Boudoir Studio Tour and Tips for Upgrading Your Space

[@tristanblake2204]

Whether you’re interested in boudoir or not I feel like everyone interested in photography can learn something from you. The way you deliver your information feels like you’re talking with us and not at us. Great channel.

[@MichaelSasser]

I'm so happy to hear that!

[@southerncaliforniarealesta8206]

Thanks for showing your beginner work. It makes us understand that you just have to get out there and start with what you have!!

[@dvybe420]

Best online teacher ever. I've learned a lot in the 2 months since picking up my T7

[@piotrmurek4851]

Your present studio is amazing, but you just proofed to the people like me that in fact we may start anywhere. You do the great job by sharing all those stories, thank you.

[@dontgetmadgetwise4271]

You seem to have a good mind, a good spirit and a generous nature. It is pleasing to see that it can also earn you a living. Well done Michael. And... thank you.

[@MichaelSasser]

Thank you so much for this compliment! I really appreciate it!

[@eccentricsmithy2746]

You Sir, are the Godfather of Boudoir.

[@MichaelSasser]

Haha, I don't think that is true, but I appreciate the nickname!

[@knuckleskaboom]

@@MichaelSasser Man you sure will be a legend... Love your stuff.. keep uploading... Great motivation, Great education from you sir.... You make youtube university more refined!

[@cindydejesus9675]

@@MichaelSasser ok, then we'll just call you the G.O.A.T

[@mmb54]

I recently started doing photography and came across your videos. I decided to try boudoir for myself and have fallen in love with it! They have helped me so much, keep them coming!

[@MichaelSasser]

I absolutely love to hear this! Giving it a try is what it is all about :)

[@natashajane8149]

This is amazing! So glad I watched this. I'm at the home studio stage, and it is far from perfect! I have a 1 year old that likes to wage war on his toys on a daily basis, so I feel like I'm forever cleaning to make it studio ready for my clients. I have a studio stepping stone place that I'm in the process of setting up for this reason but the walls are green!! Green 😱 who paints walls green 🤦but the lighting is absolutely perfect and I get quite a few hours of perfect light. so this was really great to watch. Very reassuring. Thank you

[@stanspb763]

Good tips. The sheer gauss drapes are so useful and cheap. I was lucky for living in a city with hundreds of studios and simply rented monthly. I share a large pool of lighting, mostly ProFoto and all the modifiers stands cranes etc with the main studio that has 6 rooms for hourly rate. When I am not using it the studio can book it for their photographer clients. The main reason they want it is a 30 x30 white cyc;lorama at one end. The other end has a makeup/styling counter large enough for about 8 stylists to work at the same time. I brought in some reproductions of 1800s lounges, a working victorian claw foot bath tub, and a bed that I put casters on it so when not needed it tips up on end and easily rolls to a storage area. Most of my commercial shooting is actor headshots and full-lengths, plus some fashion, one client does a 2 season catalog at once so it might involve 500 clothing changes. a once a year project that is exhausting. Catalog work does not pay as much as fashion spreads but are easier. I am just now getting into boudoir and think it is fun to make women very happy. I practiced with my GF and some girls I know personally would enjoy being practice subjects. All that for $450/month. But most of my shooting is on location and not in the studio.

[@mariac2472]

OH. MY. GOSH. Thank you so much for all you do to help us newbies. I hope you’re blessed as much or more than you bless everyone else. You have given me the confidence to get started without having it all together (perfect) first. I can’t wait to get started!

[@MichaelSasser]

This is exactly what I love to hear! Good luck!

[@mariac2472]

Michael Sasser thank you!

[@donnalane8292]

I absolutely love your videos; your knowledge, charisma and methodical approach make watching you a real joy- thank you!

[@MichaelSasser]

Thank you so much for sharing those kind words, Donna!

[@cameronjohn604]

I'm practicing shooting myself in 400 square feet with one window. I'm finding the use of a mirror can make some pretty cool shots. Thank you.

[@horandestudios]

I am here again!... I love how you make it " posible " man. I always have so much hard time to find location!

[@MichaelSasser]

Most people create their own blocks in their mind. It is as simple as starting. I hope you do too!

[@zedceleb1499]

this is amazing , really nice to be here

[@durvalfilho6310]

You are the best Michael! Fantastic spaces and thanks for videos and tips! Congrats from Brazil!

[@MichaelSasser]

Thank so much!

[@xKoriporix]

Man, in some way you're my heroooooo XD not only because of your work/art but more for your vibe and character :D

[@MichaelSasser]

Thank you!

[@pushinlinux]

I was on holidays with my wife in a resort town. As she was busy in one store I checked out a manchester store and discovered that they were closing down, and their satin sheet sets were going for 40% of their previous price so I bought Blue, Red, White and black king size sheet sets, and freighted them home in a parcel bag to avoid excess baggage on the plane. Opp shops, discount stores, garage sales, keep your eyes open.

[@tessaperigo6426]

For my business I have a sleeper sofa. And I take shots from the couch part when they’re on the bed while it’s positioned toward the window, always looks great 👍🏻

[@tessaperigo6426]

And let me add. The sofa is grey so I can use it two ways, great investment

[@MichaelSasser]

NICE! That is great. I love to hear about efficiency in a business, thanks for sharing!

[@shannademke4221]

I just love your videos. You are so fun to watch. By chance do you know the charcoal wall color? Everything by I'm trying is bleh

[@MichaelSasser]

Naddda clue, it was like that when I moved in!

[@artandadventurerv]

Love this! Do you have an alternative blanket we could try since Ikea isn't carrying that one anymore? Thanks!

[@VAChirkin]

Michael, really good content that can be applied to different types of portraiture. You mentioned in one of your videos a metal printer in Canada you use. Can you please provide a link or more info thanks

[@theblacktruth]

"Just start shooting" That should be a candidate for your sign-off ;-)

[@LindaUrsin]

Great tip about the curtains. I got a set of 4 for free today so I'm going to try it

[@MichaelSasser]

Nice!

[@LindaUrsin]

@@MichaelSasser Yes :) Got them when I picked up a free shower wall

[@stephanyfaycohen3842]

Much thanks, Michael.

[@zoegomezalonso3793]

I'm devouring all your videos! You are amazing at what you do, and I think you're really good at giving advice to beginners. I'm thinking about Boudoir photography as a business but I have one problem, no one knows what Boudoir photography is in Cuba where I live. Good news are I can create a business and I have no competition, but the bad news are the amount of time I have to devote to educating clients who have no clue about this type of photography. What would be your advice?

[@MichaelSasser]

I love where your head is at! You'll need to talk a lot about your WHY. I imagine Cuba is still expected of women to look a certain way, and that pressure exists no matter where you come from.

[@MartinJBiddulph]

Get video! Confident but relaxed and honest delivery. Inspiring. What camera and audio did you use please? SONY? (the banana guys link doesn't work any more!) Respect Martin

[@MichaelSasser]

It is a senheisser wireless microphone that I clipped on under my shirt! You can see my audio stuff here: kit.com/michaelsasser/youtube-kit

[@TommyReynolds89]

Hey Sasser awesome video! Just a quick one, I was just wondering what kind of microphone you were using to record this video? New sub here

[@MichaelSasser]

Hey Tommy! That is my friends Senheisser AVX, it's awesome, I've been using the Rode Wireless GO with a lav attached and it has been great!

[@TommyReynolds89]

@@MichaelSasser Thanks Mike appreciate the reply. I remember your face from YEEAARS ago when i saw a BTS video from a shoot you did where you were using the BOB track 'So Good' in the edit haha Great content buddy, all the best :)

[@romiemiller7876]

The walls in my apt. are tan, but at least the ceiling is white, so light bounces without gaining a color cast. Your kitchen is bigger than my whole apt. * Better an air mattress breaking than a water mattress! * Back in the late 70s I furnished a whole apt. for free by scrounging stuff up. A big wood spool the phone co. had cable on became a table. I found a perfectly good mattress that was thrown out because it was old. I made a globe for the overhead light by gluing Styrofoam cups together, and so on.

[@TresXTre]

Lol I can dig your humor. My girl will never go for me watching these, but yes dude hahaha I'll stick to automotive and landscapes haha

[@MichaelSasser]

I try to keep it interesting, thanks for watching!

[@robbielee5485]

This made me feel better. I’m converting my 2.5 car garage into a studio space, and I worry about the impression that gives.

[@MichaelSasser]

Make it look nice and like an actual studio space and you'll be fine!

[@obuchiteck]

Shooting my first boudoir next week.. I love your show.. AND SUBSCRIBED.

[@MichaelSasser]

Haha, thanks Oli, good luck!

[@danhusker1413]

Great insights. Thanks.

[@stefanvasilev9318]

Awesome video, Michael! :) Coincidentally, I just posted an aspiration post on the Facebook Group feed of the couple from Sheer Boudoir, stating how I am going to reform my spare room/closet/storage mess into a boudoir studio in about one month time (hopefully), so your video comes at the exact time to help me with ideas and inspiration! Paint, floor, furniture, etc. The whole thing... Keeping my fingers crossed I can pull it off! Cheers from Bulgaria ;)

[@MichaelSasser]

Keep us posted on the remodel!

[@wo0kiez0r]

Great tour, realy gives insight into your workflow. I'm interested in the last part, the business. You mentioned briefly here and in the "what software you use" video but can you go more into detail? How does a sales session goes from the start to the end? How do set up your prices? How do you get clients? How do you advertise and market your business?

[@MichaelSasser]

Hey Alex! Thanks for watching. Most of those answers are in my Boudoir Accelerator Course. I have a new update coming out March 1st. You can download the first 5 minutes of my posing video there and get on the email list that will send out with all the info when it gets released! www.sasserstillsboudoir.com/photographycourse/

[@netrunner1987]

Great video, just wondered what are you shooting the video with and mic? Your videos are clean, bright and audio clean.

[@scottweaverphotovideo]

Very impressed. Congratulations and thanks for your vids!

[@MichaelSasser]

You're welcome!

[@JeffMurphy]

What about blinds? Do you care much for them? Also wall color if you had to choose one what would it be and why? I'm looking into changing my office into a shooting space and love these videos.

[@MichaelSasser]

Blinds are a great idea, I just haven't really used them. I would recommend blackout ones so you can really control the light.

[@JeffMurphy]

@@MichaelSasser Thanks man, I recently took your advice on a promo video if you have time check it out on my channel and let me know your thoughts!

[@joehealeyphotography8263]

Hi Michael, excellent overview! I imagine much thought went into what color to paint the studio walls. In the video it looks like you opted for a very muted beige. Was this the result of trial and error or is it a bit more scientific than that? Thanks!

[@MichaelSasser]

Actually this is what the walls were when I moved in. If I could go back I would have made most of them dark like that one wall.

[@acecondor289]

I'm Currently working to make my living room able to transform into a studio and back as needed. Doing what I can with what I have. What do you suggest for wall hangings while the room is in studio form, or if they are even necessary . Currently I have some beautiful paintings by Justin Gerard in my place, however I'm not afraid to admit "The Art of the Silmarillion" is not right for a boudoir shoot.

[@shttrbugin]

I love your videos. You are so helpful, and friendly. Very inspiring for newbie boudoir photographers. My question is: I don't have a studio, or the ability to rent a space right now. Do you have any suggestions on how to work with potential clients, as in to shoot at their home possibly? (was thinking if it would possibly make them more comfortable too, sometimes) Or is that too crazy of an idea?

[@MichaelSasser]

I know a few photographers who do it. And they basically tell the client the pictures are usually better if it takes place in their home because they are more comfortable and the pictures will be more personal to them. Give that a try!

[@whitneybarr1238]

Hey! Love your videos! I’m just getting into boudoir photography. I literally don’t have a place indoors to do it. This is because I live in someone’s garage (college life ✌🏼). However, I do love in the Montana Mountains. Have you ever done anything outside?

[@MichaelSasser]

I have, but I'm not the best at it, check out instagram.com/lexycparks/?hl=en

[@siobhanlee4548]

Hi Michael, is there a specific reason why you chose dark colored furniture and throws as opposed to lighter tones?

[@MichaelSasser]

Yes, because I want skin to pop up against it!

[@LukeKwan78]

you are so inspiring bro! your channel is now my new favorite!!! i have been watching your videos all day!!!

[@MichaelSasser]

Thanks Luke! I'm so glad to hear that. Looking forward to putting more out for you guys!

[@rondeldebbio9219]

Well Done! Great photos.

[@GuilDormeus]

Love your videos. Honestly, I’m glad I stumbled on them! I don’t even shoot boudoir but now I wanna try it.

[@MichaelSasser]

You should definitely give it a try! It is so much fun!

[@ssztricsko7024]

your vids are awesome...very informative and thoroughly educational.

[@MichaelSasser]

Thanks for watching!

[@ImagesByLyricsPhotography]

Thank you sir for the tutorial I am glad that I subscribe to your channel I don't shoot Boudoir yet but hopefully one day I will you are showing me a lot of tips

[@MichaelSasser]

You're welcome!

[@soundmasters_youtube]

What do you use for the "vlog" scenes? :O Looks stunning. (searched at kit.com but havent found what you actually used for this, it's not a gopro right?)

[@colemanvollrath7180]

Awesome videos Michael! Really enjoying learning from you over KZbin so thank you! Do you ever use flash or continuous light in the studio? I have a poorly lit space and was wondering what your recommendation would be for a simple lighting setup with a speedlight and diffuser for example? Thanks for your time!

[@MichaelSasser]

Hey Coleman! I never use flash, but I understand that sometimes a well lit studio isn't always available. Depending on what you want your images to look like, and what your budget is, I can't recommend the Godox LED light and Light Dome enough. Check them here. kit.com/michaelsasser/youtube-kit

[@colemanvollrath7180]

@@MichaelSasser Great! I will check them out for sure. Thanks so much for your reply!

[@Makta972]

Superb video man ! I love that painting ( blue & grey)

[@tonyjones1726]

What does your contract look like? I mainly want to get back to portraiture and food photography but have always had an issue with contracts. Any ideas or direction you can point me? BTW, your work is incredible and I absolutely agree with displaying the wall art. I tell every client I have had that there is nothing like seeing yourself blown up. I will give them a large print every so often which receives the very best reactions.

[@MichaelSasser]

Hey Tony! I got my contract here, its solid and super affordable! domorephotographers.com/storefront/pro-boudoir-contract

[@JS-st3wt]

Great post! This is exactly the thing I had been wondering about for three weeks after seeing you for the first time! Thanks for the openness! Great post!!

[@MichaelSasser]

Glad to hear sharing this has helped!

[@imageofoz3586]

Another great video Michael and the skin tones you get from your a9 are just outstanding. I'd be interested in seeing how you juggle capturing images and shooting a video of your clients. Are they doing the same pose twice, one for stills one for video, do you have an assistant shooting video. Also, do you only use available light? Cheers Joe

[@MichaelSasser]

Great questions! I shoot both video and photo myself, there are two ways to do it. I know other photo teams that will have one shoot video and the other shoot photo. It depends what will work best for you!

[@AtazuM]

Awesome tour, thanks

[@drr5117]

What is the best paint color scheme for doing boudoir photography? And furniture colors.

[@asmproductionsllc]

So where do you get your photo albums that you sell to your clients ?? Thanks for coaching !! I'm learning a lot !!!

[@MichaelSasser]

All from Floricolor USA!

[@grahamastor4194]

Hi Michael, question; do you have a layout diagram for this latest studio? Something that gives a guide as how big the space is overall and the distance the settings are apart? I'm creating a one room appartment for when my in-laws come to stay and would like to use it as a photo studio when they're not visiting. Great video as usual, thanks.

[@MichaelSasser]

I don't really. But that is a queen size bed if that helps! It was a very very long room.

[@veselinvasilev9362]

Thank you! Good luck!

[@nekko2886]

So I am getting into photography and my goal is definitely being able to pose clients, how would you pose plus size clients? I have been practicing a few posing styles but I worry that I would lose the shape in the torso and losing the neck when trying to arch.

[@l.s.11]

1:39 OMG, the editing is amazing!! :D

[@MichaelSasser]

Only the very best and fancy editors are capable of such an amazing transition.

[@anthonydavis1876]

What company do you use to print your albums? Saw the ones you make in the videos and they look great. Very high quality.

[@MichaelSasser]

Floricolor! They are awesome

[@Dr.AhmedNaguib]

You are awesome artist i learned a lot from you But excuse me what is the type of clients who asks for such type of shooting? I mean who ask for this photos is it just for fun or any type of business portfolio they will build on this photos ? Don’t judge my question as idiot question, but i live in model east and this kind of photography is not common here

[@MichaelSasser]

Watch this video for that answer. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pnqWk6eihrCLbtU

[@pritush]

Moving apartment and whet a great timing to watch this . Thanks

[@vbs8099]

:-) Well done Michael....love the honesty... :-)

[@MichaelSasser]

Thank you!

[@NafisAhmed73]

you are so frank with your content.. that's why you are my inspiration in boudoir

[@MichaelSasser]

Thanks, Nafis! I plan on keeping it that way!

[@NafisAhmed73]

@@MichaelSasser glad to know that ♥

[@Bondreels]

6:34 lol wow i definitely respect the struggle. you sir are a hustler. and shout out to the roommates for helping you front. lol i love hearing how people start at the bottom and work their way up.

[@MichaelSasser]

Haha, yea, I owe them a lot for putting up with the situation. But if it's what you want to do, you've got to deal with a few hurdles!

[@andrehines]

Great work! Do you live off-site at a dedicated residence, or is it beneficial to find a place to live that could double as a studio?

[@dianamedina2244]

Thanks for the motivation!! Gracias Michael !

[@tonyborja3515]

Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@MichaelSasser]

Anytime!

[@romiemiller3093]

Denver! I'm form Golden, or a ranch just West of Golden but with a Golden zip code.

[@nicolasbaptista3631]

Hey im new to the channel. Love the content. I see you shoot alone. As a man how do you get your clients to feel comfortable besides just having a great portfolio?

[@stevetabernacle7664]

Weird question for you, but where do you buy your shirts? I've been binge watching your channel and really like your style.

[@MichaelSasser]

Haha, thanks Steve! Bloomingdales 25% off sale, Nordstrom Rack, and Saks off 5th. Its a lot Rag and Bone and John Varvatos, Theory, places like that. Check them out!

[@CostaClicks]

another amazing video! You are such an inspiration and help to me as I start my business.

[@MichaelSasser]

Glad to hear it!

[@nando829]

So, you're renting an actual apartment to use as a studio?? I'm sorry if this is a repeat question. I scrolled in the comments, but I didn't see anything of the same.

[@MichaelSasser]

That was where I was living, I designed it to use as my studio too! Its very easy to do for boudoir.

[@colinlankford816]

Do you have someone come in and do hair and makeup or you just provide a space for the customer to do their own hair and makeup?

[@Fifthimagez]

Awesome 😊😊

[@waynepoole6120]

How did you find your clients and were your initial clients paid or free photoshoots? What package deals did you offer for paid shoots?

[@MichaelSasser]

Connections and word of mouth, wedding photographers, wedding planners, makeup artists, past wedding clients, all of it!

[@Soul_Visuals_Photography]

I use my garage lol. Happy clients is what matters. And for now, it works.

[@fizzahraza4926]

Great share! But now I feel like I need links to all the awesome wayfair buys 😅

[@MonroesArtStudio]

Denver represent! :P

[@Laabebafranco]

Uff I would die if I could be your assistant. Im photo student and love your work. I found you couple years ago in yelp. When I thought get a boudoir session and I fell in love of your images. Please adopt me for be your assistant.

[@DanielKhuu]

So I've come back to this video a few times. I'm wondering, did you buy a headboard, and air mattress, and blankets to put the mattress on the floor? or is there a bed frame too?

[@DanielKhuu]

Looking at the link, it's a 22" mattress so that's pretty tall! The Amazon price has also raised (-25% $94.96 was $126.36)

[@MichaelSasser]

Hilariously, 5 years later, I just bought a new bed frame!

[@hollismb]

I've been looking for a palm like the one in your studio you said came from Wayfair. Do you happen to to have a link to it, or know the name of the item?

[@MichaelSasser]

Hey Matt! Here you go! www.wayfair.com/decor-pillows/pdp/beachcrest-home-artificial-areca-palm-tree-floor-silk-plant-in-planter-bcmh1965.html

[@samstory5591]

The man is back at it!

[@BIGShotPhotos]

Thanks for all the sharing that you do. It’s really refreshing.

[@MichaelSasser]

Road Glide you’re so welcome!!!

[@askthehairguy]

So if it takes you an hour to edit what's your client doing for that hour until you do the review?

[@MichaelSasser]

They grab lunch nearby or a coffee. Sometimes they will just hang and read a book or do some emails

[@rathernotdisclose8064]

You mention hair and makeup a few times, just curious -- do you do their hair and makeup or do you have someone do that for you? The photography seems really interesting to me but i'd hate to have to learn hair and makeup lol.

[@MichaelSasser]

I know nothing about hair and makeup. I have two makeup artists that I work with and they are amazing. I definitely recommend getting a professional. Hope that helps!

[@shaquillerobinson8803]

Great video Michael! I started doing boudoir a few months ago and your videos have been so helpful in the process. Lots of good info in this one, but guess my question is a little off topic. I do most of my shoots in hotels now, until I'm able to afford a better apartment or studio. One of the biggest problems I've encountered is the client feeling off put by going to a space by themselves, and they'll agree to shoot only if someone else comes along. So my question is, how do you feel about the client bringing a significant other, friend, or relative to the shoot? And if you're against it, what do you usually say to them in response?

[@MichaelSasser]

Anyone but the significant other. I tell them to bring them, just know that sometimes having someone there can actually make you less comfortable because someone is watching. Most importantly you want them to feel the most comfortable, it will yield the best pictures. If that means bringing someone, then they should, if it means coming alone, they should. Hope that helps!

[@JeffCreates]

Great video. Do you have a separate hair and make up person? Does the client do it themselves?

[@MichaelSasser]

Yes, I hire on a MUA to do a kickass job.

[@hempstead.studio]

Your videos are great & very informative. Keep it up my dude!

[@Efin89]

Can you recommend any alternatives to the ikea blanket?

[@MichaelSasser]

Anything that is sheer should work!

[@palentier1]

New subscriber, I love your videos. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@sgtv1229]

I'm looking into a 'studio.' it's not easy, especially when you want space for lights and whatnot, and you dont want to have two rents lol... but random question: do you live in your 'studio,' or is it just used as a studio?

[@MichaelSasser]

These are officially live/work spaces. So I live in the studio, but the bedroom I use to shoot in is not my personal bedroom. That room is only used for shooting. Hope that helps!

[@sgtv1229]

Thank you for responding. I figured as much. Not easy finding a place that meets what I'm looking for lol.

[@NatalliaVPhotography]

Love this!! Thanks! ❤

[@MichaelSasser]

You're so welcome!

[@nyn2k259]

Nice videos, I'm a photographer and I'm interested in getting into Boudoir photography but I want to ask you something. The clients pay you for a session and pay for their photos separately? Now in wedding I know they pay for an album separate. Thanks.

[@MichaelSasser]

Correct. They first pay for the time and skills and photoshoot. Then they buy the pictures separately.

[@Francisco-Danconia]

@@MichaelSasser I don't quite understand why it is this way, do you have a video explaining this?

[@cynthiagastelum6454]

Thank you so much for this, I keep stressing about having a perfect setting. But now I know that it's ok. One question though how to you go about with lighting? For example I see you have many windows for that natural light. Where I have not so much. How do I go about that? Hopefully that makes sense lol

[@EriksHarjo]

My guess would be LED panels. The ones that are being used in many office spaces as light source or put in rooms without windows to mimic windows so employees aren't totally bummed out. Just make sure to get good quality panels with CRI rating 90+

[@MichaelSasser]

The first thing is to try to learn to shoot with just your one window. Try a few different things. If you're still struggling, it might be time to check out a softbox and a flash or constant light. First though, set up a few shoots to practice with just your select window or windows. A lot of boudoir photographers prefer that because the light is so directional.

[@cynthiagastelum6454]

@@MichaelSasser that makes sense, thank you so much.

[@patriciusx]

Very cool video. Thank you for the insights!

[@MichaelSasser]

You got it!

[@missnatuful]

Thanks for motivating me 😊

[@MichaelSasser]

You're so welcome!

[@Comalv]

Hey, great tips! Any chance you remember what that Ikea blanket was called? I can't find anything remotely similar and not really sure what to search for either on Amazon and similar places. Keep up the great videos!

[@MichaelSasser]

I haven't been able to find it either. If I do come across it I'll make another video on it.

[@Comalv]

@@MichaelSasser Thank you!

[@monztermovies]

Great vid! 👍👍👍