TIPS ON PREPARING FOR YOUR HEADSHOTS

1.  Preparing For Your Shoot

Once you have chosen a photographer the two of you will discuss what kind of images you need from your session. For instance, are you needing a corporate polished look, something creative and unique or something with a casual feel. This will help you and the photographer decide on a location,lighting,clothing and in some cases props. Will you need need images for web,print or both? Do you need headshots only or would you like full body images too? Your photographer will go over these types of questions with you and will try to put you at ease before your photo shoot.

2.  It’s all about the Face!

Make sure to have a few good nights of sleep prior to your shoot. Also make sure you are getting enough water and moisturize your face area. The night before your shoot do not drink alcohol as it can cause dehydration and/or bloating to the face. MEN, if you don’t normally use a moisturizer the days leading up to your shoot would be a good time to use a little and also some chapstick on the lips to prevent dryness or cracking particularly in the winter months. If you need a haircut have it done a week before your shoot so it can “settle in” a bit. WOMEN, I highly recommend having professional hair and make up done before your shoot, it really makes a huge difference. If you are applying your own make up keep in mind mascara,lipstick and blush are key and bring them along to the shoot in case you need a touch up. Also, avoid any sparkly or shimmery make up.

3.  Jewellery

MEN, please do not wear a wrist watch or bracelets to your shoot unless it is a creative shoot (for example you are a musician, artist or jewellery designer:))

WOMEN, same as with the men, please do not wear a wrist watch or bangles. I recommend bringing a few different necklaces to try, some may be used and some images may have no jewellery. In my case when photographing a Branding Session I may ask you to bring a variety of pieces depending on your personal style. For creatives we can be more experimental but still do not want to distract from the face too much. For corporate images less is more,maybe a simple strand of pearls to frame the face or one bold statement piece.

4.  Lighting

Whether your session is outdoors, on location or in a studio lighting is crucial.Particularly outdoors your photographer may place you in a spot that you may find odd but trust that they are seeing something with the light that will make you look amazing. Most photographers will chat with you during the process to let you know why you’re in that little alcove  rather than in the beautiful sunlight so you will feel comfortable with the locations. When shooting on location or outdoors an assistant will often be present. The assistant may hold a white reflector to one side of you or sometimes a small softbox. Try not to feel anxious about this, remember this is making you look your best and puts a great sparkle in your eyes.

5.  Communicate

Try to relax and have fun with it and if you have some ideas share them with your photographer. If you have seen something you really liked let them know, it might work for your session too. As your session moves along your photographer may ask you to move your chin or shoulders a certain way or to shift your weight from one leg or the other. Sometimes these poses may feel a little awkward but please be assured they are placing you in the perfect angle to make you look your best. If you have questions or concerns don’t be afraid to speak up and ask. Keeping communication open will help you both get the most out of your session and you will find yourself with some fantastic images.