Getting your pictures taken is not something that happens every day: it can be an investment in your business or just in your personal life. Plus, it can be a bit scary at first or intimidating, so you want to make sure you are prepared for it.
And here is the unavoidable question… what should I wear?!
I decided to write a blog post about it so you have guidance for when you have your photoshoot.
Which type of shoot you are having
Are you having a quick headshot, a brand shoot, or an artistic portrait?
This will determine how many looks to pack, which type of clothes, if you are getting a make-up artist on the shoot, or if you have to bring your own make-up. The best thing to do is to communicate with the photographer to know exactly what to take with you to the shoot, so don’t hesitate to ask as many questions as you need.
The more information you get, the better you will be prepared for the shoot.
Clothing
If you are going for a quick headshot ( 30min) I would suggest 1-2 looks maximum.
If you are going for a long shoot, for example, a brand shoot that can last up to 4 hours, then I would suggest more looks.
I would suggest picking outfits that truly represent you. If you are going for a more formal shoot that may be a dress code required, however you can always add your own style to it.
Some ideas to inspire you:
- Think about how you want to be perceived in line with your style: if you always wear shirts, by all means, wear a shirt if that is a statement piece in your wardrobe. Just make sure it is looking its best ( steam it, iron it...).
Tip: You can always research on Pinterest and see different outfits that you like and recreate them with what you have in your wardrobe.
- If you are hesitating... over-pack! Bring more options and I am sure the photographer will help you decide what looks best on camera. Bear in mind the length of your shoot, don't pack your whole wardrobe if you are going for a 30min session!
- Think about the outfit you would wear to an X event: what would you wear to go to see some friends for dinner in a new restaurant? Would that be a mix of casual comfortable but nice-looking clothes? Maybe that is a good inspiration to start with!
Let's talk about shoes... well, this is a very personal one. I would say if you are going for a headshot, shoes don't really matter because they won't show in the pictures.
Some people like to wear heels because they feel better with them, and some people prefer to be barefoot. The choice is yours, just make sure if your feet are in the shot, they will look their best ( with or without shoes!).
I would suggest not to wear uncomfortable shoes as they can affect your mood. You can always bring an extra pair. Let's say you have these beautiful high heels that you love but aren't comfortable walking around all day, then pack them and just wear them during the shoot.
If you are really not sure about what to choose or it is a very big shoot, I would suggest looking for a professional stylist
Remember, stay true to your own style and personality!
Make-up and hair
Do you normally wear red lipstick? Do you always have your eyeliner done? Is your beard always perfectly trimmed? Do you always straighten your hair?
See what really defines you in terms of make-up and hair and go with it. Don't try to overdo it: if you are a person who hardly wears make-up, don't go crazy on the eye shadow just for the sake of it!
I would suggest trying some ideas maybe the days before, to see if there is a specific look you are going for.
One tip I got from a make-up artist, is to hydrate your skin the night before. Wash it and use some fresh hydrating lotion and let it rest. It will look fresh and clean the next day.
In terms of hair, see if you need a trim or shaving but nothing drastic and do it always a couple of days before the shoot.
If you are not sure about what to choose or if it is a very big shoot, I would suggest looking for a professional MUAH artist.
In my brand photoshoots, I work with Jen Lo, a good friend of mine and a professional make-up artist. We offer also consultation prior to the shoot to talk about the type of photography and the looks our client is going for.
Things to avoid before the shoot
- No drastic changes on your physic before the shoot: dramatic hair colour changes, risky haircuts...
- Wearing uncomfortable clothes and shoes.
- Last-minute shopping unless it is for basics.
- Don't go out the night before or drink heavily, it won't be fun the next morning and the pictures will be able to tell!
Notes to take with you
Stay true to your style: wear comfortable clothes and make-up that truly represent you.
Ask as many questions as you need to the photographer to make sure you know what you are getting out of your shoot.
Look for professional services like a make-up artist and stylist if you think you may need them for your shoot.
Avoid drastic changes in your physic prior to the shoot.
-Don’t try to be someone else. This is about you :)
I hope this blog post has been helpful and will guide you for your next shoot!
Laura
P.S. If you are in need of headshots and live in Surrey, I am always offering headshots sessions in my studio in Shere. Get in contact with me here :)
