Portrait photography can be intimate and feel a little obtrusive for people who aren’t used to being photographed. We make it our mission to provide a comfortable experience that results in professional portraits or headshots that you’ll be proud to share. We’ll help you select the right outfit, location, and pose for your session. Here is a list of tips on how you can prepare for your next portrait or headshot session.
Attire
- Rich solid colours and textured clothing work great! Avoid solid white clothing (but some white — e.g. under another garment, accessories — is OK). Too much solid black may blend into shadows. All things are OK in moderation.
- Ensure your top sleeves at least to the elbow
- Clothes should be ironed (wrinkle-free)
- It’s up to you, but just so ya know — most people who choose big bold patterns live to regret it. Patterns simply take focus away from the face, which is not what we want for a portraits. Since our goal is to make your portraits as stylish and professionally artistic as possible, the best way to coordinate is simply to present the best version of yourself.
Hair & Makeup
- Hair should be styled (self or professional).
- Men – clean shaven or neatly trimmed beard / mustache
- Bring chapstick (no glitter) to avoid dry/cracked lips
- Nails and hands should be clean and moisturized
- Bring a brush or hair products to help calm flyaways
- Lip balm can help you keep your lips looking soft
- Keep make-up simple and in line with your everyday look
What about prescription glasses?
For those of you that wear glasses, please ensure that they are glare free. We do our best on our end by adjusting the lighting to avoid eyeglass glare spots, however something it cannot be avoided. Glare free lenses would eliminate this struggle. Transition lenses are also not recommended for outdoor photo shoots and indoor spaces with lots of natural light. They are very light sensitive and will end up looking like sunglasses when you don’t want them too. Be prepared to take them off if needed, and continue to shoot without them.
Practice makes perfect!
If you are nervous about your upcoming portrait or headshot, it is always a good idea to practice the expression you want to portray in the mirror. Doing this can help you calm your nerves and focus on getting across the look you are going for!
Our team at Anna Kobelak Photography will make you feel comfortable and confident with your portraits or headshots. Hopefully, this article has been informative to you, and can help you prepare for your photo session!
Contact Anna Kobelak to book your personal branding, business portrait or headshot session by calling 1-416-805-9890 or filling out the form below.