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10 Things You Can Do for Your Portrait Photo Session

November 23, 20195 min read

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At some point in your life you may need to have a professional photograph taken, whether it be for your business, as a gift, for a family function, or simply for the experience. Whatever your reason may be, it always helps to be prepared for professional photography sessions. Here are you things you can do to prepare yourself for your upcoming photoshoot.

1. Bring Your Vision to Life

To get the best kind of photos, you’ll want to make sure that you and your photographer are on the same page when it comes to the vision, theme, and idea you want for your photoshoot. Before your session, you should talk with your photographer to discuss the location, your wardrobe, a theme, or any other ideas you may have. Be sure that if you have any concerns, such as comfort issues, to make them aware from the very beginning. 

2. Get Some Sleep

It’s normal to feel a little nervous before a photoshoot, but that sense of unease can be easily captured on film if you don’t get enough rest. Ensure you catch as much sleep as you can, starting at least 3 days before your session. This can help ensure you are relaxed and at ease even while the photos are being taken. 8 hours of sleep a day will help there to be no dark circles around your eyes the day of the shoot, and you will not be yawning either. It’s best to be alert, refreshed, and relaxed during your portrait photo session.

3. Stay Hydrated

Make sure you are well hydrated by drinking lots of water. It will help keep your skin healthy and supple as well as make you feel refreshed. If your photoshoot is going to take place outdoors, and it’s a hot day, having water bottles around is a must to prevent overheating, sunstroke, and fainting.

4. Figure Out Your Fashion

Once you have decided if there’s going to be a theme with your photographer, the next step is to figure out the proper clothing, footwear, and accessories to wear during the session. Also, be prepared with a backup plan in case location becomes compromised or unavailable at the last minute. A good example is a weather issue, if the shoot was planned to take place outside. If you go ahead with your plan for an outdoor photoshoot, you may need to adjust your wardrobe so you do not get soaking wet. 

5. Have a Makeup Session

If you are planning to wear makeup, make sure you have a test makeup session with the clothing you plan to wear during the shoot. Not only will this ensure that it works well with the clothing, but also it’ll help your photographer, who may need to adjust lighting if something reflects. 

Doing this also helps you to figure out if the makeup you want to use will bring out your whole look, as well as remind you not to be too playful with your looks on the day of the shoot. Stick with what works and what makes you stand out and look your best.

6. Relax About Body Image

Do not worry about your body image!! Your photographer has your best interest at heart and will ensure you feel comfortable in your skin. If you and your photographer discuss it, you can have them edit in some touch ups. But make sure you are very clear if you wish to do so! The point is you should be comfortable as yourself, not worrying about what anyone else thinks. The best photographer will make sure they capture you being you. 

7. Strike a Pose

Stand in front of your mirror and practice various poses. See what works for you. Depending on what theme you decide to go with, look up various poses that go with the theme. For example, if you are going for something professional for work, practice poses that are determined, confident, and focused. By practicing poses, you’ll help your photographer capture some great shots and you will be able to better communicate what they ask for during the session in terms of positioning and poses. 

8. Entourage, Anyone?

If you are comfortable about it, bring along one person, either a friend or your spouse or a family member. Too many can get very distracting. They can be your safety net and your mini cheer squad if you need some pep. They can also help be your assistant if you need something. They are your positive vibes, a motivation team. This is especially helpful if you are a shy person and/or having issues with body positivity. There’s nothing greater than being with the people you love who bring you up when you need it, and getting great photos as a result of this encouragement. 

9. Be Prepared

Reiterating what was said with clothing, have a back-up plan for your wardrobe, makeup, and location. In the off chance something changes, you want to be prepared for weather issues or a location change. These preparations can range from hairstyles to the season of the year, to simply moments that are too good to pass on.

10. Have Fun!

Breathe and relax. Put yourself in your photographer’s hands and let yourself be in the moment. Whether or not this portrait photo session is for work, family, or something else, you should always make sure you are comfortable and having a good time. This ensures that your personality shines in each shot…which is what the real end goal is, no matter what kind of photoshoot you are going for. 

Ready for your portrait session? Not sure if you think I’d be a good fit? There’s no better way to find out than to get in touch with me. You may find that I really am the professional photographer you’re looking for!

Creative Commons Attribution: Permission is granted to repost this article in its entirety with credit to Photos by Cheryl and a clickable link back to this page.

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