If you haven’t done a photo shoot before, or it has been a long time since your last one, it can be quite daunting stepping in front of the camera.
Getting your photos taken can be like a reality mirror shoved right in your face.
But never fear, I am here to provide you with some tips to make the most of your photo shoot, so you can leave the shoot feeling happy and confident, and totally love your photos after you receive them.
1. Get to know your Photographer.
Make sure you choose a photographer who you vibe with. Check out all their content, make sure you like their style. Each and every photographer has a different style, so make sure it matches your vision for your shoot.
Get any questions you have answered, and you can make sure that you are on the same page with your photographer with what you want to get out of the shoot. This is also important to help you get comfortable with your photographer, so it doesn't feel like you are having your photos taken by a total stranger that you have just met. If you are feeling comfortable in front of the camera, it translates to your photos.
2. Wear something you love.
Pick out an outfit (or multiple outfits) that make you feel amazing, but also reflect who you are. If you are feeling confident with the way you look, this will also help with feeling confident in front of the camera, and more natural, confident photos. It is important to pick something that you feel represents who you are/what your brand is.
If your shoot will be with multiple people, try to pick colours that match well together. I usually suggest you pick two or three colours that compliment each other, and each person has some version of those colours. Also, try to avoid clothing with busy patterns, or big logos if possible. EXCEPT if those types of clothing really represent who you are, and the style you love, by all means, absolutely where that. As a photographer, I want you to feel the best version of yourself and your style.
3. RELAX
Easier said than done. Of course just about everyone will feel nervous before a shoot, and it is part the photographers job to help you feel comfortable and relax into your shoot. But just remember there is no pressure on you to ‘perform’ in any way. There is no expectation that you need to look perfect, pose perfect, or act perfect. Your shoot is about capturing you, as you are, naturally. No one is perfect, or photographs perfectly; despite what photos in magazines or certain Instagram feeds might have you believe.
If you are doing a family shoot and are concerned about your kids not 'cooperating', don't. It is just up to you to show up, and the photographer will engage with your kids if they can. More often than not, I find that I can get the kids to cooperate during shoots more than the parents can, purely because I am someone new and interesting. Worst case scenario, if your child screams the whole time, as least you will have funny photos to show at their 21st birthday! ;)
Your photographer will guide and direct you to help you relax and get the best out of your images.
