Preparation Tips for Your Session

Here’s a guide to get ready:

1. Clothing

• Wear solid colors: Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns that won't distract from your face. Avoid busy patterns, logos, or anything too flashy. 
• For Personal Branding : You may want to not only select wardrobe that relates to your profession, but also throw in a more personal outfit just for fun, something you love to wear. 
• Choose colors that complement your skin tone: Earthy tones, jewel tones, and classic neutrals often work well. There are so many great apps out there these days, as well as companies that provide color analyses. If you aren't sure which clothing colors look best with your skin tone, you may enjoy trying something like this out. 
• Fit and comfort: Ensure your clothing fits well and makes you feel confident. Avoid overly loose or tight clothing.
• Avoid wrinkles: Clothes should be clean, pressed, and free of wrinkles.

2. Grooming

• Hair: Get your hair trimmed or styled to your preference before the session. If you’re doing something more styled than usual (like straightening), make sure you feel comfortable with it. Note: I will have fly away gel and other useful hair care products at the studio. One thing to consider is not getting a brand new hair cut right before your session as sometimes you need a few days to feel comfortable with a new haircut (at least in my experience). ;-)
• Makeup: If you plan to wear makeup, consider using slightly more eye makeup than you might wear for everyday use, to account for studio lighting. Avoid very shimmery or glossy products, as they can create reflections. It is important that if you're using foundation it is similar to your natural skin tone. Eye shadow, eye liner (top and a little on the bottom) plus mascara all look great on camera. That said, if makeup is not your style, no need use it! 
• Facial hair: If you have facial hair, make sure it's groomed how you like it. If you're planning to shave, do it beforehand so you have time to avoid razor burn.

3. Skin

• Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to the session to ensure your skin looks fresh and healthy. If possible, avoid a lot of salty foods or alcohol the night before your session. 
• Moisturize: Make sure your skin is well-moisturized, especially around your face.
• Avoid new skincare: Try not to try any new products right before your shoot to avoid any allergic reactions or breakouts.

4. Relax & Mindset

• Practice your posture: Practice standing and sitting up straight with relaxed shoulders. 
• Think about your branding: Before the shoot, consider the message you want your photos to convey. Are you aiming for approachable, professional, creative? This can affect your expression and body language. 
• Relax: It’s totally normal to feel a bit nervous, but remember, I am there to help guide you through posing. It will be fun! Take deep breaths and trust the process!  

5. What to Bring

• Wardrobe Options: Most of my Headshot Sessions include time for about 5 wardrobe options. Different styles or colors can give you a variety of looks. You can check this in the session description. I will go over wardrobe recommendations with you in advance. 
• Props (optional): If you want to incorporate items that reflect your brand (e.g., a laptop, book, or product), bring those along. Make sure they’re neat and complement your look.
• A brush or comb: Just in case you need to do a quick touch-up between shots. I will also have my curling iron and carefully selected hair care products like mens hair gel, fly away tamer gel, hair spray and bobby pins.
• Accessories : It's always nice to bring some simple jewelry options, particularly if they are pieces you usually wear or are meaningful to you.

6. Communication

• Design & Beyond : We will discuss the look you’re going for, whether you want a more formal or relaxed style. For Headshots, I will share a Wardrobe Guide with you for inspiration. Have a question or request? Please feel free to reach out to me about anything.

7. Timing

• Arrive early: Plan to arrive a little earlier than your scheduled session so you can settle in and get ready. This also gives you a buffer in case of traffic or other delays. You'll have a little time to refresh any makeup or hair styling if you like. I am there to help. 

Preparing ahead will help the session go smoothly and ensure you get great results. Do you have a specific style you're aiming for with your branding headshots? I would love to hear about what you are looking for!