Photoshoot Prep Guide

Artistic back portrait of a person adorned with delicate flowers and a gold necklace against a warm brown background.
I. Session Prep II. FAQs III. Mistakes to Avoid IV. Packing List
Multiple hands frame a person with freckled skin in warm lighting against an orange background.

ASAP

A Few Days Before

The Night Before

The Morning Of

ASAP

A Few Days Before

The Night Before

The Morning Of

II. SEssion PRep

To Do: ASAP




Outfit Trials

If you’re bringing your own wardrobe, try everything on and record a short video (front, sides, back, fabric movement, how it catches light). Send it to the photographer for approval.


Inspo Photos

Whether photos are provided or not, it's always helpful for you to look up ideas that align with you and are within your skill set; especially hair & makeup inspo.

ASAP

A Few Days Before

The Night Before

The Morning Of

II. SEssion PRep

A Few Days Before

Start setting the foundation for glowing skin & a smooth experience.


Hydrate Daily

Skin looks it's best when you’ve been drinking water consistently.

Avoid Alcohol & Excess Salt

These can dehydrate your skin and make eyes look puffy.

Nail Prep

Go with clean, natural nails: neutral, nude, or soft gloss. No bold polish or intricate designs unless discussed ahead of time.

Invoice

Please remember to pay final invoice balances prior to the session.


ASAP

A Few Days Before

The Night Before

The Morning Of

II. SEssion PRep

The Night Before

Time to settle in and center yourself for the big day.


Get a Full Night’s Sleep

Your energy (and face) will show it.

Steam/De-Wrinkle Fabrics

This always make the outfit look better (and saves time in editing).

Tame Flyaways

Wash and prep hair with minimal product. Light oil or cream to tame frizz is great.

Avoid Self-Tanner

It often creates uneven tones and patchy editing.

Charge Your Phone

Just in case directions or communication are needed day-of.

Double Check Your Bag

Re-pack your essentials including makeup touch-ups, outfits, water, and backup options.


ASAP

A Few Days Before

The Night Before

The Morning Of

II. SEssion PRep

The Morning Of

Small rituals that make a visible difference.


Re-visit Session Notes

Go back over our shared iPhone Session Notes if they were sent to you.

Ice Face Bath (optional)

Dipping your face in a bowl of cold water a few times tightens skin and wakes you up naturally.

Avoid Sunglasses 30 Minutes Prior

Prevent those red bridge marks from appearing in early shots.

Use Clear Deodorant

Especially important if you're wearing dark or tight garments.

Skip Hairspray

It stiffens hair and attracts dust or bugs on outdoor shoots.

Remove Tags, Inner Straps & Loose Threads

Tidy up any outfit details so they don’t show on camera.
A dancer in a flowing purple dress strikes an elegant pose against a street sign on a sunny city street with yellow taxi visible.

FAQ

Can I bring someone with me to the shoot?

A: Yes—but always check with the photographer first. Friends who are calm, supportive, or creatively helpful are welcome. However, unannounced guests, new significant others, or overly chatty companions can unintentionally disrupt the flow of the set. If you’d like to bring someone, let us know in advance and we’ll help set the tone.

How long does a typical photo session last?

A: The duration of a photo session varies depending on the type and scope of the project. Portrait sessions typically range from 45 mins to an hour per look.

How long does it take to receive the final edited photos?

A: We understand the anticipation of seeing your final images, and we promise they’re worth the wait. After your session, you’ll receive a proof gallery to select your favorites. Once selections are made, final edits typically take 4–6 weeks, depending on image volume and the complexity of retouching. Keep in mind this timeframe flexes with the season and can sometimes take a bit longer. We prioritize quality and attention to detail to deliver work that exceeds expectations. Rush edits may be available for an added fee, just let us know in advance.

What should I do if I feel uncomfortable during the shoot?

A: Speak up. Your comfort and sense of safety are non-negotiable. If something feels off—whether it’s the clothing, a pose, or the environment, just say so. This is a collaborative space, and we’re here to uplift you, not push you.

What if I have a breakout or skin irritation?

A: Don’t stress. It happens. Great lighting and thoughtful editing will take care of the rest. The worst thing you can do is pile on thick concealer or try a new skincare product the day before. Stick to your routine and let the photographer work his magic.

What if I don’t know how to pose?

A: That’s totally okay! Most people don’t. You’ll be directed throughout the shoot, and I’ll guide you with prompts, movement cues, and micro-adjustments so nothing feels stiff or forced.


Contrary to popular belief, the pose itself matters far less than your expression and presence. Some of the best moments happen between poses; during a breath, a blink, a natural shift. You’re not expected to perform; you’re here to connect. Just show up as yourself, and we’ll create something beautiful together.
A flowing gold dress cascades elegantly against a tree trunk in a sunlit garden setting with lush greenery.
✘ Marks on the Skin
✘ Clutter & Distractions
✘ Unprepared Outfits
✘ Self-Tanner
✘ Pasties
✘ White deodorant
✘ Bright/Overdone Nails
✘ Overthinking
✘ Marks on the Skin
✘ Clutter & Distractions
✘ Unprepared Outfits
✘ Self-Tanner
✘ Pasties
✘ White deodorant
✘ Bright/Overdone Nails
✘ Overthinking

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

✘ Marks on the Skin


Avoid Lines & Causing Discoloration:

  • Tight socks, clothes, hair ties on wrists, etc. before the shoot

(they leave lines)


  • Sunglasses worn shortly before your set

(they leave indents)


  • Cross-Body Bags or Tight Bra Straps

(They press into your skin and leave marks across shoulders, chest, or ribs.)


  • Heavy Exfoliation the Night Before

(Can lead to redness, patchy texture, or irritation, even under makeup.)

✘ Marks on the Skin
✘ Clutter & Distractions
✘ Unprepared Outfits
✘ Self-Tanner
✘ Pasties
✘ White deodorant
✘ Bright/Overdone Nails
✘ Overthinking

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

✘ Clutter & Distractions


  • Large Bags & Too Many Personal Items (except in studio)

-When outside it can be difficult to pick things up and put them down over and over as we move around.


  • Unannounced, Distracting, and Chatty Guests

-You're encouraged to bring someone along, but always check in with the photographer before inviting. The right friend can uplift the vibe; others can unintentionally shift focus or distract. (ex. newer significant others, very excited family members, etc.)

✘ Marks on the Skin
✘ Clutter & Distractions
✘ Unprepared Outfits
✘ Self-Tanner
✘ Pasties
✘ White deodorant
✘ Bright/Overdone Nails
✘ Overthinking

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

✘ Unprepared Outfits


✘ Tags, Stickers, or Interior Straps Left On

-Removing them beforehand avoids delays and unnecessary editing.

✘ Unfitted or Untried-On Clothing

-Wearing something for the first time on set is risky. It might not move well, sit right, or fit as expected.

✘ Un-steamed or Wrinkled Pieces

-Wrinkles, creases, or misshapen collars make even expensive garments look rushed. Steam or prep items the day before.

✘ Poor Undergarment Pairing

-Visible seams, bold colors, or the wrong cut can ruin a clean silhouette. Go with seamless nude or white basics, or none at all if it looks better without.

✘ Marks on the Skin
✘ Clutter & Distractions
✘ Unprepared Outfits
✘ Self-Tanner
✘ Pasties
✘ White deodorant
✘ Bright/Overdone Nails
✘ Overthinking

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

✘ Self-Tanner


More risk than reward.

Even high-end tanners often result in uneven tone, patchiness, streaks, or transfer onto garments—especially under pressure, sweat, or friction during posing. What may look great in person tends to photograph inconsistently and can be difficult, if not impossible, to fix in post.


What to do instead:

Stick to your natural skin tone. Lighting, color grading, and retouching are already built into the shoot process to enhance your glow. If added warmth or bronze is needed, it’s better achieved safely through styling or edit direction.


✘ Marks on the Skin
✘ Clutter & Distractions
✘ Unprepared Outfits
✘ Self-Tanner
✘ Pasties
✘ White deodorant
✘ Bright/Overdone Nails
✘ Overthinking

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

✘ Pasties


More hassle than help.

Silicone, fabric, or adhesive pasties often leave visible outlines, disrupt the natural flow of clothing, and typically require far more retouching than a subtle outline would. In most cases, they actually draw more attention to the area than if nothing were worn at all.


What to do instead:

If you're going to wear the look, own the look. Modesty can be styled in; with layering, placement, or tape, but if it doesn’t feel comfortable, it’s always better to select a different outfit. When in doubt, communicate with the photographer.


✘ Marks on the Skin
✘ Clutter & Distractions
✘ Unprepared Outfits
✘ Self-Tanner
✘ Pasties
✘ White deodorant
✘ Bright/Overdone Nails
✘ Overthinking

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

✘ White Deodorant


Small swipe, big problem.

Traditional white or chalky deodorants can leave visible residue, especially on darker, sleeveless, or fitted clothing. These marks are notoriously difficult to remove in post and often transfer onto garments during posing or arm movement.


What to do instead:

Opt for clear, invisible, or gel-based formulas. They protect just as well without compromising the look of your outfit, or the edit.



✘ Marks on the Skin
✘ Clutter & Distractions
✘ Unprepared Outfits
✘ Self-Tanner
✘ Pasties
✘ White deodorant
✘ Bright/Overdone Nails
✘ Overthinking

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

✘ Bright/overdone nails


Small detail, big distraction.

Bright polish, heavy designs, long acrylics, or chipped polish can quickly pull focus; especially when hands are near the face or in motion. They can clash with styling, break the aesthetic of the shoot, and are difficult (and time-consuming) to edit frame-by-frame.


What to do instead:

Unless a specific nail look is discussed in advance, keep nails clean, trimmed, and natural. Neutral tones, soft nudes, or clear gloss are always safe bets.

✘ Marks on the Skin
✘ Clutter & Distractions
✘ Unprepared Outfits
✘ Self-Tanner
✘ Pasties
✘ White deodorant
✘ Bright/Overdone Nails
✘ Overthinking

🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid

✘ overthinking


Don't Worry about Poses, Angles, or “Looking Right”

When you overthink, it shows; in your hands, your shoulders, and especially your eyes/face. Not every picture, pose, movement needs to be perfect; you just need to have fun and be in the moment. Trust the process.


"Confidence carries farther than perfection ever could"
Makeup brushes and cosmetics arranged on dark surface with illuminated ring light in background.
Hair & Makeup Touch-Up Kit
Beach Session Items
Undergarments
Accessories
Extra Outfit
Hair & Makeup Touch-Up Kit
Beach Session Items
Undergarments
Accessories
Extra Outfit

III. Day-of PAcking List

Hair & Makeup Touch-Up Kit


Bring essentials such as blotting papers, lip gloss, and hair tools to manage shimmer & shine,  flyaways, and switch looks if needed.

Hair & Makeup Touch-Up Kit
Beach Session Items
Undergarments
Accessories
Extra Outfit

III. Day-of PAcking List

Beach session items


  • A towel or two.
  • Comfy or nice outfit change if you'd like to look at the photos after the session at a nearby restaurant.
  • Wet wipes, for sand in irritating places.
  • Plastic bag for wet clothes.
  • Bug spray (Spring & Summer)
  • NO Hairspray! It attracts bugs.
Hair & Makeup Touch-Up Kit
Beach Session Items
Undergarments
Accessories
Extra Outfit

III. Day-of PAcking List

Undergarments


Pack white and nude-toned seamless undergarments. These are versatile and prevent visible lines under various outfits.

Hair & Makeup Touch-Up Kit
Beach Session Items
Undergarments
Accessories
Extra Outfit

III. Day-of PAcking List

Accessories


Bring any additional accessories you'd like to incorporate. Inform the photographer upon arrival.

Hair & Makeup Touch-Up Kit
Beach Session Items
Undergarments
Accessories
Extra Outfit

III. Day-of PAcking List

Extra Outfit


Even if everything’s planned, it’s always smart to bring a backup. Sometimes we have extra time. Sometimes an outfit just doesn't work out. You never know.

After reading through the guide, message your photographer and tell them "I Read through the prep guide!"