How To Prepare For Your Photoshoot
Everything you need to know to feel confident and look your best
Booking a professional photoshoot is exciting — whether it’s for your family, your business, your partner, or even your pet. But it can also raise some big questions: What should I wear? What do I bring? How do I pose?
Don’t stress. As a photographer, I’m here to help you feel comfortable and confident. Here’s how to prepare for a professional photoshoot so you can show up relaxed and ready to shine.
1. Know Your Goal
Before the shoot, think about why you’re doing it. Is this for a holiday card? A website? A gift? A personal keepsake?
Knowing your goal helps us choose the best location, style, and vibe — and ensures you get exactly what you need from the session. If you’re working with me, we’ll chat about this in advance so everything is aligned from the start.
2. Plan Your Outfits Ahead of Time
What you wear makes a huge difference — not just in how you look, but how you feel.
Tips for outfit success:
Choose clothes that fit well and feel comfortable
Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns (avoid logos or text)
Coordinate — don’t match. For group shoots, pick a color palette and mix tones/textures
Avoid neon and bright reds (they rarely photograph well)
Consider the background: earth tones work well in nature; go bolder in studio settings
Lay everything out a couple of days before your shoot so there’s no last-minute stress.
3. Get Groomed (But Keep It Natural)
A little prep goes a long way. Think of your photoshoot as a special occasion — because it is!
Hair: Get a trim or style it the way you feel best
Makeup: Go a little bolder than your everyday look, but keep it matte and skip SPF (it reflects light)
Nails: Clean, neat nails make a difference, especially in close-up shots
Don’t forget chapstick and lotion — dry lips and skin show up in high-res photos!
4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep
Yes, really. The best photos happen when you feel energized and relaxed. Aim for a full night’s sleep and give yourself extra time to get ready on shoot day.
Rushing = tension, and tension shows up in photos.
5. Bring the Essentials
Depending on your session type, here are a few helpful things to bring:
A change of clothes (or layers)
A brush or comb
Makeup for touch-ups
Water and snacks (especially for kids or pets)
Props or meaningful items (blankets, toys, accessories)
Not sure what to bring? Just ask — I’m always happy to help!
6. Trust the Process
You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t need to know your angles. That’s my job — and I promise, I’ll guide you every step of the way.
All you have to do is show up, be yourself, and let the moments unfold.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a professional photoshoot doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and the right mindset, you’ll walk away with images you’re proud of — and maybe even a few new favorite memories.