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What is boudoir?

Traditionally, a “boudoir” referred to a room specifically for women to withdraw to or spend private time in. It later referred to a dressing room or private entertainment room. More recently, heavily inspired by traditional Pin-Up portraiture, “boudoir” became the label of a photography genre, where tableau images of scantily-clad women (or sometimes couples) were created by a photographer in a studio or luxurious setting. The genre now incorporates so much more than just that. Some folks have a boudoir session to gift to a bride or groom, or to remind oneself that they’ve “still got it,” or as a leap towards self-love and acceptance, or just for fun! At Pink Bat, all gender identities and body types are invited to indulge in self-love and sexual expression, translated and captured in a professional and tasteful manner.

Why should I do a boudoir session?

You don’t really need a reason to do a boudoir session. But if you must - birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and to send to overseas partners are just a few common purposes. But part of most clients’ reasons for doing a session - for themselves. And that’s fantastic!
I can also work with those who model, perform, and are OnlyFans Creators - special pricing or deals can be made available by simply asking!

Is boudoir only for women?

Absolutely not! Whatever your gender identity, you are welcome here, comfortably and judgement-free.

How long will a session take - how does this work?

The amount of time you will need to allot with Pink Bat depends on what package you pick, and if you’re getting your hair and makeup done. When visiting the Arlington, VA studio, multiply your session time by three (excluding the “Full Flight” package) - so if you pick a one hour session, multiply that by three! The first hour will be spent in the studio, the second hour-ish will be your break time (AKA editing time for me), and the third hour (perhaps less) will be your viewing session time. Out-of-studio sessions do not need to allot for break time / viewing session time.
If you’re getting the full glam-up experience, add an hour for each additional service - one hour for hair, and one hour for makeup. I do understand that this could be a full-day thing, so please make sure your schedule enables enough time for us all - you included - to work our magic!

How far ahead should I book my session before my desired deadline?

Print turnaround times can take as long as four weeks (depending on the time of year - Christmas is the most popular and the print lab gets backed up) from the time your order is placed. Mailing could take extra time (up to a week or two, also seasonally and location dependent). If you take a week to order, add that time too. So six weeks at minimum is how far out I would recommend booking your session, but further ahead is always better (and welcome)!

What clothes should I bring? Do you have clothes I can pick from?

At a bare (ha) minimum, please bring a set of your skin-toned undergarments, and your favorite set. A black set is also encouraged, or white set if you’re a bride (or just really like a white set that you have). Bring at least one more set than however many outfits you’re allowed for your session (juuust in case you’re not feeling one set). Same goes for all gender identities - whether you wear only bottoms or both tops and bottoms :)
Items that you can throw over top (i.e. shirts, robes, knit tops, etc.) your undergarments don’t count as an outfit - but please keep in mind your session’s allotted time!
I have a selection of shoes, corsets, shawls / scarves, some men’s clothing, jewelry, and other accessories available for selection!

How can I personalize my session - can I bring props?

Props are encouraged! If you’re doing this for someone else, their items of clothing are always great - hats, jackets, tees, etc. Hobbies, regardless of whose hobbies (yours or your partner’s), are great to feature, too! Some hobby / career items could be: guitar, football, motorcycle helmet, books, etc. (no pets or loaded firearms at this time, please). Look up “pinup” illustrations and images for inspiration, too! BDSM / kink items are also welcome - no shaming or judging here! If you still feel clueless, reach out and we can brainstorm :)

I want my makeup (and / or hair) done - do I need to bring anything for that?

Yes - please bring, at minimum, your foundation, concealer, and mascara. If you don’t usually wear makeup, please send me a message.
With the current (covid-19) times, we encourage you to bring as much of your own makeup as you can, for sanitary reasons. Our makeup gets sanitized regardless, but this extra precaution doesn’t hurt!
If you’re getting your hair done too, no need to bring anything except any hair pieces you want incorporated during your styling. If your hair is particularly sensitive or requires specific handling, please bring anything you may need to accommodate.

Spray tans - yay or nay?

If possible, please avoid doing a self-spray tan. Go to a pro. You’re getting your hair, makeup, and nails done - might as well do the whole shebang!

Can something be done about my sunburns / scars / unwanted tattoos / other blemishes?

All of those are workable, and comes standard with your image package / puchases! Please note that whatever amount of time I spend on corrections, I may not necessarily be able to get rid of or smooth out things completely - but most of the time, I can! It is also dependent upon how contrasted the “blemishes” are and where they’re located. But please don’t ever forget that you are unique and wonderful, blemishes and all!

Can I bring someone with me to my session?

Some people bring a close family member, best friend, or even a partner. All of this is fine - just please let me know about your +1 ahead of time.

Do you make examples out of my photos after my session?

Before your session, you’ll get an addendum to the session contract, with a few options: allow your images for use (as samples), allow your images for use excluding identifiable features (face, tattoos, etc.), or opt out of use completely. This is entirely up to you, as your privacy and comfort are my top priority. I would advise to opt out if you have any reservations due to your work, juuust in case. You can opt in later if you decide you’d like your images to be added as examples!

I’m worried about staying safe in the studio - are you doing anything in lieu of Covid-19?

My biggest concern is keeping you comfy - and safe. Please visit the Covid-19 page on how Pink Bat is combating this pandemic!