What to Know When You Don't Know What to Know

So you've booked your photo session, what's next?

Communication is key!

If you've never had professional photos taken before, don't worry, these tips will put you on the right track.

1. Ask all the questions

   1. anything from, what should I wear? How about my hair? Does this dress make me look fat? Don't be afraid to ask your photographer whatever is on your mind. With that said expect honest answers. One of the most asked questions I get is, can you make me thinner in the pictures? The answer: The images I capture present the best version of your true self. There will be some editing but not extreme editing to where you are unrecognizable.

2. Plan your Outfit(s)

   1. Go ahead and pull out the clothes you plan to wear a week or 2 in advance. Try them on, make sure they fit the way you expect them to. Check to see if they need washing or professional cleaning prior to wearing and if you plan to accessorize try on the accessories to make sure they give the desired look you are aiming for.

3. Schedule your haircut / salon appointment a few days before "the big day"

   1. Some salon treatments may leave the skin discolored or appearing red or bruised. Scheduling the service a few days in advance gives you time to get back to normal.

4. Arrive on time well rested with a great attitude

   1. The night before your photo session is as important if not more important than the day of the shoot. If you only get 3 hours of sleep the night before, your photos will tell the story. Prepare yourself for bed by reducing screen time and make sure to cleanse your face (ladies: to remove any residue of that days make up). Its ideal to get 7-8 hours of sleep the night before; therefore, you wake up fresh faced and refreshed. We all have great attitudes when we are rested with a clean face... and if not we can just hold hands a sing show tunes until we feel better.

5. Have Fun

   1. If you need music to get you in the mood to strike a pose then tell your photographer. If you are asked to pose in a way that doesn't feel "like you" say so. Remember, these are YOUR images and they should represent who YOU are!