Behind The Scenes (what really happens in the boudoir)

Have you ever looked at pictures from a boudoir session and wondered, "What is really happening here?"

I know there was a time when I did. So I have decided to go behind the scenes on a recent photo shoot and document what is actually happening.

I give you: Behind the Scenes with Clique Boudoir Photography & Crystal Gargani.

Upon arriving at the boudoir studio I was able to watch as Crystal had her makeup professionally applied by one of Clique Boudoir’s makeup artists. During this time, the two of them were talking and laughing while the photographer, Michelle, was busy setting up the boudoir for the shoot.

When you look at Clique Boudoir’s pictures you see gorgeous props and perfection, right? Well, I am here to tell you that they get creative!

I noticed a few lighting props, a fan, a colorful ottoman, a couch, a bed, and a back drop.

Michelle (the owner of Clique Boudoir and our photographer) is running around in her bare feet getting all of the last minute details together.

It is a very laid back atmosphere. Today we are shooting an ad for a local swim suit and sportswear company. So while we are keeping a certain elegance in place, this shoot is not going to be as "glam" as most of their boudoir sessions. However, the atmosphere is always the same. Warm, cheery and inviting.

We will be shooting inside the boudoir as well as outside today so I see several different outfits laid out on the bed. I also notice a few hats, a pair of heels, and a couple of swimsuits.

After hair and makeup, Crystal is ready for her first wardrobe change. At this time we are shooting in front of a backdrop and need minimal props. With our makeup artist on standby (for any touch-ups that may be needed), lighting in place, and Michelle with her camera in hand, I aim the fan at our model to create atmosphere and Michelle goes to work.

She talks to her model patiently and guides her, directing her into postures which show off her figure and the sportswear she is modeling.

Click, click, click and boom! We have some amazing shots in the first fifteen minutes of the session.

After a few perfect shots and some laughable situations (such as hair getting stuck in  Crystal’s lip gloss) we are ready to head outdoors.

Being that this is a summer shoot we are now poolside. Michelle drags a lounge chair over to the pool and just before I can hop into it and request a margarita she is instructing her model to use this chair as a prop. And it was FABULOUS!

In some situations the model knows exactly what the photographer wants. And in other situations the photographer has something particular in mind that that needs to be explained to the model. And then there are times like these where it's just, "Go with the flow."  Even the makeup artist was in on the fun!

I guess what I am trying to say is that this is an experience that you will never forget. There is no need to feel awkward or to feel like you are among strangers because even though you may enter a stranger you will certainly leave as a friend. This is a bonding experience.

From the first meeting, through to the makeup and then the actual shoot and reveal, it's a learning process for everyone involved and a fun way to experience boudoir.

So get rid of that hesitation and come see what boudoir is all about!

(Swimwear, workout gear and accessories featured in this blog can be found at Swim 'N Sport in the Annapolis Mall or www.swimnsport.com)