How to Prepare for Your Photoshoot
I was in a group chat the other day that was unrelated to photography, and someone was asking how to prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for a photoshoot.
That’s when I realized that not all photographers prepare their clients in the same way that I do. I give prep guides and have a Zoom call before their shoot to go over wardrobe, the process, and answer any lingering questions. The purpose is to take care of my clients and help everyone be fully prepared on all levels.
So let’s get into how you can prepare for a photoshoot, whether you work with me or not.
Your Portrait Prep: More Than Outfits—It’s an Experience
You’re showing up—and trusting me is enough. I have the rest handled. We literally take care of everything. You don’t have to know how to pose; you just mirror me. I show you and do what I’m doing. We will cover what to wear in our prep guides and pre-shoot Zoom call. Once you show up, all you have to do is relax, follow directions, and have fun!
Vision & Planning
This is about your legacy, how you want to see yourself. It isn’t just about looks, it’s about a narrative. The first step in the process after you book, is to thoroughly go over your prep guides and do the homework. Get centered on what you want. I always suggest a Pinterest board to get the vision in one place. Pin what you love, from editorial to candid, moody to minimalist… and I’ll do the rest.
The Image Styles you Can Expect
We want you to shine—no distractions. We’ll lean into several styles:
Clean & minimal: you, front and center, pure and powerful.
Beauty portraits: classic, emotive, on timeless backdrops.
Editorial: candid moments with authenticity.
Moody or light & airy: powerhouse or gentle—it’s your vibe.
Wardrobe
Only bring what you love. No distractions. Let’s talk about what to wear in your photoshoot.
3-5 outfits allow you to honor and celebrate all facets of who you are. I think of outfits as the outward expression of how we show up in the world. It’s a visual for our everyday, business, intimate, what you might wear on a night out, and anything else you want.
Mix in neutrals, rich tones, classics, and…always bring at least one piece just for you. As women, we often put work and everyone else’s needs before our own. This is a self-care day for you, so always bring at least one outfit for only you.
This is a time to be practical and get out of your comfort zone. Try something sexy. Sexiness can mean wearing a backless gown or beautiful lingerie. Even a sweater can feel sensual when worn off-the-shoulder, and a slip-dress nods to lingerie while still feeling dressed up.
Try something epic. A photoshoot is a perfect opportunity to dress like a movie star (and a great excuse to go shopping). You might even rent, borrow, or custom-make your dream outfit. Give yourself permission to go all out.
And always remember this rule: tailored fits flatter everyone in camera. Fitted clothing that shows your shape works best for photographs. This applies to any body type. Outfits should hug your curves, especially along your top half. (Loose, flowing skirts, or wide-leg pants are fabulous as long as your bodice or top is snug.) Skip the kimono sleeves and dolman-style tops, and always choose tailored over loose or boxy.
Be sure to flatter your arms. Love your arms? Show them off with a strapless dress or sleeveless top. Not a fan of your arms? Pass on anything with cap sleeves, which emphasize the widest part of the arm. Either way, bring (at least) one outfit with long sleeves.
Studio Philosophy
You’re amazing now. Not later, not after 10 or 20 lbs lighter, not after the world says you’re ready. YOU are enough as you are today.
Photography is evidence that we exist in this world. I often ask women when was the last time you were photographed? If something happens to you tomorrow and your family goes looking for images of you, what will they find? Because when something happens to the ones we love, photos are the first thing we search for; it’s the only tangible thing left behind.
Most women are silent when I ask these questions. And it's because they’ve been avoiding the camera for years. I know women well enough to be realistic and understand that many women struggle with self-love, and no matter how much I tell them they are beautiful, they wish they had lost just a few more pounds before their session. If that is you, I can assure you that this ain’t my first rodeo. The majority of the women who come in to see me are working on loving themselves, but struggle. They don’t approve of the size of their thighs, their belly pooch, or their dimples. I take women’s feelings very seriously and never want to make anyone uncomfortable. While this is a body-positive studio, I will also light and pose you in the most flattering possible way while I shoot you from the best possible angles.
I’ve spent the last decade photographing all kinds of women, all extraordinary in their own way. I’ve learned all the tricks to ensure that I am featuring the attributes that women most love about themselves, while paying special care to downplay areas of concern. While I’m going to make it my very best effort to change your mind on what you consider to be your “flaws”, I don’t expect every woman to be ready for that yet.
But we are a body positivity studio. We don’t tolerate negative self-talk. Because I see the beauty in everyone. I see your essence and then capture and show it back to you. Showing you the most beautiful and empowered version of yourself. We make you feel and look like the best version of yourself on your best day. And, we honor everyone with the same love. We make you feel cared for and pampered the entire time.
The Prep Timeline
A month before: We do a Zoom call to go over wardrobe, answer any questions, and prepare you for success.
A few days before: We’ll communicate in regards to any reminders, parking, and arrival instructions.
On shoot day: hair + makeup, fully guided posing, upbeat vibes, champagne or bubbly water, your favorite playlist. Your spa-meets-photoshoot day.
Within 3 weeks: Reveal & ordering session. This is where you see the final product. There is almost always laughter, crying, and celebrating - because you rocked it. From here, you can start thinking about how you will display the awesome, gorgeousness that is you.
From Personal to Transformational
When I left my career and picked up a camera at 30, I found purpose in capturing other women’s transformation. I discovered that it wasn’t the images, it was the confidence I helped them feel. That’s the heart behind my guides. Whether you’re stepping into coaching, launching a brand, updating your legacy, or simply craving to be seen - you’re here for a reason.
In Conclusion: The Essentials
Mood board to spark intention.
Multiple wardrobe shifts to reflect depth.
Professional hair & makeup so that you feel cared for and pampered.
Fully guided photoshoot. You show up, I guide.
Reveal & ordering—to choose what literally lifts your soul.
Trust this process.
Lean into it. Enjoy it. And prepare to move through the world seen, felt, and owned. Because this isn’t about a photoshoot. It’s about stepping into your story. And your best chapter has only just begun.
