Portrait Session Prep
Personal portraits are about capturing who you are in your best light. This guide will help you prepare for a relaxed, enjoyable session that results in photos you'll love.
Clothing & Styling
What to Wear
- • Choose fitted clothing that flatters your figure
- • Solid colors or subtle patterns work best (avoid busy prints)
- • Neutral tones (black, white, gray, navy, blush) photograph beautifully
- • Layer your outfit for versatility during the shoot
- • Wear comfortable shoes if the session includes standing or walking
- • Bring a change of outfit if you'd like variety in your photos
Hair & Makeup
- • Schedule hair and makeup for the morning of your session if possible
- • Have your hair styled the way you want it photographed
- • Enhance makeup slightly more than usual for the camera
- • Bring touch-up supplies for makeup and hair
- • Consider your usual style rather than trying something completely new
- • Bring bobby pins, hair ties, or clips for styling adjustments
Before the Session
The Day Before
- • Plan and lay out your outfit
- • Get a good night's sleep (8+ hours)
- • Avoid excessive sun exposure
- • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
- • Avoid alcohol the night before
Day of Session
- • Eat a light, healthy breakfast
- • Arrive 10-15 minutes early to relax
- • Take a few minutes to decompress and get comfortable
- • Use the restroom before we start shooting
- • Bring water and stay hydrated throughout
What to Bring
- ✓ A second outfit (optional but recommended)
- ✓ Makeup and hair touch-up supplies
- ✓ Comfortable shoes or flats for between shots
- ✓ Water bottle and snacks
- ✓ A phone charger if you'd like to share photos in real-time
- ✓ Jewelry or accessories that make you feel confident
- ✓ A friend for support and encouragement (optional)
Posing & Comfort Tips
Feeling Confident in Front of the Camera
- • Don't worry about poses—I'll guide you through everything
- • Think of something that makes you smile (a favorite memory, inside joke, etc.)
- • Relax your shoulders and take deep breaths
- • Movement is flattering—we'll walk, adjust, and shift positions naturally
- • The camera captures genuine moments better than forced smiles
- • We take many shots, so you'll have plenty of amazing options
Questions Before Your Session?
Feel free to reach out! I'm happy to discuss outfit ideas, locations, or anything else to help you feel prepared and confident.
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