Are you thinking about doing a Boudoir Photo Shoot? Then this is the guide that you should read to know how to get your 'SEXY' on.

Photography by Boudoir Prive/ Jennifer Pontarelli

When I got married I was pretty obsessional over doing everything right and following the conventional protocol for all things 'wedding.' So naturally when it came time to buy my future husband a wedding gift, I followed the rules and brought him a classic watch to wear on the day -you know, a 'grown up' gift. I also figured I would need to appeal to the 'boy' in him so I designed him a 'build a bear' and dressed it in a Chelsea soccer outfit. Then I remembered that I wanted him to remember me always as the young sexy me, the one he got engaged to, and since it was bang on trend to also gift Boudoir Pictures, I figured I might as well go the full hog.

Now being a makeup artist I have worked on a far many boudoir photo shoots so I had a pretty good insider understanding of what to expect. But doing something yourself always gives you a newer perspective on things, because there is nothing like 'getting your feet wet!' So here is the definitive guide to getting undressed to be photographed.

ALCOHOL! Yes, have a glass! Im not talking about getting sloshed, but we all know that a glass of wine will help us loose some of our inhibitions and suddenly the world is a rosier place. Bring a bottle to the shoot, but just make sure you start drinking AFTER you've done your hair and makeup!

BEST FOR LAST. The first pictures are usually not your masterpiece shots. You are still finding your flow and getting comfortable with people in the room, while trying to look seductive. As you warm up and you relax you also think to yourself..."who really gives a s***, all these people have seen it all before. No one is judging me." It's at that moment that the photoshoot really comes alive. Save your sexiest lingerie for later in the session.

BIG HAIR. Forget shiny, straight, flat, limp, curtain like, hair. Go Big. Go Bold. Big Curly hair with volume is HOT. Full stop. Just ask any man.......

ACCESSORIZE. You don't have to go out and spend a small fortune in Victoria's Secrets and pose with labels tucked in just so you can return it the next day. Invest in some accessories. Simple underwear is perfect for a boudoir shoot but add some glam with necklaces, body jewellery, and earrings. There is an elegance in simple black lace lingerie with a belly chain.

AVOID WHITE. All white might seem very clean and simple but its much more flattering to wear colours and textures in underwear. Think lace, bows, prints, floral, and of course, matching!

CURVE YOURSELF This may be uncomfortable, it may be a little strenuous on the knees and the back, and it may hurt your abs, but its worth it. I'm talking picture gold! A boudoir shoot is hard bloody work - don't doubt it. Often I hear clients say, "I feel like i've just worked out." And in all honesty, you have! Trying to stick your bum out, while throwing your weight on the left hip, and still maintaining soft delicate hand posture with a look of lust in your eyes is by no means a simple task! But that's why women do a boudoir shoot - ohh, the ability to multi-task! It's not about your body size, or your flabby bits, or even about all the bits of ourselves that we don't like (and tirelessly complain about), but what IT IS about is how you SHAPE your body. Work with what you have because that is what you are blessed with.

VIXEN NOT VAMP. Just because we're talking boudoir does not mean black, smokey, dark and vampish. Yes, you can wear a well applied smokey eye, but its just as classy to wear a natural lashy makeup look with a strong lip colour. Take inspiration from Marilyn - voted as sexiest woman in the world and she never wore a smokey eye!

OPEN SESAME! Approach your boudoir shoot with an open frame of mind! Most professional and experienced photographers will know how to make you feel at ease and guide you into positions. Take their direction and know that no-one on set is in the least bit judging you on your body. They are there to make sure you feel great, and ensure you get some smoking shots. Most of all it's the experience of feeling sexy, beautiful and alluring that stays with you after.

By Mika Holborow

(All images are Mika Makeup Artist portfolio work)