How to Prepare for Your Portrait Session:
Practical advice on what to wear, how to choose outfits, and how to prepare mentally for your session. Lets ease that anxiety and feel like our best selves!
A disorganized closet just means that it's going to be more fun to find the right outfit for your session!
Getting ready for a portrait session can feel a little intimidating, especially if it’s your first time in front of the camera. But don’t worry! With the right preparation, you can feel confident, relaxed, and look your best. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical steps to ensure your portrait session goes smoothly, from choosing the perfect outfits to mentally preparing for a stress-free experience.
There are a few main concerns with any portrait session -
1) What am I going to wear?
2) Will I look my best?
3) Will I have a good time?
Well, you’re in luck. You have questions and I have answers!
Choosing What to Wear: Keep It Simple, Stylish, and YOU
One of the biggest concerns for most clients is what to wear. Your outfit plays a huge role in how you feel and look during your session, so here are some tips to help you make the right choice:
Coordinate, Don’t Match: If you’re having a family or couples portrait session, it’s best to coordinate your outfits instead of wearing the exact same colors. Pick a color palette with complementary tones. Soft neutrals, muted pastels, or warm earthy tones often work well for a cohesive, elegant look.
Avoid Loud Patterns or Logos: While some patterns can add a fun element, be mindful that busy designs or logos can distract from the focus of the photo—you! Solid colors or subtle textures often work best in portraits because they keep attention on your face.
Consider the Setting: Where your session takes place should also guide your wardrobe choices. If you're taking portraits on the beach, flowy fabrics in light colors or pastels can complement the serene vibe. For city or urban settings, bolder outfits with structured pieces can stand out beautifully.
Dress for Comfort: Feeling comfortable in your outfit is key to confidence. Make sure your clothes fit well and allow you to move freely. You don’t want to be adjusting or fidgeting during the session, so opt for something that you feel good in.
Bring Layers or Accessories: Scarves, jackets, or accessories can add versatility to your look without needing a full outfit change.
These small additions can change the mood of a photo in an instant and help you get a variety of shots.
How to Mentally Prepare for Your Portrait Session
Feeling a bit nervous before a portrait session is completely normal! Here’s how to ease that anxiety and boost your confidence:
Communicate Your Vision: Before the shoot, talk to your photographer about what you envision for the session. Whether you have specific poses or emotions in mind, sharing these details helps your photographer understand your style and preferences. Having this clarity can also reduce any uncertainties on the day of the shoot.
Practice Posing in Front of a Mirror: You don’t have to be a professional model to look great in photos! Spend a little time in front of a mirror getting comfortable with different poses. Practice standing, sitting, and tilting your head slightly to find angles that flatter you. This will help you feel more confident during the session.
Take Deep Breaths and Relax: It’s easy to overthink and worry about how the photos will turn out, but remember that your photographer is there to guide you. On the day of the shoot, take a few deep breaths, smile, and remind yourself to have fun! A relaxed and joyful attitude will translate beautifully in the final photos.
Bring a Friend or Loved One: If you’re feeling particularly anxious, consider bringing a friend or family member to the session. Their presence can help you feel more at ease and bring out genuine smiles and laughter. Plus, they can offer some real-time feedback and support.
Hair, Makeup, and Grooming: Prepare in Advance
To avoid last-minute stress, it’s important to handle hair and grooming well before your session.
Hair: If you’re planning a haircut or color, schedule it a week or two before the shoot to give your hair time to settle. On the day of the session, make sure your hair is styled the way you feel most comfortable. Our hair and makeup artist can assist in finishing touches to your hair to help with flyaways and smoothing.
Makeup: For makeup, the goal is to look like the best version of yourself, so stick to your usual style, but feel free to enhance your look with a bit more definition—especially for your eyes and lips. Our hair and makeup artist will help conceal blemishes, choose colors that help to accentuate your features, and elevate your natural beauty.
Skincare and Grooming: In the days leading up to your session, keep your skincare routine simple. Stay hydrated, moisturize, and avoid trying any new skincare products that could cause irritation. For men, if you shave, make sure to do so the morning of your session or the night before, depending on your skin sensitivity.
Bring Essentials for Last-Minute Touch-ups
Packing a small bag with essentials can make your portrait session more comfortable and stress-free.
Here’s what to include:
A compact mirror
Lip balm or lipstick (Favorite color)
If you have particularly sensitive skin, or a foundation that is best for you - please bring it
Hair accessories that coordinate with your clothing
Trust Your Photographer and Have Fun!
One of the best ways to prepare for a portrait session is to trust your photographer. They are experienced in capturing your best angles and creating a comfortable environment for you to shine. Relax, be yourself, and let them guide you through the session. The best photos come from natural, candid moments, so don’t be afraid to laugh, move, and enjoy the experience.
Final Thoughts
By following these simple tips, you can walk into your portrait session feeling prepared and confident. From selecting the perfect outfit to getting into the right mindset, every little step contributes to creating stunning, memorable photos. Most importantly, remember that portrait sessions are meant to celebrate you—so relax, enjoy the moment, and let your personality shine through.
