Spray Tan Before Your Boudoir Shoot? Read This First
- Calgary Boudoir Photographer | Laura Paige
- Oct 24
- 3 min read
I don’t know where or when spray tans and boudoir photoshoots started getting linked together, but it’s time to set the record straight.
“Should I get a spray tan before my shoot?” No. Please don’t.
Spray tans or self tanner is one of the biggest mistakes you can make before your boudoir session.
Why You Should Skip the Spray Tan Before Your Boudoir Session
Here's why you should skip it, how it really looks on camera and what to do instead, for that gorgeous, natural glow.
Spray Tans Don’t Photograph Well
What our eyes see and what the camera sees are two very different things.
Camera sensors see colours in a way that the human eye doesn't. What looks like a soft glow, in our eyes, often shows up orange, uneven, or blotchy on camera.
Even high-end spray tans and self-tanners have an orange (unnatural) undertone that’s almost impossible to correct.
Trust me, I’ve tested them all. If a spray tan could erase tan lines and save editing time, I’d be the first in line. The truth is, it actually makes it harder to even out your skin tone and achieve that smooth, natural glow.
When you invest in professional boudoir photography, you want your true skin tone to shine through.
Why The Camera Loves Your Natural Glow
Your natural skin tone always photographs best, it's more natural and realistic.
Paired with the right lighting, flattering angles and expert editing, your skin will have that flawless glow, no spray tan required.
Whether your skin is fair, tan, or deep - natural tones always look timeless and effortlessly luxurious on camera.
Enhance Your Natural Glow
Skip the fake tan and focus on healthy, hydrated skin instead.
Exfoliate gently 2 or 3 days before your session
Moisturize daily in the week leading up to your shoot
Drink plenty of water for an inside-out glow
Regular Spray Tan User?
If you’re someone who regularly gets spray tans and it’s your go-to, you may be okay with the deeper skin colour. In that case, stick to your usual routine and avoid trying a new product or salon right before your shoot.
For everyone else, we recommend skipping it.
Worried About Looking Pale?
Many clients worry that pale skin will look washed out. It won’t.
Against our bright natural light and crisp white bedding, even the lightest skin tones pop with colour on camera.
What To Do If You Have Tan Lines
If you already have tan lines, don’t stress. I'm a sun lover and could never tell anyone to stay out of the sun, I get it.
Light tan lines can easily be softened during the editing process.
If they are strong or very noticeable, a few short sessions in a tanning bed before your shoot can help blend them out naturally.
Our favourite local spot is Bronze Baxx. Their beds even skin tone in just a couple of sessions without creating that artificial orange colour.
The Bottom Line: Orange isn't the new nude
Spray tans and self tanners might work for wedding or event photography, where photos aren't solely focused on you, the lighting is different and the editing isn't as precise but... they do not belong in professional boudoir photography.
Skip the spray tan and bring your true glow. We'll take care of the rest.
Real stories, expert tips, and everything you need to know about boudoir photography. At Boudoir by Laura Paige, you leave with stunning photos that prove how gorgeous, confident and ah-mazing you really are.
