How to make the most of your shoot

I have gotten so many bookings this month and I am super excited! This huge influx of new (and returning) clients inspired me to create this post.

My clients tend to vary from those that are completely prepared with props, extravagant outfits, and a full Pinterest vision board to those who come as they are with one nice and neat outfit. Both types of clients will leave with beautiful photos, but if you are someone who really wants to make an impact on people’s Instagram feeds and get the most notice, coming prepared like the first type of client I mentioned will guarantee that. Since I have been doing photography for quite some time, there are a few key things that I notice always make a shoot that much more impactful and unique:

1. Outfit choice, makeup, and hair

Jessica got the jacket from the thrift store the day of the shoot and it created the perfect edgy look for the photos.

If you want your photos to make an impact and leave a lasting impression on people’s minds, outfit choice is probably the most important factor. Wearing outlandish, unique, and bold outfits usually garner the most attention whether on social media or in person. Unique outfit choice will ensure your photos stand out from the rest and will avoid being “basic”. Of course, wear what you are comfortable in, but try your hardest to think outside of the box and maybe push yourself a little out of your comfort zone. You won’t regret it when you see your pictures.

In addition to outfits, how you do your makeup, style your hair, and wear your nails also makes a big impact. Whether you prefer natural makeup or a complete full face, ensure that your makeup is neat because the camera will pick up on bumpy eyeliner and unblended contour. Some clients may be opposed but it is always best to wear a layer of foundation (and concealer + bronzer if you can) for your pictures. Having a smooth complexion makes an enormous difference in how you look in your photos.

Ensuring your hair is styled and free of huge flyaways or fuzzies is key for your overall appearance and how put together you look. Whether you straighten, curl, or leave your hair natural, be sure that you try your best to make it nice and neat. It is also handy to bring a comb, brush, products, and a mirror to your shoot to ensure you always look your best.

2. Props

Bringing this champagne as a prop created the coolest photo!

A huge component of making a photoshoot your own and adding a personal touch is to bring props that mean something to you or that you think would look nice in pictures. Props can be anything from confetti, a sign, a special book, champagne, a ball, or even your pet. Having an object to interact and pose with during your shoot makes for more dynamic, interesting, and personal photos. It also helps to make your shoot stand out from everyone else’s.

3. Posing

This pose may have been a little awkward for the models but photographed beautifully.

I know not everyone is a model and many people feel awkward and uncomfortable in front of the camera. It is totally understandable and I love to work with people on different poses and give examples of what they can do. However, it is very beneficial to think of (or find on Pinterest) some poses that you like and practice them in the mirror. They don’t have to be super complicated, but coming to the shoot confident that you have some posing ideas in mind will make for a better shoot and better photos. Being comfortable in front of the camera is a key to getting good photos but even if you’re not, having a few poses in mind will ease some of the fear and hesitation.

4. Time + location

Example of warm golden hour light.

The time and location of your shoot are SO IMPORTANT in making the perfect photoshoot. Personally, my favorite time to shoot is late evening around and into golden hour. That time is usually 4pm-7pm. During that time the sun is lower and usually provides direct, soft, warm light that flatters everyone. I tend to book my sessions only around that time because the photos come out so beautifully. Of course, if I’m in the studio, it doesn’t matter.

Picking a location can be tricky and time-consuming, but I have three locations I strongly discourage or ban clients from choosing:

• Public parks:

  • Usually crowded meaning people will be in the background of photos.

  • Options are limited since most parks just feature trees and grass. Photos may look “basic”.

• Walls with murals/graffiti:

  • Options are usually limited to standing and sitting by walls.

  • Hard to put together an outfit that won’t clash with walls.

• Railroad tracks:

  • It is illegal to shoot on a railroad and I will not agree to shoot on one.

What do I suggest? locations with interesting scenery and architecture. Places that feature structures like bridges, flowers, tall grass, alleys, chairs, tables, interesting lights, colorful accents, etc. Shooting at places like these will make for more dynamic and eye-catching photos.

All pink themed shoot.

5. Theme

Having a theme for your photoshoot definitely will make your photos unique and statement-making. Whether your theme is carefree, serious, professional, celebratory, your photos will look much more cohesive with a set theme. Your theme could even be based on color. I have done a number of color-based shoots where my models wore all red, or blue, or pink. Deciding on a color palette for your wardrobe and location can really make your photos visually appealing.

6. Being open-minded

Tuck didn’t judge me when I told him I knew a shoot with pink and blue lights would be cool.

The last tip I have for creating a perfect shoot is to be open-minded to ideas the photographer or friends that you bring have. Sometimes the weirdest ideas make for the best photos. Also, the photographer is generally more experienced in knowing what looks good on camera and what doesn’t. If you are unsure of a location suggestion or pose the photographer wants to do, you should most definitely voice your concerns but also trust that they have your best interest at heart when it comes to your photos. Don’t let fear or embarrassment hold you back from having the shoot go your dreams.

Hopefully if you made it to the bottom of this post, you read the tips I gave and found at least one to be helpful. Let me know in the comments if you know of any tips!