What to Wear for Your Intimate Portrait Session: Lingerie Edition

So you’ve booked your session. Brilliant. Now comes the fun part: deciding what to wear.

And if you’re anything like most women I work with, you’re probably staring at your wardrobe thinking, “What the hell do I even own that works for this?”

Don’t stress. Here’s exactly what works, what doesn’t, and how to choose pieces that’ll make you feel incredible.

Start With What Makes You Feel Good

Here’s the golden rule: wear what makes you feel sexy and comfortable. Not what you think looks good on Instagram. Not what your partner loves. What makes you feel like yourself on a really good day.

If that’s a lacy bralette and boy shorts, perfect. If it’s a structured bodysuit, great. If it’s your partner’s oversized button-up with nothing underneath, even better.

Lingerie outfit styled for an intimate portrait photography session

What Works Best on Camera

While I want you to wear what feels right, here are some things that photograph beautifully:

Texture and detail:

  • Lace, mesh, and sheer fabrics add visual interest
  • Strappy details create flattering lines on the body
  • Contrasting textures (silk and lace, for example) photograph really well

Fit matters more than you think:

  • Well-fitting lingerie that sits comfortably will always look better than something too tight or loose
  • If something digs in or creates bulges, it’ll show and it’ll make you feel self-conscious during the shoot

Colours that flatter:

  • Jewel tones (emerald, burgundy, navy) look stunning on most skin tones
  • Black is classic and slimming, but can sometimes flatten in photos. Pair it with texture or details
  • Nudes and blush tones create a soft, intimate vibe
  • White and pastels photograph beautifully in natural light
Lingerie outfit styled for an intimate portrait photography session

How Many Outfits Should You Bring?

Depends on your package:

  • The Edit (60 min, 2 outfit changes): Bring 3-4 options so we can choose the best 2 on the day.
  • The Feature (90 min, 4 outfit changes): Bring 5-6 options.
  • The Cover (3 hours, unlimited changes): Bring everything. We’ll experiment.

Pro tip: Include variety. One playful set, one sexy set, one soft and intimate set. This gives us different moods to work with.

What About Sizing?

If you’re buying new pieces, here’s my advice: buy what fits now, not what you hope to fit into.

You want to feel comfortable and confident during the shoot, not distracted by something that’s too tight or worrying about how you look. Lingerie that fits well will always photograph better than something that doesn’t, regardless of size.

Don’t Forget the Extras

These aren’t essential, but they add variety:

  • Robes or kimonos: Great for in-between shots and layering
  • Oversized shirts: Borrowed from a partner or just a classic button-up, worn unbuttoned or half-done
  • Stockings and garters: Adds a classic boudoir vibe
  • Jewellery: Simple pieces that feel like you

What Doesn’t Work

Avoid:

  • Brand new lingerie you’ve never worn. It might not fit right, and you won’t know until it’s too late
  • Anything uncomfortable. You’ll be moving, posing, and adjusting. If it’s digging in, you’ll be distracted
  • Overly complicated pieces with too many straps. They can look messy on camera

Still Stuck?

Send me photos of your options before the shoot. I’m happy to help you choose what’ll work best for your vibe and location.

Ready to book your session? Get in touch here

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