Welcome! If you're wondering how to prepare for your photo session, you're in the right place.
Whether it's your first photo session or your hundredth, it can feel hectic preparing for your photo session without clear guidance. Here, I'll recommend some steps to take so you can show up to your session prepared and feeling your best.
What to know before your session
I. Arrive early
Whether you're driving, booking a rideshare service, or taking public transportation, it's always a good idea to arrive a few minutes early so you can get the most out of your session time! I recommend checking your route ahead of time for traffic, closures, delays, etc, especially during busy travel seasons such as holidays or special events that draw lots of tourists (such as peak bloom of the cherry blossoms in DC).
If you're driving, make sure to take into account time to find parking and walk to the location. For rideshare, it might be a good idea to schedule your ride ahead of the day of your session to ensure a predictable pickup time. If you're taking public transportation, it's always a good idea to check ahead for any potential closures.
Arriving early for a sunrise/sunset session will also maximize our time with the desired lighting!
II. Wear walking shoes (...trust me!)
Walking in nice dress shoes may seem doable, but trust me, you'll want to bring an extra pair of walking shoes to walk in (ideally ones that you're able to slip on easily). If you need to walk at all from your drop-off/parking/metro stop, I recommend wearing your walking shoes and packing your dress shoes in your bag Even if you don't end up wearing them, it's always better to avoid blisters whenever possible. I want to make sure we all have an easy, smooth, stress-free time as much as possible! Trust me, it is WAY LESS fun posing for photos when your feet hurt.
III. Check the weather & select outfit ahead of time
Especially if you book a sunrise/sunset session, and especially if we're shooting along or near any body of water. The wind and cold can be worse than you expect, so if it's supposed to be cold, definitely dress for that, or at least bring a jacket and some gloves (or whatever keeps you warm the best). Also, it's a good idea to bring sunglasses just in case.
I also recommend selecting your outfit ahead of time to minimize hassle and stress on the day of your session. I can provide guidance if you have no ideas for what to wear!
What to know before your session
IV. Sleep well and 'check engine lights'
Getting a good night's rest the night before your session will ensure you feel and look your best the day-of!
'Checking engine lights' the day/night before and day-of will help you have the easiest time during your session. This means: hydrate, eat regular meals that make you feel good, sleep well, and journal or vent to someone if something is on your mind. If you feel good mentally and physically, that will show in your photos! I know life can be unpredictable though, so no matter how you show up, I'll still have you covered and make sure we have a smooth session!
V. Pack a bag
IF you typically get dehydrated easily, have low blood sugar or energy issues that require food, or have any other needs, make sure to pack those with you. I personally need a water bottle and a snack at nearly all times!!
If you wear makeup or hair products, it could be a good idea to pack those if you know you'll want to touch up right before the session.
If you have any handheld props you plan to bring, make sure to pack those too!
VI. Checklist/Summary
- Choose outfit ahead of time and check the weather.
- Wear: Outfit, walking shoes (if the shoes you're wearing for photos are separate), sunglasses, coat/gloves/scarf/etc (WARM clothes for cold sessions).
- Pack: water, snacks, makeup, props etc if you have any physical needs that can waver throughout the session! Let me know if you need anything and I can try to bring something for you.
- Check your transportation routes and plan ahead of time to arrive a few minutes early.
- Sleep well and 'check engine lights'!
