Its ok to feel lost or nervous!
Its actually pretty normal to feel lost, nervous, or even scared to be the subject of a photoshoot! It happens to everyone, even photographers themselves! One thing that helped me as a client, was to get a few tips and tricks from my photographer. So read on for tips, tricks, and more!
The Search
Step 01
Pick a few, Review, and chat!
Recommendations are a great source to find the photographer for you, but not everyone has recommendations! Searching in Facebook groups or online is a great next step. Personally, I like asking local discussion groups or photographer groups. Don't forget to describe your ideas, locations, budget, etc. Anything that can help you find the right fit.
Step 02
Do your Research!
Once you have selected a few potential photographers, make sure to fully review their portfolio, website, and socials! You can learn a ton about a photographers style by seeing what they share. If there is a common theme you don't like, that generally means its part of their style. You can still reach out and see if they would be willing to make adjustments, but its never guaranteed. Then have a quick chat with your selected few! Whether over the phone, video, text, or email, getting to know your potential photographer is a key step in picking the right fit. Usually you can tell pretty quick if you will mesh well together.
Step 03
Make the Choice!
Between reviewing their portfolios, websites, and socials, and the quick chat, you should have a good idea of the photographer you like most. Chat with them a bit more about your session ideas and info. Your photographer should be able to see if they are a good fit for you at that point. If everything feels right, then book! I highly recommend not waiting very long once you have decided on a photographer. Just because the photographer you want is available for your date as of now, doesn't mean they will be available in a few weeks or even days. I request a retainer to book and save the date, as do most other photographers. If we don't get that retainer, then the date isn't saved. So once you are sure, move on your booking!
Prepping For the Session
The prep is just as important as the session
With everything in life, preparations make the goal better. Whether its prepping your outfits or practicing the pose you want to try, please do it! It not only makes you feel more prepared and comfortable. And when you are comfortable, it shows!
Best things to prep:
- Outfits! Lay them out, try them on. Get comfortable in them!
- Test out any new looks! Hair, shoes, makeup, etc!
- Skin! Don't drastically change your skin care. Maintain a process that has been working for you in everyday life!
- Find some inspo! Whether its poses, themes, styles, etc! I LOVE getting inspo from my clients so I know what you are looking for!
Keep in Contact!
Send me your Inspo!
Talk to me about your questions, concerns, etc!
Show me Outfits!
Let me know if there are changes or updates to any current plans!
The Session
Be Yourself!
Being yourself during your session is one of the MOST IMPORTANT pieces of advice I can give. I want your photos to represent you, not a fake version of you. I want to capture the real memories, the real moments, and the real emotions. I know this sounds easy, but most people show up nervous and/or not feeling themselves. The best photos are the ones that you feel like yourself and feel comfortable.
