How to Prepare for Your Fashion Photo Shoot

So you have found a photographer that you click with!  Great! Now it’s time to prepare for your fashion shoot.  The better prepared you are for the shoot the more confident you can be that your pictures will be amazing, and will reflect the most beautiful you possible.

Whether your photo shoot is for your headshot, profile picture, senior portraits, family portrait, or any other reason you have decided to treat yourself to a professional photo shoot, these tips will help you prepare.

Clean Hair

Make sure your hair is clean and dry, and ready for your on-site hair stylist to style.  If you are doing your own hair, make sure your roots appear clean and dry.  It’s a great idea to use styling products that help add volume and body, and keep hair from flying away.  But if you don’t use styling products on a regular basis I suggest you do a trial run the week before.

Mani/Pedi

Here is your excuse to do a little pampering!  You never know when your hands and face will show in a picture.  Having a simple, subtle mani/pedi done before your shoot ensures that nothing will detract from your beautiful face!  I recommend light colors or a french manicure.

Wardrobe Planning

Taking time to plan out your wardrobe before your shoot helps your shoot go smoothly.  Stay away from crazy patterns or items that are too trendy.  Make sure you choose the right jewelry and undergarments for each outfit. 

Choose the shoes that are appropriate for the outfit and the setting if you are going to have a natural light shoot.  I recommend trying on your outfit, accessories and all, and make sure you like the look.  Ask your photographer or stylist any questions you may have.  When in doubt, bring an extra outfit so you have the flexibility to change your mind when you are on location.

Also Read: How to Take Great Photos of Yourself

Touch-up Kit

I recommend that all of my clients bring a touch-up kit with them to the shoot.  It’s so beneficial to have some basics with you so that you can be your own stylist during the shoot.  If your hair gets messy because you are changing outfits, or the wind is blowing, you will need a hair brush. 

If you know you tend to get shiny it’s great to have oil-blot sheets or a compact of powder on hand.  And almost all of us have experienced lip gloss disappearing on us.  Having lip color on hand to re-apply during the shoot will keep your makeup balanced and you looking fresh.

My goal is for you to have an amazing time with your fashion photographer!  I feel that the preparation you do before your shoot will help you feel relaxed and comfortable during the shoot.  And, having a few items with you on location will ensure your last pictures look as good as the first!  The only problem I expect you will have is choosing which pictures are your favorite!

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