How to prepare for a pole dance and exotic photo session?

If you're planning a photoshoot soon, or you've been dreaming about one, but you're not sure if you're ready or you're worried, this post is for you! Be sure to read our tips, because we've done many photoshoots and know what makes a good photo. :)

You've chosen a photographer and a date. What's next?

Be sure to start by thinking about your vision for the session. Figure out what the background will be, if any modifications can be made, and what the style of the session is. Determine what you expect from the photos and what you want to show in them.

Choosing the perfect figures for a pole dance session

The next step should be deciding on poses and positions for the photos. Always choose more poses than you have purchased. It may turn out that you won't be able to create a pose that day or that it will look unflattering in the photo. Backup poses will come in handy in such cases.

You can go to a dance studio and come up with your own poses/figures or get inspired by photos on Instagram and Pinterest. Instagram is a wealth of ideas. Take advantage of this by searching for hashtags like #poledancephotography #poledanceshape #pdshape #pdexotic #exoticpole #dancephotography. If you like a pose, try changing it up a bit to get a unique photo. I recommend searching for dance poses and regular poses on Pinterest, if you want a photo without a pole. Searching for "fashion photography," "woman's portrait," or "photo poses" will yield many interesting suggestions for body, hand, and head positioning. Try these poses in front of a mirror.

If you don't know how to perform a particular move or are afraid to try it yourself, ask a specific instructor for individual lessons and send them photos of the moves you'd like to learn. If the instructor knows you from regular classes, they'll likely know if the moves are at your level and can recommend other interesting suggestions. Remember, you should master every move on and off the pole and know exactly how to perform it to ensure the session runs smoothly and stress-free. It's also worth saving photos of the poses to show the photographer what you'll be doing on the day of the session.

Additional advice from us – simple shapes often look better than complex ones. Skip the pole shapes you can't execute well. Less is often more. ;)

Pole dance session outfit

Once you have a vision, it's time to match your outfit, makeup, hairstyle, and optional accessories.

Your look should fit the mood of the shoot. Choose an outfit that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful. The outfit shouldn't interfere with your body image.

It's worth having more outfits prepared.

Determine which poses and areas you need to be exposed to ensure grip on the pole. Based on this, choose an outfit that's appropriate for the pose. For exotic photos, where you're standing or crouching next to the pole, long pants like SENSUAL or BELLS are perfect. For photos on the pole, where you're holding on, for example, with the side of your thigh or below your knee, you'll need exposed thighs/knees, so you'll need a pole dance outfit. If your back is visible in the photo, we recommend choosing a second-skin top, which beautifully highlights it and adds charm to this type of photo.

Makeup and hairstyle for a pole dance session

Makeup should always be heavier than you'd wear every day. The camera "eats" makeup, so feel free to wear intense makeup, as it will still look softer in photos. Of course, if you're going for a natural look, opt for subtle makeup to ensure a cohesive overall look.

The hairstyle should fit the vision and not hinder the figure. If you have an inverted figure, try it with both loose and tied hair. You might find that your body is positioned so that your loose hair falls in your face, making you look like Samara from The Ring. :D

You can always have your hair in a bun on some figures and loose on others.

Add-ons and accessories

Dreaming of a unique photoshoot? Accessorize or wear a fun outfit. Instead of classic shorts, wear our culottes. Who says you only need a pole dancing top for a top? Throw on a mesh top! Choose a shirt, blouse, or oversized mesh T-shirt.

Also, remember to bring accessories that will help you on the day of your session. It's worth bringing OCUN chalk, water, a cloth, and pipe cleaner if the studio doesn't provide it or the session is outdoors. It's also a good idea to bring makeup and a brush for any touch-ups.

We wish you the best of luck in your future sessions. Remember, the better your preparation, the less stress you'll experience. Good luck!