1. Privacy Is Non-Negotiable
Privacy isn't just a feature—it's the foundation of trust in boudoir photography. Every decision about your gallery delivery should start with the question: "Does this protect my client?"
Use unique passwords for every gallery
Never reuse passwords across clients. Each gallery should have its own access credentials.
Choose platforms that don't index content
Your client's gallery should never appear in search results—ever.
Prefer expiring links over permanent URLs
If someone shares a direct image link, it should stop working after a set time.
For a deeper dive into security considerations, see our guide on secure boudoir photo delivery.
2. Perfect Your Delivery Timing
When you deliver the gallery matters almost as much as how you deliver it. The timing affects how your client experiences their images.
Set Clear Expectations
Tell clients during booking when they can expect their gallery (e.g., "2-3 weeks after your session"). Then deliver on time—or early.
Build Anticipation
A quick "sneak peek" email a few days before the full gallery can build excitement without overwhelming your client.
Consider the Day of Week
Many photographers find that Friday afternoon or weekend deliveries work well—clients have time to savor the experience.
Give Time to Process
Seeing intimate photos of yourself can be emotional. Give clients space to view privately before following up.
3. Make Presentation Part of the Experience
The reveal is a moment. Don't waste it with a generic file-sharing link. Your gallery presentation should feel as intentional as your photography.
Choose a dark, elegant viewing experience
Boudoir images look best against dark backgrounds. Avoid clinical white interfaces.
Consider sequential viewing modes
Story-style presentations let each image breathe. A grid of thumbnails doesn't capture the same emotion.
Add personal touches
Custom intro messages, affirmations between images, or a closing dedication transform delivery into celebration.
Include your branding
Your logo and studio aesthetic should carry through. This reinforces your professionalism.
Learn more about creating meaningful experiences in our guide to private client galleries for boudoir photographers.
4. Communicate Thoughtfully
Your delivery email is part of the experience. It should feel personal, not transactional.
Example delivery message structure:
"Hi [Name],
Your gallery is ready, and I can't wait for you to see it.
Click the link below, enter your password, and take some time just for yourself. I recommend viewing in a quiet moment—pour a glass of wine, put on your favorite music, and let yourself really take in what we created together.
You were incredible during your session. These images reflect that."
Remind them it's private
Reassure clients that only they have access. This helps them relax into the viewing experience.
Explain how to select favorites
If your platform supports favorites, tell them how it works and what to do with their selections.
Follow up appropriately
Give them a few days, then check in. Ask how they're feeling about their images. This opens the door to print/album sales naturally.
5. Maintain Professional Standards
Professionalism extends to every part of boudoir gallery delivery. These practices protect both you and your client.
Keep clear records
Document delivery dates, passwords issued, and client communications. This protects you if questions arise.
Have clear policies about gallery access duration
Will galleries stay available forever? For a year? Make this clear upfront.
Respect client wishes about sharing
Always get explicit permission before using images in your portfolio or marketing—even if it's in your contract.
Use platforms designed for this work
Avoid generic tools that weren't built for intimate photography. The platform you choose reflects on your studio.
Quick Delivery Checklist
Gallery has unique password (not reused)
Platform is secure and private (not Google Drive/Dropbox)
Images are properly edited and color-corrected
Gallery presentation matches your brand aesthetic
Delivery email is personal and reassuring
Client knows how to select favorites (if applicable)
Download options are clear and easy to use
Follow-up plan is in place (timing, approach)
Ready to Elevate Your Delivery?
VelvetVault was designed with these best practices in mind—secure by default, beautiful by design, built specifically for boudoir photographers.
Explore VelvetVault