Your Ultimate Session Checklist
The Ultimate Prep Guide for Men
Prep Made Simple.
Pro Tips for an Amazing Intimate Photography Experience!
Preperation is Key
Your session is booked—now let’s get you ready to rock it. This guide makes prep easy so you can show up feeling confident and sexy.
Get Ready to Feel Like a Legend
You don’t need modeling experience to look incredible in your photos. This guide will walk you through simple, optional ways to help you feel prepared, confident, and comfortable before your shoot. From wardrobe tips to mindset shifts—you're in good hands.
From Head to Toe
MIND
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Think about the mood you want—soft and romantic, bold and sultry, playful and flirty, or a mix. Your style will help guide outfit choices and set the tone for your session.
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You’re in Control of What You Wear—and What You Reveal. Intimate photography is for every body, personality, and level of confidence—whether you’re rocking a worn-in tee, your favorite jeans, or nothing at all.
From laid-back and subtle to bold and unapologetic, we offer Headshots, Branding, Glam, Boudoir, Couples, Erotic, Fetish, and Kink photography—tailored to match your style, comfort, and energy.
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Our boudoir experience isn’t just about how you look or what you wear—it’s about how you feel in your own skin. That inner confidence doesn’t come from six-pack abs or perfect grooming. It comes from connection—to yourself, your body, and your worth.
One of the most powerful ways to start building that connection?
Speak to yourself with respect. Out loud. On purpose.My body is good."
"My body deserves kindness.”
"My body is worthy of respect."
“I deserve to feel at home in my skin.”
Do this every day in the days leading up to your session—or even while you're still deciding whether to book. You might be surprised how it shifts the way you see yourself.
If That Feels Weird or Uncomfortable…
That’s okay. Most men aren’t taught to speak kindly to themselves or even acknowledge their own reflection. Start small. Approach it with curiosity, not pressure.
Speak to yourself the way you’d talk to someone you care about—a little brother, a son, or even your 10-year-old self. You’d never criticize his body or call him names. You’d encourage him. Remind him of his value. So do the same for you.
Because the truth is: how you feel about yourself shows up in your photos.
And we’re here to make sure it shows up as powerful, grounded, and unapologetically real. -
Try to get solid sleep the night before—you’ll feel sharper and more energized.
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Visit our website, Instagram, and Facebook Group for behind-the-scenes glimpses, client transformations, and wardrobe favorites. Watching real sessions can inspire you and boost your confidence.
HAIR
Grooming & Manscaping: Your Body, Your Call
How you show up is entirely up to you—we're here to celebrate your look, not change it. Whether you're clean-shaven or fully bearded, smooth-chested or naturally rugged, what matters most is that you feel confident and intentional.
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Schedule any haircut 7–10 days before your session to avoid fresh-cut lines or irritation.
Now’s not the time to experiment with a new style or color—stick to what feels most like you.
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Beard, stubble, or clean-shaven? Groom your facial hair in a way that feels best for you. Trim or shape it the night before, or bring your razor and change it up mid-shoot if you'd like different looks.
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Manscaping (Optional but Worth Considering)
Body hair is sexy—whether it’s there or not. Chest, armpit, pubic, and leg hair are all welcome. You can grow it out, keep it stubbly, or go smooth.
Just be intentional. The goal is to feel good, not follow trends.
Waxing? Schedule 3–5 days in advance to let your skin recover.
Shaving? Do it the night before your session to avoid redness or bumps.
SKIN
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Drink plenty of water 3–5 days before your session to keep your skin clear and fresh.
Hydrated skin photographs better—simple as that.
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Use a gentle body scrub 1–2 days before your shoot to remove dead skin and boost glow. Focus on rough areas like elbows, knees, and shoulders. Rinse well and moisturize after for smooth, touchable skin.DIY Scrub: 1/2 cup sugar + 1/2 cup olive oil. Rub on in the shower, rinse off when melted.
Moisturize your face, body, elbows, and any areas you’re planning to show. Start the night before and again on the day of.
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• Trim + Clean
Keep fingernails and toenails trimmed and clean — no jagged edges, dirt, or discoloration. A quick touch-up the night before goes a long way.• Moisturize
Dry skin, cracked knuckles, and rough heels can be distracting in close-ups. Use a rich lotion or balm on hands and feet the night before and morning of your session.• Keep It Natural
No need for a manicure or pedicure unless that’s your thing — just aim for clean, healthy, and well-kept. Buffing your nails with a matte file is optional, but gives a clean finish. -
Avoid sunburns, harsh tan lines, self-tanner, or spray tans right before your session. Studio lighting works best with your natural skin tone, and we can add warmth in post‑production if you want it.
What Should I Wear?
Our Client Closet is currently lingerie-heavy. Want to go androgynous, gender fluid, or femme? Let’s do it. We absolutely welcome men, trans men, trans women, and nonbinary clients who enjoy wearing lingerie or more traditionally femme styles. In our closet, you’ll find:
Harnesses
Bodysuits & Stockings in women’s sizes XS-6XL
Robes (femme and neutral options)
Mesh and fitted tanks with an edgy, body-conscious vibe
Where to Shop for Lingerie: Panties for Packages: Luxe Lingerie for Men Who Love It
If wearing lingerie makes you feel confident, expressive, or simply yourself, Thistle & Spire’s “Panties for Packages” collection is crafted just for you. Designed for bodies, not binaries, these styles beautifully embrace sensuality and identity
Boudoir By J Anderson is actively building a more masculine Closet Collection, and it’s growing fast.
🔥 Pro Tip: If you want a masculine or gender neutral look, we strongly recommend bringing your own wardrobe—pieces that make you feel confident, sexy, and seen. See some great masculine options below:
What To Bring
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Shirts
Start with a snug undershirt or tank top—they're simple, sexy, and perfect for layering or showing off your physique. Bring a few solid-colored t-shirts in jewel tones, black, white, or gray. Look for thin, stretchy fabrics that hug the body—bonus points if you’re okay with them getting a little wet or artistically ripped.
Button-up shirts are also a client favorite, especially in solid colors. Leave a few buttons undone or wear them open for an effortlessly cool vibe.
And yes—everyone loves a good hoodie. It adds texture, mystery, and a touch of casual confidence.
🔥 Pro Tip: Skip neons and loud patterns. They can distract from your energy—and your body.
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Underwear
Boxer briefs or briefs are the go-to favorites—they’re flattering, versatile, and photograph beautifully. Bring several pairs in a variety of colors to give us options during your shoot.
Make sure they’re:
New or like-new (no stretched-out waistbands or fading)
Well-fitted — snug always beats baggy
Shorter leg cuts (they show off more leg and muscle definition)
Mostly solid colors — patterns can work, but solids tend to steal the show
🔥 Pro Tip: Bring a mix and I’ll help you choose what works best for your look and vibe.
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Jeans
Everyone looks amazing in a well-fitting pair of jeans. They’re classic, flattering, and perfect for showing off your shape. Choose jeans that are snug (but not tight) and fit securely around your waist—no sagging or oversized styles.
And don’t forget to bring a belt. It’s a subtle detail that makes a big difference in your overall look.
Feel free to bring as many pairs as you want—light wash, dark wash, black denim—we’ll pick what works best during your session.
🔥 Pro Tip: Jeans pair effortlessly with bare skin, boxers, tees, or button-ups—super versatile and always hot.
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A Suit
You don’t have to wear a suit—but if you do, the fit has to be perfect. A well-tailored suit can look insanely sharp and confident on camera. But a poor fit? It shows.
When trying on a suit, stand naturally—upright with your arms relaxed at your sides—and check the shoulders first. The shoulder seam should lie flat, without bumps or bunching.
PS: Don’t forget a tie.
🔥 Pro Tip: If the shoulders don’t fit, skip it. An ill-fitted shoulder is a deal-breaker.
Want to go deeper on suit fit? Check out The Art of Manliness for solid advice on nailing the look.
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Uniform
Got a uniform or outfit that makes you feel powerful, confident, or sexy? Bring it. Whether it’s a military, police, or firefighter uniform, coveralls, scrubs, or work gear, these pieces can tell a story and add serious character to your shoot.
We may not use everything you bring, but having options helps us create a look that’s authentic to you.
🔥 Pro Tip: If it makes you feel like a badass, it belongs in your bag.
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Sweat Pants
Sweatpants bring that effortless, casual kind of sexy that everyone loves. They hint at comfort—but when paired with a fitted tank top or no shirt at all, they can be seriously hot.
Look for well-fitted joggers or classic sweats that sit well on your waist. Avoid anything overly baggy or worn-out. Solid colors work best—think gray, black, or navy.
Bring a few options if you’ve got them. We’ll create that cozy-but-smoldering vibe that feels natural and looks incredible.
🔥 Pro Tip: Soft fabrics, drawstrings, and low waistbands can take your look to the next level.
Don’t Forget the Accessories
Accessories can make or break a look—they add personality, style, and that final touch of polish. Bring anything that reflects you and complements the outfits you’re packing.
Think:
Belts, socks, shoes, boots, ties
Hats, glasses, sunglasses
Jewelry, watches
Tools, gear, props, or even toys
Your accessories should match your personal style and flow with your wardrobe choices. Whether it’s a leather cuff, steel-toe boots, or your favorite cap—bring it. You never know what small detail will take a shot to the next level.
🔥 Pro Tip: Lay everything out the night before your session so nothing gets left behind.
Show Some Skin
Fine Art & Implied Nudes
Both fine art nudes and implied nudes are powerful ways to showcase your sensual side. You can go fully nude for bold, artistic images, or keep it a mystery with strategic posing, lighting, or clothing for a more suggestive feel.
The choice is entirely yours—this is about creating images that reflect your confidence, comfort level, and personal style. Either way, the result will be striking, timeless, and uniquely you.
🔥 Pro Tip: Nudes count as an outfit.
Tips From A Trainer...
Tips From A Trainer...
Pre-Game Tips From A Trainer
For guys who want to pump it up before their shoot (optional):
Fasted Cardio: Grab a protein shake and hit the gym first thing in the morning for some cardio or high-intensity interval training before breakfast.
No Carbs After 8 PM: Change your late-night snacks to something full of protein instead of carbs to help your body trim down and ditch the excess.
Full-Body Workouts: For that pre-shoot pump. Instead of alternating leg and upper body days, switch to full-body workouts for the week before to maximize gym time and get all of those muscles popping at once.
Pre-Workout Drink: Helps muscles pop on camera
Pre-Shoot Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
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Most guys feel a little unsure before their session—and that’s totally normal. You won’t be expected to know how to pose, act, or “perform” in front of the camera. From the moment you walk in, we’ll guide you through everything—what to wear, how to stand, where to look, and how to work with expressions and posture that feel natural.
Yes, we offer professional hair styling and makeup for men. It’s subtle, tailored, and designed to make you look polished and camera-ready—without looking overdone. Think: evening out skin tone, covering blemishes, taming shine, and grooming flyaways. It’s not about glam unless that’s what you want.
And if you do want a full glam face? Hell yes—we’ve got you.
We’ll never yuck your yum. Whether your vibe is rugged and raw or edgy and editorial, this space is about expression, not judgment.We’ll also show you a few shots on the back of the camera as we go. Once you see how badass you look—even in those “weird-feeling” poses—you’ll start to relax. That quick peek usually melts away the nerves fast.
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Not at all.
Intimate photography is not about being naked—it’s about being seen, celebrated, and showing up as you. What you wear (or don’t) is completely your call.Many male clients choose to go shirtless or nude, but that decision is always 100% yours. There’s no pressure. Just options.
💯 Bottom Line
You’re always in control of your experience.
Nothing happens without your full consent. Whether your vibe is soft, powerful, gender-bending, rugged, or vulnerable—we’re here to capture what feels real to you, without pressure, without judgment, and without limits. -
No, In theory, having someone there might sound fun—but in reality, an audience can make you hold back. I want you to relax, let loose, and enjoy the experience without feeling like you need to perform for anyone else.
This session is about you—your confidence, your energy, and capturing you at your best. My space is designed to make you feel completely at ease, and I promise you’ll be in good hands the entire time.
If you need special assistance or a support person, just let me know ahead of time so we can make the right accommodations.
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Absolutely—and we’ll even show you exactly what to do. I demonstrate every pose myself so you know exactly how it should look and feel. You might even get a laugh watching me sprawl out on the floor, lean against the wall, or lounge on the couch to get the shot just right.
I’ll guide you on what to do with your face, hands, feet, and body so you look confident, relaxed, and natural. You don’t need any modeling experience—just show up, and I’ll coach you through the entire shoot from start to finish.
The Countdown Is On
I can’t wait to have you in the studio—this is going to be next-level. You’ve got the prep tips, the gear ideas, and now it’s time to let it all sink in.
Start visualizing yourself in front of the camera—owning the space, looking sharp, feeling unstoppable. Think about the story you want these images to tell, and the way you want to feel every time you see them.
Because the transformation has already started the moment you booked. And when you see the final shots? You’re going to see yourself like never before.
What to Expect at Your Session
Your session will be fun, relaxed, and easy—nothing stiff or serious. Before we start, we’ll go through your outfit options, talk about ideas we both have, and crank up some music to set the vibe.
We’ll kick things off with the easiest outfits and poses so you have time to get comfortable in front of the camera and get used to my direction. As we go, we’ll laugh, goof off, and take plenty of breaks to stay hydrated.
Remember—this experience is all about you. We’ll move at your pace, do what works for you, and you’ll never be asked to do anything you’re not comfortable with.
Want to chat more about your Experience?
Let’s make it happen—schedule your free consultation call today.
We recommend booking this call about 30 days before your session so we can fine-tune every detail and make sure you’re fully prepped.