Please read all of the below tips. They are things that I have learned over the years that make a big difference on the quality of the shoot and the final images.
Review the details of your chosen package and your contract:
- Understand the allotted time, the number of final images, the allowed number of outfits, etc. All of the pertinent details are openly available on the Session Prices page of my website as well as the contract that you sign. If you have any questions, please ask before the you pay the deposit and sign the contract..
How to Get ready for my Photoshoot:
- Practice facial expressions and poses in front of mirror. This will help you feel more relaxed and confident once you’re in front of the camera. Try different angles and smiles. I will help guide you during the photoshoot but having some practice prior to the shoot makes a big difference.
- Make a checklist and then gather the items you’ll need to take with you such as clothing, makeup, hairbrush, jewelry, water, and snacks, and pack them the night before the shoot. You don’t want to be scrambling the day of the shoot. Stress can add unwanted lines to your face and harden your features.
- Get a good night’s sleep. Don’t drink alcohol or take any medication that will inhibit your sleep. And don’t stay up late. You want your face to look as fresh as possible, and your attitude to be bright and positive.
- Be sure to take care of all hair removal prior to a shoot but leave at least 2-3 days between when you wax/shave any sensitive areas (such as your bikini line) and your shoot date. This time is necessary to allow for any irritation to disappear before your shoot.
- Take care of your nails. Be sure that your nails are neat and well maintained. If you plan on posing barefoot, be sure your feet and toes are in the best condition possible.
What to Wear:
- Easy. Wear whatever you are comfortable in and the image you want to portray in the photoshoot. Just ensure that if you don't want wrinkled clothes in the final images, don't bring wrinkle clothes to the shoot!
- For couples and groups, you don't have to match outfits, but please don't wear colors that will clash. Matching colors are always nice.
- Avoid wearing large or bold patterns or logos on your clothing.
- It is always advisable if you want to look a little slimmer, to wear black clothing that is neither too tight nor too baggy; you don’t want to look like you are wearing a banana skin or a tent. Also, if the photo shoot is not for modeling, then it is not advised for you to wear shorts or skirts that are too short as they limit movement and flexibility that could lead to rigid photos.
- Bring a hairbrush and some hairspray, if you use it, and some light powder to touch up any shiny parts of your face during the shoot. Bring a mirror so you can check yourself throughout the shoot. You might see something that I don't see.
- For most of the on-location shoots, we do move quite a bit. So, wear comfortable walking shoes. Once a location is reached, change into the shoes you want for the outfit.
Final tips:
- Wear loose fitting clothing, socks, undergarments, etc on your way to the shoot to avoid imprints on your skin.
- Remove the tags from those clothes!
- Watch the armpits! They might show in some shots. If you shave them, be clean shaven. Remove the deodorant residue.
- Don’t worry about bringing too many clothes, as long as you bring a variety. You might change your mind on an outfit selection at the last minute and that's alright.
- Be prepared to change outfits on location. Most of the time, clients just change in their car. There might also be a business with a restroom close by.
- Bring a friend! They are always helpful by keeping a hand on a light stand, watching for fly away hairs, and just so you feel more comfortable!
- Don’t forget to hydrate the day before and the day of the shoot.
- Don't show up hung over.
And remember, photo shoots are fun! It's a chance for you to express yourself! So, relax and enjoy yourself!