Helpful Details for all sessions

Ultimate Guide to Preparing for a Portrait or Headshot Photography Session

🎯 Purpose of the Session

Before diving into grooming and styling, define the goal:

• Corporate/Professional Headshot: Polished, clean, confident.

• Creative/Actor Headshot: Expressive, natural, range of looks.

• Personal Portrait: Relaxed, stylish, possibly artistic.

---

💇‍♀️💇‍♂️ Hair Prep for Women & Men

WOMEN

• Haircut & Color: If coloring or cutting, do it 3–5 days before the shoot so it looks fresh but natural.

• Frizz Control: Use smoothing serum or blowout to tame flyaways.

• Day-Old Hair: Slightly dirty hair often styles better than freshly washed hair.

• Styles to Consider: Soft waves, straight with volume, or tidy updos. Avoid extreme styles that may date the image unless that’s the goal.

MEN

• Haircut: Get a trim 3–5 days before. Don’t go the day before—give it time to settle.

• Facial Hair: Decide ahead of time if you want to be clean-shaven or rock stubble/beard. Shave or trim the morning of the shoot.

• Eyebrows & Nose Hairs: Tidy up brows and trim nose/ear hair—small things make a big difference in close-ups.

---

💄 Makeup & Grooming

WOMEN

• Professional Makeup: If possible, hire a makeup artist familiar with photography. They’ll know how to match your skin tone and avoid SPF flashback.

• DIY Makeup:

  • Use matte products—avoid shimmer/highlighter which can look oily on camera.

  • Apply concealer to cover blemishes, and set with translucent powder.

  • Defined brows, subtle lashes, and a neutral lip work well.

  • Bring blotting papers or powder to reduce shine during the shoot.

MEN

• Grooming:

  • A bit of concealer and powder goes a long way, especially to reduce shine or hide blemishes.

  • Brush brows and moisturize skin.

• Avoid overly glossy or greasy moisturizers.

---

 What to Wear

 General Wardrobe Tips

• Solid Colors: Choose solid, neutral, or jewel tones. They’re timeless and keep the focus on your face.

• Fit Matters: Clothes should be well-fitted but not too tight.

• Necklines: Scoop neck, V-neck, button-downs, or modest crew necks usually work best.

WOMEN

• Tops: Structured blouses, blazers, or simple tops in flattering colors.

• Avoid: Busy patterns, logos, neons, or glittery fabrics.

• Jewelry: Keep it minimal. Small studs or a simple necklace if any. You want the focus on your expression.

MEN

• Shirts: Solid dress shirts or crew-neck tops. A blazer over a plain shirt is a classic combo.

• Avoid: Loud prints, small pinstripes (can moiré on camera), large logos.

• Layers: Add a jacket or sweater for more variety in your looks.

---

🎯 Before the Session: Client Prep Tips

• Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Puffy eyes and tired expressions are hard to fix in post.

• Stay Hydrated: It helps your skin look its best.

• Avoid Alcohol and Salty Foods: At least 24 hours before—minimizes bloating and puffiness.

• Plan Multiple Looks: Bring 2–3 wardrobe options.

• Bring Essentials:

  • Hairbrush/comb

  • Makeup for touch-ups

  • Lint roller

  • Water/snacks

  • Compact mirror

---

📷 Tips to Make the Session Go Smoothly

✅ For Clients

• Relax: The camera picks up tension. Take a few deep breaths and don’t worry if you feel awkward at first.

• Communicate: Share what you want from the session—whether it’s professional, approachable, creative, etc.

• Trust the Photographer: They’ll guide you through poses and expressions.

• Take Breaks if Needed: Especially if it’s a long session—staying comfortable helps your photos look more natural. 

 

📌 THE Final Checklist

✅ Hair freshly trimmed or styled
✅ Makeup ready (or MUA booked)
✅ Clothes picked out and ironed
✅ Grooming done (brows, nails, beard, etc.)
✅ Well-rested and hydrated

✅ Arrive 10–15 minutes early

✅ Bring confidence and good vibes!