Preparing for your Session


Having photos taken can feel like a daunting task. “What if I wear the wrong thing! What if I have a bad hair day or a blemish or a funky tan line! I mean, these photos are gonna last forever!”. These are all normal feelings to have before your big session. It can be easy to over-plan and spend the whole week feeling nervous, or perhaps you’re the kind of person to feel so nervous that you push off all the planning to the morning of your shoot! If you can relate, not to worry! I have put together a schedule for the week before your shoot to ease your nerves and make your photoshoot run as smoothly as possible.

One week before your session


  • Get your hair cut! If you are wanting to get a trim or a fresh cut, get it a week or two prior to your shoot so you can get used to the new hairdo, practice styling it and so it can grow out just a little for a more natural look
  • Be mindful of tanning/sunburns. Don’t do anything too heavy. I know that a perfect golden tan can be tempting, but a tan that is too drastic or unnatural can be hard to fix. If you must get a tan before your shoot, be extra cautious to avoid overdoing it or burning. 
  • Have your outfits ready to go! Avoid little patterns, logos, etc. that would be distracting. Most importantly, make sure that the outfit reflects YOU and what you love. (More on outfits here)
  • Iron/steam any clothes that are wrinkled (Especially grad gowns).
  • Try on your outfits one more time. Check the fit of your clothes to make sure they aren’t too tight and you can move around easily in them
  • Trim/paint your nails. One less detail to worry about day of!
  • Get Excited! Speak positive things to yourself every day and celebrate this special time! 

A Few Days Before your Shoot


  • Organize your outfits. Put your jewelry for each outfit into a baggie and clip it onto the hanger of the outfit it goes with. Make sure to bring the appropriate shoes for each outfit as well! They will show in full length shots.
  • Prep your cosmetics. Pack a bag with a brush, lint roller, lip gloss, etc.
  • Pack the appropriate undergarments. We don’t want bra straps to distract from your outfit or to see patterns underneath your clothing. The best undergarments for photos are neutral, and for the ladies, a well-fitting strapless bra .
  • Get cleaning! Clean your shoes and clean your props if needed - the car, your instrument, etc.
  • Take care of yourself. Get lots of sleep and fuel your body properly so you can be well rested and energized for the big day.
  • Shave if needed

The Day of Your Photos


  • Pack a bag. Bring water and a light, non-messy snack.
  • Be early. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early, so you’re ready to go!
  • Bring a buddy. Bring a close friend/family member along to help with your outfits/props and as extra encouragement.
  • Natural makeup. If you choose to wear makeup for your photoshoot, keep it natural. This will not only ensure that you look as much like you as possible, but it will also photograph better than a heavy or dark makeup look.
  • Don’t worry if you have a blemish. Don’t stress, I can easily touch that up!
  • Get excited! We're gonna have a great time!


If you take these tips into consideration, you have no reason to stress about your session. The more prepared for your session you are, the more fun you will have! You've got this!