Preparing for Your Photo Shoot

People always ask me what they can do to prepare for their upcoming photo shoot. Well, this post is for you (and you, and you... and you, too). There are two key prepping steps. Sounds pretty simple, right? First, figure out what you are going to wear. Second, plan on having a great time. That first step can be the hardest step, but that second step is probably more important. Looking your best is only one ingredient to a successful photo shoot. The other ingredient is letting your personality shine through in your photos. Both are SUPER important in getting those great photos.

Step 1: What to Wear

So, let's get this started. How in the world do you figure out what you are going to wear? What you wear can really impact the feel of your photos. For example, do you want photos that portray your glamorous and exquisite side? That could mean a dress, sparkly jewelry, a pedicure, heels and a fancy up-do. Or, maybe you prefer photos that are more editorial and interesting. This could include your favorite hole-in-the-knee jeans, t-shirt, bare feet and your guitar. The key here: ACCESSORIES. It's my job to make you look your best, but it's your job to select clothing items that highlight your best features and show off what makes you unique. My goal is to not only create a photo that documents what you looked like in this time of your life, but to also document your personality at this time in your life. If you are stuck, a great place to go for inspiration is Pinterest. I've created a "What to Wear" board to get you started. If you like, you can follow it HERE. I'll continually add some of my favorite looks (sorry gentlemen, this just has lady looks in it for now). If you have some other favorite inspirational boards or sites, please post them below.

Coordinating clothes for a group or even a couple of people can be tricky. Remember that colors don't need to be exactly "matchy." Meaning, if you think purple would be a good color to coordinate with different members of your party, different shades of purple will work together just as well or even better than trying to match the exact shade. A deep purple tie here, a light purple skirt there, etc. Colors don't even have to match to coordinate well. The key is selecting colors and patterns that don't clash. My suggestion? Don't over do it with lots of patterns. Solid, dark colors are often the most flattering. Try to avoid loose or baggy clothing, as it can make you look larger than you are. A layered look is usually always a winner. Try to avoid colors that wash you out or are similar to your skin tone. Also in the avoidance category: super low-cut tops or short shorts. If you can't decide between outfits, maybe you don't need to. Sometimes, people bring a few different looks to their photo shoot. And that's totally fine!

For you ladies, getting your makeup and hair done by a professional can really add to the look of your photos. In addition, it can also alleviate the stress of having to do it yourself. Getting your hair and makeup done by a professional isn't just for bridal shoots. If you'd like me to coordinate this for you, just let me know. I have access to some pretty awesome Hair & Makeup Artists.

Remember to accessorize and keep in mind that props always add that little bit of sparkle to a photo. Are you shooting in the snow? Grandpa's old Radio Flyer sled would look so cute with the three kids on it during our family shoot. Or, how about some confetti to throw for that pretty lady's graduation session. Maybe dad's dog tags for that perfect newborn shot? The possibilities are endless. The more unique and personal to YOU, the better.

Here are a couple of examples of what I'm talking about:

While you are trying to select your clothing items, remember that rules are meant to be broken. If you think something will totally work but goes against nearly every tip I've given here, throw my rules out the window. This is your shoot and these photos are meant to be about YOU.

Step 2: Relax and Have a Great Time

A key tip that I tell everyone at my sessions is that if you feel awkward, there's a very good chance that you probably look awkward. If you are one of those people that have mini panic attacks while trying to determine what to do with your hands as the lens is blaring and the shutter is clicking away, never fear. Helping you pose and making sure you are comfortable is my thing. Everyone has poses and angles that will be the most flattering for their body style. Remember, this isn't my first rodeo (literally, I've done rodeos). I can help you work those angles. So, you ask, if it's my job as the photographer to make you feel comfortable and to help you know what to do with your hands, then what's your job?? It's rather simple, really. Your job is to bring the ENERGY. Be willing to try new things, make jokes, laugh (a lot) and make a connection with the Mae Bolton Photography team. If you are having a great time, it will show in your photos. Some of my favorite sessions (and ones with the best photos, ever) are the ones where we laughed so hard that I was nearly in tears. For some people, this means bringing their best friends to the shoot. For others, this means going somewhere where not a soul (aside from my lens) will be watching. If this means something else for you, just let me know. I'm willing to do just about anything (within reason). Whatever it takes for you, let's make it happen.

So, let's recap. The first thing you can do to prepare for your photo shoot is to determine the type of feel and direction you envision for your shoot. From this vision, you can determine what you need to wear. After that hard bit is done, the next most important thing you can do is to make sure you bring your A-Game to the session. If you've done these two steps, you are going to rock your session and we are going to have a blast! Can't wait to get started. Well, that's all I've got about prepping for your photo shoot. If you've got any more tips, please leave them in the comments below, or shoot me an email at: info@maeboltonphoto.com. I'd love to hear from you!