What Do I Need to Do to Prepare for a Photoshoot?

So, you’ve booked your session—nice work! Investing in professional photography is a smart move. Now comes the next step: preparing to show up confidently and get the most out of your shoot.

Whether you're getting corporate headshots, personal branding portraits, or environmental photos for your business, preparation makes a huge difference—not just in how you look, but how you feel.

Here’s everything you need to know to walk into your session ready, relaxed, and photo-ready.

1. Know Your Goals

Before you start thinking about outfits or locations, ask yourself:
What do I want these photos to do for me?

Are they for:

Updating your LinkedIn profile?
Elevating your website?
Creating social media content?
Getting press-ready headshots?
Launching a new brand or offer?

When we know the purpose behind the photos, we can tailor the session to match your goals—from the way you’re posed to the style of lighting.

“Clarity up front leads to photos you’ll actually use—again and again.”

2. Curate Your Wardrobe Thoughtfully

What you wear plays a huge role in how you show up on camera. A few quick tips:

✔ Choose pieces that make you feel confident and comfortable.
Avoid anything too tight, too baggy, or fussy to manage.

✔ Stick with solid colors and minimal patterns.
Neutrals, jewel tones, or brand-aligned colors photograph beautifully. Avoid small patterns, loud logos, or neon brights.

✔ Bring options.
Plan for at least 2–3 looks: one professional, one casual, one in-between. Layering pieces (jackets, scarves, jewelry) can give us variety without a full outfit change.

✔ Iron or steam your clothes beforehand.
Wrinkles show up in high-res images, and we want you looking polished.

Need help choosing? I’m happy to review your wardrobe ahead of time and offer input based on the shoot goals.

3. Grooming & Self-Care = Confidence Boost

You don’t need to look like you’re heading to a red carpet—but a little grooming goes a long way.

Here’s a quick checklist:

Haircut or trim a week before (not the day of)
Shave or shape facial hair the night before
Clean, moisturized skin
Hydrated lips (especially for close-ups)
Hands and nails neat and clean

If you wear makeup:

Go with a polished, natural look
Avoid products with SPF or heavy shine
Bring touch-up powder or blotting paper

Optional: Consider hiring a professional makeup artist or hair stylist if you want that extra polish. I can suggest local artists to join us if you'd like.

4. Practice (Yes, Really)

You don’t need to “know how to pose”—that’s my job. But spending a few minutes in front of the mirror can help:

Notice which angles or expressions feel natural
Try smiling with your eyes (“smizing” is real!)
Practice good posture—tall spine, relaxed shoulders

Don’t worry—I’ll guide you through posing and expression during the shoot. But a little practice helps you feel more confident and in control on the day.

5. Prep Your Props & Extras

If we’re doing a personal branding shoot, think about the tools of your trade or personal details that bring your brand to life.

Ideas include:

Laptop, phone, tablet
Coffee mug or water bottle
Branded packaging, products, or books
Notebooks, pens, or other desk props
Glasses, accessories, or signature pieces

Bring only what feels authentic to you—not everything you own. I’ll help style your setup so it feels clean, professional, and on-brand.

6. The Night Before: Rest & Fuel Up

The basics still matter:

Get a good night’s sleep.
Tired eyes are hard to edit.
Stay hydrated.
Great skin starts with water.
Eat something before the shoot.
Nobody likes a hangry photoshoot.

This isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up as your best self.

7. Trust the Process

Finally: trust your photographer (hey, that’s me!).

You don’t have to be “photogenic.” You don’t need to know what to do with your hands. And you don’t need to feel like a model.

What you do need?

Openness
Trust
Willingness to show up and be seen

We’ll create a relaxed, collaborative atmosphere. My job is to make you feel comfortable, give clear direction, and capture images that truly reflect you.

To Recap:

Clarify your goals and audience
Choose wardrobe pieces that reflect your style and brand
Groom for confidence, not perfection
Bring thoughtful props (if applicable)
Practice a little—but don’t overthink it
Sleep, hydrate, and eat before the shoot
Relax and trust your photographer (seriously)

Let’s Make Something Great Together

Whether you're prepping for a new headshot, personal branding session, or content to support your business—this is about more than just photos. It’s about showing up intentionally and feeling proud of how you’re seen.

Have questions about preparing for your shoot? I’m here for you.

SCHEDULE CONSULTATION

Don’t Just Show Up - Show Up Ready: How to prep for a Professional Photoshoot