After a client books their photo session, more often than not, they will come up with several questions throughout the process. This could be anything from deciding on clothing or location to the very popular question, “What do I do with my hands?” I want you to feel confident and make the most of your time with me so I have dedicated a page solely to answering your questions along with tips and tricks you can apply along the way!

Let’s get started!

1. Don’t wear too much makeup

I want you to look like your natural self. Don’t get too overdone just for photos

2. Bring the laughter

Smiling and looking at the camera for the entire photo session gets boring. For more natural, fun photos, make sure to bring the laughter with you and plan to have fun!

3. Make sure clothing fits well (not too loose or too tight)

Tugging/adjusting clothing or worrying about how something looks will detract from the fun of your photo session. Plan ahead with clothing choices to make sure they fit perfectly.

4. Practice your smile

There is no shame in practicing your smile in the mirror! It will help, promise!

5. Relax your shoulders

The key to looking (and feeling) relaxed is to lower your shoulders! Make sure they aren’t lifted up when the photographer pushes the shutter!

6. Layer, accessorize and bring options

Your outfit options can quickly change with a simple scarf, hat or necklace. Bring them along to mix it up and get a variety of looks!

7. Dress for the weather and location

Clothing and location matter! Make sure your choices for clothing and location compliment one another!

8. Avoid large words and pictures on clothing

Large words, letters and pictures on clothing can create a distraction from the person being photographed. Keep clothing classic so that your photos don’t get outdated quickly!

9. Do your homework

It is so important to do your homework with your photographer. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make sure that you are completely comfortable with your photographer!

10. Be yourself

I want to celebrate you and whatever makes you the person that you are! Let’s take time to capture you just the way you are!

11. Steer Clear of neon

Avoid neon and fluorescent colors in your clothing for photos. They reflect fluorescent light onto your skin and your garments will look washed out.

12. Bring a snack

This one is for the families! We are not above bribery for a short time! Pack a snack to help with smiles from the little ones, but remember a clean snack is the best snack!

13. Watch where you print

When you get your portrait files, make sure you’re choosing to print at a place that gives you the best results! All printers (and printing companies) are NOT created equal & it is always best to use the printing company your photographer recommends.

14. Bring props

Bringing items that matter to you is an important part of having unique photos. Play football? Bring your gear! Have a cool vintage chair, let’s find a nice spot to put it! Props will be the items that make your images stand out from the crowd.

15. Incorporate your life

Think about what you love. What are your hobbies? Do you have a favorite spot? Let’s incorporate these things into your photo session!

16. Timing

Sessions are often times planned at a certain time of day because of the lighting. If you are even a few minutes late, this could make a difference between a good picture and a great picture. Outdoor light is fleeting and often times there are other sessions scheduled after yours, please plan ahead and come prepared to your session to get the best experience.

17. Posing during your session

I have been helping people with photos for a long time and have spent many years studying posing (along with what to do with your hands)! I will help you through your session to make sure you look your very best!

17 Tips for Your Photo Session