So, after flipping through your cousin’s family portraits or admiring your friend’s artistic newborn photography, you might have decided it’s time for a little photography session with you and your family. Perhaps you're expecting a little bundle of joy yourself and planning for a maternity photoshoot. But what happens when you're left clueless about what to expect or how to prepare yourself for one?
Photoshoots can be daunting, but they don’t have to be. Whether you are camera shy or a camera magnet, keeping the following pointers in mind will go a long way in ensuring a productive and enjoyable client photo session for both you and the photographer.
1. HIRING A PHOTOGRAPHER
Picking the right photographer – whether family & portrait photographers, a newborn photographer, or a maternity photographer – is half the job done. But don’t just hire a photographer because he/she has great reviews. Rather, look for a professional who will complement your sense of style.
Photographers are visual artists, and, like writers and painters, tend to have their own way of capturing their subjects, be it through artistic lightroom presets, skin retouching, poses, the color scheme, choice of background, or advanced camera equipment. Browse through a photographer’s portfolio to get an understanding of their style, and choose someone whose artistic lens closely matches your artistic vision.
At Sidpix, we understand that each of you has a unique style statement. Our photography service is designed to champion this style and allow your personality to shine through the photos.
2. COMMUNICATION IS KEY
View the photoshoot as a partnership between you and the photographer. Communicate your ideas, thoughts, and expectations as clearly and as early as you can. This will not only help the photographer plan the shoot effectively but also give them time to arrange for special equipment and props if required. You can also take their advice regarding the theme, location, clothing, and more.
At Sidpix the planning starts at the very first day when we speak with a 30 min free consultation for your photoshoot.
3. PICKING THE LOCATION
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Once you've hired the photographer of your choice, it's time to scout for an appropriate location. You can ask your photographer for suggestions, but know that it is you who will have to ultimately decide.
Depending on the type of photoshoot (for instance, family, maternity, or newborn photoshoot), choose a place that'll best suit the occasion. Think about whether you want it indoors or outdoors, the likely weather conditions on the day of the shoot, the time of the shoot, the availability of natural light and shade, and how comfortable it is for you and your family.
Typically, for creative newborn photography, studio photoshoots are ideal. The photographer may have to apply for a permit to shoot at a particular location, so make your decision well in advance. Remember, if you have any doubts about the feasibility or suitability of a location, you can always check with your photographer.
4. CHOOSING YOUR OUTFITS
Have your outfits, including the accessories, ready at least a few weeks before the photoshoot. Do not forget to try them on to make sure they fit you perfectly. If it’s a stylish newborn photoshoot, then ensure your baby feels comfortable.
Let your photographer know what you and everyone else will be wearing. This will help them figure out the best shooting spot, what would make the best backdrop, and which area has the best lighting.
5. HAIR & MAKE-UP
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You can do your own hair and make-up, or you can get it done by a professional. For the latter, book your appointments at least a few weeks ahead of the shoot. It is recommended you do a trial run with your hair, make-up, and outfit. This way, if you aren't happy with the final look, you won’t have to fret. You still have time to perfect your desired look.
At Sid Photography we have partnered with best local hair and makeup stylists who helps during the complete photoshoot to make sure you look yourself in your pictures.
6. PERSONALIZE THE PHOTOSHOOT
The entire reason for the photoshoot is to memorialize a special occasion or the special people in your life. So why not make it even more memorable and special by adding a little touch of ‘you’?
Have your photograph taken with an heirloom that holds sentimental value. Or perhaps something quirky and random that reflects your personality. This will make the photoshoot fun and meaningful.
At Sidpix, our priority is to help you capture all of your important moments. We want the photos to look and feel natural and to reflect who you are as an individual. That’s why we are open to personalizing the photoshoot to the most-nuanced degree. Speak to our team if you need help organizing a custom photoshoot.
7. PRACTICING YOUR POSES
Yes, you read that right. Posing in front of a camera does not come naturally to everyone. And the last thing you want is to come across as wooden and uncomfortable. So practice a few tried and tested poses, and experiment with new ones.
On the day of the shoot, the photographer will give you instructions and directions on how to pose. So don’t worry about whether or not you have the right pose. The objective is to learn to relax and be yourself in front of the camera.
8. BE SILLY, BE GOOFY, BE YOURSELF
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Gone are the days when photoshoots used to be staid affairs with everyone posing and smiling for the camera in a rehearsed fashion. Now, it's all about the candid moments. So be spontaneous. Be open. Let the camera in, and allow it to capture your true personality and emotions.
9. THE BIG DAY
On the day of the photoshoot, make sure you are well-rested, hydrated, and well-nourished. You will be there for a while, so it’s important you maintain high energy levels.
Also, be present at the location at the specified time. Arriving late is not only disrespectful to your photographer, but it may also affect the quality of photographs, especially if it depends upon the use of natural light.
10. IMAGE USE RIGHTS
In general, photographers retain the copyright to the images. This would be listed in your Client Online Gallery when you get them for Proofing. The photoshoot contract will lay out how you're allowed to use and share the photographs. Make sure you are familiar with it and account to understand the terms of usage to avoid issues later on.
Now that you have prepared yourself for the perfect photoshoot, go out there with confidence and poise, and don’t forget to have fun.
