Fake Tanning & Boudoir Photos: What You Need to Know

A boudoir photoshoot is all about feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin — and that includes your choice to tan or not to tan. Whether you prefer your natural skin tone or love the look of a sun-kissed glow, both are absolutely welcome in the studio.

If you do choose to get a spray tan or use self-tanner before your boudoir session, the most important thing is making sure it’s a well-done, even tan. A quality tan photographs beautifully, enhances skin tone, and can help create a smooth, polished final image.

During the editing process, all images are treated consistently. This includes smoothing skin texture and removing minor blemishes, while still preserving a natural and realistic look. However, significantly uneven or poorly applied fake tans — such as heavy streaking, orange undertones, dark hands or ankles, or patchiness — cannot be fully corrected without compromising image quality. For this reason, drastic tan corrections are not part of standard retouching.

If you’re unsure about tanning before your boudoir shoot, you have a few great options:

• Skip the tan altogether and embrace your natural skin tone

• Book a professional spray tan 2–3 days before your session

• Do a trial run of your self-tanner well in advance

The goal is always to ensure your final photos look timeless, flattering, and true to you. When in doubt, simple and natural will always photograph better than rushed or last-minute tanning.