How to prepare for a photoshoot

As a photoshoot approaches, practical questions tend to appear: Does this outfit work? Should I practise some poses? What if I look tense in the photographs? You do not have to answer all of those on your own. Good preparation should take decisions off your mind rather than give you another list of things to get right.

The most useful starting point is a conversation about how you would like the images to feel. Send me a few examples and tell me what you like: the light, colours, expression or clothes. That helps us plan with a direction in mind. If you would first like to understand what happens at the appointment, read about your photoshoot in Dresden.

You are welcome to mention anything you feel unsure about. Perhaps there is a position you find awkward, you normally wear glasses or you prefer one side of your face to the other. Knowing these things is more useful to me than having you try to hide your concerns throughout the shoot.

Choose clothes you can move in and that suit the images we have discussed. Two outfits that work well together are often more useful than ten options you have not decided between. Try everything on beforehand, including shoes and accessories. You will notice if something slips, feels tight or only sits well when you stand still.

Quiet colours and subtle patterns leave plenty of room for your face. That is a starting point rather than a rule: a bold dress might be exactly right for a fashion series. What matters is how it works with the background and mood. Large lettering and logos attract attention, so think about whether you want them to have a role in the photographs.

Pack your clothes so they arrive without too many creases. A small lint roller, a comb, suitable underwear and comfortable shoes for getting to the location are often more useful than an extra outfit. For intimate or more revealing photographs, we discuss what you would like to wear and show particularly carefully in advance.

For a TFP project, it is worth discussing how the images will be used as well as planning clothes and the concept. My TFP guide explains what belongs in a model release or shooting agreement, so we can concentrate on the photography on the day.

Leave enough time for the journey so you do not arrive feeling rushed. Something to drink and a small snack are useful for longer appointments. For an outdoor shoot, bring a jacket or a warm layer for breaks, even if the outfit you will be photographed in is lighter.

A look in which you recognise yourself is a good place to start with styling. If different make-up or hairstyling is part of the concept, we agree on that beforehand. You do not need to reinvent yourself at the last minute. And if the weather changes our outdoor plans, we work out what to do together.

You can look at poses for inspiration, but there is no need to memorise them. Small movements often lead to natural positions: taking a step, shifting your weight or looking to one side. I guide you through those adjustments and adapt my suggestions to you.

You can ask questions, turn down an idea and take breaks during the shoot. Especially if it is your first time, you do not need to pretend that everything feels familiar. An honest “this feels a bit odd” helps us move forward. We can try something else.

You also do not have to choose every final photograph during the session. You can take your time over the selection in your gallery afterwards. I explain that part in image selection and delivery with PicSnap. First, we concentrate on making photographs that feel like you.