For so many women, self-care often falls to the bottom of a very long to-do list. You spend your days holding space for others, tending to needs, managing schedules, and being the steady one everyone relies on. A boudoir session at Carmen Salazar Photography isn’t just about beautiful images. It’s an invitation to pause, breathe, and choose yourself for a day.
When cultivating our boudoir experience and what we wanted it to look like, we asked ourselves, “Why not turn your boudoir session into a full self-care experience?”
Sacramento offers the perfect backdrop for a day that nourishes your body, mind, and confidence. Here’s a local’s guide to creating a self-care day that feels intentional, indulgent, and completely yours.
Indulge in a Little Pre-Session Pampering
One of the best ways to ease into your boudoir session is to treat yourself beforehand. Think of it as a transition ritual from caretaker to center of attention.
Some ideas:
- A blowout or hair refresh
- A relaxing facial or skincare appointment
- A manicure or pedicure (even a quick polish or press-ons can feel luxurious)
- A short walk outside to get some fresh air and clear your head
You don’t need to do everything. Choose one thing that helps you feel polished, relaxed, and a little spoiled. That energy carries beautifully into your session.
Start Your Morning Slow (Yes, Really)
Self-care begins long before you step into the studio. Instead of rushing through your morning, give yourself permission to slow down. Wake up a little earlier than usual. Drink your coffee while it’s still hot. Sit in the quiet for a few minutes before the day asks anything of you. Set your intentions for the day and relish in the fact that this moment is just for you.
Most of our clients take the day off work so they can enjoy the moment even longer. No distractions. No work. No kids.
If your schedule allows, consider dropping kids off early or arranging coverage so you’re not checking the clock. This is your day. A calm nervous system sets the tone for a relaxed, confident boudoir experience.
Fuel Your Body with Intention
A boudoir session is both emotional and empowering, and you’ll want steady energy. Sacramento has no shortage of cozy cafés and cute places to grab a bite.
As much as we want to lower our intake right before a boudoir session, your body will most definitely thank you for grabbing a snack and restoring its fuel. Posing requires energy and you’ll want to be feeling your best.
This isn’t about restriction or “being good.” It’s about caring for yourself. Eat in a way that supports you feeling grounded, not rushed or depleted. It can even be small snacks like peanuts or crackers.
If you’re coming from out of town and have a little bit of a drive, use this as an excuse to get yourself a sweet treat.
Arrive at Your Boudoir Session Ready to Receive
When you walk into our Sacramento boudoir studio, the goal isn’t to “get it right.” It’s to arrive exactly as you are. Many women are used to being behind the scenes. Boudoir flips that script.
This time is about being guided, not being responsible. Being seen, not overlooked. Feeling confident without earning it.
Your session is designed to meet you where you are. Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or somewhere in between. You don’t need modeling experience or a certain body type. You just need to show up and let yourself be taken care of for once.
Professional Hair & Makeup: Let Yourself Be Taken Care Of
One of the most loved parts of our Sacramento boudoir sessions, especially for the moms and healthcare provides we photograph, is our professional hair and makeup styling. This isn’t about looking like someone else or being “done up” beyond recognition. It’s about feeling like the most confident, rested, elevated version of you.
From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed into a calm, supportive space where you don’t have to do anything except sit back and breathe. Our professional hair and makeup artist works with you one-on-one to create a look that feels aligned with your personality and comfort level. Whether that’s soft and natural, polished and professional, or a little bolder and glamorous.
Many women tell us this is the first time in years they’ve had someone do their hair and makeup (outside of their wedding day).
No doing your makeup in the car. No worrying if you did it “right.” Instead, you’re cared for by someone who understands mature skin, real-life hair textures, and how to enhance your natural beauty.
This part of your self-care day is also an emotional reset. As your hair is styled and your makeup is applied, you have time to relax, chat, or simply enjoy the quiet. It helps ease nerves, builds confidence before your session begins, and allows you to step into your photos feeling grounded and supported.
Professional styling isn’t an add-on—it’s part of the experience. It sets the tone for the entire session. You deserve to feel beautiful without effort, especially on a day that’s meant to celebrate you.
Plan Something Fun for Afterward
After a boudoir session, many women feel a mix of empowerment, vulnerability, and emotional release. That’s normal and it’s beautiful. Instead of jumping straight back into errands or responsibilities, plan something soft for afterward.
Ideas include:
- A solo lunch with a book or journal
- Sitting in your car with music and no destination for a few minutes
- A cozy café date with yourself
- Calling your girlfriend to meet up for lunch
- Having a romantic date night out with your partner
This gives you space to process the experience and let the confidence settle in rather than rushing it away.
Reflect on Why You Did This
Boudoir is rarely just about photos. For women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s, it often marks a turning point after years of giving, surviving, or putting themselves last.
Take a few moments to reflect:
- What made you book this session?
- What did you feel during it?
- What do you want to remember about yourself right now?
Journaling or voice-noting these thoughts can make your session even more meaningful long after the images are delivered.
Let the Confidence Come Home With You
The most powerful part of a boudoir experience isn’t the day itself, it’s what follows. It’s how you stand a little taller. How you soften toward your reflection. How you remember that you are more than your roles.
Your self-care day doesn’t end when the session does. It lives on in the way you show up for yourself moving forward, with more compassion, confidence, and self-trust.
You deserve to be cared for, celebrated, and seen. Not just as a mom, nurse, caregiver, or provider, but as you.
The team at Carmen Salazar Photography, has got you covered! Ready to get your boudoir session scheduled? Contact us today! Let our team of experts help you gain courage from within! Then go out into the world as your best self!
Sacramento Boudoir Photography | Boudoir Photography Sacramento
