Frequently Asked Questions about Hybrid Photography by R Miller Boudoir sessions
Is my session private? Do you share my images online?
Sessions are 100% private. The only people present for your session are the makeup artist and myself. Sometimes I have an assistant present.
Images are NEVER shared anywhere without your written permission. I will ask for permission to use specific images so you will even know which ones I want to share and you have final say in exactly which images you choose to share IF any. There's NO requirement to share images in order to book a session.
Do you offer retouching? Can you remove bruises, scars, blemishes, cellulite, etc?
Retouching is included with every session. I spend time enhancing the photos that I share with you. I remove scars as requested, acne, blemishes, stretchmarks and cellulite in addition to bruises and other random marks you may have on the day of your session!
If you would like more extensive retouching such as removal of a tattoo, please discuss with me ahead of time. Full tattoo removal may be an additional fee.
Please note: I do not do "body reshaping" as part of my retouching, but I work with clients to find the most flattering poses for their shape during their session, which makes this unecessary.
I don't look like the women on your website. Do you think I can still have a good shoot?
The women on my website are real women just like you who went through makeup and hair, put together thoughtful wardrobes and trusted us to help them create sexy, beautiful images. We can do the same for you.
My clients range from early 20s through 60s with every body type. I use my posing and editing skills to bring out your best features!
Can I bring someone with me to my shoot?
If your partner or husband wants to meet me to ensure I am not an ax murderer, they are welcome to come and meet me as you're arriving!
Are makeup and hair included? Can I just do my own and save money?
Every session includes full makeup and simple hair styling. Getting your makeup and hair done sets the tone for your session. It gives you time to relax, get to know us better and feel pampered. But more importantly, having a professional do your makeup means they know how to do camera-ready makeup that will truly make you feel and look special and sexy!
They know the secrets of cheekbone contouring and other wonderful ways to take your natural beauty and highlight it. Honestly, you will want to have a professional makeup artist go with you everywhere once you experience this luxury!
If you have a very specific hair style in mind, or ethnic hair or simply want to come with your hair fully styled, that is fine.
Why do you recommend false eyelashes? Doesn't it look, well, fake?
False eyelashes when applied correctly - by a professional makeup artist - look amazing and very natural. We use quality lashes and choose a length and shape that looks natural but still adds drama to your photos.We recommend that every client indulge in wearing false lashes for their session - and they are included!
The makeup artist just handed me a mirror - I feel like I have A LOT of makeup on. Am I going to look like myself? I feel like someone else.
Don't worry! It looks like a lot of makeup in person but it will look just right in-camera. Keep the mirror at least three feet away from you when you look at your makeup - the camera will never be closer than that - and remember that some of the makeup naturally "falls away" in the natural light, the processing and retouching of your images.
Of course we want you to be happy, so speak up if you want to make an adjustment. The makeup artist is happy to talk with you about making any adjustments to the makeup after you've had some time to get used to it.
How long will the session take?
Makeup and hair take an hour to an hour and 15 minutes on average. The photographic session also takes an hour to an hour and a half.
What should I bring to the session?
I will provide you with suggestions on things to bring to your session in an email "tip sheet" you'll receive upon reserving your session.
In general here are some things you'll want to bring:
- 3 to 4 outfit changes like a mix of lingerie, special items (like a favorite shirt of his or jersey) and any other options you'd like
- Accessories - jewelry and other items like a hat, helmet, veil etc.
- Sexy shoes!
- - Cash or check to pay your remaining balance. I also take credit cards.
Do I bring my own clothes? Do you have some I can use?
You will need to bring your own outfits. I have a few special options you may want to borrow but I don't have a wardrobe of choices. It's important that the items you pick fit you just right, so we know what you bring will fit best!
I do have lots of jewelry and a few hair accessories you are welcome to borrow!
I don't know how to pose. I'm a clutz. I'm not a model. Help!
This is by far the biggest concern for my clients! Don't worry - as I've said before, I work with clients through every pose during their session. You are never on your own! Unless you want to be!
My advice on becoming more comfortable with posing for your session is to practice a little beforehand. Try on your boudoir outfits and hit the bed or a wall, etc. Find some poses on my website or on Pinterest that you’d like to try and see if you can re-create them. Do they work with your body shape?
Note that posing will NOT feel like just another afternoon of lounging around on your bed. I tell my clients that if the pose feels a little weird, they’re probably doing it right! You don’t need to practice the posing in front of a mirror. In fact, if you are the type of woman who is too hard on yourself, don’t involve a mirror. The key is getting comfortable with the feeling of moving and posing in a sensual way.
Think about the position of your legs, feet, hands and fingers. Elongate them as much as possible – pointing your toes and extend your fingers and wrists. Look at how the women in your inspired poses are using their arms and hands. Are they touching their body? Many times a sensual touch lends itself really well to creating a sensual photo – try running a hand down your neck or pulling on your strap slightly. Look at how they are standing – practice standing with some of your body weight shifted to one hip, which means the knee of one leg is likely straight and the other knee is likely bent.
Now have a seat. Don’t get comfortable! Sit with your bottom near the edge of the chair. Is it more comfortable to cross your legs or leave them uncrossed? If they’re uncrossed, practice rising up on your toes slightly to engage your calf muscles and define your leg shape for your photos. (Another free tip embedded in a tip!)
There are classic poses that most clients want to incorporate and new poses that clients wants to try. And I try to find several new poses for each session. Sites like Pinterest make it so easy to create a wishlist of poses you may want to try. I keep a Pinterest board of poses that I like for clients!
You may want to create your own private Pinterest board of your favorite boudoir poses to share with me for your session. You can either email it to me ahead of your session or share it with me at your session. It’s a great way to inspire us both!
When will I see my session images? How long does it take to get everything back?
About 10 days to two weeks after your shoot, I will send you a link to your online password-protected gallery to view your final images. You will have 7 days to complete your order and pay for it (or make a payment within your payment plan).
If you purchased digital files, they will be made available upon payment via instant download by online gallery. This saves the environment - no need for large volumes of plastic CDs - and saves you time because you can instantly download the images to your computer.
If you've purchased other items like an album, canvas or prints, we'll go over your order together and you will see a proof of the item before it goes out to be created and delivered to you. A week to two weeks later your gorgeous purchases will arrive at your doorstep.
Do you offer a payment plan?
In a way, my packages include a built-in payment plan and this works for most clients. I take payment for your session and A La Carte items over the course of several weeks to months depending on how far in advance you book your session. Your reservation fee ($300) is taken at the time of booking and your remaining balance isn't due until the day of your session. In addition, you can upgrade to another package on the day of your session or when you see your online gallery during the week you have to complete your order.
Many clients will book a smaller package, pay for that on the day of their session and then upgrade to another package when they receive their gallery - it's a great way to split up your total even more.
I do offer one additional payment plan option for clients who need it. Please talk with me about your payment plan goals and we'll work on something that works for you! No final digital files or A La Carte items are provided without full payment.
Do you offer boudoir parties or bridesmaids-type parties?
I offer private mini marathons just for this type of group! It's a great way to bond. Some girls like to have a boudoir party and then have the bachelorette party that night while they're all glammed up with professionally done makeup and hair!
Groups of 4 or more receive discounted session rates.
I'm traveling from out of town for my session. Where should I stay?
Many of my clients travel in for their sessions from out of the area. Please let me know if you're interested in booking a place to stay while you're in town. I have access to some fantastic hotels with amazing discounted rates thanks to my "frequent" bookings!
If I have booked a room for a mini marathon and you've traveled in from out of town you may be able to reserve that room the night before your session at a very discounted rate - ask me!
I don't see any semi nude photos on your website. I'm a little embarrassed to ask, but do you offer that type of photography?
Yes, I do offer semi nude options during sessions. I just choose not to display this on the web. Keep in mind that I will only photograph tasteful nudes - if it's outside my comfort zone I will let you know. It's my goal that you look back on the photos and feel good about them years from now. And not that you look back on them and feel weird about having shown something you wish you hadn't!
Is my session private? Do you share my images online?
Sessions are 100% private. The only people present for your session are the makeup artist and myself. Sometimes I have an assistant present.
Images are NEVER shared anywhere without your written permission. I will ask for permission to use specific images so you will even know which ones I want to share and you have final say in exactly which images you choose to share IF any. There's NO requirement to share images in order to book a session.
Do you offer retouching? Can you remove bruises, scars, blemishes, cellulite, etc?
Retouching is included with every session. I spend time enhancing the photos that I share with you. I remove scars as requested, acne, blemishes, stretchmarks and cellulite in addition to bruises and other random marks you may have on the day of your session!
If you would like more extensive retouching such as removal of a tattoo, please discuss with me ahead of time. Full tattoo removal may be an additional fee.
Please note: I do not do "body reshaping" as part of my retouching, but I work with clients to find the most flattering poses for their shape during their session, which makes this unecessary.
I don't look like the women on your website. Do you think I can still have a good shoot?
The women on my website are real women just like you who went through makeup and hair, put together thoughtful wardrobes and trusted us to help them create sexy, beautiful images. We can do the same for you.
My clients range from early 20s through 60s with every body type. I use my posing and editing skills to bring out your best features!
Can I bring someone with me to my shoot?
If your partner or husband wants to meet me to ensure I am not an ax murderer, they are welcome to come and meet me as you're arriving!
Are makeup and hair included? Can I just do my own and save money?
Every session includes full makeup and simple hair styling. Getting your makeup and hair done sets the tone for your session. It gives you time to relax, get to know us better and feel pampered. But more importantly, having a professional do your makeup means they know how to do camera-ready makeup that will truly make you feel and look special and sexy!
They know the secrets of cheekbone contouring and other wonderful ways to take your natural beauty and highlight it. Honestly, you will want to have a professional makeup artist go with you everywhere once you experience this luxury!
If you have a very specific hair style in mind, or ethnic hair or simply want to come with your hair fully styled, that is fine.
Why do you recommend false eyelashes? Doesn't it look, well, fake?
False eyelashes when applied correctly - by a professional makeup artist - look amazing and very natural. We use quality lashes and choose a length and shape that looks natural but still adds drama to your photos.We recommend that every client indulge in wearing false lashes for their session - and they are included!
The makeup artist just handed me a mirror - I feel like I have A LOT of makeup on. Am I going to look like myself? I feel like someone else.
Don't worry! It looks like a lot of makeup in person but it will look just right in-camera. Keep the mirror at least three feet away from you when you look at your makeup - the camera will never be closer than that - and remember that some of the makeup naturally "falls away" in the natural light, the processing and retouching of your images.
Of course we want you to be happy, so speak up if you want to make an adjustment. The makeup artist is happy to talk with you about making any adjustments to the makeup after you've had some time to get used to it.
How long will the session take?
Makeup and hair take an hour to an hour and 15 minutes on average. The photographic session also takes an hour to an hour and a half.
What should I bring to the session?
I will provide you with suggestions on things to bring to your session in an email "tip sheet" you'll receive upon reserving your session.
In general here are some things you'll want to bring:
- 3 to 4 outfit changes like a mix of lingerie, special items (like a favorite shirt of his or jersey) and any other options you'd like
- Accessories - jewelry and other items like a hat, helmet, veil etc.
- Sexy shoes!
- - Cash or check to pay your remaining balance. I also take credit cards.
Do I bring my own clothes? Do you have some I can use?
You will need to bring your own outfits. I have a few special options you may want to borrow but I don't have a wardrobe of choices. It's important that the items you pick fit you just right, so we know what you bring will fit best!
I do have lots of jewelry and a few hair accessories you are welcome to borrow!
I don't know how to pose. I'm a clutz. I'm not a model. Help!
This is by far the biggest concern for my clients! Don't worry - as I've said before, I work with clients through every pose during their session. You are never on your own! Unless you want to be!
My advice on becoming more comfortable with posing for your session is to practice a little beforehand. Try on your boudoir outfits and hit the bed or a wall, etc. Find some poses on my website or on Pinterest that you’d like to try and see if you can re-create them. Do they work with your body shape?
Note that posing will NOT feel like just another afternoon of lounging around on your bed. I tell my clients that if the pose feels a little weird, they’re probably doing it right! You don’t need to practice the posing in front of a mirror. In fact, if you are the type of woman who is too hard on yourself, don’t involve a mirror. The key is getting comfortable with the feeling of moving and posing in a sensual way.
Think about the position of your legs, feet, hands and fingers. Elongate them as much as possible – pointing your toes and extend your fingers and wrists. Look at how the women in your inspired poses are using their arms and hands. Are they touching their body? Many times a sensual touch lends itself really well to creating a sensual photo – try running a hand down your neck or pulling on your strap slightly. Look at how they are standing – practice standing with some of your body weight shifted to one hip, which means the knee of one leg is likely straight and the other knee is likely bent.
Now have a seat. Don’t get comfortable! Sit with your bottom near the edge of the chair. Is it more comfortable to cross your legs or leave them uncrossed? If they’re uncrossed, practice rising up on your toes slightly to engage your calf muscles and define your leg shape for your photos. (Another free tip embedded in a tip!)
There are classic poses that most clients want to incorporate and new poses that clients wants to try. And I try to find several new poses for each session. Sites like Pinterest make it so easy to create a wishlist of poses you may want to try. I keep a Pinterest board of poses that I like for clients!
You may want to create your own private Pinterest board of your favorite boudoir poses to share with me for your session. You can either email it to me ahead of your session or share it with me at your session. It’s a great way to inspire us both!
When will I see my session images? How long does it take to get everything back?
About 10 days to two weeks after your shoot, I will send you a link to your online password-protected gallery to view your final images. You will have 7 days to complete your order and pay for it (or make a payment within your payment plan).
If you purchased digital files, they will be made available upon payment via instant download by online gallery. This saves the environment - no need for large volumes of plastic CDs - and saves you time because you can instantly download the images to your computer.
If you've purchased other items like an album, canvas or prints, we'll go over your order together and you will see a proof of the item before it goes out to be created and delivered to you. A week to two weeks later your gorgeous purchases will arrive at your doorstep.
Do you offer a payment plan?
In a way, my packages include a built-in payment plan and this works for most clients. I take payment for your session and A La Carte items over the course of several weeks to months depending on how far in advance you book your session. Your reservation fee ($300) is taken at the time of booking and your remaining balance isn't due until the day of your session. In addition, you can upgrade to another package on the day of your session or when you see your online gallery during the week you have to complete your order.
Many clients will book a smaller package, pay for that on the day of their session and then upgrade to another package when they receive their gallery - it's a great way to split up your total even more.
I do offer one additional payment plan option for clients who need it. Please talk with me about your payment plan goals and we'll work on something that works for you! No final digital files or A La Carte items are provided without full payment.
Do you offer boudoir parties or bridesmaids-type parties?
I offer private mini marathons just for this type of group! It's a great way to bond. Some girls like to have a boudoir party and then have the bachelorette party that night while they're all glammed up with professionally done makeup and hair!
Groups of 4 or more receive discounted session rates.
I'm traveling from out of town for my session. Where should I stay?
Many of my clients travel in for their sessions from out of the area. Please let me know if you're interested in booking a place to stay while you're in town. I have access to some fantastic hotels with amazing discounted rates thanks to my "frequent" bookings!
If I have booked a room for a mini marathon and you've traveled in from out of town you may be able to reserve that room the night before your session at a very discounted rate - ask me!
I don't see any semi nude photos on your website. I'm a little embarrassed to ask, but do you offer that type of photography?
Yes, I do offer semi nude options during sessions. I just choose not to display this on the web. Keep in mind that I will only photograph tasteful nudes - if it's outside my comfort zone I will let you know. It's my goal that you look back on the photos and feel good about them years from now. And not that you look back on them and feel weird about having shown something you wish you hadn't!