The Photo of the Week is from School Night Karaoke.
You may have heard of one of the latest trends in wedding photography. Hint: It involves the bride wearing a lot less than her gown. Boudoir photography is definitely gaining popularity among to-be brides, but what's it really all about? Find out whether these risque pics are for right you.
So, what is boudoir photography exactly?
Boudoir photography is a sexy new trend that's especially popular as a wedding day gift from a bride to her groom. Boudoir photos are usually taken wearing either just a little, or well, nothing at all. They're hardly X-rated though, but rather PG-13 -- as in classic pinup-inspired pics, or what the pros call 'implied nudes.' That means you're not wearing anything, but you're also not showing off anything either (think shot from the back, or lying on your stomach).
Who will take my pictures?
Many wedding photographers have embraced this trend -- your shutterbug may offer this as an additional service. An added bonus of going with a pro: Many brides like to have the best of their boudoir photos bound in a mini album just for their hubby, a service many wedding photographers are able to arrange. In some cities, you may also be able to find services that specialize in boudoir photography. While the shots you get may not be as high quality as those of a high-end wedding photographer, there can be other perks --like closets full of potential wardrobe items or props.
When should I schedule the session?
If you're spending time and money on an exercise and beauty routine, you may want to wait until a week or so before the wedding to show off the results. Plus, a fun and pampering photo shoot is a good way to indulge and take some time out from wedding planning. Though you might be inclined arrange for the session on the morning of your wedding, resist the urge. For one, you're not likely to feel very sultry if the rain clouds looming over your outdoor ceremony site are the first thing on your mind. Second, do you really want your to-be mother-in-law walking in on you while you're posing in just your veil? Stick with a separate shoot so you'll have time to really feel comfortable and get some great shots.
How long does it take?
Though it depends on the package you choose, your boudoir photo session will probably last about two hours. Why so long? It takes time for hair and makeup, plus the additional lighting setup. It may also take you a little while to relax. Most brides aren't used to lounging around wearing little, if any, clothing in front of the camera, so your first few shots will likely look a bit stiff.
What does it cost?
Cost varies considerably -- do a little investigating before you commit to a vision of what you want. Multiple set changes, renting props, or simply time spent can add up quickly. If you can add a private session onto your wedding package, you may be able to get a better deal than if you go with a different wedding photographer. The real key, of course, is whether you gel with your photographer -- if you don't feel comfortable, it will show on camera.
Where should I have it done?
Talk with your photographer to come up with the best location. Many photographers may be able to do a photo session in a studio. Another popular site is a posh hotel room. Your own home or a borrowed home is another option. The main key is to get an okay from your photographer on the locale -- a number of different backgrounds for poses are important, and they'll also need lots of natural light.
What should I wear?
The most important thing -- choose outfits that make you feel sexy. A good rule of thumb: Bring something white, something black, and something in a bright color so you can mix and match. A corset will create sexy curves. In addition to lingerie, don't forget shoes, jewelry, and that engagement ring.
Should I bring anyone along?
Though you don't want to turn your shoot into a three-ring circus, it's a good idea to bring a friend. Why? You'll feel more at ease if you can make a few jokes with a pal, plus she may be able to help with suggestions. Another idea: Bring a bottle of bubbly. A little champagne may help loosen things up. You'll be posing like a pro in no time -- but of course, this is a one-time-only exclusive for a very special audience (your very lucky groom).
Ironically enough we were at a Dodger game and there was a lady sitting a few rows in front of us and she pulled out some chocolate.... Looking closer at it we found out it was a piece of chocolate with a wedding menu on it.... SO CUTE.
Your guy is marrying you because he loves you (duh). And that means he loves the way you look, too. Of course he won't run screaming from the ceremony if you make any drastic changes to your appearance for your wedding day, but it's probably smart to do the following …
Don't mess with your hair too much.
Adding Rapunzel-like extensions when you've had short hair your entire adult life may make you look completely different. Similarly, if you've never once worn your hair up, not even for past special occasions, your wedding isn't necessarily the day to start. The good news is even if you're looking for short wedding hairstyles or down-dos, you have so many spectacular options. And not that you would, but it's wise not to dye your hair a brand-new color right before your wedding, either.
Don't go overboard with your makeup.
I tend to "put my face on" whenever I step out of my apartment, which is why it wasn't such a stretch for me to go as extreme as wearing false lashes on my wedding day. If you don't own any cosmetics at all, ask your makeup artist (or stick to this rule if you're doing your own makeup) to make you look natural, or at least somewhere between all-out glamorous and natural for your wedding day. Get inspiration from Susan's DIY makeup trials.
Don't "grow" a new chest overnight.
While it's tempting to get lots of extra help in the bosom department (Lord knows I could have used some!), if you're not well endowed, your groom (and many of your guests, too) may find it strange if you're suddenly boasting D-cup boobs as you walk down the aisle. That doesn't mean you should completely forgo padded or push-up bras; just opt for a little lift instead of a mega one.
Don't tack on too much to your height.
Besides the fact that you may wobble in six-inch heels if you normally stick to flats, your guy may miss bending down to kiss you if you're suddenly his height at the wedding. Yes, heels can make you look slimmer, but pick a pair that's just an inch or two higher than you'd usually wear. For instance, I wore three-inch heels to my ceremony, even though I usually wouldn't be caught in anything that's more than an inch-and-a-half tall.
Somehow he knew that yesterday was just a long day for me and to make me smile, he walked through the door with roses last night..... I do LOVE this man.
If he were a color
