How You, The Client, Can Have the Best Portrait Session

Written by Khrishna 

As a photographer it never ceases to amaze me at how clients expect the world from their photo session when they didn't prepare for it.  The understanding that you get back what you put into it definitely applies to a client and their photo session.  The photographer with his or her camera can only do so much.

Here are some suggestions for making your photo session a great one....

• Get plenty of rest the day before your photo session.  Being well rested will ward off red eyes, dark circles and bags under the eyes.  It will also put you in the right mood for your photographs.

• Be well groomed.  Hair, nails and most of all your face should be well groomed.  Before your session it is a good time to treat yourself.  In other words, guys get your hair cut, trimmed and shaped. Ladies have your hair and nails done.  And for both the ladies and guys, if you have the money and time get a facial.  Keep in mind that this would not be a good time to try a new hair style or new hair color.  It's best to go with what has worked for your in the past.  If you want to create a new look first test the new look out before being photographed.  

• For the ladies - Prepare and tryout your make-up before your session.  If you are not sure of what to do or what type of make-up to wear visit your local make-up counter at the mall.  In some cases, you can scheduled an appointment and they will do your make-up for a small fee or for buying some of their products.  Note: Not all make-up counters will do this so you will have to check around in advance.  Or make an appointment with a make-up artist at your local salon; this usually will cost you a little bit more money.  If brides do it for their special day then why shouldn't you.  Think of your photo session as your special day.  

• Bring Accessories.  Accessories define your style, distinguishes you from all others and assists in telling your story.  Jewelry, hats, scarfs, your basketball, tennis racket, etc.  However, be careful not to over do it.  For example, if your thing is hats don't wear a hat in all of the shots.  Only bring one or two of your favorite hats with you.  Try taking some pictures with your hat and some without.

• Practice Posing.  Look at your favorite fashion magazines and examine the different poses of the models.  There is a very good reason why models get paid the big buck for posing in front of a camera. It's because posing is not easy.  So, learn from the pros and practice some of those poses in front of a mirror. Try on poses like you would try on clothes.   And pick out the best ones for you.  Then bring those magazines with those poses to your session.  Don't be afraid to try those pose out in front of the camera.  Remember that this is your time to shine so be your own super star in front of the camera.  If you forget what your poses were, don't worry this isn't a test, ask the photographer for a brief time out and look at the magazines that you brought with you.  As your session goes along this should help you loosen up and your own creative juices will start to flow with with your own original poses.

• Have Fun.   The more fun that you have in preparing for your session the more relaxed and at ease you will be.  The more relaxed you are the better the photos will be.

By putting greater thought into the preparation of your photo session you will reap the rewards of a  portrait that is an unmistakable attractive representation of you.