As a Utah boudoir photographer, I have had all sorts of questions asked by clients before or after a session is booked. These are my top five recommendations for questions to ask any boudoir photographer before you hire.

1. What locations do you use for the photo session?

Why you should ask: It is completely appropriate to find out where your boudoir photo session will take place. You want to feel comfortable and free in this setting. You may even ask to see the location in-person before signing a contract.

OpieFoto's Answer: We have two bedroom studios in a private home for the exclusive use of our clients. Our all-female staff will assist in all aspects of the photo production.

2. What should I wear?

Why you should ask: Experienced photographers have learned what types of clothing work best to create the perfect mood and visual aesthetic. Ask your photographer for some recommended guidelines for what to wear and what not to wear.

OpieFoto's Answer: I highly recommend that clients bring a variety of outfits, especially including a black lingerie set. Also, if your fiancé has given you any items of intimate wear, bring those. Additionally, I offer a selection of outfits and props that you can try out during your photo shoot. Sometimes trying something new results in the best photos!

3. Should I bring any photo props?

Why you should ask: Some items may be unsuitable for boudoir photo shoots, while others may be just right. Ask your photographer for prop recommendations.

OpieFoto's Answer: Definitely bring a few well-selected props that are telling of your personality and relationship with your fiancé. Unique items of jewelry, favorite books, his work shirt, and heels are just a few examples of what you could bring.

4. What poses will I be making?

Why you should ask: Some photographers may have a certain style or regular poses that you may or may not be comfortable with. Don't be afraid to ask, boudoir photographers are usually quite frank. You can also request to see examples from the photographer's portfolio to better understand his/her style.

OpieFoto's Answer: My goal is to create unique, sexy, flattering portraits for all women regardless of body type or age. There is no need to know how to pose, I will guide you through each pose and I know exactly which angles to capture that best exemplify the beautiful woman you are. And there will never be any pressure to reveal more skin than you are comfortable with.

5. How long before I see the photos?

Why you should ask: Each photographer offers different timelines for photo turn-around. It takes time to properly edit and retouch professional photos.

OpieFoto's Answer: There are two options for ordering copies of your boudoir session photos. 1.) After your session grab lunch or a snack and return to order your photos the same day in-studio! 2.) We will set up another date and time for you to come over and order your photos in the studio.

Have more questions about boudoir photo sessions? Contact us and ask away!

by Opie Janzer

You've spent money on an exercise and beauty routine, and you've hired the best boudoir photographer in the Utah lingerie photography industry. How can you make sure you look and feel your very best on the day of your photo shoot?

• Time your shoot around the events in your life. Take a look at your calendar and consider work or school stresses, wedding planning,  your "time of the month," and other upcoming events. You don't want your shoot to fall on a day when you can't stop thinking about a looming deadline or when you're feeling bloated and tired. You won't be comfortable enough to relax and get in a romantic mood.
• Consider playing sexy music or having champagne while on set to loosen you up.
• Browse through your photographer's portfolio and search online or through magazines beforehand to pick out your favorite poses. Try them out at home so you won't be doing them for the first time the day of your shoot.
• Shop for your lingerie and wardrobe items well before your shoot. You might find exactly what you're looking for on your first trip to the mall, or you may have to order online to find the perfect look. Even then, you need to allow extra time for any exchanges. Opie provides links to her favorite lingerie shops, wardrobe ideas and studio lingerie options. Don't about forget shoes and accessories!
• Get your hair touched up, a pedicure, manicure, eyebrow touch up, and any waxing or shaving services done beforehand.
• Moisturize often in the weeks leading up to your shoot so your skin is glowing!
• You want these pictures to wow anyone who is lucky enough to see them! Professional hair and makeup service during your shoot provides that extra special touch. If you opt for these services, come to the shoot with loose clothing on- to avoid marks, your hair blown out, and a clean and moisturized face.
• Leave enough time for your shoot so you're not constantly looking at the clock. The session could take up to 4 hours or more, especially if you want to view your images and order prints the same day.  We do ask that you set aside the entire day for your shoot as most are from 10am to 3pm.

So, you've decided to book a boudoir photo shoot. You're excited and maybe even a bit nervous. You're wondering, "What on earth should I wear?” or “What look should I go for?” Check out these boudoir: outfit ideas and shopping tips that are going to make your experience easy and enjoyable.

What look do you want?

There's a wide variety of looks you can go for, for your boudoir shoot. Do you want to be a sexy cheerleader, or would you prefer to wear some revealing lingerie that is sure to make your photos showcase your seductive side? It's imperative to choose a look that is going to make you comfortable. When you're shopping for your outfit, remember that more is less. It's great to add accessories to spice up your look, but don't go overboard. The focus of the shoot is you, not those 5-inch stilettos you're dying to wear.

Putting the outfit together

Make sure when you're shopping that you try your outfits on! You want clothes that are going to accentuate your beautiful body type. You don't want to get an outfit that's skin tight, that's going to make you uncomfortable. For example, why not try a corset or a teddy if you're comfortable with showing that much skin? If you want something a little more conservative, how about wearing a cute tank top with boy shorts or some cute undies? If you're getting the photos taken for a special man in your life, how about wearing a jersey sporting his favorite team? You don't need to be nude to create a sexy boudoir look. Sexy high heels, boots, hats, and stockings are great accessories to think about when you're shopping for the perfect look. Still not sure what to wear? Don't worry, I have a lingerie wardrobe, and we're sure to find something that works for you!

Choose accessories that compliment you

Do you have gorgeous blue eyes? Why not get some sky-colored bracelets or earrings that are really going to bring out those baby blues? A lot of women are understandably uncomfortable doing this kind of shoot. You want to buy items that are going to bring out your best features, and make you feel confident in front of the camera. If you absolutely love your legs, try a pair of fishnet stockings to add a more exotic look to your outfit.

Get dolled up!

It's not essential, but it's definitely recommended to get your makeup and hair professionally done. Not to worry, I offer professional hair and makeup! This is going make you feel and look your best, and you're going to shine in front of that camera!

My job as your photographer is to make you feel as comfortable as possible during your shoot. I want to make you feel beautiful and sexy, and provide you with stunning photos. Also, I want you to have FUN during your shoot. Let my all-female staff, and myself, work with you to help you find the look you're most comfortable with, that's going to give you some dazzling photos to show off!

Utah lingerie photography is a classy way to show your groom the sexy side of you.  Your bridal boudoir pictures is a wedding present that shows off sexy features of you in a tasteful fashion.

Posing in this fashion requires confidence, comfort and bravery.  Confidence because the photo will look amazing if you do and stiff if you don't, comfort because you must click with your photographer, and bravery because you will have to show some skin in front of a camera and photographer. In addition to lingerie, there's other things you can bring to the shoot.

• Veil
• Garter
• Wedding shoes
• Flowers
• Rose Petals
  
  
  
  

  Make sure you bring more than one outfit.  You may not like the way you look in the first one, so you have the option to change.  Bring at least a light color, a dark color and a vivid color.  You are involved in the process from beginning to end, and we are dedicated to making the shoot exactly the way you want it to be.

Very often, when clients begin shopping and preparing for their boudoir photo session, they turn to gentlemen's magazines and lingerie catalogues as guides for what to wear and how to pose.  These resources are a great start, but I would encourage women to also consider looking at models and fashion from different eras for inspiration.  Seeing how our perception of beauty has evolved and changed over the years can give us even more ideas because it makes us aware of how many ways different ways there are to be beautiful.  So, when planning the look for your boudoir photography session, why not draw some inspiration from the great beauties and trends of the past? 

1960's

Channel your inner flower child with a sheer peasant top that exposes your shoulders.  Wear a garland of wild flowers in your loose hair for a flowing yet feral look.  If you prefer the mod look of the early 60's, consider a flipped bouffant hairstyle.  Mod make up was all about the eyes; imitate Twiggy's look with false eyelashes and mascara.  Lastly, base your attire on the psychedelic colors of this era.      

1950's

This era introduced us to bombshells like Marilyn Monroe.  To achieve this look, style your hair in bouncy curls.  Choose soft pastel colors for your make up.  Complete the look with dresses and negligees that emphasize your curves.  Waist cinchers and padded bras can also help you create an hourglass figure.

1940's

Vixens like Bettie Page first emerged during the 40's.  Search for thrift stores for the vintage bathing suits and lingerie made famous by these pinup girls.  Halter style tops were particularly popular in bathing suits and dresses. For your make up, make red full lips the primary focus. Hair can be styled in one of the intricate up dos like Victory rolls or left down like Veronica Lake's. 

1920's

Nothing is embodies the spirit of the 1920's than the flapper.  This was an era of decadence, so select garments made of luxurious fabrics like satin or silk.  Long pearls and diamond jewelry are also a nice touch.  Keep your makeup dark and vampy with smoky eyes and deep colored lips.  Apply lipstick in the shape of a cupid's bow.           

Boudoir photo shoots are on the rise, especially as wedding and anniversary gifts. If you are considering a boudoir shoot, or have one scheduled here are some boudoir: outfit ideas and shopping tips.

• Consider bringing something that belongs to your fiancee or husband. A favorite shirt, jersey, hat, or even just his tie.
• A sexy cocktail dress can be the perfect option if you're not certain how x-rated you want your photos to be.
• Consider the corset, but don't feel confined to it. While the corset is the classic choice, they aren't known for being comfortable. If you do go this route a tip, wait until you arrive at the photo shoot to change, corsets can and will leave lines on your body.
• Baby dolls, sexy and sweet all in one package baby dolls can be a great outfit choice. As an extra bonus, if you have insecurities about your abdomen, baby dolls provide coverage in all the right places!
• Bras, Panties and Bustiers oh my! There is a reason an old stand by becomes an old stand by, what man wouldn't love photos of his love in a selection of these sexy little things.
• If you are planning on buying new lingerie check out the selections at a variety of stores such as Victoria's Secret or Fredrick's of Hollywood. Shop around and find what you like.
• Your favorite lounge-wear. Have a zip up sweatshirt you wear every weekend? Or maybe a old worn out pair of jeans you still love. Comfy casual can be sexy too!
• Nothing at all, after all what could your man find sexier on you than nothing at all!
• Take a second to contemplate props. This can range from something sweet like a teddy bear, to something a little more sexy like a pair off ultra high heals, to something romantic like your wedding rings, or even something a little more x-rated.

Woohoo!  It's finally summer and I'm now shooting sexy swim suit sessions at the Great Salt Lake.  Check out Brooke's photo shoot and the outfits we selected for her swim 2014 shoot.

by Opie Janzer

We've been planning this Geisha themed boudoir shoot for over a year now.  It's hard to time shooting with cherry blossoms since they are only available for one week out of the year.  I purchase the hot pink and light blue lingerie a year ago and was never able to find a model for our shoot.  Then 4 weeks ago Natasha comes into the studio and does a boudoir shoot with me.  After the shoot I begged her to be my Geisha.  We did this entire shoot at high noon and it was icy cold.

Makeup - Kristen Packard
Hair - Kali Wengreen
Lingerie - Agent Provocateur
Photography - Boudoir by Opie
Hair Clips - Etsy

[boudoir: outfit recommendations]

Many people think that boudoir photography is all about lingerie or nudity (or near nudity). In fact, while most men do find lingerie attractive, something that drives them a little more wild is to see you in something of theirs. Climb into his old college T-shirt and give him that pin-up girl wink and see what happens!

But why stop there? Men can sometimes be very territorial. What's theirs is theirs. But you have special privileges, so feel free to raid his closet for your boudoir photography outfit.

Work

Imagine what will be going through his mind when he sees a picture of you wearing, say, his hard-hat and denim shirt, maybe with a strategically (and playfully) placed tool belt. If he's from the professional set, a plain old white button-up shirt can suddenly take on an aura of spice, especially if you can combine it with his favorite "power tie"! And the possibilities for a lab coat are endless...

Duty

Do you love a man in uniform? Police, paramedic, or firefighter, or soldier, sailor, or airman, a uniform can be a tantalizing outfit for a little sexy photography. It's a wonderful way to show him that you not only appreciate him, but also what he does for those who need him!

Play

You may lose him to the TV or the stadium during certain seasons, but he'll never lose you! A jersey from his favorite team should be in any man's wardrobe and can show him that you love everything about him, even when he's bouncing up off the sofa whooping and hooting about his team's victory. It can also make sure that when he puts his "lucky team shirt" on, his mind just might start wandering to that special photo!

Let's Face It, Ladies...

Check out Capri in this stunning green evening gown we rented from RENTTHERUNWAY.COM.

-Opie Janzer

Check out Capri in this stunning purple gown we rented from RENTTHERUNWAY.COM.  Hair and Makeup by the talented Kristen Packard.

by Opie Janzer

Lingerie--you either love it or hate it but if you ask your significant other, he'll probably tell you he loves it. Even if slinky clothing isn't your everyday pajama choice, you could give a try for Valentine's Day. Luckily, these sexy garments come in a wide range of colors, fabrics and styles. Show as much skin as your comfortable with--you can even leave "somethings" to the imagination. Check out these hot Valentines Day lingerie ideas.

Babydoll dress: This cutesy style lingerie is basically a micro dress with a fluttery hem. Made from sheer fabrics like organza or tulle, you can show off a pair of silky underwear too. The top of this lingerie can support a heavy bosom and even pad a smaller one.

See-through lingerie: Lingerie comes in all different shapes and sizes but nothing is more playful than a see-through style. Show off your favorite "assets" and hide the ones you're less confident about. Some items you can try are see-through teddies or body stockings. If you're thinking of posing for a boudoir photo, a professional photographer can show you how to get a seductive pose without revealing too much. 

Satin nightie: Classic yet flattering, the satin nightie is the perfect lingerie for a romantic Valentine's evening at home. From short to long, satin nighties come in a variety of sleeve or strap styles. Besides a pretty shimmer, a satin nightie feels good to the touch.

Corset and garters: Feminine and fun, a corset and garter set will certainly intrigue him. Corsets lift the bosom, show off the waist and garters slim the legs. Go with black, pink or vibrant red.

You've got somewhere to start. Now, contact us! We'll help you create the perfect mood.

by Opie Janzer

When you look at yourself in the mirror, you are seeing the "real you" in a natural, or close-to-natural light. You make your adjustments according to where you plan to present yourself, boardroom, bedroom, or beach, and head on out. But as good as you may look in the mirror, the camera may not agree. The lighting in a studio is intended to highlight certain areas or create dramatic shadows in others. It's a lot more "fine-tuned" than the natural light from the sun or the artificial light from General Electric. As a result, what looks good in the mirror might not translate so well through the camera lens.

This is particularly true with the eyes. Even with copious amounts of mascara your eyelashes can fade into the background, sometimes even getting overpowered by dramatic eye makeup. In fact, too much mascara can make you look like you had an accident with pudding and copier toner. That is why false lashes are a must have for your boudoir pictures. Here are some tips for selecting the right lashes for your shoot:

1. Stay away from the shiny, plastic-looking lashes. Nobody's lashes are glossy, and these will catch every glint of light they can. False lashes are supposed to provide the dramatic outline of a "come-hither" stare, not flash like a neon sign on a seedy nightclub.
2. Full lashes that connect at your eyelid can sometimes feel heavy. You might be comfortable with this, but in case you aren't, consider lashes that attach at the tip of your natural lashes.
3. Do not skimp on the glue! Now, that doesn't mean to use a lot of it. It means to be sure you're using a good glue. Nothing destroys a sexy pose like having your eyelashes fall off!
4. Match the lash to your style. If you aren't using a lot of makeup, go for a lighter lash, a little subdued, to match the look. Nothing like a little quiet understatement to get the point across! If you're going for the "pin-up" look, thick, full lashes are the way to go. Knock him out with a glance!

Nature has programmed people to look at the eyes first and foremost, even above any tantalizing features elsewhere. In boudoir photography, it's the eyes that will offer the invitation to the viewer. What do you want your eyes to say to that special someone?

Professional hair and makeup is included with every boudoir photo shoot along with false lashes!  Our makeup artist's will style your look to match your outfits.  Contact us today to talk more about the look you want for your boudoir pictures.

I'm now completely booked for all boudoir shoots before Valentines Day 2014.  Available dates are on the calendar for shoots after Valentines Day.

Ah, Valentines Day, that special day every year that you make that extra special effort to show your man how much you love an appreciate him. Want to get your handsome man something extra special but don't know what? Don't scramble to look for Valentines Gift Ideas for Him when you could have a professional boudoir photo shoot!

Imagine the surprise, and maybe even blush, on his face when he sees you all dolled up, and looking like your drop-dead gorgeous self! What guy wouldn't love to have beautiful photos of his beautiful girl?

Boudoir photography isn't just for the man in your life either. You get to have the fun of getting all dressed up and feeling extra-special. This is as much for you as it is for him, you get to see just how stunning you are!

You don't even have to go all the trouble to gather everything you need. We provide two different bedroom sets, along with various lingerie, furniture, backdrops, and props. We also provide professional hair and makeup with an all female staff to keep you comfortable. We know all the tricks to help you look and feel your best. Don't know how to pose for the camera? We help with that too!

Feel free to bring your own lingerie and props too! Bringing your own props can make your photos that much more personal. Maybe he's got a favorite sports jersey, or maybe one of his work shirts? There are endless possibilities!

Boudoir photos are sexy, timeless and an extension of your beauty. There are a few things however, that can make your photos really stand out and one thing is certain, the art of the smokey eye for your boudoir pictures can make you even more beautiful.

Although the smokey eye has been around for decades, it has become even more popular in the last few years. For one reason, it adds depth to your eyes that more subtle looks cannot duplicate. With photographs of any kind, you always want to be just a little heavier on the makeup so that it shows up. Although you don't want it too heavy where it masks your beauty, lighting tends to make makeup look more subtle. A smokey eye is perfect for creating a look that not only stands out in your photos but will make you look your best.

The best way to create a smokey eye is to start with a neutral color base that covers the entire eyelid. On the far edge of the eye start with a darker color of your choosing (deep purples, browns, etc.) and blend it upward and outward towards the crease of your eye. Blending is the key to making it look natural. Using the same color or even another dark color to line the eyes gives it a finishing touch. One way to ensure you get the best look is to use an eye primer first so that your eye shadow doesn't look greasy or shiny. You can always look at video tutorials online or practice till you get the look you want.

No matter what colors you choose for your smokey eye look, you can guarantee that your photos will look sexy and beautiful and you won't have to worry about the color looking washed out because your eyes will stand out.

If you want to learn more about boudoir photo sessions, simply contact us.

 by Opie Janzer

A romantic date is a hallmark of Valentine's Day. A planned out date shows adoration, commitment, and willingness to invest in the relationship. Valentine dates, however, do not need to be expensive or particularly extravagant. You can even celebrate Valentine's Day in your home. Suitable for busybodies or professionals, Valentines at home will offer you and your loved one convenience and ease of mind, while still being romantic and sensual.

How To Plan A Romantic Valentines Day Date At Home

Picnic Right at the Fireplace: Before your loved one arrives from work, fire up the fireplace and place the sofa closer to it. Show that you paid attention to your partner's needs by bringing out their favorite wine or champagne. Bring out cherries, strawberries, or pomegranates to bring out the flavor in the drink. Make a home-cooked Valentine's Day meal, one that includes appetizers and desserts. If you are not a viable cook, then order out. Place all the food on fancy plates and get rid of any containers that will give the setup away. No one will be the wiser. For a particularly romantic touch, introduce your partner to a handwritten letter once done with dinner.

Spa Nights At Home: Fill your bathtub with warm water and place a couple of rose petals. Here's a tip – roses tend to be expensive during this time of year. You can ask your florist for a box of plain petals. These petals will be cheaper than the stemmed kind. Have a couple of your partner's favorite chocolates to nibble on by the side of the bathtub. While they are in the shower, ready the bedroom. Place a couple of warm, clean towels in the room. Bring a basin of hot water and a number of spa supplies. This may include body exfoliators, moisturizers, and body oils. This idea is suitable right after dinner.

To learn more about how you can show your adoration to your partner via photography or other Valentine ideas, contact us.

by Opie Janzer

Valentines Day is coming and you don't want to be left with last-minute gifts. He means the world to you and you want to put some thought into the most romantic day of the year. Here are four ideas for the perfect Valentine's Day gifts that are sure to knock his socks off.

1. Boudoir Photos: You. Lingerie. What else could he want? Sign up for a boudoir photo shoot and show off your sexy side. He loves you...he already thinks you're the sexiest woman in the world. Now give him the proof! You wearing some sexy lingerie and an album of boudoir photos would be a perfect gift or Valentine's Day.

2. Rose Petals: They're not cliche at all! You know how you would feel to come home and find a trail of rose petals from the front door leading to a bed with a blanket of rose petals? Well here's a little secret: he'll feel the same way! Give it a try, it'll impress every time. 

3. Love Notes: The world is dominated by emails and texts. But there's no replacement for a handwritten note. tell him how much you love him in a personal way. He'll keep the note and treasure it forever.

4. Dinner: You know the saying, "the way to a man's heart is through his stomach?" It's true! Cook him dinner for Valentine's Day, but make it special. This isn't a pot roast or sloppy Joe night. It's a romantic, candlelight dinner night to show him how you feel.

Valentine's Day will be here before you know it. We hope these ideas will help you make it perfect and memorable. And for help with those boudoir photos, contact us today.

Happy New Year Everyone!  2013 was an exciting year here at the boudoir studio.  We expanded the studio to include a new hair and makeup room and a stunning new french bedroom set featuring pink and cream colors.  We are now processing your photos the same day as your shoot while you go eat lunch.  This means you can view and order your photos right after lunch.  We shot a total of 116 boudoir shoots in 2013 and will most likely shoot even more in 2014.  A very special thank you to Kristen Packard, Cali, and Flavia for making all my boudoir clients look stunning with professional hair and makeup.

If there are two things you want to do when having boudoir photos done, they are to stand out and look glamorous. One of the easiest ways to show off your look and be more glamorous is to go bold with lip color for your boudoir pictures.

Your lip color is the perfect way to enhance your look and in combination with false lashes, smokey eye makeup and a foundation that makes your skin look polished, you can look your best.

For instance, don't be afraid to go with a vivid, rich color like a luscious red or coral. Even pink lips can stand out as long as they are rich in pigment. You don't even have to choose a traditional color but bright red and pinks are a popular choice in boudoir photos. One reason to choose a bold lip color is that photos sometimes don't show your makeup as well when the colors are light. It's the same reason you see newscasters wear a lot of makeup, the lighting can make the look more subtle than intended.

You can also enhance your natural beauty with a bold looking lip color. Those with thinner lips can plump up their look by using moisturizer then outlining the lip and adding a vivid color. Adding lip gloss to the finished look also creates a glamorous look but you don't have to gloss the entire lip; just the center of the top and bottom lip is sufficient in creating a sexy, polished look that is glamorous yet natural.

The point is to make your photo shoot an extension of your natural beauty but more glamorous and sexy than your everyday look. If you want to learn more about how you can be captured in a photo that will last a lifetime, simply contact us.

by Opie Janzer