If you’ve made the (right) decision to star in a photoshoot, don’t squander this opportunity. Prepare yourself as much as you can so that you obtain a great, professional result. In this article, we’ll be talking about the different factors that go into a photoshoot, and how you can give it your best in every kind of photo. Your photos will be a useful addition to your portfolio on both a professional and personal level, so it’s definitely worth investing a few minutes to read everything here!
Indice
Who and what photography services are for
For some people, a photoshoot is a true necessity – models, actors and just everyone whose work depends on their personal image. But these days, whose doesn’t? Professional photography is great for your personal branding, which is to say that it’ll help you give off a more professional impression to others, and can be useful for various reasons:
- makes your resume look more professional
- great for profile pictures on social media
- good for photos used at conferences, meetings and in publications
On a personal level it can also be a gift for a special person or for an occasion, such as an important birthday, graduation or anniversary.
Get inspired by great photographers and take a look at the work of great models in portrait art such as Jimmy Nelsson or Annie Leibovits.
How to dress for a photoshoot
When making any kind of preparation, it’s important to first ask yourself – what is my goal? Based on what goals you have for the photoshoot, different types of outfits and approaches work best.
- Models: if you’re a model, it’s important to display not only your beauty, but above all an ability to pull off different styles, so don’t limit yourself to just one. Show yourself off sporting evening dresses, swimsuits, formal dresses and so on.
- Actors: for you, interpretation is important. Closeups are essential, and should be intense and expressive. Actors too must be able to work with all kinds of looks, including older styles from the past. This is how you’ll inspire casting managers and show that you’re a good fit for any role.
- Entrepreneurs: The word entrepreneur immediately makes you think of someone determined and engaged in their work. This is why it is essential to wear the clothes you use in your work. Jacket and tie or a formal suit will therefore be your basis, but you may wish to add a touch related to your specific sector, like a protective helmet for a construction engineer or an apron for a restaurant owner. Don’t forget to get some shots of you in sports clothes or something casual, as they can be useful for certain situations, like when sponsoring a team.
- Job seekers: think about what role you’re going for and dress accordingly. For example, if you’re aiming at some creative role, you may use a more whimsical or personalized outfit, or if you want to get hired as a bodyguard, focus on sports clothes that highlight your physicality.
- Personal photoshoots: if you’re having a photoshoot done for your personal use, you can let loose and wear the clothes you love. If your wardrobe doesn’t satisfy you, for the occasion you could rent some special pieces such as a tuxedo or a mermaid dress. If your photoshoot is for making some great memories during your pregnancy, aim for clothes that emphasize your tummy shape, and if your body allows it, you could also try some photos of you in a crop top displaying your naked belly.
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How to best present yourself for a photoshoot
Whatever your purposes, you’ll want to look your best in your photos. Here’s how to prepare in the days before the photo shoot.
- A week before: take care of your diet and eat in a balanced way. Avoid foods that are too heavy or cause bloating, so that on the day of the shoot you’ll have brighter skin and be in your best shape.
- 5 days before: get a teeth-cleaning service with your dentist, as this will help prevent swollen gums.
- 3 days before: treat yourself to some facial treatment, be it a massage or a mask, so as to relax your skin and make your face look radiant.
- 2 days before: get hair removal, manicure and pedicure services, as relevant. Try on the makeup and outfits you’ll be wearing.
- 1 day before: take a long walk and get at least 8 hours of sleep, as this will give you a better complexion and a more rested look.
- The day of the photo shoot: go to your hairdresser and makeup artist. Many photography studios, however, provide complete packages and will provide these professional services themselves.
How to pose for a photo shoot
If you’re not a model or an actor, you may not know how to pose. Here are some tips.
- Smile. Smiles are nice and communicate positivity. They are also an anti-aging method because when you smile, you raise the contours of your face, and this makes you look younger.
- Do the S pose. This S-shaped posture is achieved by placing your weight on one leg. Doing so naturally puts you into a sinuous S-shape posture.
- Free your arms. Keeping your arms a bit further from your body gives a less awkward and elegant look, revealing your waistline.
- Listen to your photographer. This is the most important advice we can give. The photographer is the true professional and knows what result they’re going for before the photoshoot even begins.
How to choose a photographer for your photoshoot
It’s one thing to choose a photographer for your products, but if you’re the one being photographed, here are some tips on making the right choice.
Look at their portfolio.
Look for a photographer who often photographs people, and pay special attention to their pictures of ordinary people so that you don’t mistake the beauty of a photo for the beauty of the person in it.
Talk to them.
Your poses will be better if you’re at ease. For this reason, it’s good to get to know the photographer a bit first. Even if they’re famous and well-regarded, they still may not be suitable for you. Be wary of those who are willing to take pictures of you without even having spoken to you. They won’t be able to properly portray a personality they don’t even know.
Beware of friends.
Do you have a photographer friend who’s offering to do your photoshoot? Only accept their offer if you think you’ll manage to have a professional relationship on this, without having to fear asking for a redo if you’re not satisfied.
