Set the Mood, Not Your Wallet on Fire: Boudoir Payment Options That Work

Let’s talk about financing your boudoir photoshoot! I know, this isn’t the most exciting topic, but it’s an important one. We’re proud to be a luxury boudoir studio, and we don’t shy away from the fact that the experience we offer reflects that.

At Belle Marie Boudoir, we have our own private studio space in Ramsey, MN, with multiple specialty sets and lighting options, a 500+ piece style closet, editing software, client management tools, professional photography gear, a studio manager (hi, that’s me!), and an experienced makeup artist. Boudoir can definitely be done on a budget, but if you’re looking for a top-tier experience with a team that specializes in boudoir photography, there’s a cost that reflects the time, tools, and talent that go into every session.

Most of our clients are everyday women who don’t have a few thousand dollars just lying around. Boudoir photography is an investment in yourself, so it’s important to make a plan in advance to pay for your session in a way that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Our boudoir packages range from $1,490 to $5,990, and our average client spends around $3,000. So let’s walk through the payment and financing options available, so you can feel confident going into your session knowing you have a plan that works for you.

1. Credit Card

Using a credit card can be a good option, but not just any card. You want to avoid high interest charges, a low APR, or a 0% introductory interest rate (it’s just so important to pay the total off before the introductory period ends!).

Another great perk with some credit cards are travel points or cash back promotions.  Some cards also offer pay over time plans for a monthly fee that’s usually lower than the cards interest rate. So explore your card’s benefits and see if there are options for breaking up larger charges!

If you already have a good card like that, this might be your simplest way to pay for your boudoir experience while earning rewards or giving yourself time to pay it off low interest or interest-free.

2. Affirm, AfterPay, or Klarna

There’s been a big rise in “Buy Now, Pay Later” options the last few years.  Our studio accepts Affirm, AfterPay, and Klarna. These services allow you to set up monthly payments directly with them while we get paid in full right away. This is a great option if you don’t have a qualifying credit card but want to get your photos and products immediately after your shoot.

The key with these plans is to set up your plan before your session so you can explore your approval status and payment terms. Approval depends on your credit score and the total amount you're financing. These services typically run a soft credit check, which won’t impact your credit score.

Look for offers like “Pay in 4” or Affirm’s 0% APR for 6 months plan. Just be sure you’re able to pay within the interest-free window, otherwise, interest charges can sneak up fast. These plans can be great if you approach it with a budget in mind and keep in mind how interest rates for longer plans will affect your final total.

3. Credee

If you're unable to qualify for traditional financing or “Buy Now, Pay Later” options, Credee may be a fit. This is another financing service specifically for small businesses, and it doesn’t require a credit check and they insure the purchase amount for the business. We’re able to offer a range of terms and payment lengths, even up to 24 months.

The downside? Longer plans often come with higher interest rates, and you’ll need to pay your balance in full before receiving any photos or albums. This can be a great fallback option, but it’s best for clients who can’t get approved elsewhere and are okay with receiving their products later.

4. In-House Payment Plan

This is our newest and most flexible option—and it's interest free!

We now offer in-house payment plans that start at least two months before your session date, and can extend up to six months after your session. To qualify, your plan must be started before your shoot. Unfortunately, we’ve had too many clients ghost on payments after their session, which is why we now require these plans to be set up in advance.

We’ll work with you one-on-one to break your total into manageable monthly or biweekly payments, tailored to your package and your budget. This is a fantastic option if you’re booking ahead and want to pay over time without any interest fees.

Final Thoughts on Boudoir Photoshoot Financing

If you’ve made it this far, high five! We love a prepared woman, and you’ll feel much more relaxed and ready when you arrive for your photoshoot knowing you’ve already got a financing plan in place. It’s one less thing to worry about the day of and you’ll know you’ve selected a package and plan that fits your budget!

While we may not be the most inexpensive option out there, we truly believe Belle Marie Boudoir offers one of the best boudoir experiences in Minnesota. From expert posing guidance to stunning heirloom-quality albums, everything we offer is designed to help you feel empowered, confident, and celebrated.

Boudoir is about more than photos, it’s a self-love journey. And with a little planning, we can help make your dream boudoir session a reality, no matter your budget.