Preparing for Your Portrait Photoshoot

Portrait photography is centered around the face and maybe very intimate and may feel a little obtrusive for people who are not used to being photographed. Although the portrait session may be nerve-racking, the result may be beautiful and produce a photo that may really capture you as a person. Although you might feel some pressure as an individual, you need to understand that portrait photography is a team effort.

There is so much to remember and prepare for before the actual photo taking. A perfect portrait photo takes a lot of work. Few people realize what goes into being ready. Even if it’s an amateur photo session, some essential steps go into capturing the moment and the beauty of the images. 

Connect With Your Photographer 

You should search for a portrait photographer with a style you like, as well as extensive experience in portraiture - especially if you need a business portrait. You could also discuss the portrait session with the photographer. The discussion will involve picking a day, location, and time. You should also set backup dates in case the initial date does not work.

The connection you create with your photographer is vital, especially in choosing who gets to take your photo. Through this connection, the best moments of the session will easily be captured. When you’re comfortable and at ease with your portrait photographer, then your true self will shine.

In addition, there are a few aspects of the various types of portrait photography that the photographer may wish that you know and understand. Although your photograph may prepare you prior to the press of the button, as an individual, you need to prepare in certain areas.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

It is essential that you are adequately rested before your portrait session. Sufficient rest will allow you to look your best. Plus, this will allow you enough time to perfect your wardrobe, groom, and style yourself and travel. It is also important to reach your location early after a good night's sleep, to avoid rushing. Arriving early will allow you enough time to enjoy some moments of relaxation before beginning.

Select Your Wardrobe

When preparing for a portrait photoshoot, you should select a number of outfits to bring to the photoshoot. There are several factors to consider when choosing your wardrobes. Simplicity merged with your style will allow you to wear something you love while maintaining your style. Choose clothing that fits properly. This will allow you to move comfortably, which will boost your confidence.

In portrait photography, there are various wardrobe don’ts that you should avoid. You should avoid patterns or stripes when going to a new location as they often tend to conflict with other elements in the portrait. Also avoid logos, as they tend to be visually distracting. 

Neutral colors such as white, beige, tan, grey, or black are perfect for portrait photographs. These colors will complement your skin tones and avoid conflicting with the background and other elements.

Be Yourself 

Embrace the mood of the session. You should be relaxed, laugh, and have a good time. Portraits are best taken when you are being yourself. If you wear glasses normally, you should also wear them during the session, as a portrait should match your daily appearance. Don’t worry about shine or glare, as the photographer will look out for these things and take the photo in a way that will minimize the problem. Plus, your photos will likely be touched up afterward.

Don’t Over-Accessorize 

Avoid using too many props during your session. Generally speaking, it’s best not to use any props at all, unless they are essential to the purpose of the session. Props can make a portrait look cheesy and dated. It’s best to create timeless portraits that are relaxed, natural, and pure. Keeping it simple keeps the focus on you.

Also, wear minimal jewelry for your portrait. The jewelry that you wear every day should suffice. Avoid adding extra jewelry that you wouldn’t normally wear. Even if you love jewelry, try to keep it simple and ensure the color is neutral and doesn’t distract from the overall mood of the pictures.

Makeup

It’s ideal to get your makeup done by a professional makeup artist before having your portrait taken. In some cases, your photographer may already have a makeup artist on hand. If a professional is not an option, then it’s best to wear matte makeup; nothing shiny or sparkly. If you have oily skin, dab your t-zone with facial blotting paper or a tissue to eliminate shine. You can dust some translucent powder on the area for the same effect.

If your photographer is good at retouching images then less is typically more when it comes to makeup. If you don’t normally put on a lot of makeup then you should just do it as you normally do. If you apply more than a light amount then you most likely want to easy up a bit on your application. Use facial additions like fake lashes and brow pencil only if you normally do. You want your photo to look like you. 

Your Hands

Hands can be an essential part of portraiture, so prepare them with lotion and a neutral nail polish. If your hands are in particular need of TLC, you can book a professional manicure before the portrait session.

Keep your hands free throughout the session. You should not be carrying extra clothing, drinks, purse, or anything else when the pictures are being taken — just set them down nearby, and don’t forget to grab them again once everything is over.

Your Hair

Refresh your hair during the week before the session. If you dye your hair, touch up your roots. It’s also a good idea to get a trim, since neat, healthy hair makes you appear more youthful and vibrant. Also make sure to do some deep conditioning, preferably by a professional. If you’d rather do it at home, use a high-quality professional formula and a shower cap for best results.

A portrait session is not a time to make drastic changes. Avoid the temptation to chop all of your hair off, get extensions, or dye your hair.

Your Skin

Just like preparing for a night out, waxing or shaving is a good idea. If you prefer to wax, give yourself some time to heal. Shaving with a razor can be done the night before. Shave the areas that will be exposed during the session.

Avoid tanning during the week before your session, as sunburn is rarely flattering. Remember, you should look like yourself! There’s no point in going all out for a portrait session to end up unrecognizable in the result.