How to Prepare for Your Portrait Session: A Guide to Looking & Feeling Your Best

Getting professional portraits taken can feel like a big deal, and it should! Whether you need updated headshots, senior portraits, fitness photos, or just want to celebrate yourself with a creative lifestyle session, this guide is here to help you feel confident and ready. My goal is always to make sure your session feels relaxed, fun, and genuinely you.

Here are some key tips to help you prepare:

1. Think About the Purpose of Your Session

Before anything else, ask yourself: What do I want these photos to say about me? Are they for your business website or LinkedIn? Celebrating senior year? Showcasing your fitness journey? Knowing your “why” will help shape everything else, from what you wear to how we approach the shoot.

If you’re not totally sure yet, don’t worry. We can chat ahead of time to make sure we’re aligned on your vision and what you’re hoping to walk away with.

2. Choose a Location That Matches Your Style

The location we choose sets the tone and helps tell your story visually. Whether you’re drawn to something urban, natural, minimal, or full of character, I can help guide you toward the perfect spot. I have a detailed map of locations I’ve personally scouted, and I’m always happy to share it with you. Just let me know the kind of vibe you’re looking for and I’ll send over curated options that match your style. If nothing stands out or you’re wanting something unique, I’ll dig in and do some extra research to help us find the right fit.

Great locations should reflect your personality. If you love the outdoors, a scenic coastal overlook or forest trail might be perfect. More into the city vibe? We can head downtown and find textures, architecture, or murals that elevate your look. If you’re doing fitness portraits, we might choose a favorite park or gym space. The setting should add to the story of your session without stealing the spotlight.

If you’re not sure what fits best, don’t stress. We’ll talk through it together so you feel excited and comfortable with the location we land on.

3. Choose Your Outfits Thoughtfully

Bring at least 2 to 3 options that make you feel confident and comfortable. Solid colors often work best and help keep the focus on you, but a subtle pattern can be great too. Avoid large logos, overly busy prints, or anything that doesn’t feel like your style.

Here are a few quick outfit tips:

• Go for clothing that fits well and feels good when you move
• Stick with neutral or muted tones for a timeless look
• Think about your background so we avoid clashing colors
• Don’t forget to iron or steam your outfits the night before

If you’re planning to wear multiple outfits, I highly recommend upgrading to at least a two-hour session. That extra time helps us avoid feeling rushed and gives us space to capture each look with intention.

Still not sure what to wear? Feel free to send me pictures or bring a few extra pieces. I’m happy to help you decide on the day.

If you’re doing senior portraits, you might consider one dressy outfit, one casual or trendy look, and something fun that feels totally like you. For fitness shoots, think clean, fitted athletic wear that shows your form but lets you move easily. And if you’re doing branding or professional headshots, go for something sharp but approachable—what you’d wear to an important meeting or to represent your business.

Confidence is key. If it makes you feel like your best self, it’s probably a great choice.

4. Hair, Makeup & Grooming

This doesn’t have to mean hiring a professional (though you’re absolutely welcome to), but putting a little extra effort into your grooming can go a long way.

Some quick notes:

• Avoid trying anything brand new right before your session (haircuts, skin treatments, etc.)
• Trim beards or facial hair neatly
• Light makeup can enhance your natural features—just aim for a matte finish if you’re worried about shine
• Use lip balm or moisturizer if your skin gets dry easily
• Clean and shape your nails, especially if your hands might be visible
• If you wear glasses regularly, wear them in your shoot—but let me know so I can help avoid glare

If you do want to hire a hair or makeup artist, I’m happy to recommend someone. A pro knows how to enhance your features for camera-friendly lighting and it can be a great way to feel extra polished.

Bottom line: think clean, natural, and comfortable. You want to look like you, just on your best day.

5. Get Some Rest & Hydrate

This one’s simple, but it matters. Try to get a good night’s sleep the night before and drink plenty of water in the 24 hours leading up to your session. Hydrated skin and rested eyes make a big difference in how you look—and feel—on camera.

Avoid heavy alcohol, new skincare treatments, or salty foods that might cause puffiness. Stick to what your body is used to, and give it the fuel it needs to show up fresh and vibrant.

6. Bring the Right Extras

Here’s a quick packing list to help you feel prepared:

• Hairbrush or comb
• Touch-up makeup or powder for shine
• Lip balm
• Extra outfits and accessories
• Water
• Comfortable shoes if we’re walking between spots
• Props or items that reflect your personality or story (book, guitar, yoga mat, etc.)
• A favorite playlist or anything that helps you feel more relaxed

7. How to Pose Naturally (Even If You Feel Awkward)

If you’re thinking, “I have no idea how to pose,” you’re not alone. Most people feel a little unsure in front of the camera at first. That’s where I come in.

My job is to guide you through natural, flattering poses that work with your personality and body language. Whether it’s helping you angle your shoulders, giving you something to do with your hands, or prompting you into movement, I’ll make sure you feel supported—not stiff.

Here are a few easy things to remember:

• Good posture goes a long way. Think tall spine, relaxed shoulders
• Slight angles are more flattering than straight-on
• Keep your hands relaxed. Tucking a thumb in a pocket or lightly touching your jacket works well
• Movement is your friend—walk, twirl, play with your hair, do something you’d naturally do
• Expressions matter. We’ll mix it up between relaxed, smiling, and more serious shots

If you ever feel unsure, I’ll coach you through it. You don’t have to come in knowing what to do—I’ve got you.

8. Feeling Comfortable on Camera

Almost everyone starts a session feeling a little awkward. It’s normal. We usually use the first few minutes to warm up, get comfortable, and shake off the nerves.

Here are some ways to ease in:

• We can chat or joke around a little to loosen up
• Music helps! Let’s play a playlist you love if it helps you relax
• Take deep breaths and remember that you don’t have to “perform”—just be you

Some of the best moments come when you forget the camera is there. So take a breath, trust the process, and let’s make it fun.

9. After the Session

Once we wrap up, I’ll go through and select the best images, edit them carefully, and deliver your gallery in the time frame we’ve discussed. If you’re doing a session with prints or wall art in mind, I’ll help you figure out the best way to display your images too.

Final Thoughts

Portrait sessions are about more than just getting a good headshot. They’re about celebrating where you are right now—your work, your growth, your energy, your story.

Whether you’re booking for professional reasons or just to mark this moment in your life, I want you to walk away with photos you’re excited to share. Ones that feel authentic and show you at your best.

Still have questions? Reach out anytime. I’m here to help every step of the way.

Let’s make something awesome together.