DIY Prep Guide

2 min read

white cotton buds on white surface
white cotton buds on white surface

DIY Prep Guide

You don’t need professional hair and makeup to take powerful portraits—just a little thoughtful preparation can help you feel relaxed, confident, and ready to shine. Here’s how to set yourself up for a stress-free, amazing experience.

Plan Ahead

Nothing kills the excitement of a photo session like feeling rushed! Give yourself plenty of time to get ready and plan for traffic so you can arrive about 5 minutes early. That way, you can settle in, take a breath, and ease into the experience.

Treat Yourself

This is a perfect excuse for a little self-care. If you enjoy having your nails done, consider getting a manicure and pedicure a few days before your shoot for a polished touch. No need for anything fancy—just clean, trimmed nails or a fresh coat of polish will keep distractions out of your final images.

Lip Care Hack

Dry lips are surprisingly tough to fix in photos. In the days leading up to your session, gently brush your lips with your toothbrush when you brush your teeth to exfoliate dead skin. Follow up with a good moisturizing lip balm—apply and reapply! If you need a go-to product, Aquaphor works wonders.

Moisturize, But Keep It Simple

Soft, hydrated skin photographs beautifully. Start moisturizing twice a day for at least a week before your shoot. On the day of, avoid tinted lotions or anything with shimmer—they can create unwanted color shifts on camera. A simple oil-based moisturizer, like Argan or Coconut Oil, will do the trick. (We’ll have some at the studio if you need it.)

Set The Mood With Music

Music is a great way to loosen up and get in the zone. If you have a playlist that makes you feel like your best self, bring it along! We have a Bluetooth speaker at the studio, plus a few go-to playlists if you want to vibe with our favorites.

Lastly— Take A Deep Breath and Enjoy The Experience

Your session is about you. Whether you’ve done this before or it’s your first time, know that you don’t have to “perform.” Just be yourself, and I’ll guide you every step of the way.