SESSION DETAILS
SESSION DETAILS
Brenda Ladd Photography: Preparing for Headshots
#1 COMMUNICATE GOALS & PURPOSE
NEW WEBSITE, SOCIAL MEDIA, GIFT, FAMILY HEIRLOOM
What should I wear? Is it better to have my session in the studio, on location or outside? Do I need a make-up artist? How do I pose? How will these photos be used? Do I need prints of just digital files? The answers to these questions will help you prepare for your upcoming photo shoot and I'm here to discuss them with you. LET'S TALK!
If you have examples of what sort of images and poses that you like be sure to share that with me. Check out these great examples on my Pinterest page too.
#2 WHAT TO WEAR?
YOUR STYLE SHOULD REFLECT YOU!
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MEN DRESS SHIRTS: Make sure the collar is large enough when buttoned! Shirt sleeves should extend below the suit sleeve. Check that it is well pressed and in good shape.
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Solid Colors advised. If multiple people involved, keep colors in same color family. e.g. Fall colors (dark green, maroon, navy, black..)
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Dark clothes are less distracting and put the attention on your face and eyes.
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Avoid dated, busy patterns and bold lines/stripes.
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Long sleeves look good as they don’t visually chop off the subject’s arms.
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Clothes should be neatly pressed and should look good.
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Wear clothes that are comfortable and make you feel confident.
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If it’s a full length pay attention to pants, socks, shoes.
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Avoid distracting or dated jewelry. Bring selection if desired.
#3 THE WEEK BEFORE YOUR SESSION
PREPARE, REST AND DON'T GET SUNBURNED!
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Do not get a new hair cut right before the shoot. Hair should be colored if needed beforehand. If you don’t like your hair, you won’t like your image!
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Do not try/use any new product on your hair, face or body within a few days beforehand.
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Layout your outfits and pack anything else that you may need.
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Drink plenty of water and be well rested, so your eyes will not have dark circles.
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DO NOT get sunburned or overly tanned before shoot! This CANNOT be edited away.
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Avoid alcohol & drugs directly before or the night before your shoot. If possible, do not smoke cigarettes directly before your shoot.
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Teeth stains (from tea, coffee, wine) My dental hygienist recommends swishing hydrogen peroxide in mouth periodically. Do NOT swallow!
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Today’s Hi-resolution cameras pick up A LOT of details
WOMEN: Please pluck and groom eyebrows, nose, chins and upper lips as needed. -
MEN: Groom your nails, neck, nose and outer edge and inner canals of your ears. Consider a professional shave and grooming.
#4 DAY OF SESSION
BRING A GREAT ATTITUDE!
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This will be FUN! Think good thoughts as the camera picks up your attitude.
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Don’t forget to plan ahead for travel and parking time. Arrive 5-10 minutes early.
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If children are involved, make it exciting and not stressful.
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If pets are involved, bring leash, treats… (may need to give to photographer to bribe them!)
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Be sure to eat! Bring snack for kids that won’t stain face or clothes.
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Bring lip balm, hair brush/combo, extra outfits, accessories and your favorite hair and makeup products for touching up.
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If you are receiving hair and makeup services please arrive with clean, dry hair and a clean, moisturized face.
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If you are not using a makeup artist, please arrive with your hair styled, makeup applied, and dressed in your first outfit.
#5 HAIR & MAKEUP TIPS
LET'S GET YOU PHOTO READY!
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Makeup artists are not required, but highly recommended. In my 25 years of experience, I have found that make-up done professionally can make a big difference. Your makeup needs to be "photo ready". Our professional makeup artists are experienced with camera make-up and you will look completely natural, but perfectly flawless. There is an additional cost, but it is worth every penny!
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Make-up should be clean and natural and as you like it.
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Wear a good layer of translucent powder - your face will appear flawless in photos. Shine disappears, pores seem smaller, skin looks even, and blush is smoother.
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Men may need to be touched up with powder and lip treatment.
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Line lips before applying matte lipstick, then reline. Do not overdo it. Dip a cotton bud in powder and run along lip line to prevent color from bleeding.
