When getting your photos taken, there are things you rely on your photographer to do well: posing, lighting, and composition. You also have a responsibility to let the magic happen.
There are several things you can do to prepare for your photo session and make it even better. Although a lot relies on your photographer’s skills and abilities, a tremendous amount also comes down to your preparation for your portrait session.
Want to learn what you can do to get the best photos and also have a great session? Here’s a comprehensive list of things you can do to make your session a tremendous success.
Book a session:
This step is the most important. When choosing a photographer, go through the profile online – Instagram is always your best shot. Take a good look at the photos, if they suit your taste, then go ahead to book. While booking, speak to the photographer about the kind of aura you want to give through your photo.
Pre-plan locations:
It’s a lovely idea that you’ll show up, and awesome things will happen. But photoshoots take planning. Simply put, location matters. It helps bring context to your portraits. Studio or on location? A park or the mountains? Your choice.
Pick out your clothes early:
It is highly recommended that you work with your photographer to get suggestions on what to wear for your photo session. Some shoots have themes or specific lighting schemes in mind, and clothing can make a huge difference in elevating the images’ overall look. Once you know what you should wear, make sure to assemble your wardrobe a few days before your session. Get items laundered, ironed, and anything else needed so that you’re not rushing at the last minute.
Practice hair & makeup:
Don’t get carried away by the location and clothes. Give attention to your hair too. If you’re getting your hair and makeup professionally done for your shoot, it’s worth doing a test run of both. Make sure both come out how you want; this way, you’re not worried about how your hair or face will look on the day of your photoshoot.
Shave the night before:
This tip mostly applies to facial hair or if you’ll be getting detailed shots of your legs. Shaving the night before your photoshoot will reduce any redness that may come from irritated skin.
Eat, drink, and rest:
Keep your body happy. This advice goes for life in general, but it’s essential for your portraits. Make sure to eat something, drink plenty of water, and get a good night’s sleep before your session. Your body will thank you! Photo sessions are a blast but can be exhausting, so you’ll want to feel comfortable and happy!
Have a backup plan:
If you stay in an area with volatile weather, have a backup plan. What happens if you’re outdoors and it becomes cloudy and it begins to rain? Prepare for your photo session, and check the weather the night before. If it looks bleak, contact your photographer and plan what to do if it rains on your photoshoot.
Know what happens after the shoot:
You’re going to be exhausted but excited after your photo session. If all went well, the first question after the shoot would be, “When will I see my images?” Please talk with your photographer and learn their process. Make sure you know what to expect, so you’re not surprised later.
Remember, your photos are your brand collaterals. Make sure the investment is worth it. Do you have any question or comment? Do share with us in the comment section.