are beautiful just as you are! You don’t need any Photoshopping to look fabulous. However, I also understand that many people want a little retouching on their images. For that reason, our studio offers full, professional, magazine quality retouching on all of your boudoir images at no extra charge. Check out examples of boudoir photo retouching from our studio here.
What if I don’t want any retouching on my photos?
Great! You are stunning and you don’t need any changes made to your photos. We will deliver your digital gallery and print products without any retouching.
How much does boudoir photo retouching cost?
We provide photo retouching at no extra charge.
Will you remove acne, scars and stretch marks from my boudoir photos?
Yes! We are happy to provide photo retouching on all of your boudoir images at no extra charge, including teeth whitening, acne and blemish removal, scar removal, skin smoothing and body shaping.
Can you photoshop out my giant tattoo on my back?
Most retouching is included at no extra cost with your photoshoot. Due to the work involved, custom retouching such as a large tattoo removal may incur an additional charge. Feel free to get in touch for a quote. If you really don’t want the tattoo on your back to show in your images, you can also choose posing and wardrobe items to minimize it showing up in your boudoir pics.
Will you photoshop my lingerie to be a different color?
No. Retouching is used to enhance your boudoir images but not to create a whole new reality.
Boudoir Photos and Print Products
When do I get to see my photos after they are taken?
Right after your session, while you are still at the studio! Talk about instant gratification! We are the only boudoir studio in the Chicago area to offer same-day photo viewing and ordering. At the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio, you will get the immediate satisfaction of seeing your gorgeous photos in a slideshow on the same day as your photoshoot.
How many photos will I get to see after my boudoir session?
We will show you a slideshow of about 100 images. I will show you all of the images that were taken during your session. The only images you will not see are “throw away” images, for example if you blinked and I had to retake the shot.
How will I be able to pick my favorite photos from so many?
No worries - we’re here to help! We have a tried-and-true system to help you easily pick your favorite photos from the slideshow. It’s sort of like going to the eye doctor where you choose between images on a screen - except this is way more fun than an optometrist visit!
What if I don’t like the photos?
Here at the Chicago Boudoir Photography Studio, we offer a 100% happiness guarantee. That means that if you come to the studio and you see your images and you are not absolutely blown away by your photos, you don’t pay a dime! That’s our promise to you. You can feel confident booking with our studio because of this guarantee.
I want to do this shoot, but I’m not sure what I will do with the photos afterward. What do most people do with their boudoir images?
One of the great things about our studio is that we offer same-day viewing and ordering. That means that you don’t have to know what you want to purchase from your session before you come in. You will get to decide on all of your product purchases after you have had a chance to review your gorgeous images. We have samples of all of the albums, gifts and print products at the studio so that you can see them before you decide. Our most popular collections include a digital download and an album. Many women also choose wall art and gift items. Check out options here.
Will I be able to see my boudoir images in both color and black and white formats?
Yes! During your image reveal slideshow, you will be able to view all of your boudoir images in both color and black and white. Some images look best with the richness of full color and other images are beautifully dramatic in the monochrome of black and white.
Do you offer digital downloads for purchase?
Yes! If you purchase a digital download from your boudoir session, the digital images will be delivered to you via a password-protected link.
Do you offer boudoir albums for sale? What options do you have available for boudoir albums?
Many women who come to our studio want to enjoy their boudoir images in the form of a luxury album. In fact, boudoir albums are our most popular print product! We offer archival quality boudoir albums in 3 sizes (5 inch, 8 inch and 10 inch). You will have the option to customize your album with a photo cover, engraving, page gilding and to choose from 20+ cover options, including traditional leather, velvet, distressed, snakeskin, vegan leather and metallic leather. Check out album options here.
Do you offer boudoir wall art? Do people really hang boudoir photos on their walls?
Yes! Hanging your boudoir photos on your wall is a powerful way to remind yourself every single day of your beauty and courage. It’s a daily dose of inspiration! We offer wall art as metal prints and traditional framed wall art. Check out examples of boudoir wall art here.
Do you offer boudoir items for an anniversary or birthday gift?
Yes! We offer a variety of boudoir photo items that are perfect for an anniversary gift or birthday gift. It’s the kind of intimate gift that only you can give to your partner! Gift options include a retro viewfinder, metal wallet card, mini prints and metal easel for your bedside table. Check out boudoir gift items here.
Will my boudoir album be shipped to my house?
Yes! We will ship your boudoir album, wall art and/or gift items straight to your home with free shipping. You also have the option to come back to the studio to pick up if you would prefer.
What kind of packaging will the album be shipped in?
The album and artwork will be shipped in a discrete shipping box - and it won’t say the word “boudoir” on the outside! We offer free shipping to your home on all boudoir products.
How long is the turn-around time on boudoir digital images?
Allow 5-7 business days for digital retouching. If you don’t need retouching on your images, we will deliver digital images to you the same day as your shoot. Digital galleries will be emailed to you via a password-protected link.
How long is the turn-around time for boudoir albums, wall art and gift items?
Plan on 2-6 weeks for production and shipping. If you’re on a tighter deadline than that, we offer a rush fee for faster service.
Boudoir Privacy
Will you post my boudoir photos on the internet?
Only if you tell us that we can! Your privacy is really important to us. We will never share any of your boudoir images without your permission. All of the images that you see posted on our social media accounts and our website have been shared with full permission.
Can I post my boudoir photos online?
Yes! You are welcome to post your beautiful boudoir images online. Tag the Chicago Boudoir Photography studio so that we can see what you posted! Check out our social media links here.
Can I print my boudoir photos for myself?
Yes! If you purchase a digital download from your boudoir session, you are welcome to print the images for personal usage. As a word of caution on printing: we cannot guarantee privacy or quality of print products from third party printers. You are also welcome to purchase prints, wall art and gift items directly from us as part of your collection purchase.
How will you keep my boudoir photo safe?
Your boudoir photos will be uploaded to a password protected gallery that only you and our 100% female staff can access.
How long do you keep my boudoir photos on file?
On the day of your photoshoot, you will pick out the photos from your session that you want to purchase. The images that you do not purchase will be deleted for your privacy. If you purchase a digital download, you will be sent a password-protected link so that you can download the images onto your personal devices. You are welcome to download the images to multiple devices, including your computer and your phone. We recommend backing up the images to a secure drive. The images are yours to have and use forever. For your privacy, we do not keep your images on file at the studio after 90 days.
How do I keep this gift a secret from my partner?
Boudoir pics are such a fun surprise gift to give to your partner! You might consider telling them a teeny tiny white lie… Maybe you were at a spa for a pampering day? Or maybe you stopped by Sephora for a make over? (and that’s why your makeup is all glam!) I believe that your partner will forgive your minor deception when they see your fabulous photos!
Booking your Boudoir Photo Experience
How much does a boudoir session cost?
There is a session fee to book the day and time for your shoot, which includes professional hair and makeup and your photoshoot. Right after the shoot - while you're still at the studio - you'll get to see your photos and decide what you want to purchase from your shoot. We offer luxury boudoir albums, framed wall art, gift items and digital downloads in collections starting at $999. All of our photo products and collections are fully customizable.
Is a boudoir session worth it?
Absolutely! A boudoir session is about creating stunning images that you will enjoy for years to come. But it isn’t just about some pics—it’s about confidence, empowerment, and celebrating yourself. Many women say it’s a life-changing experience that makes them feel sexy and confident in ways they never expected.
What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
When you book a boudoir session with us, your date and time will be reserved just for you. Because the entire boudoir studio and staff is reserved for your session, please get in touch with us ASAP if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. Rescheduling requests will incur a fee. Cancellations and no-shows will forfeit the session fee. Due to the custom nature of our photography services, all sales are final. Session fees and photo collection sales are non-refundable and non-transferable. More information here.
How far in advance should I book my session?
Because we specialize in boudoir, our calendar fills up quickly. We recommend scheduling your boudoir photo experience 6-8 weeks before you need your album and images ready. No matter what your timeline is, though, please get in touch - we can sometimes accommodate last-minute requests! Book a time to chat here.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! You are welcome to purchase a boudoir session for yourself or someone else. We have digital and print gift certificates - let us know which you prefer. Click here to purchase a boudoir session.
Do you offer financing and/or payment plans for a boudoir purchase?
Yes! We offer 3 payment options and flexible financing to make purchases from your boudoir photo session:
1. Pay in full with credit card, debit card or cash (we do not accept personal checks, Venmo or Zelle)
2. Financing through Affirm, Afterpay, Klarna or PayPal Credit
3. In-house financing
More information on payments is here.
Should I research boudoir photographers before I book?
Yes! I always recommend talking to a few boudoir photographers before booking. Every photographer is unique and provides a different experience. I suggest doing some research so that you can book with a studio that is going to give you the boudoir experience that you are looking for!
What should I look for when researching and booking a boudoir photographer?
I recommend checking out a boudoir photographer’s portfolio to see if the images align with your vision for a photoshoot. Read online reviews about the experience. Look for a photographer who specializes in boudoir and has a lot of experience taking photos of a variety of body types. Also confirm the location of your session - you don’t want to end up in someone’s creepy basement!
I’m excited about a boudoir session, but I need some time to think about it.
I get it! Signing up for a boudoir photoshoot is sort of a big deal because you will be stepping out of your comfort zone! If you are feeling unsure, ask yourself this question: “What is holding me back from booking this experience for me?” Because as you ask yourself this simple question, you may be surprised at the silly answer that you are giving yourself. Are you giving into fear? Or maybe you are accepting society’s narrow definitions of what women should and should not do? I’ll tell you this - I’ve never had a woman tell me that she wishes she had waited 5 more years to book a boudoir photoshoot. She is glad that she did it for herself now! If you have been wanting to experience a sensual photoshoot, I’d love to chat!
I have a lot more questions - can I talk to someone about my boudoir experience?
Yes! Call or text me anytime at 312-425-2946, send us an email to hello@chicago-boudoir.com or fill out an online contact form here.
Do you have a community I can join?
Yes! I started a Facebook Group called the VIP Group for Empowered Women of Chicago with a simple yet powerful goal: to create a fun, uplifting, and empowering community for women right here in our city. Today, this incredible group has grown to include over 10,000 local Chicago women, and it continues to expand every single day! Join us here.
I’m ready to celebrate ME! How do I book my boudoir session?
Great - we can’t wait to have you in the studio! Just click here to purchase your session.