How to Prepare for Your Photoshoot

The other day, while I was packing for a headshot session, I got an email from one of my clients:

"In regards to clothing, what should I wear for the shoot? Which make-up should I bring?"

It made me realise how common this worry is, especially if it's your first photoshoot, or you haven't had one in a while. Getting your picture taken isn't an everyday thing. It might be an investment in your business, or something just for you, and either way it can feel a little daunting at first.

So let's turn that nervous energy into excitement, by making sure you feel completely prepared.

Know What Kind of Shoot You are Having

Before anything else, ask yourself a few questions:

• What type of shoot is this: a quick headshot, a full brand shoot, something else?

• How long will it last?

• Where will these images be used?

• Is this a corporate headshot for LinkedIn, or something more relaxed?

• Will a make-up artist or stylist be involved?

  
  

Gathering this information upfront gives you a much clearer picture of how to prepare, including how many outfits you'll need and whether you should bring your own make-up.

The best thing you can do is simply ask your photographer. Don't hold back questions, since that's exactly what a good consultation is for. I always offer a free 30-minute chat before the shoot, so my clients feel comfortable and in control before we even pick up a camera.

Getting Yourself Ready

Once you know what kind of shoot you're having, it's time to prepare.

Hair and Make up

Think about what genuinely feels like you. Do you always wear a bold lip? Keep your beard neatly trimmed? Straighten your hair every day? Lean into that, since this isn't the moment to try a completely new look for the first time.

A few tips:

• Test out your look a day or two beforehand if you're unsure.

• Hydrate your skin the night before. A good wash and a fresh, hydrating lotion will leave it looking clean and rested.

• If your hair needs a trim, get it done a couple of days ahead, not the morning of.

• For a bigger shoot, or if you're simply not sure where to start, bring in a professional make-up artist. For brand shoots, I often work alongside Jen Lo, a make-up artist I trust completely; we run a joint consultation beforehand so everyone's aligned on the look.

  
  

Clothing

For a short headshot session (around 30 minutes), one or two outfits is plenty. For a longer brand shoot, sometimes up to four hours, bring more options.

Choose outfits that feel authentically you. If the shoot calls for something more formal, you can still find ways to add your own personality to it.

A few ideas to help you decide:

• Wear pieces that reflect your usual style. If shirts are your thing, wear a shirt, and just make sure it's freshly steamed or ironed.

• Browse Pinterest for inspiration, then recreate looks using pieces already in your wardrobe.

• If you're torn, over-pack rather than under-pack. Your photographer can help you decide what works best on camera; just keep it proportional to the length of your session.

• Think about what you'd wear to dinner with friends at a new restaurant: comfortable, put-together, a little special. That's often a great starting point.

As for shoes, for headshots they usually won't even be in frame, so comfort can take priority. If your feet will be visible, make sure whatever you choose looks (and feels) good. Uncomfortable shoes have a way of affecting your mood, so if you love a pair of heels but can't walk in them all day, simply bring them along and change for the shoot itself.

If it's a bigger shoot, a professional stylist can take this decision off your hands entirely. Whatever you choose, stay true to your own style.

A few things worth avoiding beforehand:

• Drastic changes to your hair or appearance right before the shoot

• Uncomfortable clothes or shoes

• Last-minute shopping (unless it's for basics)

• A late night out, since it shows in the pictures the next morning

• Trying to be someone you're not; this shoot is about you

  
  

Mindset

This might be the most important part of all.

By the time you're in front of the camera, you'll be in professional hands, with everything planned and ready, so there's genuinely nothing to stress about.

The night before, give yourself time to switch off and rest. Set an alarm so you're not rushing in the morning; nothing throws off your day faster than oversleeping.

Since you've already chosen outfits and looks you feel good in, hold onto that confidence. It's easy to slip into criticising every detail of how we look, but that never helps. Try swapping any negative self-talk for something like: "I'm getting my photos taken tomorrow, how exciting!"

It can feel a little strange seeing yourself in photos at first, so give yourself a moment to settle into it. That's often when people start to really enjoy the process and the results.

During headshot sessions, I guide you through posing and help you feel relaxed and natural in front of the camera. Afterwards, we review the images together to make sure you're happy with what we've captured.

What one client said:

"Thanks so much for these, they are fantastic, just what I was after. I enjoyed the process, was a little self-conscious at first but relaxed quickly with your direction." Laura D.

Quick Notes to Take With You

1. Stay true to your style: wear clothes and make-up that feel like you.

2. Ask your photographer as many questions as you need before the shoot.

3. Consider a professional make-up artist or stylist for bigger shoots.

4. Avoid drastic changes to your appearance right before the day.

5. Get into the right headspace and rest well the night before.

I hope this helps you feel ready and excited for your next shoot!

If you're after headshots and would like some help getting ready for yours, get in touch. I'd love to hear about what you need and talk you through the process.