10 Questions with Arin Phillips

Arin Phillips Photo

Photography - Arin Phillips

10 Questions with Arin Phillips

1. Introduction: What's your story?

Hi, I’m Arin — Owner, Photographer, and Creative Director at Arin Phillips Photo in Austin.

In the words of Dolly Parton, “Find out who you are, then do it on purpose.” That’s been my guiding mantra long before I ever specialized in boudoir.

Since opening my studio, that calling has only grown. During a session, I focus on creating an experience where women don’t just feel empowered — they feel seen.

And they walk away with their own Before & After moment: full of confidence, power, and proof of everything they already are.

2. What is your experience shooting boudoir?

Funny enough, I didn’t start my photography career in boudoir. In fact, I used to be a little intimidated by it — not because of the subject matter, but because I knew how life-changing it could be.

Boudoir isn’t just about posing and lighting — it’s about holding space, reading energy, and guiding someone through a transformation that’s deeply personal and vulnerable. Once I experienced that kind of space for myself, I knew I was all in.

Since opening my studio in late 2019, I’ve photographed hundreds of women and earned five international awards, a feature in Boudoir Inspiration, and a cover story in Playboy for my work.

But more than anything, what keeps me rooted in this genre is witnessing the shift that happens during each session — when self-doubt turns into self-celebration.

3. Where will the photo shoot take place?

The majority of my sessions take place in my private home studio — a warm, intentionally designed space where every detail is curated to help you feel comfortable, empowered, and fully seen.

I also offer limited mini sessions about once a quarter at handpicked rental studios or Peerspace locations around the city. These are perfect for women looking for a beautifully styled, time-conscious experience without compromising the signature empowerment and attention to detail I’m known for.

4. How should customers prepare for the Boudoir photo shoot?

Sessions are typically booked 2–3 months in advance to give each client the time and space to fully prepare.

The first step? A one-on-one Design Consult over Zoom where we talk through your vision, the vibe you’re going for, and how you want to feel in your photos. This step is essential: I only book sessions after we’ve connected, so every experience is personal, intentional, and tailored from the start.

From there, we set your session date, set up your payment plan (or pay in full), and start curating your lingerie and mood board. You’ll have support every step of the way — including prep tips, outfit guidance, and confidence-boosting resources before you even step into the studio.

You’ll also be invited into The Ladies Lounge, my private Facebook group and client community, where past and future clients connect, share inspiration, and hype each other up throughout the journey.

5. Will there be a hairstylist and make-up artist?

Professional makeup is included in my Bombshell experience, and hair styling can always be added on.

For Vixen bookings, hair and makeup are optional add-ons — so clients can fully customize their session depending on their comfort and budget.

6. What do you do to make your customers feel comfortable for the shoot?

From the moment they walk in, I make it a point to slow things down. Clients are greeted with a mimosa, music that matches the vibe, and a no-pressure space where nothing feels rushed or performative.

I walk each woman through posing step-by-step — no modeling experience required — and use language that focuses on how it feels, not how it looks.

Most importantly, I treat every session like a collaboration, not a photoshoot. My job is to hype, guide, and hold space — so by the time we're shooting, it feels less like “being in front of the camera” and more like stepping into your moment.

7. Are pictures printed or do you provide a digital file?

The session fee includes your time and photography experience, but print products and digital images are sold separately to ensure each client gets exactly what she wants.

I work with two trusted labs known for their museum-quality albums, mounted prints, metal prints, and gallery wall art. My most popular item is the photo album, which comes in two sizes: a small album featuring 25 images, and a large album with 35 images.

Most clients invest between $1,600 and $3,000 in print products to create beautiful keepsakes they treasure for a lifetime.

All print orders include the matching digital files, delivered through a secure, easy-to-use downloadable gallery — so you can enjoy your images both on your walls and your devices.

8. What happens on the day?

On the day of your session, you’ll arrive at my private home studio. If you’ve booked hair and makeup, you’ll start with my glam team to get camera-ready.

Then it’s just you and me in the studio, where I’ll guide you through every pose with clear direction (and plenty of hype). You don’t need to know a single thing about posing—my job is to coach you the entire way and make it feel natural, relaxed, and empowering.

After we shoot, you’ll take a short break while I prepare your images for your same-day photo reveal.

Seeing yourself—unedited, glowing, and in your element—is such a transformative part of the experience. Clients are often shocked (in the best way) at how powerful, sensual, and beautiful they look straight out of the camera. During the reveal, you’ll choose your favorite images and decide how you’d like to display them through albums, wall art, or digital collections.

9. Where will the photographs be used?

At your ordering appointment, we’ll go over a model release form that gives you complete control over how—or if—your images are shared. You’ll have the option to:

Keep your images 100% private
Approve anonymous sharing (no face, no identifying features)
Allow select images in our private, women-only Facebook group (The Ladies Lounge)
Or grant full permission for social media, website, and promotional use
Your comfort and privacy come first, always.

As the artist, I do retain full copyright to my work. You’ll receive a personal use license, which means you can enjoy, and share your images for yourself—but they’re not licensed for commercial use or resale without prior written consent.

10. What is your cancellation and/or refund policy?

To reserve your session date, a non-refundable retainer is required. This holds your spot on my calendar and ensures that the full experience is thoughtfully prepared just for you.

If something comes up and you need to reschedule, I ask that you provide at least 72 hours' written notice via email to avoid a rescheduling fee. You're welcome to reschedule up to three times before the session is canceled.

If a session is canceled entirely, the retainer is non-refundable—but I’m always happy to work with you to find a new date when notice is given.

Gallery

Awards

BoudoirRule Editor’s Choice 2025