How to prepare for your photoshoot (as a client)

Good images are a combination of many variables such as lighting, location, outfit, makeup, hair, etc. Today we are going to talk about how to prep for a photoshoot as a client so that you could get the photos that you will love. 

• Communicate expectations

Tell your photographer what you want as much detail as possible in terms of theme, colour scheme, location, time of day, etc, so that the photographer can do their best to give you what you want (or they will let you know if it’s something they offer or not). 

Let the photographer know if you have some specific things you want them to photograph or something you don’t want them to photograph. 

• Choose location

Choose a location that has a special meaning for you and everyone in the photoshoot, but also think about if the location will provide the theme and colour scheme you want, and if the location is ideal for the photoshoot in terms of lighting background etc (you can consult this with your photographer).

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For example, you and your spouse have very special memories at a cafe where they have a brown colour scheme inside, if you want a warm, film, moody theme, that is great, but if you want bright and airy photos, they might be a little conflicting. Editing can change colours, but it might not look natural. 

• Wardrobe

When it comes to wardrobe, a few things to consider that can help to make your images more appealing and flattering. 

1. Colour: An  analogous colour (groups of colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel. Red, orange, and red-orange are examples) give harmony, and a soft and balanced look, while Complementary Colours (colours that are directly across from one another on the colour wheel, green vs red, blue vs orange are examples) will give a contrasting look. 

   This applies when you coordinate everyone’s outfit as a group, as well as how your outfit appears compared to the background. It will look very flattering if the colour of your outfit balances well with the environment. For instance, if the environment has a deep warm tone, wearing something that has a lighter warm tone can make the image soft and flattering.

   You also want to avoid an outfit that has the same or similar colour with the background as it will blend in to the background. For example, a black outfit in a dark background, or a very identical green to the tree colour. 

   To make this simple, soft, neutral colours with no busy patterns will always look faltering in almost any background.

2. Style and Texture: Wear anything that you feel comfortable in and that fits the vibe and theme you want.

   Try to avoid busy patterns or prints, as they will become a distraction.

   Overbearing or heavily noticeable accessories can be a major distraction as well. Simple and minimal works the best.

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When choose outfit for couple, group or family portrait sessions, keep your outfit simple and coordinating. Avoid busy patterns and big logos. Solid colours are always good choice. 

Tips for selecting outfit for couple or group session: 

First, depends on the colour scheme and location you desired, decide whether the basic tone of the clothing will be warm-toned (browns, etc.), cool-toned (blues, etc.), or neutral. Then, keeping a group in similar colours, as dissimilar colours in groups tend to be more distracting. Everyone should have colour-coordinated outfits, not necessarily a uniform, but there should be a theme. Jeans and white or black tops are always very nice for a family portrait.

White tops with jeans can look very nice and casual, but if anyone in your family is super pale, replace white top with something has soft colours as white will blend in your skin and can make pale skin look paler. 

We are here to help whenever you need my suggestions on your photoshoot outfit.

• Makeup & hair

It is always a great idea to have your make up and hair professionally done for your photography session. It will make a huge difference in how you look and feel in person and photos. YA Artistry has experience in both makeup, hair and photography, we know how to make you look and feel good in person and photography. But if you want to choose another artist, that’s totally fine. Just make sure to work with artists that are skilled and experienced with makeup for a photoshoot. 

Regardless of hairstyle you choose, you want to make sure your hair is frizz free, and not cover most part of your face. 

When you get your makeup done professionally or by yourself, you want to make sure your makeup is applied evenly including your lipstick, make sure your foundation matches your neck colour, you want to avoid discolouration, orange, red tone foundation.

Make sure your foundation covers your face evenly, including your eyebrows, along the hairline, nose and lips area. Avoid using too bright or deeper tone on some areas of your face like very bright concealer around your eyebrow, it could make you look funny. 

Sometimes imperfect makeup can be very challenging to edit, and it can ruin your images.

It’s ideally to have your hair and makeup professional done, but if you can’t wear makeup, definitely apply moisturizer and tinted lip balm to add natural and healthy glow. 

• Nail

Your nails should be clean regardless if it’s manicured or not. No chipped nail polish.

• Inspiration photos for poses

We will guide you with poses throughout the entire photoshoot, help you to feel comfortable and stress-free. It is also a good idea to check out some inspiration photos for poses prior to your photoshoot, so you are prepared, and less nervous.

We hope this has helped you feel more confident and prepared for your upcoming photoshoot. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.