How to Book a Boudoir Photoshoot in Chicago (Step-by-Step Guide)
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Boudoir Session in Chicago
Thinking about doing a boudoir shoot but not sure where to start? You’re not alone! At Chicago Boudoir Photography, we talk to so many women who’ve been thinking about booking a session for months—or even years—before they finally take the leap. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, surprising your partner, or simply doing this for YOU (yes please!), we will walk you through the whole process step-by-step.
We promise—booking a boudoir shoot doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, it can be exciting, empowering, and even a little bit fun. 💃 Let’s walk through it together!
Step 1: Decide to Say YES to Yourself
Honestly, this is the biggest (and most powerful) step. If you’ve been scrolling Pinterest, in our VIP Facebook Group for Empowered Women of Chicago, peeking at boudoir photos online, or imagining what it would feel like to fully embrace your beauty in front of the camera… this is your sign.
You do not need to “lose 10 pounds,” wait for summer, or reach some imaginary level of “ready.” You’re already enough. Right now. As you are.
Step 2: Choose the Right Photographer (Hi, I’m Liz!)
There are a lot of photographers in Chicago—but this isn’t just any photoshoot. Boudoir is deeply personal, and you deserve someone who truly understands that.
I’m Liz, the owner and photographer behind Chicago Boudoir Photography. I’ve had the privilege of photographing over 1,500 women in our cozy, private studio in Winnetka. And here’s what I want you to know: you don’t have to change a single thing about yourself to be worthy of this experience.
My all-female team and I specialize in helping women of all ages, shapes, sizes, and backgrounds feel confident, empowered, and beautiful—just as you are. Whether you’re nervous, excited, or not quite sure you can do this, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Learn more about me here, browse my portfolio or read a few personal testimonials—you’ll see that you’re not too old, too shy, too modest, or too anything to belong here. 💕
Step 3: Reach Out and Chat With Us
Booking starts with a quick hello! You can Call / text us at 312.425.2946, email us at hello@chicago-boudoir.com or schedule a complimentary phone consult at a time that works best for you HERE. We’ll go over ALL the details: what’s included, pricing, and how we’ll help you feel 100% prepared for your session.
We’re here to help you decide what’s right for you—and answer every single question along the way.
Step 4: Schedule Your Session Date and Pay Your Session Fee
Once you’re ready, we’ll get your session date on the calendar. The agreed upon date and time is reserved JUST FOR YOU! Most women book 1–3 months in advance (especially if you want your photos back in time for a birthday, anniversary, or holiday).
The session fee officially reserves your spot and includes professional hair + makeup, your fully guided photoshoot, and a same-day photo reveal where you’ll choose your favorite images and products before you even leave the studio! See all pricing, payment plan options and print product information here.
Step 5: Prep and Get Excited!
We’ll send you a full prep guide with tips on what to bring, what to wear, and how to get ready. Don’t stress—we walk you through it all.
Want to bring something personal or meaningful? Great!
Need some help on where to start shopping for boudoir lingerie? We’ve got you covered! Lingerie shopping can be tricky, so we made it easy (and fun!) with our curated Amazon Lingerie Shopping List. Get access to our hand-picked list of the most popular, top-rated pieces that look amazing in photos—and feel just as good at home!
Step 6: Arrive at the Studio and Be Pampered
The day of your shoot, you’ll walk into our cozy Winnetka studio and be greeted by a warm, welcoming team who will pamper you from the moment you sit in the makeup chair. We will cheer you on, guide you through every pose (yes, every one!), and help you feel like the goddess you are. We don’t expect you to know how to model or pose—we’ve got you and will show you exactly what to do!
Step 7: Choose Your Favorite Photos and Celebrate!
After your shoot, we’ll sit down together the same day to view your images. You’ll be amazed at how you look—strong, beautiful, sexy, soft, powerful… all the parts of you captured in a new light.
You’ll pick your favorite images and decide what products you want to purchase: digital files, a luxury album, or even wall art for your bedroom!
Want even MORE details?
Still have questions? Want to know exactly what to wear, how to prepare, or what to expect the day of your session?
We’ve created The Ultimate Guide to an Empowering Boudoir Photoshoot just for you. It’s packed with expert tips, outfit inspiration, confidence boosters, and ABSOLUTELY everything you need to feel fully prepared and excited for your shoot.