Intro: Ready, Prepped, Shoot!
So, you've booked your portrait session—awesome! Now, let’s make sure you're prepped and ready to make the absolute most of it.
A little preparation goes a long way in making your shoot feel smooth, fun, and dare I say, unforgettable.
Here’s my quick guide to enhance your portrait session and ensure you get the most value out of our time together.
1 ) Fill out your photographer's questionnaire.
I promise, it's for a good cause, and we need to get these details out of the way earlier than later.
Filling in the questionnaire gives you time to contemplate and edit your answers versus me peppering you with questions in a live interview.
Work with your partner, if applicable, to answer the questions as best you can. The details of this will help guide conversations around planning your session and offer ideas where you might not have imagined any before. If you like, I'll fill our yours, too. ;)
2) Coordinate your wardrobe
Gone are the days of matching everything (hello, 90s family photos). Instead, think coordinating—not matching. Stick to a color palette that works together, and avoid logos or overly busy patterns that can distract from your beautiful selves.
- Pro tip: Layers are your friend—they add texture and depth to photos.
3) Think Grooming: Hair and Makeup
You want to look your best without feeling like you’re in a beauty pageant. Consider getting your hair styled, beard trimmed, or makeup done if it gives you an extra boost of confidence. If you’re going for a more casual look, no worries! Just make sure you're happy with how everything looks.
- Pro tip: Have a travel-sized hair product on hand for touch-ups. Humidity has no mercy.
4) Read the Guides
(Yep, They’re Helpful)
I’ve sent you guides so you'll feel fully prepared. From wardrobe tips to FAQs, they have everything you need to know about making your session a success.
Got more questions? Ask me! I’m here to help, and no question is too small or silly.
Mood. Awkward Silence.
5 ) Create a Playlist
Music has an insane ability to put us in the right mood and drown out others attention.
I encourage you to create a Spotify playlist that reflects your vibe for the day. Whether it's chill and romantic or upbeat and fun, having music you love in the background can set the perfect tone.
Music will compete with the click of the camera and fill any awkward silences that might creep up on us as I change settings or think through my composition. It will also encourage a little natural movement.
- Pro tip: Share the playlist with me beforehand so I can sync up the vibe on the day!
I have playlists ready to go if you need inspiration.
Here is a go-to for me:
6 ) Let's get to know each other
Consider scheduling a get-to-know-you call or meetup. Whether virtual or in-person, this is your time to ask any questions, share your vision, and let me understand what makes you tick.
The more comfortable we are together, the more relaxed and natural the shoot will feel. I cannot stress this one enough!
7 ) Take the afternoon off
Got a mid-week session? Take the afternoon off work (or even the whole day). You don’t want to show up hungry, stressed, and rushed. Plan to relax before the shoot—have a good meal, hydrate, and give yourself time to ease into the experience and take the pressure off yourselves.
- Pro tip: Feeling relaxed shows in your photos!
(trust me, it's worth it!)
8 ) Arrive ahead of time
Not to be a total "mom" here but...
Photography is all about light, and if you're late, we lose valuable shoot time and those dreamy golden hour moments, if we're lucky enough to steal the light. On an overcast evening, the fading light is even more urgent.
So please, arrive on time (or even a little early) so we can start with the best light and avoid rushing through the session.
I will always be early to the location to assess the light before getting started.
9 ) Plan a secret laugh or smile
Want to guarantee some genuine smiles during the shoot?
Think of something that always makes your partner laugh or smile, but don’t tell them—keep it a secret until the shoot. At the right moment, drop it on them, and trust me, those candid laughs will be pure gold in the photos.
10 ) Remember:
It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being real, connected, and having a blast in the process!
Wrapping It Up
In the end, your portrait session is about having fun and capturing moments that reflect your true selves. With a little preparation, some lightheartedness, and a dash of boldness, we’re going to create something beautiful together.
I'm Ali from Lumenali Photography |
Ontario & Quebec Portrait & Elopement Photographer
I photograph people engaged with the things that define them, in the places they adore.
I'm located in Kingston, Ontario and travel to meet the needs of my clients.
Where are we going next?
