Rubys guide to aid you in your Burlesque shoot…

1. Streaky tan lines on a Burlesque shoot do not look inviting. Looking like a Burly-Q Queen means looking like a polised 50’s starlet. Skin should be your natural tone and oh so soft. (This is not a shoot for a Tango ad…take heed). 

2. Make sure you don’t wear tight fitting clothing before your shoot. Trust us, waiting for the dents in your skin where your jeans have cut into your stomach or your socks into your ankles can be a long process. It’s much better to wear something loose and flowy. This way the shoot can proceed in a quick and efficient manner.

3. Know your photographer and make sure that they are a qualified professional. You should never be persuaded or pressured into doing something you do not want to; such as removing more clothing than you are comfortable with or making suggestive poses. 

4. Know your stylist and work with them! Don’t let the stylist completely take over, remember that these are your pictures and you want to look like you, not some over-air-brushed poptart on the cover of a magazine. Yes the stylist may have a few tricks up their sleeves to enhance your look but remember that Burlesque is all about being comfortable with your own body. (Remember, the customer i.e. you, always knows best).

5. Take lots of different outfits to choose from and talk through them with your stylist/photographer. It’s good to have a nice chat with your photographer before hand to make sure you both establish exactly what you want from the shoot and how you are both going to achieve it. 

6. Don’t cake on the make-up! Although some looks in Boudoir & Burlesque are a little heavier, the camera will pick out every tiny clump of mascara, flake of powder and lump of lippie! Less is more…(Until it comes to the outfits of course!).

7. Make sure that you have matching attire that feels comfortable. (This is in case you are hit by a bus on the way to the shoot).