3 Ways You (the client) can Prepare for a Photoshoot

Photographers do a lot behind the scenes to get ready for a shoot, but what about you—the client? How can you make sure you're prepped and camera-ready? Below, I include three steps so that you can be set for the day of the photoshoot!

Start with vision

If you are an individual, what activities reflect you and your personality? For couples, where would you be and what would you normally do on a date night? This could be a great scene for a photoshoot! We want the shoot to reflect you and your uniqueness. Implementing locations and props that are unique to you can help bring out your personality.

The more vision and ideas you can give me for your photos, the better. If you’ve seen any poses or shots from Pinterest or Instagram you love, send them my way before the shoot and I can capture something on that note. I know nerves can come with being in front of the camera. If you are concerned with not knowing how to pose, don’t worry, I got your back! I have tons of poses in my back pocket to ensure you are comfortable during your shoot.

Choose Your Location

We can totally head to the most popular photo location and capture stunning images. And hey, if that’s up your alley, I’m all in! But if that doesn’t quite reflect who you are or your story, let’s dig deeper.

Do you picture yourself in an open field surrounded by nature, or does a cityscape fit your style better? The location sets the tone for your photos and even influences the best outfit colors to complement the scene.

If we’re shooting in my local area, I have plenty of go-to spots to recommend. If not, just reach out—I’d love to help find the perfect photoshoot location for you in your area!

Outfits and Colors

I once heard an analogy that perfectly described how to choose your outfits and colors for a photoshoot:

Imagine a painting where the background is already beautifully crafted—the location, the season, the textures, and the colors all setting the stage. Now, it's time to paint you into the scene! Just like an artist chooses quality paint to enhance their masterpiece, what you wear plays a crucial role in creating a cohesive and stunning photo. Your outfit should complement the surroundings, allowing you to stand out naturally while still feeling like you belong. That’s why I always recommend neutrals, whites, creams, and earthy tones—they blend well with outdoor settings while keeping the focus on you. You want to avoid overly bright or artificial colors that can feel out of place, distracting from the beauty of both you and the scene.

Seasonality also plays a role in selecting the perfect outfit as well. Different colors work best in different seasons—cooler tones for winter, pastels for spring, vibrant yet soft hues for summer, and rich jewel tones for fall. Location matters, too; if you're in a lush green field, opt for colors that contrast the greenery, while black and white work beautifully against an urban backdrop. Most importantly, choose clothing that flows, feels timeless, and truly represents you. When you feel comfortable and confident, the final picture will reflect that!

A quick note on jewelry and makeup:

• The similar the jewelry, the better. Opt for something that is subtle but shows a little personality.

• For makeup, I recommend not straying too far from your normal look. Natural makeup like light pinks and browns are great for closeups.  

That sums it up! Lastly, be sure to ask any questions or visit my FAQ page before the shoot and have a ton of fun during it :)