Preparation is everything!

In this blog I am going to share 5 tips to help you prepare for your Studio Portrait Session because it is so important. Styling makes or breaks a Portrait. Hair, Makeup and Outfit need to be on point to make images worthy of gracing the covers of the biggest magazines. We are creating your perfect portrait and I want you to look and feel like a model.

Tip 1 Borrow, Rent or Buy

Finding the perfect outfit is key. There are multiple ways to go about finding the right clothes for your photoshoot.

Borrow something that your friend or family has that you have always liked or admired.
Rent an outfit. Did you know that you can rent designer clothes for an inexpensive price. www.renttherunway.com is a great place to do so and they have tons of clothes and accessories to choose from. It’s easy to get caught up browsing, trust me I’ve spent hours on there.
Buy a new outfit that you love and want to keep. Take a friend out on a day off and browse your favorite stores to find something that is special to you and makes you feel beautiful.

Tip 2 Get Your Hair Done

You will have your hair styled before your photoshoot but its best to have your hair cut or colored the way you would like it before hand. If you need a trim, want to lop off a good amount, need a touch up on color or want to do a full color change it is best to do that 1 week before your photoshoot is scheduled.

couple hugging by lake tapps Brooke Holliday Buckley, wa family photographer — Tip 3 Get That Manicure

One of the biggest details that is often over looked is how your nails look. You don’t want to put all this time and effort into your look to have cracked and chipped nail polish in your photos! Trust me I have been through it. See the example below. Those are my hands! Big mistake. So the day before the shoot get your nails done or do a self manicure. Self manicure recommend only for those that have previous experience.

Tip 4 Relax! And Enjoy Yourself

expectant mom cradling her belly Brooke Holliday Buckley, wa maternity photographer — Tip 4 Relax! And Enjoy Yourself

I know that getting in front of the camera can be nerve racking sometimes. We spend so much time taking selfies where we can see what we look like and hide the things that we are self conscience about. You can’t see your self when you are in front of the camera. IT’S GOING TO BE OK. Trust me I am going to guide you the whole way and the result will be gorgeous! This also means to show up comfortable. Come dressed in something that isn't constricting. I recommend street clothes yoga pants and tennis shoes. That way you can get pampered and then get dressed in the clothes that you have brought with you. I always have some refreshments on hand in case you are feeling thirsty or in need of a snack.

mother hugging son and daughter in studio Brooke Holliday Buckley, wa family photographer — Tip 5 Give Yourself Enough Time to Arrive on Time

The day of the shoot you don’t want to be late. We have a glamorous day prepared for you! We we give you a professional makeover and being late will hinder the over all experience. So be sure to give your self enough time and show up a few minutes early to settle in before we start your transformation!

Which tip was most surprising to you? What would you be most nervous about before a photo shoot? I would love to hear from you.