Tips for a Successful Photography Session – PART ONE

Although I do photography, I’ve also posed for the camera. So, this blog post is from the prospective of the person sitting for the session. If you’re a freelance writer, it is important to have a high-quality headshot at the very minimum when you begin getting your work published. Many literary journals ask for a headshot, and it is always a good idea to have a professional-looking one on the homepage of your website. As you progress, you’ll want to have eye-catching photos to use with your marketing materials in addition to a basic headshot. Having your picture taken involves more than just posing for the camera. Let’s talk about it.

I’ve worked with a variety of photographers over the past decades. As a model, I posed in-studio within Toronto’s fashion district. I’ve had photos taken while on stage for fitness competitions. And I’ve also worked with many up-and-coming photographers who focused on a range of aesthetics from portraits through fine-art. So the tips I’m sharing here come from a culmination of all these experiences. And, no, it’s not the obvious stuff like “comb your hair,” or, “smile for the camera.”

Clothing

Most photography sittings will only include one “look,” which means one outfit, one hairstyle, and one application of make-up. That being said, it doesn’t hurt to have a backup blouse or other item in your bag as a just-in-case. When you are selecting your outfit, go with minimal to no pattern as a default. No visible logos. Avoid mixing textures. Unless you have a professional to consult about your wardrobe, choose a classic style over vogue. Wear a wrinkle-free, solid coloured shirt and blazer. In a pinch, you may be able to get away with a cardigan in lieu of a jacket.

Unless there is a specific reason to wear a necktie, scarf, or jewelry for your photo, leave it in your bag as a just-in-case. These items can be distracting in a picture, and they leave marks on your skin from wearing. It’s better to bring it to the sitting and put it on when the situation calls for it.

Finish your outfit with the appropriate leg and footwear—you never know when a photographer may find a reason to do a wider shot. Also: try the full outfit on at least a few days prior to your sitting. Do it in a place where you have access to a full-length mirror. Your plan might change once you see that outfit on. Maybe that dress shirt that’s been sitting in your closet for three years doesn’t suit you as well as you thought!

Make-up

If you are fortunate enough to work with a high-end studio photographer, you’ll likely be instructed to arrive “blank canvas” to the session. This means clean skin with no make-up. In those cases, the studio has a make-up artist on site who will tailor your “look” for the shoot. I’ve had that a couple times, and it’s amazing. But it’s an exception.

In most cases, the model is responsible for make-up. You can go about this several ways. If you are already proficient at applying your own make-up, then simply do so. Lean toward a more natural palette and bring your kit with you for touch-ups during the shoot. Remember to bring a mirror—don’t assume the photographer has one.

Chances are high that your session will only include one “look,” which means you really just need enough make-up to cover blemishes, enhance tone, and help your natural features stand out on camera. Instead of going for the full set of concealer, foundation, and powder/bronzer, look for a 3-in-1 compact. These come with a sponge applicator, so I think of it as a 4-in-1. Stick to neutral shades for eyes and lips. Lipstick can double as blush. Choose clear mascara if you’re concerned about going overboard. This can be doubled-up for use with eyebrows. Use an eyelash curler. Practice your make-up application about a week out from your sitting.

If you are not confident in doing your own make-up, seek out a professional. Hair salons and spas are good places to check for this service. Book a single sitting for the day of your photography session. Specify that this is for photos so your make-up artist knows to control for shine.

Hair removal: Plucking, waxing, or threading should be done a few days out. This allows any redness and swelling to go down before your sitting. Shave the evening prior so your skin has a chance to repair overnight.

Fingernails: Only once have I ever had my fingers up close in a headshot. The photographer asked me to pose with my hand at my jawline. The studio’s instructions for this particular shoot included that I arrive with manicured hands, and specified French-tips. So the photographer’s request was reasonable and the photo turned out quite nice. As a writer, your photo session might include you holding a book or scribbling with a pen. So your nails may be in the photo. In general, keep things natural and clean-looking. A good file and buff should do it. Get yourself a four-sided buffing block. They are cheap and effective.

Hair

The same advice applies to hair as make-up in terms of do-it-yourself versus professional. You are responsible for arranging your own shampoo, condition, and blow-dry before arriving to your session. Conditioning is important, but sometimes it’s not enough for frizz control. Frizz is your enemy in photos. For real. We’re talking nemesis. It will ruin everything. Pack a tube of hand lotion in your bag. For an on-the-spot fix, spread the lotion on your palms and lightly (barely touching!) run your hands over your hair. The lotion weighs down flyaway strands.

I’ll continue sharing my tips in PART TWO of this subject. Are you a writer? Have you had a photographer do your headshot? Are you using cell phone selfies? Start the discussion below. Subscribe to stay updated on my new blog posts, story reviews, and more!

Cover Image: Photo by Kampus Production on Pexels.com