Often I try to prepare my clients for their photos shoots with words of advice. Sometimes I even hand them a list of things they can do to prepare for their photo session. But if they are anything like me they lose pieces of paper pretty easily. More than that and in the interest of saving trees I have decided to put that list online so I can refer clients to this blog.
1. Plan your wardrobe
Avoid loud patterns or suits that matrix (or create optical illusions if you look at them too long, this happens quite a bit with herringbone style prints). Stick to a solid color or a subtle pattern. If there will be more than one person present for your session try to dress similarly for photos where you will be posing together. Bring changes of clothing, have at least one other outfit to change into. If you can’t decide bring a couple outfits and ask your photographer for their advice.
2. Plan your details
Ladies this includes your hair, make up, jewelry and accessories, men this may be as simple as making sure you are wearing the appropriate shoes or that you are not wearing socks with your sandals. Ladies if you are having your hair and makeup done professionally and not by an artist affiliated with the studio account for the time you need, and know how to do any touch ups you might need during your shoot.
3. Prop up
Plan to bring items that personally mean something for you or that capture the spirit of your photo shoot. You can even bring items that will help you or your photographer make the shoot more fun. (ex fake mustaches, red noses, or a beach ball)
4. Brush your teeth
It seems simple, but especially if you have eaten before your shoot you may want to carry your toothbrush with you. Orange teeth, because you ate some cheez-its before your session, are not pretty. Coffee and cigarettes can also stain the teeth right before a shoot, not to mention having nice breath for your engagement shoot is not a bad idea, you will probably kiss a lot.
5. Make a list
If there are specific shots you want the photographer to take, have a list. That way you make sure you get all the things you are looking for. The photographer probably also has a list, especially if they did a consult with you before hand, it just never hurts to be prepared.
6. Get a good night’s sleep
You don’t want to be grouchy or have dark circles under your eyes. Even though you might have trouble sleeping because you are nervous or excited, I recommend a cup of sleepy time tea.
7. Have a positive attitude
Attitude truly is everything in a photo. You want to be excited about your photos, so being grouchy or aggravated can effect the outcome of your photos or the attitude of the other people in your photos.
8. Eat something
Eating breakfast or lunch will not effect your weight in your photos so EAT SOMETHING. You don’t need to pass out because you skipped meals. Not eating drastically effects your mood, as well.
9. Have your checkbook ready
If you have not already prepaid for your shoot you should always come prepared to pay your photographer. They may tell you money isn’t due until they deliver your product, but you should at least be considerate of their time. Time is money. I would hate for you to go to the session and get some great photos only for you to walk away with nothing because you didn’t realize you had to pay the same day.
10. HAVE FUN!!!
Seriously, no photographer wants to take pictures of people with forced smiles and deadpan faces. (Ok maybe people who take photos for the news) If you are having fun you will see this in your photos. The best way to do this: pick a photographer with a personality that meshes with yours. If you get along with them they will make it fun for you, especially if you are bringing you’re a game and are having fun with them.
So I realize a good deal of the advice involves attitude and fun, but I guarantee you get better images when you are enjoying yourself. I love taking photos. I love making people laugh while I am taking their photos, or even the parents of kids who are having their photos taken.
Much of the time I find that people are more invested in how they feel during the shoot. Yes they are pleased with the images but it is the customer service that brings you back. My number one piece of advice to my clients is always to shop around to find the right photographer for them. You wouldn’t leave your kids with someone you can’t stand, don’t trust your memories to someone who doesn’t connect/resonate with who you are.
Communication with your photographer is very important. You want to be able to feel comfortable to let your photographer know how you are doing, and what you want.
For more information on choosing the right photographer for you. See my previous blog here.
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