How to Prep for a Bettie-Inspired Photo Shoot!

This post is reprinted from ClassyRebel.net; it has not been edited by BettiePage.com for grammar, content, or clarity.

Have you ever seen the most amazing heart shaped love tub? I’ve always wanted a photoshoot at one of my favorite motels. The decor has not changed since I first saw the rooms and when referred to in movies. I had to think about what was going to make this shoot super sexy, exotic, an ultra Bettie. Lingerie and Hair of course!

Jessica Batiste, photographed by Danielle Spires

Here is Bettie in a Red neglige and heels on a bed with cute plush pillows. I purchased the same colors and felt like an instant Bettie!

For my lingerie, I took a trip over to Crash The Party Vintage in Whittier, California for some sexy lingerie.I called the owner, Mel, prior to the trip to ask if she had any lingerie in my size and she said “Of course we do!” I was so excited when I arrived and saw so many different nighties and negligees. I’d never owned true vintage night wear. When I tried them on, I knew they were a perfect pick for the Sweetheart photoshoot. I bought a red, a yellow, and a black negligee along with a pink nighty set. I knew I would totally be using all of the pieces in the shoot.

Jessica Batiste, photographed by Danielle Spires

Bettie in a black negligee

Doing my hair was a breeze! I styled my Bettie Page Wig from our Bettie Page Hair Collection. I pin curled the wig with my 3/4″ Babyliss curling iron and let it sit in the curls for about 2 days. This length of time is not necessary to keep the curl but the luxury of styling wigs is allowing the curls to set for as long as you want. Its wonderful to style and set without inconveniencing yourself with clips all day and overnight. The longer the hair sets, the better. I used my favorite Kenra Professional products and Big Sexy Hair products as well. I wanted this hair to be perfect for this shoot. I also brought a handmade wavy wig I made and lightly styled a few days before. I brought that for the bedroom scene.

Jessica Batiste, photographed by Danielle Spires

What I loved most about this shoot was the nostalgia of the room. The bed, the linens, a desk, heart tub, and the bathroom. I was absolutely mesmerized by the hearts and mirrors on the ceiling. The whole set up was perfect for a perfect Valentines Day shoot. It’s not the cleanest place and frequented by ladies of the night. We never tell where the motel is located because its a secret gem. If you know, you know. I only shared with my photographer, Danielle Spires.

Jessica Batiste, photographed by Danielle Spires

Bettie has some of the cutest photos in negligees and nighties. This photo looks like it was shot in a home or hotel room. She’s got her waves and signature bangs, and she included props and had a wonderful photographer. This inspired my motel look and shoot.

Jessica Batiste, photographed by Danielle Spires

We brought some cute props to make the room feel more lived in and my style. We had vintage phones, wine bottles, wine glasses, and unique ash trays. Danielle knew exactly what I wanted with the look and feel of the shoot. The lingerie,outfits, hair, makeup, and set were perfect! I couldn’t wait to share the photos online. When i did, it was well received! I don’t typically share sexy photos but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that I’m only young once and I had to have photos of myself in this form to withstand the test of time, much like Bettie. Theres nothing wrong with a little sex appeal, especially when your honey loves the photos most of all.

Jessica Batiste, photographed by Danielle Spires

Basically, the point is to doll yourself up, get your hair and nails done, book a photographer you know and trust to capture the most lovely photos of you. It will make you feel so sexy and liberated. We all deserve to feel beautiful in a comfortable environment. Know your body type and select lingerie accordingly. Best thing you can do is actually print the images to keep in a book for your children and grandchildren to see when you get older. I suggest the Bettie Page Wig or Bangs from our Bettie Page Hair Collection, pieces from Crash the Party Vintage Clothing in Whittier, and the most amazing female photographer, Danielle Spires, all located in the greater Los Angeles area!