One of the top questions we get asked, “When should I schedule my spray tan?”  Truthfully, we suggest to not get one at all, just be aware of your sun habits for the few weeks leading up to your shoot.  Lingerie doesn’t hide much including tan lines. Spray tans could also leaving you looking more like a distant relative of an Oompa Loompa in your photos, just sayin. We do skin smoothing, but not skin recoloring. Studio light and flash is different than the light you see in the bathroom mirror. 

However, if you still feel like you absolutely must spray tan here are a few tips.

• Schedule it at least 2 or 3 days before your shoot. This will allow it to look more natural after a couple showers.  Please don’t walk into the studio straight from the salon. Orange sheets are probably not the look we’re going for.

• Avoid tan lines.  If someone is doing airbrush for you, they will help. But if it’s a booth, you’re going to have to think about how you’re going to avoid them, especially the crease between your bum and the top of your leg. 

• Pick the right shade, don’t do the darkest if your pale.  Remember the Friends episode, “The One with Ross’ Tan?” Not the look you want. 

• Try it out in advance. If it’s in your budget, we also suggest a trial run well in advance of your shoot.  Well in advance means enough time for it completely go away, especially if you haven’t had a spray tan before.  I tell you this out of love because I learned the hard way, spray tans do not agree with my skin at all, no matter who does it.  Don’t be me.

In the end, it’s your choice. But we will always suggest to celebrate who you are. Whatever your natural skin tone is, embrace it.