FAQ'S

Frequently Asked Questions

Help! What do I wear? Or Bring?

This is a question I get asked frequently. I really enjoy shooting boudoir because each photo shoot is unique to each woman. Wear what works for you, your body, your style- and most important, your comfort level. Sexy isn't just nighties and thongs. For the shy, it doesn't have to be revealing-- pose for your images in your favorite dresses... or his favorite dresses. His button down shirts, your favorite pajamas...anything goes. Of course, lingerie, cute bra sets and boyshorts are sexy, too! ...And don't forget the accessories: heels, necklaces, stockings... we may not use it all, but typically we will use 2 - 3 outfits. For additional info please see the What To Wear page... My clients will receive a complete Prep Guide after booking with detailed info and how to get ready!



What type of photos will we be shooting?

Like most of my work, the focus is creating beauty and glamour, all the while having fun. Although the primary wardrobe for boudoir is lingerie/underwear, the focus of the image is still creating a connection...whether it be sensual or playful. Boudoir photography typically takes place in a bedroom setting, and is a combination of sitting, prone, and standing poses. As is the nature of boudoir, these sessions will often include images of your favorite body parts-- such as legs, hair, even your booty all woven together to create a unique and sensual story.



Can I bring a friend along for moral support?

Of course! You may bring a guest along with you for moral support, if you would like. It is recommended, however, that the guest is not your boyfriend/husband/partner. Your guest may keep you company during your makeup session/preparation, but one the photography starts I prefer guests leave the shooting area. In my experience, it can become a bit of a distraction.



What kind of packages do you offer? Where is your "Diva" package like Photographer So-And-So?

Sorry, no "Diva" Package, no "Ooh La La!" Package, and no "Boudoir Bombshell" Package. Boudoir photography isn't sold in 30 minute increments, nor is it sold in increments of outfit changes. That's a ridiculous pricing method, and I would be a little wary of anyone charging you a different fee based on the number of outfits you may wear. "That's your third bra set, sorry, that will be an extra fee!" In photography you are purchasing a result-- not a time limit or outfit change. If you went to your hair salon and they asked if you'd prefer the 10-minute haircut or the 30-minute haircut-- that would be a little odd, right? You are paying for a result...not how long a haircut takes! You pay for your session, and optionally a professional makeup application. The session is at a relaxed pace that is uniquely yours-- and there is no rushing. You may bring as many outfits as you like. Products are purchased according to your needs and likes...not based on "package" restrictions.



How many people will be there during my shoot?

The people present during the shoot would be me (the photographer) and a makeup artist for touch-ups. On occasion, I also have a female assistant.



Do you shoot Maternity Boudoir?

Yes.



Is nudity required?

No. Nudity is never required or expected in a Boudoir shoot. That being said, women I work with will often include shots with "implied" nudity- essentially using arms, sheets, or other objects to cover their bodies and give the appearance of nudity. Also, in some instances a little computer trickery is used and portions of garments are digitally removed to give the appearance of nudity, while the subject was actually covered.



I am very shy, I don't know if I can do this...HELP!

No worries! Most people that are part of my portfolio have never been in a photo shoot before. Also, you can always have a friend with you at your photo shoot. Usually, after the first few minutes the "jitters" are out of the way. I will use my experience and expertise to help guide you to get the best images...and help you have fun while doing it!



Do you post photos on your website?

I understand that boudoir/glamour work is personal and I respect your privacy. Boudoir images are not shared or posted without consent.



Can I buy any digital copies of these photos?

Full sized digitals are available for purchase.



Do you provide makeup / hair services?

Yes, makeup is included in my session fee. Although professional hair and makeup is not required, I find that women who have these services professionally done before their session just have that little "Extra" in the way they look and feel about themselves, and it really comes through in delivering "Wow" images. My personal opinion is that these services are integral to the type of work that I do, and doing glamour photography without the glamour isn't quite the same. Another option for those who wish to provide their own: typically, there is someone who does makeup in each salon who will perform these services, or for a nominal fee may attend your event to service all your party members.



Do I have to make a deposit?

There is a non-refundable session fee required to book your date. It simply a fee for my time and expertise. Please contact me for details.



Will you travel to my home, or a location near me for a boudoir session?

Perhaps. Travel outside the Ocean County area may be extra, please contact me for details.



Do you retouch the images?

Yes, Images are retouched.



Can you make my boobs bigger? Or make my arm thinner?

Yes-- to a point. Many people inquire about getting their boobs "enlarged" or "lifted." --Getting their waist "slimmed." --And getting arms "trimmed." This is all a fun part of the glamour process, and the magic of computer technology sometimes makes these kinds of modifications possible. You do not, however, need to be perfect to look beautiful. Ultimately, we want the person in the photo to be you-- not someone else! We work together to focus on your strengths and the parts of your body you love. I also use poses that bring the focus on these areas. I certainly will use retouching to hide bruises, pimples, and the like, but please do not expect major altering in your body shape or physical features. I do not do fake plastic "photoshop" skin or "alien" blue eyes. Without getting too much into detail, my personal philosophy is definitely a "less is more" style...and ultimately, you will thank me for it. By viewing any of the samples in my gallery you will be hard pressed to notice any sort of digital manipulation... and that is exactly the way I want it.



How long before I can see the images?

It typically takes two weeks following your session for the full gallery to be completed, although images may be available for viewing as I complete them. I can meet with you to review your images and help pick those you'd like to use in your Boudoir book or prints. You will also receive an online password protected gallery to view and order any prints and products you would like to order. During busy times...it may take a bit longer.



How far in advance should I book?

Book your session at least two months before you need products in hand. For weddings I recommend three months in advance. Typically, image processing, choosing your selections, may take three weeks. Some products may take a few weeks to arrive. During busy times like Christmas, print houses may have longer lead times, as well. Leave yourself plenty of time.



I would love to do this with my Bridal Party/ group of friends... Do you work with groups?

Yes. I love working with groups. Please contact me to discuss your party and discuss options. Typically, six is about the maximum number that you would want in your group.



Do you offer payment plans?

Yes. Anyone who values excellent photography should be able to have it. I realize custom portraiture can become expensive. Everyone deserves to have their lives documented in an amazing way. I can work with you to help make a payment plan that works best for you.



Hey, I'm ready to book my shoot. What's next?

First, contact me via email, the Contact form on my website, or telephone! Well discuss the photo shoot. Payment of the session fee and a signed contract (which can be done electronically) are required to reserve your session date.



Ummm, this is kinda embarassing to ask- Can I bring my _________?

I get it! AND I understand it may be embarassing to ask about bringing certain items that may be, well, a bit personal. BUT you're in luck. Boudoir session are all about having a bit of playful fun, and your "embarassing" items are quite at home here. Although these type of items may not be for everybody, each year I do more and more sessions with items such as: handcuffs, wrist restraints, ankle restraints, hog ties, vibrators, paddles, whips, riding crops, nipple jewelry, masks... the list goes on and on. Heck, more people are even asking to bring a BFF along to share a few shots. (And if she's ok with it, why not.) Essentially, I've seen it all. And its all ok to bring along... and makes for really playful cute shots. Generally, these items aren't the bulks of a session..and typically wind up only in a shot or two, and why not spice it up!



I'm really overweight. Am I going to look thin in my photos?

Unfortunately, there isn't a great PC answer here. I can certainly do some minor squishing to a degree, if requested, but ultimately the person in the photo is going to be you. The more a person is squeezed, the more distortion will be apparent in a photo. After a certain point is reached this becomes very obvious, and isn't a great look.



Can I do photos with my boyfriend?

Sure. Couples sessions are fun to do. Take a look at the couples boudoir page for some info.



Is it ok if my girlfriend and I do some shots together?

Sure. Friends coming in together to share a session day is a fun way spend an afternoon with your BFF. It's super common. I also do more and more sessions each year where BFFs come and not only shoot their own sessions, but want to do a shots with each other. You can see more info on the BFF sessions page.



SLIGHTLY GEEKY BUT AMAZING NEW JERSEY BASED BOUDOIR PHOTOGRAPHER BRINGING BEAUTY TO NJ, PA & NYC AREAS. 

  • Facebook - Mike Cassidy Photography
  • Pinterest - Mike Cassidy Photography
  • Instagram - Mike Cassidy Photography

@2020 by Mike Cassidy Photography