Your Boudoir Questions Answered
If this is your first time doing a boudoir session, you probably have a few questions. I hope the information below gives you a good idea for what it would be like to work together. Click to expand.
Booking a session FAQ
How would you describe your photography style?
My boudoir style centers around classic, elegant posing with a film-like aesthetic and loads of natural light. I cater to (what I usually call) the "female gaze" and love creating images that make my clients feel like a million bucks. In my opinion, the more confident women there are in this world, the better, and I love helping being a part of that, even if it's in a very small way.
There's no dramatic, unrecognizable transformations here. My intention as an artist is to bring out your natural beauty (inside and out!) and leave you feeling like your most beautiful, confident self.
How Far In Advance SHould I schedule?
The answer to this question totally depends on your plans and expectations.
If you need the photos by a certain date (for example a wedding or anniversary), I generally recommend scheduling your shoot 2-3 months in advance.
Editing can take 3-5 weeks, which means you should plan to wait at least 1 month until you see your photos.
If you are hoping to have a finished album in your hands, then we also need another month or two to design, revise, print, bind and ship that final product to you.
If you aren't working with any deadlines, then please schedule at your leisure.
Who do you work with?
Because I'm also a wedding photographer, I receive many bridal boudoir requests, but please know that you don't have to be getting married or in a relationship to do a boudoir session. The best reason is always to do it for yourself.
There are so many good reasons to do a boudoir session, but a few reasons that are the most popular these days... maternity (showing off your changing, pregnant body in all of it's glory), postpartum, birthdays, fitness and health celebrations, bridal, anniversaries, and simply just because you want to.
Where do your boudoir sessions take place?
My boudoir appointments typically take place in Chicago in beautiful naturally lit lofts and luxury hotels throughout the city. Your boudoir shoot location can be tailored to your vision and preferred style. For me, it's all about finding locations with stylish interiors and an abundance of natural light.
Do you travel for boudoir session?
Yes! If you’ve connected with my work but aren’t based in Chicago, I’d love to hear from you. While most sessions take place locally, I’m open to destination shoots across the country or even abroad. A travel fee would apply to cover airfare, lodging, and time spent sourcing local hair and makeup artists, but I’m happy to walk you through the process.
Let me know what you’re dreaming up. I’d love to explore it with you.
when can I schedule my appointment?
Boudoir appointments are typically scheduled Mondays through Thursdays mornings and are often a half day experience.
Because I'm also a wedding photographer, I do not have weekend availability at this time.
Who will be my photographer?
I'm Ashley Biess and I've been photographing boudoir in Chicago for over a decade. I'll be the person you will be working with along with my all-female hair & makeup team.
Do you offer couples boudoir?
At this time, I do not offer couples boudoir photo shoots.
How Can I Book you?
To book your boudoir appointment, first let's schedule a call to make sure we're a good fit.
From there, I require a minimum of 50% deposit and a signed letter of Agreement. The remaining 50% balance is due 2 weeks prior to your shoot date.
Custom payment plans can be available upon request.
Investment FAQ
How much does a boudoir session cost?
Sessions begin at $1,700. This includes a one-hour shoot, professional retouching, and a private online gallery. Hair and makeup services, extended session time, multiple wardrobe changes, albums, and additional image selections are available in curated packages.
Most clients invest between $2,500–$3,200 for their full experience.
What’s included in a boudoir session?
- A beautiful Chicago studio or hotel location
- Professional hair and makeup
- Up to 3-4 outfit changes
- A handcrafted album
- High-resolution digital files
- A private online gallery for viewing and downloading
Are packages customizable?
Can I see your pricing guide?
Can I see your pricing guide?
Boudoir Wardrobe FAQ
How many outfits can I bring?
As a rule of thumb, I spend about 30 minutes shooting each outfit.
Most of my clients will book a 1.5 hour shoot which gives us time to photograph 3 total looks. I'm happy to customize your experience to include as many looks as you are envisioning.
What Should I wear?
When people think "boudoir", lingerie usually the first idea to come to mind. Lingerie is the most popular wardrobe choice amongst my clients and for good reason. Lingerie can include two piece sets, bodysuits, corsets, garter belts, stockings, robes and beyond.
That being said, I'm a huge fan of (what I call) "everyday pieces" that you most likely already have hanging in your closet. My aesthetic very much centers around feeling "effortlessly chic". To achieve this, pair lingerie (or sometimes nothing at all) with a few simple pieces can elevate your look.
A few of my current favorites: A linen button down shirt, sweaters and cardigans, sheer dresses, bridal veils, slips, a pair of jeans, a simple white t-shirt, blazers, jackets, etc. The list could go on and on.
When you inquire, be sure to ask about my boudoir wardrobe guide. I'll be happy to send it to you!
What attire doesn't photography well?
I recommend against items that flair away from the body, such as "babydolls", because these tend to make most women look wider through their midsections than they actually are.
I also recommend steering clear of items fitted and sized for men, like men's button down shirts and sports jerseys. Most of the time, these pieces end up being WAY too big. Clothing that is tailored for women will always be more flattering.
What's your favorite boudoir lingerie wardrobe piece?
Fit is key, so be sure to try these on beforehand. The best bodysuits have enough structure built in to give you support and enhance your figure.
My other favorite piece of the moment is a simple button down shirt. Pair this with a two piece set, a bodysuit or just a pair of bottoms and the possibilities are endless.
Preparing for your session fAQ
How do I prepare for my session?
Take good care of your skin the weeks leading up to your appointment. Avoid getting too much sun (try a spray tan from Glowout Salon instead), eat your fruits & veggies, drink lots of water and consider booking something like a hydrafacial (I love SpaDerma) so your skin is glowing.
Please arrive to your boudoir appointment on time with clean, moisturized skin and clean, dry hair that has been washed either same day or the night before.
I recommend wearing loose fitting clothes during your beauty appointment to avoid lines/imprints on your skin.
Can I bring a friend?
Over the years, the majority of my clients have come to their sessions alone and that's typically how I prefer to work.
I do not allow significant others to be present for your photo shoot.
When will I see my photos?
You'll see your photos for the first time during your virtual "Photo Reveal" appointment. I set your photos to a slideshow and then we will review the complete gallery, dive into your immediate favorites, and review next steps for your album and any other printed products you plan to order.
Will my photos be edited?
My editing process is very thorough and includes skin retouching to remove any unwanted blemishes, scars, bruises, cellulite or stretch marks.
Your photos will be edited in my signature fine art, light & airy style and you'll see the full set at your photo reveal appointment.
Please keep in mind that my mission as a boudoir photographer is not to transform you unrecognizably. Instead, it's to showcase your inner and outer beauty in a way that feels and looks naturally like you.
Will an album be included?
If you are unsure about an album, you can always decide to purchase after you've seen your photos.
These photos are meant to be printed, and an album is a perfect way to discreetly display and enjoy your favorite photos...plus they make for a truly one-of-a-kind gift!
Album prices currently range between $500-$1,000+.
Will my photos remain private?
Many of my clients allow me to share their images in my portfolio and I'm always extremely honored when I hear they love their photos so much that they want them shared with the world.
After your photos have been released to you, we will discuss your privacy preferences and you'll approve which photos can be shared and not shared.
If you prefer to keep your photos 100% private, they will never see the light of day.
I have never felt more beautiful. I cannot stop looking at these pictures and will cherish them for the rest of my life.
— Artistrie Co. Bride, Kristy
— Artistrie Co. Client, Kristy
Recent Boudoir Articles
For helpful tips and more photography samples of my boudoir work, please check out recent posts on the Artistrie Co. Blog.
If you have a question about working together, please complete my contact form or email me directly. I'd love to hear from you!
Have a question?
Artistrie Co. is a Wedding, Portrait & Boudoir Photographer serving Chicago, Illinois, Michigan, Arizona and beyond.
