Hair and Make up Tips to Rock your Boudoir Session
I include hair and make up in all of my boudoir sessions.
One of the main reasons I include professional hair and makeup is that my artists understand exactly which products translate best on camera, and for specific kinds of photo sessions, like boudoir.
While a nice “glowy” look might be great for a date night out, it can easily end up looking more like sweat under studio lights. A professional knows the lighting that we’ll be using, knows my style, and knows how to make suggestions that will enhance your natural look while polishing it for the camera.
It’s a similar thought process for your hair; the pros use high-quality products that allow for movement and volume without the stiffness of heavy hairspray.
Check out two of the amazing pros below and then keep reading for some pre-session tips to make sure your skin and hair look and feel their most amazing!
Meet Kim J Beauty
Kim is a staple in the wedding and event industry and has been providing classic styles for years.
In her own words:
“My philosophy and approach to hair and makeup is different from most hair and makeup artists. I see all women as a work of art. I want to create the most naturally romantic looks with hair that flows with texture and natural makeup that complements your features. I want to make you feel beautiful and become the most naturally romantic version of yourself. I get inspired by fashion and fine art photography, and want you to become that woman on the front of the magazine.”
It’s a perfect fit for boudoir!
Meet Madi of the Mad Effect
https://www.instagram.com/themadeffect
From Madi “I’m Madi — a makeup artist and hairstylist with a huge love for all things beauty, glam, and making people feel confident in their own skin. For the past 12 years, I’ve been creating soft glowy makeup, effortless hair, and customized looks that still feel like you — just a little extra magical.
My favorite part of this job isn’t just the makeup or hair… it’s the feeling clients leave with afterward. There’s something so special about watching someone light up when they see themselves in the mirror. Whether it’s for a wedding, photoshoot, special event, or just because, I love creating looks that feel timeless, elevated, and beautiful without ever feeling overdone.
I truly believe beauty should feel fun, luxurious, empowering, and personal. Every face, every client, and every story inspires me creatively, and I’m so grateful I get to do what I love every single day.”
Preparing for your skin for your Boudoir session
A little prep can make the whole experience feel smoother and help you feel more comfortable in front of the camera. Since you’re getting professional hair and makeup done, the goal is mostly to arrive feeling rested, hydrated, and not rushed.
Here are the best tips I can offer to help you look your best.
The night before
Hydrate well — Colorado is DRY and skin likes moisture, so do the work from the inside out and drink plenty of water the day before your session.
Moisturize your body – just like water helps your skin, a good moisturizing routine is great as well, especially right out of the shower. Pay particular attention to your elbows, knees, feet, and hands.
Get decent sleep – when you get a good night’s sleep you wake up feeling refreshed, and believe me, your skin notices it too. Under eye bags, puffiness, and sleepy eyes significantly diminish when you’re well rested.
Shave with enough buffer time to avoid redness and irritation, especially in the bikini area.
The morning of
Arrive with clean, dry hair and a clean, moisturized face. This gives your stylist a blank canvas to work with.
Wear loose clothing (button down shirts are great) to avoid having to take a shirt off over your hair and make up once it’s done.
Eat something with protein and drink more water beforehand. Boudoir sessions can be surprisingly physical and you’ll need some energy!
Mentally preparing
A lot of people feel nervous before hair and makeup starts, especially because it might be outside of your normal routine. Just relax and enjoy some pampering!
One thing that helps: don’t evaluate yourself in the mirror the way you would on a random Tuesday morning. Hair/makeup for boudoir is designed for lighting, posing, and photography — it often comes together fully once you’re on camera.
Need more tips to prepare? Check out my blog post on how to make yourself feel confident posing during your session!
