5 Tips For a Great Portrait Session

So, with a show of hands, how many of you get super excited about having your portrait taken? {crickets….} Bueller. Bueller…anyone? What? You mean the anticipation of getting your session on the calendar throws you into a tizzy? You stress over what to wear? Will little Sally & Joey behave?

What if I told you that you aren’t alone? Uh-huh!. Yep. Totally! I can’t tell you how many times clients tell me how nervous they are leading up to their session. And I’m thinking to myself…it’s just me and my camera. I’m the least threatening person I know. No, I don’t take it personally. I’ve been doing this long enough that I anticipate your concerns and address them accordingly at our consultation which takes place prior to your session. The following is a list of 5 tips that will have you enjoying your session:

1. Make a plan. 
It’s always great to start with the end in mind. Do you know what I mean? How will you enjoy your finished portraits? Do you envision a piece over your mantle? How about something for the office? An album for Grandma? When you have an idea of that, you can plan the styling. Outdoors in a garden, simple studio session, evening wear, casual comfort, etc…

2. Wardrobe. 
This is a big one. I have lots to say on this one, but will highlight just a few tips here. Planning your wardrobe based on where the finished artwork resides might work best for you. Is your home cottage comfort? Modern minimalist? Our homes are often reflections of us, so likely your wardrobe & decor will be in sync.

Regarding color, choose one or two neutrals (grey, khaki, black, white, etc…) and one color. Next, select one more pop of color to be used sparingly. Sticking to that formula will instantly create a cohesive palette that isn’t so matchy-matchy. This works great for extended families!

3. Rest up. 
I know. This is a hard one. Where will you find the time to actually get rest? A few days before your session, set your intention to get to bed on time over the next couple of nights. Dishes and laundry can wait for a bit. Not only will it show on your face, but with your overall energy level. If children are part of your session, keep their nap time in mind with regards to scheduling. Oh, and drink plenty of water. We should be doing that on the regular anyway, but definitely leading up to your session.

4. Grooming. 
Nails – get your mani & pedi a day or two prior to your session. Neutral polish is a great choice, but if you’re spicy and your nails are very much part of you and your brand/ look, go ahead with a bold color. If you’re not a nail person, be sure your nails are freshly-trimmed & tidy.

Since we’re talking hands, clean your rings.

Hair – Getting a fresh trim is a great idea especially with shorter hair. Touching up your roots is a must if you color your hair. Tackle this 3 days prior. I would advise against making any significant color changes at this time though.

Spray tan – If you sport a faux-glow, schedule this 2-3 days prior to your session to allow it to settle. Don’t feel like you have to go this route though. I am more than happy to photograph your gorgeous fair skin. In fact, I would prefer it.

5. Relax. 
You’ve taken all of the advice. Relax and trust your photographer. You don’t find yourself to be photogenic? Guess what? That’s your photographer’s job. You don’t know how to pose? Again, your photographer will be guiding you through their process whether it’s a lifestyle approach or a styled portrait session. Trust. I assure you that we want you to look and feel like your beautiful self. If you let go and trust, I can almost guarantee that you will have a great time being photographed and leave your portrait session feeling empowered and gorgeous! Be sure to make dinner plans with someone you love or plan a girl’s night afterward!

That’s it! I hope that these tips will get you to your phone and book a session that you’ve been putting off. There is no better time than the present…especially if you have little ones. My goodness do they grow fast!

And if you’re the face of your business, do yourself a favor and get that visual branding in place. Your business will thank you!