The Mistake You Can’t Afford To Make When Booking A Professional Boudoir Photographer

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In a world where anyone with a camera can label themselves a photographer, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to distinguish between professionals and hobbyists. This article aims to guide you in your search for a boudoir photographer, even if you decide not to choose me. I want to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision because once you understand what I’m about to share, you won’t be able to overlook it.

A boudoir photoshoot is inherently intimate and specialized, making it vital to avoid a particular mistake when booking your photographer: choosing someone unfamiliar with studio lighting.

Why, you may ask? Lighting is the essence of the photographic process, especially in boudoir photography, where it can make you look younger, enhance your beauty, and create flattering images. The one mistake you can’t afford to make is investing in a photographer with an expensive camera but lacking the expertise to use studio lighting effectively.

Also, there is an old Hollywood saying that is often said when filming and the same applies to photography and that is Lights, Camera, Action! The director wouldn’t be saying those words in that order if it wasn’t true.

I’ve had clients return disappointed after opting for a lower-cost photographer and receiving an album filled with high-quality cell phone photos. Despite a positive experience with pampering and makeup services, the images didn’t have the expected “Umph.” One client, unsatisfied, got her session fee refunded and booked with me, even though my fee was higher. The lesson here is clear: the lack of studio lighting expertise can diminish the excitement of what should be a premium boudoir experience.

Now, why is studio lighting non-negotiable in boudoir photography? Let’s dive into its significance:

Details:

Lighting brings out intricate details in the frame, making you the highlight of the image and ensuring that supporting details are not lost. It also brings out color details.

Are you ready to bring your most flattering details to light?

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Mood:

Lighting sets the mood, influencing the overall feel of your boudoir experience. Whether you seek deep romance or a brighter atmosphere, proper lighting is key

What mood do you have in mind for your boudoir experience?

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Elegant and bold boudoir photoshoot at Los Angeles studio, serving Riverside and Orange County clients

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Posing:

Lighting significantly influences posing, either highlighting or concealing areas of concern. This ensures a worry-free experience, emphasizing your best features.

How does a worry-free experience sound to you?

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Timeless boudoir photography session in Los Angeles location, serving Riverside and Orange County

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Timelessness:

Proper lighting transcends time, creating images that remain beautiful regardless of trends or periods.

How would you like to be timeless?

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Sultry and sophisticated boudoir photoshoot at Riverside studio, serving the greater Los Angeles area

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Hair & Makeup:

Combined with professional hair and makeup, the right lighting ensures you appear flawless in your images, contributing to the overall premium quality experience.

Are you ready to look and feel flawless?

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Prints:

Beyond digital images, studio lighting affects the quality of tangible products. Your investment in a premium experience should be reflected in printed albums, loose prints, or wall art.

Are you ready to see yourself as a masterpiece?

Now armed with the knowledge of lighting’s pivotal role, use this checklist in your search for a boudoir photographer:

Do the photographer’s images present the details I’m looking for?
Does the mood in their images align with my vision?
Can I envision myself in their images?
How timeless do these images appear to me?
Does the person in the image look flawless?
Would I proudly display a printed image from this photographer?

None of these questions explicitly mention lighting, but consider what made you stop scrolling to explore a photographer’s portfolio. That initial impact is what sets professionals apart.

I hope this resource aids you in finding a professional boudoir photographer. My team and I would love to create a timeless boudoir experience that captures, celebrates, and unveils your inner goddess. Join us, and together we’ll craft intimate portraits that leave you breathless.

Apply Here To Start Your Classy Boudoir Experience

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MEET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

HI! I’m Will

As a renowned photographer, Boudoir specialist, and educator, I’ve had the honor of capturing the beauty of countless incredible women, couples, and even a few men over more than a decade. Now, I’m thrilled at the prospect of working with you!

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When you book your session with Will Overby, expect a personalized experience paired with unwavering professionalism from start to finish. Drawing inspiration from over a decade of industry expertise, I have fostered a welcoming, supportive atmosphere where you can unwind and embrace your best, most beautiful self.

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My team and I will seamlessly guide you through every stage, ensuring you look and feel amazing throughout. Trust me, the most challenging part will be simply showing up!

Based in Rosena Ranch, CA Available Worldwide

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First Boudoir Magazine Publication – Inland Empire-Boudoir Photography

I was researching another studio option that I can provide to you (our client). We have our favorite studio location in Riverside that we use quite often. However, the plan was to broaden our reach to different locations. So I sought out to see what I could find in Los Angeles County. There were plenty of locations to choose from. It was hard to narrow them down but I believe I found some good ones. I want to warn you Downtown Los Angeles exterior may not be the prettiest area but this studio I found was absolutely beautiful online. So I had to book a session to test out the location. I also wanted to make the most out of this test project. I remembered that a few magazines reached out to me through instagram a while back. So reached out to a few contacts to see if they will want to shoot with me at this new found location with the possibility of being featured in a magazine. Ms. S was available on the date proposed. In this type of project we shorten up the process. Rather than having a full day session that we would do for a standard boudoir session, I asked the “model” to come hair and makeup ready. This is because the location is rented for 2 hours. So we work pretty fast to get the most out of the time spent in the studio.

After the session I processed the images for submission to the magazines. I submitted to 2 because I was not sure if I would get accepted by either or. Why not right?

Come to find out I got accepted to both magazines. Which was to my Surprise. To make things even better One magazine featured us on the cover.

I did not make the cover on the other magazine (MAC Magazine) but I am forever grateful for being published in both in the same month.

Classy Boudoir Boutique Swing Magazing Coveer

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The Location

Have you thought about booking your own shoot with Classy Boudoir Boutique? Download your complimentary Session Planning Guide by clicking HERE. It will tell you all about the experience and what to expect. Our photographer Will would love to chat with you! You can give him a call directly at 909-766-1266. You can also email us at hello@classyboudoirboutique.com. We can’t wait to hear from you!

MEET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

HI! I’m Will

━

My team and I will seamlessly guide you through every stage, ensuring you look and feel amazing throughout. Trust me, the most challenging part will be simply showing up!

Based in Rosena Ranch, CA Available Worldwide

More details About Your Photographer

MS. V’s SESSION – Inland Empire-Boudoir Photography

Ms. V came to her shoot with her friend and we literally had the best time. My wife Cherrelle felt like we needed to order a pizza and just hang out. Her friend actually ended up booking a boudoir shoot also! We shoot at the end of the month and I am SO excited!!!

This session took place at a Victorian loft in Downtown Los Angeles and it was absolutely beautiful.

What is holding you back? My team an I are here to walk you through the whole process.

So many clients tell me they are just too scared to ever shoot boudoir. I can guarantee you that every client that walks into my studio is nervous. It is totally normal! I tell you everything to do, how to pose, where to look, how to stand. I pose you down to your toes and fingertips. All you have to do is show up and bring your wardrobe. My motto is “Run towards your fear”. The end result is so worth the nerves.

Scroll down to see more images from Ms V’s shoot!

Have you thought about booking your own shoot with Classy Boudoir Boutique? Download your complimentary Session Planning Guide by clicking HERE. It will tell you all about the experience and what to expect. Our photographer Will would love to chat with you! You can give him a call directly at 909-489-1613. You can also email us at hello@classyboudoirboutique.com. We can’t wait to hear from you!

MEET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

HI! I’m Will

━

My team and I will seamlessly guide you through every stage, ensuring you look and feel amazing throughout. Trust me, the most challenging part will be simply showing up!

Based in Rosena Ranch, CA Available Worldwide

More details About Your Photographer

WHY DOES BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY COST SO MUCH?

“I can’t believe your prices are this high!”

“Your prices are absolutely ridiculous!”

“I’ll just find a cheaper photographer!”

These are some of the reactions that I get from people who submit inquiries about having a boudoir experience. I have been rejected numerous times by people who do not agree or understand how I price my work.

Well let me tell you that these types of people are just not my ideal clients. So you might ask; well who are your clients then?

I’ll tell you: My clients are people who understand the work that goes into what I do. They do their research and see the value that I offer. They know that there is a process that goes on with hiring a professional photographer. I’m not just a picture taker. I am an image creator. They understand that I have invested time money and education to be able to run a photography business. My average client typically spends between $3k to $5k for their full boudoir experience.

That being said. Many people truly do not know why boudoir photography or any professional level of photography costs so much. So I figured I would share some knowledge with you and why.

For starters, Let me break down a timeline of my workflow as a boudoir photographer.

Pre consultation via phone or zoom prior to session (15-30 minutes)
Communication Emails/messages back and forth prior to session (3-5 hours)
Session Preparation/set-up time prior to shoot (1 hour)
Session Wrap up/clean-up after shoot (1 hour)
Hair, Makeup and shooting the photos (4-5 hours)
Post session viewing/ordering of images (30-45min)
Post-production, editing and retouching images (8-12 hours)
Session Break (1 hour)
Album/print – design, ordering, quality control, etc. (1-2 hours)
Education (per shoot, minimum) (1 hour)
Social Media, website, blog, managing the business (1 hour minimum PER SHOOT)

This is about 21-28. hours per client.

Here is a break down of the expenses that go into a session.

Hair/Makeup – $100+
Location Rental $300 -$600
Photographer’s Assistant – $100

On average a full session can be about $500 to $700 alone. This is not including my post production team who that consist of photo retouchers, Social media assistants and print team for your luxurious albums and other products.

Why might you ask? That is because my team and I are certified professionals. I pay them well and they aren’t volunteers. They are all passionate and love to go above and beyond and exceed expectations.

Photography is not a cheap profession. Like all professions there are tools to get the job done. If you want to perform your job at a high level, you have to acquire the tools that will help you perform at that level.

Here is a brief breakdown of the equipment I use to perform my job effectively.

Sony A7RIII Camera Body ($3,000)
Sony A7III Camera Body ($2,000)
Sigma 24 -70mm lens ($1,099)
Sony 85mm 1.8 lens ($548)
Other lenses I own ($1,500)
Other camera equipment I own ($2,000)
Dozens of camera batteries ($80 each)
Professional studio lighting and stands and accessories that includes wireless remotes, modifiers, and more.

This is just some of the break down. The lighting equipment that I use cost $6k alone.

Did you know that most photographers do not even use studio lighting at all.

Software is also part of my tools. Not only to use the gear but to operate my photography business and this ads up as well. My cost for Software alone ads up to over $3,000 a year.

Also unlike your $200 photographer I run a legal business. If anyone offers photoshoots for under $1,000 is likely not running a legal business. Or they haven’t realized the actual cost of doing business yet. To operate as a legal business you have to pay good ol Uncle Sam every year. Let’s just say he and I have a love hate relationship.

Boudoir is not an easy form of photography. You can’t just pick up a camera and call yourself a boudoir photographer or even a general photographer.

Why? Because boudoir is one of the most intimate forms of photography and you are working with emotions, insecurities, body image and clients with their self esteem in a very vulnerable state.

We are responsible to help our clients feel safe and comfortable in the clothing they may or not wear in their session.
We are responsible to bring out your personality in these intimate type of images.
It is our duty to express to our client the art of showcasing their true beauty

You basically really need to know what you’re doing as a boudoir photographer.

Which brings me to point number 2. As a professional photographer, you need to have knowledge and experience. One the most precious things in photographing a boudoir experience is promoting self love and empowering women who are unsure about their own beauty. One of the things we do is learn which types of poses work for various body types. We know that everyone is unique and we encourage wardrobe that emphasizes your strengths. This ensures you will have a positive empowering experience.

I have 10 plus years of experience photographing women from Hollywood models to everyday women. I can tell you that even the Hollywood models still need encouragement and direction during a session. I’ve photographed hundreds of women in my career and I know what I am doing and that’s important.

Point number 3. It is essential to provide a safe and comfortable environment. It’s more to it than having sexy lingerie, amazing hair and makeup. The most important thing is you need to feel comfortable. We want you to come relaxed and want you to feel like you’re just hanging out with your friends. We want you to tap into that inner bombshell that you are. You will leave your experience with your head high with a higher awareness of self love.

We will be discarding all the negative stereotypical pre-conceived ideas of what is acceptable and what is not. Why? Well this experience is all about YOU!! We are embracing and celebrating the true beauty of you. Everyone that has a boudoir experience is unique in their own way and we empower and celebrate that. Thats the Classy Boudoir Boutique experience.

Point number 4. I’m not just a photographer. I am also an encourager, a coach, a friend. Some women are skeptical about having a boudoir experience with a male photographer. What I can say is that in my years of experience is my clients actually look forward to having a males perspective. You actually get the best of both worlds because I’m coaching you as well as my staff assistants who are amazing as well. As a team we are here to cheer you on. Show you what you thought you could never do. We are here to boost you up and show you that you are that drop dead gorgeous bombshell that you’ve been hiding all along.

Point number 5. You are paying for someone who understands you. What I mean by this is; I grew up in a dark place full of insecurities. I was in the foster care system as a child and was adopted into a family that I didn’t share the same genetics with. So part of my growing up I felt like an outsider and hated the way I looked. I used to look in the mirror and just say such horrible things to myself. So I know what it’s like to wake up in the morning and be emotionally taxed from life.

I can say that I pulled myself out of that space and it wasn’t easy. It took quite a bit of time and I still go through some ups and downs till this day.

What I can tell you is that since I taught myself how to love me, I wanted to provide an experience to help others do the same. I taught myself how to because my camera, I fell in love with the art of photography and pursued my BFA in photography. I am the perfect person to build you up as well. Why because I am here for you.

Point number 6. Professional quality products aren’t cheap. The final point I want to share is that I have worked commercially an have had my work featured in art galleries in Hollywood. I can tell you that top quality comes with a price. I bring this same standard to the products that I offer. I have curated different companies and have my specific few that I use to guarantee gallery quality prints.

These prints will not tear or break easily and will stand the test of time. I provide beautiful hand stitched albums, some with acrylic covers, and fine art gallery quality metal prints. My products are not cheap and are meant to last generations. My images are also calibrated for the resources that I print with as well. Costco, Target, CVS, Walmart will not print your images the same quality as my resources. In some cases they may not print them at all.

Also your Privacy is important to me. Your boudoir images are intimate and you just don’t know where your images may end up if you print them at the places previously listed. My print warehouse based in Portugal specializes in printing boudoir images. This means you will be receiving top quality products from a full professional team who are passionate about their craft.

One last thing. You are paying for quality and professionalism. I have dedicated my life to photography and creating beautiful images through my art. I am always striving to be better at my craft. Aside from obtaining my BFA in photography, I also attend photography trainings yearly so that I may continue to serve my clients to the best of my ability. I personally have 2 coaches and also a part a few master mind groups and these aren’t cheap also.

I also take on a limited number of clients each moth. This helps me ensure that each client that books with Classy Boudoir Boutique gets the adequate amount care and customer service provided for their boudoir experience.

All that being said I just want to let you know that it brings me pure joy to be able to use my talents and skillset to capture you in your best light. Bing able to help you see you the way others see you and love the person you see in the mirror every day.

Remember, any one can pick up a camera and click a photo. I’m a photographer that actually helps you feel beautiful inside and out. You will not only leave your session with beautiful photos but with a new found confidence as well.

These are just reasons why you should invest in yourself. Simply because you are 100% worth it.

The value you place on your self is priceless and these images will definitely serve as a reminder of that.

You’ve been criticizing yourself for too long. It’s about time you celebrate the woman you were created to be!

No more waiting, wishing, and wondering.

Book your experience today. View Our Session Planning Guide By Clicking Here.

Final Thoughts

When you question a photographer with their pricing, would you keep things like this in mind?

Sure there may be hobbyist photographers out there. Professional photographers are still small business owners with dreams and desires just like the rest of you. I love what I do and want to provide the best possible experience for all of my clients.

What do you think? Do you still think photography pricing cost too much? Leave a comment below and let us know.

MEET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

HI! I’m Will

━

My team and I will seamlessly guide you through every stage, ensuring you look and feel amazing throughout. Trust me, the most challenging part will be simply showing up!

Based in Rosena Ranch, CA Available Worldwide

More details About Your Photographer

WHY EVERY WOMAN DESERVES A BOUDOIR SESSION

Hello there, let’s have a real moment for a second. We all can come up with a million reasons why not to embark on a boudoir session; Some of the excuses can include the following: I need to loose weight, I don’t own any lingerie and so on. I hear all of these types of excuses often and I think It is time that we address them and flip the script a little. Its all about your mindset and perception. This blog post should help give you some knowledge because I’m a firm believer of knowledge is the key to uncertianty. This blog give you a few things to think about while thinking about why you should have a boudoir experience.

So here are my top reasons WHY EVERY WOMAN DESERVES A BOUDOIR SESSION

YOU DESERVE TO FEEL SEXY AND EMPOWERED

When was the last time you felt sexy? I believe that all women have the right to take some time out for themselves and be pampered, get dressed up or down, get their hair done and just do it all for themselves. A boudoir session is not just for someone else. It is soley FOR YOU! Your chance to feel empowered and confident in yourself. You would be amazed at how certain poses and angles with lighting techniques can bring out your best features. Trust your photographer to work their magic and all you’ll need to do is enjoy your boudoir session.

IT WILL BE AN UNFORGETTABLE GIFT

I have expressed in the previous paragraph that your boudoir session should never soley be for someone else. However, while you are feeling sexy and having some beautiful photos of yourself, it is a wonderful idea to put them to good use. When we have a significant other, we kow they would love to see us looking our best with little to nothing on.

IT’S A STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE

As we get older we may feel defined by life. You may feel like you’re just “a Mom” and you cant be sexy because of this. That is inappropriate. Your busy schedule has gotten you spending your leisure time in a messy bun, yoga pants or sweatpants, and a graphic tee. By all means there is nothing wrong with that, why not reclaim your inner bombshell and feel amazing about yourself as you slay your boudoir session.

YOU DESERVE TO CELEBRATE YOUR BEAUTY

We are all made by our creator above. Thats what makes us unique. We have been made in many different shapes and sizes. What I can say is that everyone has sensual curves and are all beautiful. Some of my clients show scars from childbirth, breast cancer or other conditions ranging from 22 – 50 years old. We all have a story to be told and there is beauty in every story. Boudoir images are a perfect way for you to tell your story as well as celebreate the female form.

WHY NOT?

You only live once, right? Why not do something that is not only empowering but it will be something to remember for years to come.

I’ll leave you with this blurb from a recent client

Ms. E. writes “I haven’t had too many experinces being on the other side of the camera, much less in lingerie. Will and his team made this experience so wonderful. I was pretty nervous going into it but the team hyping me up on the sideline had me feeling like a true queen come alive. Will was super professional and made me feel very comfortable in my own skin. With posing tips and ideas, so many concepts came alive. The whole shoot was perfect and I am absolutely obsessed with how the photos came out!”

She continues with this plea, “If you are looking for some empowerment and want to try something new to feel confident in your own skin, I highly recomend working with Classy Boudoir Boutique.”

I couldn’t have said it any better than Ms. E., A professional boudoir session will have you feeling like a queen and confident in your own skin. Many women have expressed to me how empowered and confident they felt during and after their session. This is why every woman deserves a Boudoir Session.

what’s stopping you?

I hope you enjoyed reading these 5 Reasons Why Every Woman Deserves A Boudoir Session. Are you ready to finally do something for YOURSELF? Click Here to download your FREE Boudoir Session Planning Guide, then Contact Us to schedule your session.

I’D LOVE TO BE YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER TOO! CONTACT ME TO BOOK YOUR SHOOT!

MEET YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

HI! I’m Will

━

My team and I will seamlessly guide you through every stage, ensuring you look and feel amazing throughout. Trust me, the most challenging part will be simply showing up!

Based in Rosena Ranch, CA Available Worldwide

More details About Your Photographer

The Mistake You Can’t Afford To Make When Booking A Professional Boudoir Photographer

Let's Talk

First Boudoir Magazine Publication – Inland Empire-Boudoir Photography

MS. V’s SESSION – Inland Empire-Boudoir Photography

WHY DOES BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHY COST SO MUCH?

WHY EVERY WOMAN DESERVES A BOUDOIR SESSION

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