Photo Session Day- Tips & Tricks
WHAT STORY WILL YOUR PHOTO SESSION TELL?
Make the most of your Headshot & Portrait Sessions with these helpful tips:
Skin, Makeup, & Hair:
We highly suggest getting your hair and make-up done Professionally. We will set up the lighting to get the most flattering image of you. However, one of the disadvantages of studio lighting is that it can often make your skin look shiny/glossy/sweaty/greasy. This is especially true during warmer weather or if you were rushing right before your session. So ladies, I’d recommend a bit of concealer/foundation/rice powder. And gentlemen, a trip to the restroom to wash your face just before you have your photo taken, or a quick wash with a baby wipe also works well.
Ladies with long hair, I’d always recommend bringing a brush with you to the shoot. You want your hair to be like a shampoo advertisement, Looking smooth flowing, full bodied, and neat. Loads of straggly strands of messy hair tend to take away from your headshot. Make sure that it’s all brushed and neat around the edges. Photoshopping hair is rather difficult, as there are so many different lines going in so many different directions that it requires advanced Editing and goes over and above what is included in your session fee. It is much easier to get it right before the photo is taken, rather than afterwards, to avoid Advanced editing costs.
If this is a professional shot of you at work, think about that when you’re applying your make up. A natural look always works best. Don’t go overboard. What you’d do for a big night out probably won’t work for a corporate head shot. Keep it simple and make sure it feels good for you. If you normally wear a strong lipstick, then bring the bold to the table! But don’t go for the bold look if you don’t normally look like that. After all, you want the image to be a good professional representation of yourself.
What to Wear:
Dress as you would when meeting a client or how the general public sees you on a daily basis. Plain colors are your best choice. Patterns or prints will distract and date your photo. Choose mid- tone colors in blue, green, wine, and purple because they are universally flattering. Avoid wearing tops in flesh tones (cream, beige, pastels, peach or yellow) as they will blend your face into your clothes. Black or white tops will also work. Be yourself, and don’t alter your dress or makeup/hair specifically for the photos. Basically, we want to make sure our clients look as natural to themselves as possible.
Be Well Rested:
Nobody wants Baggy eyes accompanied by the "Is it Friday yet" look on their face during their photo session! Be sure to get a good night's rest the day before your Session. Stay well-hydrated.
If this is a Family session, Be sure the children are well-rested, hydrated, and bellies full. Maybe bring a snack and/or their favorite toy to hold them over, especially if you are waiting to eat after the session. There is nothing harder to catch in a happy moment than a hungry or tired toddler (or teen). You know your children best, Prepare accordingly.
Have Good Posture:
No matter what style of photo you end up going for, good posture is essential since it exudes confidence and professionalism. Simply sit with your back straight and your shoulders back while remaining relatively relaxed.
Loosen Up:
However, you don’t need to look completely stiff and boring in your head shot or during your session, Especially if you want your brand or your Images to look fun and unique!
It may be beneficial for you to keep the atmosphere at your photo shoot loose. Then you can take some images where you have a very natural smile and show some of your authentic personality.
Don't be surprised if your photographer asks you do some things that may come off as unnatural... TRUST US! What may seem like a silly request, ALWAYS tends to yield the best results!
Smile:
How do you like yourself when you’re smiling in a photo? Lips shut or lips open? If you’re not sure, ask your photographer what looks best. We can take a few tests shots and can work with you to find what suits you best. Just relax, have fun, and SMILE!