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Helpful Tips: 5 Ways to Prepare for Your Shoot

November 21, 2018

Over the past two years of shooting, I’ve learned a few simple tricks that can help your photos look more professional and polished. Some of these things I’ve noticed by trial and error, and others, clients pointed out to me after they got their galleries back. I want you to feel like YOU in your photos–but there are ways to prepare for your shoot that will help keep the focus where we want it (your face), instead of on annoying distractions!

WARDROBE

simple | textured

I love pretty patterns as much as the next person, but try to stick with simple ones for your shoot (or at least bring options). Crazy patterns draw the eyes away from your face to your clothes. Think texture: vests, sweaters, scarves, hats. Things that are easy put on and take off that give variety, and something for your hands to do. NOTE: Make sure undergarments are not peeking through or leaving creases.

HANDS

nails | skin | jewelry

Your nails should be clean. No left over polish that’s flaking off. If they are painted, go with neutral colors. Use lotion or moisturizer before the shoot to make them look soft. Clean your wedding ring before hand and make sure your jewelry adds to your look without being distracting.

HAIR

styled | natural

The biggest piece of advice I have for hair is, unless we are in a windstorm and all your bobby pins break loose, make sure your hair is out of your eyes. If you don’t like fly aways, bring hair spray or extra bobby pins. NOTE: no hair ties on your wrist!!!

FEET

shoes | toes

Sometimes people are so focused on making sure hair, makeup, and clothes are on point, they forget about the shoes. Showing up in dirty tennis shoes WILL be a distraction. The minimum: shoes are clean. Even better, nice shoes or even ‘statement’ shoes as options. If you are wearing sandals or going barefoot, pay attention to your toes. Nails should be clean or painted.

BRING WITH YOU

variety | backup | just-in-case

Another way to make sure you are prepared for your shoot is choosing what to bring with! These aren’t all necessary, but may prove useful and add to your experience and overall session. Lip Gloss (lips look better when they aren’t dry) — Hairspray — HandMirror — Blanket (my personal favorite, I use blankets as props all the time in many different ways) — Snacks (especially for kids) — Bobby Pins –| Extra outfits, shoes — Water.

I hope this list gives you ideas that are helpful in making you feel prepared and confident for your shoot! If you have more ideas, please leave them in the comments below! Feel free to share these tips with your friends and family, I know Christmas photos are coming up fast and I want everyone to be happy with those holiday cards!

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