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7 Essential Tips to Prepare for Your Photoshoot (and Get Pictures You'll Love)
ShareBooking a photoshoot is exciting - but it can also feel a little intimidating. Whether you're booked for a maternity shoot, family session, engagement photos, or even a wedding, these tips will help you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to shine.

1. Pick Outfits That Reflect You - and Photograph Well
Avoid bold logos, neon colours, or busy patterns. Neutral tones, soft pastels, and earthy colours work beautifully. For couples or family shoots, coordinate rather than match exactly. Feel free to bring a second outfit for variety!
Bold Logos Distract from You
- Logos draw attention away from faces and genuine expressions.
- Brand logos can look dated over time, reducing the timeless feel of your images.
- For commercial use, logos can introduce copyright complications.
Neon Colours Clash with Natural Skin Tones
- Neon colours reflect light, often casting odd colour tints onto skin - especially in close-ups.
- They overpower softer tones in the background or other outfits, dominating the image.
- Bright neon shades can distort true colour balance during editing.
Busy Patterns Create Visual Noise
- Stripes, checks, and intricate patterns can create strange optical effects on camera.
- They compete with your face for attention, drawing the eye away from important parts of the image.
- Simplistic, solid colours help create a clean, professional look that focuses attention on you.
In Short:
The goal of your photoshoot is to capture you, not your clothes. Neutral tones, subtle textures, and simple styles help
ensure that your face, eyes, and natural expressions become the star of every photo.
2. Choose the Right Location for Your Personality
- Studio: Classic, professional, and weather-proof.
Pros:
- Full control over lighting and environment.
- Weather-proof - no risk of rain, wind, or harsh sun.
- Private and distraction-free, ideal for intimate or formal photos.
- Clean, minimalist backgrounds (like white, black, or coloured backdrops).
- Access to props, furniture, and professional lighting equipment.
- Less natural variety in backgrounds.
- Can feel less personal or candid.
- Smaller spaces may limit large group shots.
- Less natural light unless intentionally included.
- Outdoors: Relaxed, natural vibe in a park, forest, beach, or city.
Pros:
- Natural, vibrant backdrops like parks, forests, beaches, or cityscapes.
- Soft, flattering natural light during golden hour.
- More movement and candid interaction possible.
- Seasonal scenery adds variety and mood.
- Weather-dependent - risk of wind, rain, or harsh sunlight.
- Public locations can introduce distractions or background people.
- Requires travel to a suitable location.
- Less privacy.
- There may be an extra fee to use the facility.
- At home: Cozy lifestyle shoots are perfect for newborns and families.
Pros:
- Captures genuine, personal moments in your familiar space.
- Great for newborns, families, and couples wanting relaxed, intimate images.
- Comfortable environment - especially helpful for young children or pets.
- Your home becomes a meaningful backdrop.
- Lighting may be more limited (though I can bring lights).
- Clutter or small spaces can limit shooting angles.
- Less of a studio-polished look.
- Prep work may include tidying spaces beforehand
Unsure? I'll help pick a spot that suits your style!
3. Schedule for the Best Light
The golden hour - just after sunrise or before sunset - offers the most flattering natural light. For indoor shoots, I'll handle the lighting for you.

4. Prepare the Little Details
Get enough sleep, stay hydrated, avoid tight clothing, and opt for matte makeup to avoid shine. For kids, bring snacks and toys for comfort and fun.
5. Trust the Process
I'll guide your poses and help you relax in front of the camera. Focus on each other and enjoy the moment!
6. Communicate Your Vision
If you have a style or pose in mind, share it! I love bringing your vision to life.
7. Relax, Be Yourself, and Enjoy
Natural, genuine smiles make the best photos. I'll create a relaxed space for your personality to shine.
Let's Capture Your Story
I'm passionate about creating images you'll treasure forever. Whether it's a glowing maternity session, candid family shoot, or romantic engagement photos, I'd love to help capture your story.
Contact me today to schedule your session.