How to Incorporate a Christmas Look into Your Boudoir Shoot

December 19th, 2025

The holiday season is all about warmth, romance, and a little sparkle—making it the perfect time for a boudoir session. Whether you’re gifting your photos to a special someone or treating yourself to a festive confidence boost, a Christmas-themed boudoir shoot can be both sexy and playful while still feeling timeless and elegant.

At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, I love helping clients bring their vision to life, and the holiday season is the perfect opportunity to add some seasonal magic to your session. Here are my top tips for incorporating a Christmas vibe into your boudoir shoot.

🎄 1. Choose Festive Lingerie

Your outfit sets the tone for your boudoir session, and Christmas-themed lingerie can add the perfect touch of holiday charm.

Festive Lingerie Ideas:

Red or Green Sets: Classic Christmas colors are always a win.
Velvet or Satin Fabrics: These materials add a luxurious and wintery vibe.
Plaid Patterns: Think cozy cabin chic.
Lace Bodysuits: A red or emerald green bodysuit is both elegant and festive.
Santa-Inspired Pieces: Playful yet still sophisticated—think a red robe with faux fur trim.

Pro Tip: If full-on Christmas lingerie isn’t your thing, opt for a classic black or neutral set and accessorize with festive props (more on that below).

🎁 2. Add Holiday Props

Props are an easy and fun way to incorporate a Christmas theme without overpowering your photos.

Holiday Prop Ideas:

A cozy plaid blanket.
Christmas lights wrapped delicately around you.
A Santa hat for a playful touch.
Candy canes as cheeky accessories.
Ornaments placed strategically in the background.
A cup of hot cocoa or a glass of mulled wine.

Pro Tip: Keep props minimal and tasteful—they should complement your look, not distract from you.

❄️ 3. Cozy Winter Textures

Winter-inspired textures can add softness and warmth to your photos. Think layers that make you feel comfortable, sexy, and seasonally appropriate.

Texture Ideas for a Holiday Feel:

Chunky knit sweaters (off-the-shoulder styles work beautifully).
Faux fur wraps or blankets.
Soft velvet throws.
Sheer scarves for a dreamy look.

Pro Tip: Textures add visual interest, especially in Dark and Moody styles where shadows can create stunning depth.

🕯️ 4. Play with Festive Lighting

Lighting plays a massive role in creating a cozy, romantic Christmas vibe.

Lighting Ideas for Holiday Boudoir:

Twinkle Lights: Wrap them around yourself or let them softly glow in the background.
Candlelight: Adds a warm, intimate ambiance.
Soft, Golden Tones: Golden light gives a dreamy holiday glow.

Pro Tip: Fairy lights and candles are perfect for achieving a "holiday magic" feel in your photos.

🎀 5. Accessorize with Holiday Details

Small touches can make a big impact in creating a Christmas-inspired aesthetic.

Festive Accessories:

A red satin robe tied with a bow (hello, gift wrap vibes!).
Thigh-high stockings with lace details.
Sparkling or glittering jewelry.
A bold red lip and soft waves in your hair.

Pro Tip: A red lip paired with a smoky eye is an instant holiday classic.

📸 6. Choose a Seasonal Backdrop

Your setting can make or break your holiday theme. Whether it’s a simple backdrop or an intentional setup, the details matter.

Backdrop Ideas for Christmas Boudoir:

A plush bed with holiday-themed pillows or throws.
A minimalist Christmas tree in the background.
Window shots with soft natural light for a winter morning vibe.
A cozy corner with a fur throw and string lights.

Pro Tip: Don’t overdo it—a few festive touches go a long way.

🎶 7. Set the Holiday Mood with Music

Music is a powerful tool to help you relax and get into character during your shoot.

Holiday Playlist Ideas:

Soft jazz Christmas classics.
Sultry renditions of holiday favorites.
Upbeat festive hits if you’re going for a playful vibe.

Pro Tip: Share your playlist with me beforehand, and I’ll have it ready for your session.

💄 8. Hair and Makeup: Think Classic Holiday Glam

Your hair and makeup can tie the whole look together.

Makeup Suggestions:

A classic red lip.
Soft gold or bronze eyeshadow.
Winged eyeliner for a sultry touch.

Hair Ideas:

Loose waves for a romantic feel.
A sleek ponytail for a bold, chic vibe.
Soft curls with volume for timeless elegance.

Pro Tip: Our professional hair and makeup artist will customize your look to complement your holiday theme perfectly.

🥂 9. Celebrate Yourself

Remember, this is your shoot! Whether you’re creating a holiday gift for someone special or just treating yourself to a confidence-boosting experience, this session is about you.

Embrace the Experience:

Don’t overthink the theme—it’s about feeling beautiful, not perfect.
Take a moment to sip a warm drink and relax before your session.
Lean into the holiday magic and enjoy the process.

Pro Tip: Confidence is the best accessory you can bring to your shoot.

🎅 10. Plan Ahead for Holiday Deadlines

The holidays are a busy time, and if you’re planning to gift your photos, make sure to book your session well in advance.

Turnaround Times at Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography:

Digital files are delivered via Dropbox.
Boudoir albums typically have a 2-week turnaround.
Rush orders are available if needed—just let me know in advance!

Pro Tip: Schedule your session at least 4–6 weeks before Christmas for peace of mind.

Let’s Create Your Holiday Magic Together!

A Christmas-themed boudoir shoot is more than just a gift—it’s an experience, a celebration, and a chance to embrace your confidence in a uniquely festive way.

At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, I’ll guide you every step of the way to ensure your holiday-inspired photos are elegant, sexy, and authentically you.

🎄 Ready to add a little sparkle to your holiday season?

👉 Contact me today to book your Christmas boudoir session and let’s create timeless, festive magic together.

Because you deserve to shine this holiday season. ❤️✨🎁

The Role of Makeup and Hair Styling in Boudoir Photography

December 12th, 2025

When it comes to boudoir photography, every detail contributes to creating stunning, empowering images that make you feel like the absolute best version of yourself. While posing, lighting, and outfits play a big role, professional hair and makeup styling are the finishing touches that tie everything together and take your boudoir photos from beautiful to breathtaking.

At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, I offer professional hair and makeup services with every session because I know how transformative these finishing touches can be—not just for the photos, but for how you feel during your shoot. Let’s dive into why hair and makeup are such an essential part of the boudoir experience.

1. Boosting Your Confidence Right from the Start

There’s something magical about sitting in a makeup chair, sipping a drink, and having a professional stylist pamper you. It’s not just about looking amazing—it’s about starting your boudoir experience with a moment of self-care and confidence-building.

How Hair & Makeup Boost Confidence:

Professional stylists know how to highlight your best features.
The process gives you time to relax and settle into the experience.
You’ll step in front of the camera already feeling confident and glamorous.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to communicate your style preferences with the stylist—they’re there to make you feel your absolute best!

2. Camera-Ready Makeup: Enhancing, Not Hiding

Makeup for photography is slightly different from everyday makeup. The camera can sometimes wash out features or miss subtle details, so makeup artists use specific techniques to ensure your natural beauty shines through in every photo.

Why Professional Makeup Makes a Difference:

It evens out skin tones and reduces shine under studio lights.
Eyes, lips, and brows are defined to stand out beautifully on camera.
Makeup is tailored to your desired style—whether soft and natural or bold and glamorous.

Remember: Professional makeup doesn’t mean heavy makeup. It’s all about enhancing your natural beauty, not hiding it.

3. Hair Styling: Effortless Beauty in Every Frame

Your hair can tell a story in your photos—it can add softness, drama, or playfulness depending on your chosen style. Professional hair styling ensures that every strand looks intentional and polished.

Popular Hair Styling Options for Boudoir:

Soft Waves: Romantic, timeless, and perfect for a classic look.
Loose Curls: Adds volume and texture for an effortless feel.
Sleek Updo: Chic and sophisticated, highlighting the neckline and shoulders.

Pro Tip: Loose styles with movement often photograph beautifully because they create softness and dimension.

4. Matching Hair & Makeup to Your Boudoir Style

At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, I specialize in both Dark and Moody and Light and Airy styles. Your hair and makeup can complement the overall aesthetic of your session.

Dark and Moody:

Bold lips (think deep reds or rich berries).
Smoky eyes for added drama.
Voluminous curls or tousled waves.

Light and Airy:

Soft, neutral eyeshadow tones.
Glowing skin with a natural highlight.
Loose, romantic waves or soft updos.

Your stylist will tailor your look to match the mood and style you want for your photos.

5. Longevity: Ensuring Your Look Lasts the Entire Shoot

Boudoir sessions can involve movement, outfit changes, and poses that may cause your hair or makeup to shift. Professional stylists use high-quality products and techniques to ensure everything stays in place throughout your session.

Pro Techniques Include:

Long-wearing foundation and setting sprays.
Waterproof mascara and smudge-proof eyeliner.
Hairstyles designed to hold their shape while allowing movement.

Pro Tip: Bring a lip color for touch-ups if needed—it’s a small but powerful way to keep your look fresh.

6. The Emotional Impact of Feeling Glamorous

When you look in the mirror after your hair and makeup are done, there’s often a spark. It’s that moment when you realize, “Wow, I look incredible!”

That confidence translates directly into your photos. When you feel beautiful, you’ll look beautiful—because confidence shines brighter than any lipstick or curling iron ever could.

Remember: Boudoir isn’t about looking like someone else—it’s about embracing yourself and feeling confident in your own skin.

7. The Professional Touch Makes All the Difference

Professional stylists have experience working specifically with photography sessions. They understand how lighting affects makeup, how certain hairstyles frame the face, and how to create looks that translate beautifully on camera.

Why Professional Stylists Are Worth It:

They know how to work with different hair and skin types.
They tailor your look to match your vision for the shoot.
They help reduce stress by taking care of every beauty detail.

Pro Tip: Trust the experts—they’re trained to make you look and feel like a goddess!

8. It’s Part of the Experience

Boudoir photography is about so much more than just photos—it’s an experience. From the moment you sit in the makeup chair to the final pose of the day, every step is designed to make you feel pampered, celebrated, and empowered.

Why It’s Worth the Investment:

You’ll feel like a superstar before the first photo is even taken.
Hair and makeup elevate your final images to a whole new level.
The experience itself is part of the fun and magic of boudoir.

9. It’s About You

Whether you want full glam, a soft romantic look, or something edgy and bold, your hair and makeup should make you feel authentically you.

What to Communicate to Your Stylist:

Do you prefer bold or natural makeup?
Do you have any hair concerns (e.g., texture, length, preferences)?
Is there a specific feature you’d like to highlight?

This is your day, and every detail should reflect your style and vision.

Final Thoughts: Hair & Makeup Are More Than Just Details

Hair and makeup aren’t just about “looking good”—they’re about feeling good. They set the tone for your session, boost your confidence, and ensure your final images feel polished, luxurious, and timeless.

At Opie Beauty and Boudoir Photography, every session includes professional hair and makeup styling because you deserve the full experience.