So you’ve finally booked your first professional photo session, congratulations! Whether it’s for family portraits, professional headshots, or celebrating a milestone, working with a professional photographer is an investment in memories that will last a lifetime. But if you’ve never been professionally photographed before, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness.
Trust me, as someone who’s been behind the camera for over a decade, I’ve seen it all, from last minute outfit crises to weather disasters and I’m here to help you navigate the process. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your session, ensuring you get those frameworthy shots you’re dreaming of.
Planning Your Vision (Before You Even Book)
Before you book a session, spend some time thinking about what you want these photos to capture. Are they for your business website? A family holiday card? Anniversary portraits? The purpose will influence everything from location to wardrobe choices.
Create a small inspiration board (Pinterest works wonders here) of photos that resonate with you. Pay attention to the style, poses, and overall vibe that attracts you. This will help communicate your vision to your photographer during your consultation.
I remember working with a client who arrived with her phone full of dark, moody portraits, while I’d planned a bright, airy session based on our initial conversation. Having visual references ensures we’re both on the same page from the start.
The Pre-Session Consultation
Most professional photographers offer a pre-session consultation, either in person or virtually. This isn’t just a formality, it’s your opportunity to:
- Discuss your vision and expectations
- Learn about the photographer’s style and approach
- Plan locations, timing, and lighting
- Address any concerns or questions
- Discuss wardrobe options (more on this below)
Come prepared with questions. Good ones include asking about the typical timeline, what happens if it rains, how many final images you can expect, and when you’ll receive your gallery.
Choosing What to Wear (The Million-Dollar Question)
This is almost always the biggest stressor for clients, and I get it—you want to look your absolute best. Here are some tried-and-true guidelines:
For Individual Portraits:
- Choose clothing that makes you feel confident. When you feel good, it shows in your expressions.
- Avoid busy patterns and large logos that can distract from your face.
- Consider the neckline—generally, v-necks and scoop necks are flattering in photos.
- If you wear glasses, consider glare resistant lenses or borrowing frames without lenses.
- Solid colors typically photograph better than patterns, but subtle textures can add dimension.
For Family or Group Photos:
- Coordinate, don’t match. The matching white shirts and jeans look is outdated. Instead, choose a complementary color palette (3-4 colors).
- Consider your home decor if these photos will be displayed there—choose colors that complement your space.
- Layer with jackets, cardigans, or accessories to add visual interest.
- Make sure everyone is at a similar level of formality—don’t put dad in a suit if the kids are in casual tees.
I once photographed a family where mom spent hundreds on perfect outfits, but forgot to check what her husband was planning to wear—he showed up in his favorite worn sports jersey. Remember, everyone’s outfit matters!
General Wardrobe Tips:
- Iron your clothes. Camera sensors pick up wrinkles that you might not notice in the mirror.
- Try on your full outfit, including shoes, a few days before the session to catch any issues.
- Bring a backup option just in case.
- Don’t get a drastic haircut right before photos. Schedule cuts at least a week prior.
- For makeup, go slightly heavier than your everyday look but not so far that you feel unrecognizable. Matte makeup photographs best.
The Day Before: Your Pre-Session Checklist
Here’s what to do the day before your session:
- Confirm the time and location with your photographer
- Check the weather forecast
- Pack a small bag with:
- Lip balm or lipstick for touchups
- Blotting papers or powder if you tend to get shiny
- A brush or comb
- Safety pins and fashion tape for wardrobe malfunctions
- Water and small snacks, especially for family sessions with kids
- Any props you want to include
4. Get plenty of rest—those dark circles are much harder to edit out than you might think!
5. Drink extra water to ensure your skin looks its best
6. Lay out your outfit(s) and try them on one last time
What to Expect During Your Session
When you arrive at your session, your photographer should take the lead and guide you through the process. Here’s generally what happens:
The First 15 Minutes
This is the “warmup” period. Most people need a few minutes to get comfortable in front of the camera. Your photographer knows this and will likely start with some simple shots while making conversation to help you relax.
Pro tip: If you tend to be nervous, tell your photographer! They can adjust their approach to help you feel more at ease.
Direction and Posing
Unless you’re a professional model, you’ll need guidance on posing. A good photographer will:
- Demonstrate poses they want you to try
- Give clear, specific instructions (“Turn your chin slightly toward me”)
- Offer positive reinforcement
- Show you a few shots along the way if you seem uncertain
Remember, awkward posing often feels unnatural but looks amazing in photos. Trust the process!
Timing and Flow
A typical individual session runs 60-90 minutes, while family sessions might go longer (especially with young children). Expect to move between different spots at your location and try various poses and compositions.
For children’s sessions, photographers usually capture the “must have” shots early, knowing attention spans are limited. With teenagers, the first 15 minutes might be spent breaking through the eye rolling, but they usually warm up!
After Your Session: What Happens Next
Before you leave, your photographer should outline next steps, including:
- When and how you’ll receive your preview gallery
- The selection process for your final images
- Timeline for receiving the final edited photos
- Any follow-up appointments for ordering prints or products
Most photographers provide online galleries within 1-3 weeks, though turnaround times vary significantly, especially during busy seasons.
Final Thoughts: Relax and Trust the Process
The secret ingredient to amazing photos isn’t the perfect outfit or location—it’s the genuine emotion that shines through when you’re relaxed and present in the moment.
I once had a client who was so focused on getting the “perfect shot” that she couldn’t stop micro managing every aspect of her family session. The magic happened only when her toddler knocked over her carefully arranged picnic setup, and she finally laughed genuinely at the chaos. Those unscripted moments often become the treasured favorites.
Your photographer wants beautiful images as much as you do—it’s their portfolio and reputation on the line! Trust their expertise and direction, communicate your concerns clearly, and then let go and enjoy the experience.
Remember, you’ve book a photo studio because they know what they’re doing. Come prepared, bring your best attitude, and then let them work their magic. Before you know it, you’ll be looking at photos that capture not just how you looked on that day, but how you felt—and those are the images worth framing.