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Preparing for a Photo Shoot

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

It depends, however generally following these guidelines, can yield better results:

  • Clothing should be solid colors. We recommend avoiding loud/vibrant colors, prints, logos, patterns or florals, as these are distracting and will pull attention away from the face

  • Choose wrinkle free clothing where possible

  • Wear something that isn’t pilled, doesn’t have holes or stains, and that fits well and comfortably

  • Be sure all clothes are lint and hair free as much as possible

  • Wear something you feel confident in

  • Couples and Family photos look best when clothing is coordinated. Wear similar colors, or an identical pattern. Avoid wearing different patterns unless they share the same color scheme. If one family member is in t-shirt, avoid having someone else in a dress shirt

HAIR, NAILS & SKIN

When it comes to hair, nails and skin, some simple prep can go a long way:

  • If you’re getting a hair cut for your shoot, do so about a week beforehand

  • If you’re shooting outdoors, be ready to put your hair up and make it look nice in case of a windy day. Bring bobby pins, hair clips, headbands or any other favorite accessories

  • Bring a brush, comb, etc for touching up during the shoot

  • For men, all facial hair should be groomed

  • ​Dry skin can really detract from a great photo shoot. Moisturize!

  • Bring fresh lip gloss or lipstick to do touch-up as needed

  • ​A fresh coat of nail polish will make a world of difference in your photo shoot. Pick a neutral color that won’t distract in your shoot or clash with your outfits

GLASSES

If folks wouldn’t recognize you without glasses, you will want to wear glasses in your shoot. This tips will help:

  • Often, the glare on glasses can detract from your eyes in photos. Consider having your lenses removed from your frames for the shoot. Alternately, ask your eye doctor to loan you a pair of similar frames, or you can also visit an inexpensive company online and buy a suitable pair of duplicate frames on the cheap

  • If you have the option of using contacts, considering wearing those for the shoot

KIDS

Rule of thumb - Clean, clean, clean:

  • clean nails, clean hair, wipe away eye boogers, clean feet, wipe snotty noses, clean teeth. Bring wipes or washcloths as needed

  • If your child is still in diapers or pull-ups, tuck them in or wear bloomers

  • If your child is still of napping age, make sure they nap before the shoot

  • Bring their favorite toys or comfort items like a blanket or pacifier in case they become upset

  • It's OK to bring 'bribes' to a photo shoot. E.g. some cereal, smarties or other candy that won’t stain clothes or teeth, can help a short photo shoot go by smoothly

  • For girls, you can’t go wrong with cute dresses, rompers, and dainty hats or headbands

  • For boys, jeans and polos or a button-up shirt, or a T-shirt with a button-up over it can be very cute, as well as overalls on the right age and personality

  • For siblings, the children don’t have to match perfectly, just coordinate. Dark, rich monotones, work well. If nothing else, pick a color that compliments your child’s eye color

BEFORE THE PHOTO SHOOT

Plenty of rest and hydration is the best preparation for any photo shoot. Be sure to eat something before you leave for your session so you're not hungry during the shoot. This is especially important for children. Of course, avoid chocolate, and sticky or colored foods 

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