It doesn't matter whether you're gearing up for a personal branding session that lasts an hour or prepping for an afternoon of glamorous fun, getting ready for your photoshoot demands some time and a modicum of effort. Here's what I recommend for all my clients:
1. For at least two days before your session make sure you get plenty of rest and plenty of fluids into your system. No, I don't mean of the alcohol variety. I mean those that will help your skin look fresh and glowing - water, tea, green juices. But don't freak out if your skin breaks out. Our makeup artists have tons of tricks up their sleeves for helping with redness, rashes, blood shot eyes and a smattering of pimples. And if all else fails, well usually a little photoshopping will do the trick.
2. Wash you hair and treat it as you normally would except for gels and hairsprays, Don't apply those unless you'll be doing your own hair. This will save our artists from having to undo your do only to re-do it again.
3. Clean and press the clothes you will be wearing, including your back ups. Sounds obvious, but the number of clients who show up with wrinkled or stained clothes is more than you'd think. Consider hanging your items in a garment bag. If you can fold your clothes without risk of creasing than a duffel bag or rolling luggage bag should do fine. We often have an iron on hand in studio but not for on location shoots. You don't want to ruin your shot by looking unkempt.
4. Keep your jewelry and accessories in separate containers. I had a client who showed up so well prepared she had her shoes in one box, her jewelry in another and all manners of accessories in a third. Sure, it was a lot to schlep, but it made everyone's job easier and offered up new wardrobe options we hadn't even considered.
5. Mani- pedis. It's worth coming prepared from head to toe, especially for glam/editorial sessions, where we usually show your hands and where we might even get a glimpse of your feet. If you like painting your nails then do so, but please keep the color in mind vis-a-vis your wardrobe and what kind of look you are going for. Neutral pink and clear varnishes are a great default but you can consult with our stylist about which color will work best for you.
6. Don't starve yourself! This is an important one and is counter-intuitive for most women. Though it might seem reasonable to want to shed a final pound or two before your session, what you'll end up doing is shedding water weight and loosing the energy you need to be fresh and glowing for the shoot. There is not enough makeup or fantastic clothes, or guided posing techniques that will make this a fun experience with great results if you're too tired and too hungry to be involved, and just end up looking drawn (see rule #1).
7. For shoots lasting more than an hour, consider bringing a bottle of water and a snack. Though we often have water on hand, we do not provide catering. Especially if you're the kind of person who eats every couple of hours, please make sure you prepare for that.
8. Finally, take a deep breath and try to remember, this whole experience is about you. From your wardrobe to makeup, to how we style your hair, we are here to pamper you and to make you feel and look beautiful every step of the way. Your only task is to bask in the attention and relish in our team creating the best photos you've ever seen of yourself.
For more information on booking a shoot with me email nicolette@NJPphotography.com or call 310-622-4580