Getting The Perfect Shot: How to Prepare for Your Portrait Photo
Whether you need your portrait photo taken for professional or personal reasons, the goal is to get good images that reflect your natural glow.
While the photographer is in charge of most things – lighting, camera, angles, editing – there are things you can also do to ensure the photoshoot goes smoothly. For the portrait photos to turn out perfect, there has to be a smooth collaboration between the subject and the photographer.
Here are a few ways you can prepare before having your portrait photo taken!
1. Communicate With Your Photographer
First and foremost, make sure all the details are clear between you and your photographer before the shoot. Discuss concepts, vision, the type of photos you need, and all other relevant details beforehand.
It might be easier to share photo concepts and examples with them to showcase your vision as clearly as possible. A great way to do that and create vision boards and other useful visual guidelines is through Pinterest.
2. Choose Your Clothes Wisely
Your clothing can determine the results of your photoshoot more than you realize. For a professional shoot, wearing business attire is important to convey the right message. For more casual photoshoots, you can play around with styles and colors a bit more.
Determine the theme of your shoot and try to figure out a few outfits that will match. Moreover, pay close attention to the colors you will wear. Some colors may look better in black and white photos, while others may be better suited for color images.
If you’re unsure what works, you can consult with your photographer. After all, they are a professional and can give you valuable tips based on experience.
3. Eat and Rest Beforehand
Photoshoots are lots of fun, but they are also tiring. To be in good spirits, as well as look your best, make sure you show up to your photoshoot after a good night’s sleep. Eat something and drink water to be energized and hydrated while you snap the photos.
It may not seem like much, but after a few hours of taking photos and changing outfits, you will feel the difference.
4. Plan Hair and Makeup
If you’re getting your hair and makeup done professionally, then it’s a good idea to discuss your vision beforehand. Find inspirational images and do your research on looks that will match your photoshoot theme.
If you’ll be doing your own hair and makeup, take the time a few days before to practice your look. This way, you won’t have any unpleasant surprises on the day of the shoot. Try to keep in mind best practices for photoshoot makeup, like for example what powder to use to not get flashback.
This way you’ll not only get the best portrait photos possible, but you’ll also have more confidence and feel more at ease under the camera lens.
5. Have a Backup for Outdoor Photoshoots
A lot of portrait photoshoots take place in studios. However, some prefer to have them taken outdoors, with beautiful scenery behind. While that is an idea that can bring great results, it also means your photoshoot will be subject to changes in the weather.
Lighting differs depending on the time of day, so it’s good to determine a best time with your photographer to take outdoor photos. Moreover, your photoshoot plans can be quickly ruined by rain. Since rescheduling is often not a possibility, try to have a backup location like a studio.
6. Don’t Overlook the Details
Your appearance is not just about your hair, makeup and clothes. There are many details that can make or break an image. Make sure you’re clothes are not just stylish but also properly ironed, for example.
Make sure your nails are manicured, and that your accessories match your look and theme. It’s recommended to wear more subtle accessories for portraits, so they don’t distract from the subject – you!
Another pro tip is to make sure you wear glasses that are not reflective, as they can affect the quality of your pictures.
7. Learn What Happens After
While your part is mostly over after the shoot, your photographer still has a lot of work to do before they deliver your images.
Images have to be selected and edited, as the first shot is far from the final product. It’s also important to determine whether you want your images delivered to you digitally or you want them in print. Having them printed and perhaps framed will add more time before you get your hands on the final product.
In short, get familiar with your photographer’s process beforehand and make sure you can accommodate their entire process so you get the best final results. It may take a few weeks, but the wait will be worth it!
You’re Ready for Your Portrait Photoshoot!
As a final tip, don’t forget to have fun! Having your photo taken is supposed to be a pleasant experience. Relax, and that will also reflect in your photos. Your photographer will do their best to create a safe and comfortable environment for you. Embrace it!
What experiences have you had with portrait shoots? Tell me in the comments!