Photoshoot Tips
Here’s my best advice for a successful photoshoot!
Gather EVERYTHING for the photoshoot into a hamper at least the night before!
From the jewelry you’re going to wear, to every single piece of your outfit, even the undergarments! I can edit miracles, but I can’t always perfectly edit that hot pink bra under your white blouse, lol!Don’t wear your hat until we are ready to start!
Leave it on the dashboard during the drive. This will avoid any red hat lines across your forehead. We’ll want some photos without the hat, too!Don’t wear any delicate clothes on the drive that could end up wrinkled.
If you iron your outfit the night before, hang it up to keep it fresh. And if you have something that wrinkles easily, you can change into it once we arrive at the location.Feel free to bring any props that bring out your personality!
Whether it’s your favorite drink, activity, pet, or even a special jacket, I love capturing what makes you unique!For the guys, it’s best to have a haircut a week before the session to allow some grow-out!
Sometimes, getting a haircut right before can result in a style that’s too short, uneven or result in shaved sideburns, which may not be the look you’re going for. It’s better to have a little bit of extra length to work with so they can style it and feel good about themselves!Make sure your footwear is clean for the photoshoot.
Take a few minutes to give your shoes a quick wipe or brush to remove any dirt or scuffs. It’ll make a big difference in the overall appearance of your photos and helps create a polished and more put together look.Please don’t stress if you have a sudden skin breakout, a minor spill or stain on the drive, a skin cut, a bruise, etc. Anything that’s not an easy and quick fix, I am happy to remove from your photos, just mention it and I’ll take care of it! Just relax and enjoy the shoot!
An even tan goes a long way. You know that extra confidence you get when you have that glow in the summer? Same goes for photos! I would suggest a gradual self-tanning lotion or mousse for natural glowing skin. Some of my favorite brands are Jergens or Bondi Sands or Loving Tan. Apply fake tanner at least a few days before so it can set in.
Light makeup makes a world of difference. Maybe you love makeup, that’s great! Maybe you prefer a mostly natural look, that’s great, too! To look your absolute best, I recommend having a pigmented lip gloss that compliments your outfit, a basic foundation to enhance your skin, as well as mascara. Bronzer, highlight, and blush are just the icing on the cake. Better yet, hire a makeup artist to help look your best that day! If you’re a makeup guru, the old saying is the more makeup the better!
But what will I wear!? Coordinate your clothing choices and consider the mood or style that you want to convey in your photos. Opt for something comfortable yet stylish, like a flowy dress or jeans with a cute top! I love good shoes with somewhat of a heel, boots always look sharp. Don’t forget to bring a stylish jacket or cardigan in case it gets chilly!
Clothing as a group - Create visual cohesiveness in your portraits by selecting coordinating colors that work well as a whole but will still allow the individuality of each person to shine through. I suggest choosing a color and then bringing it all together by choosing complementary colors!
My friendly tips and suggestions:
- Get your rest and drink plenty of water the night before! You’ll be refreshed and energized.
- Moisturize your hair, skin, and lips to keep your skin looking healthy and radiant.
- This might sound silly, but it’s from my own personal experience. Eat a well balanced meal the night before. It’s best to go easy on bread the night before a photoshoot. For me, it affects my inner confidence and causes unwanted bloating the next morning. I’m an absolute pizza and garlic bread foodie, but I love to feel confident in photos even more!
- Have your nails freshly done, or have them clean and neat, including the cuticles and hangnails. Chipped and grown out manicures are hard for me to edit.
- Don’t forget to shave!Practice some poses in front of the mirror to feel comfortable and confident during the shoot.
If we are working with your animals- please bring their treats, toys, a bucket of grain, anything they love that we can get their attention with during the session!
If you are bringing horses, please arrive promptly. I realize it takes time to load, drive, unload, brush, & saddle them. All of this takes extra time so please consider leaving earlier so we have extra time to shoot!
Relax and have FUN! Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy the experience! Relax, be yourself, and let your personality shine through. I’ll promise to make you laugh and hype you up along the way. (: