BEYOND BEAUTY & MAKEUP: 15 Must Do’s to Ensure Your Photoshoot Runs Smoothly - For The Client

To ensure a smooth, stress free experience for everyone involved in your photoshoot, here are 15 key steps that clients should take.

Photography: Adore You Photography 

1. Set Your Intentions for the Shoot
Before the shoot begins take a moment to visualise how you want to feel during the session. Whether it’s confident, playful, or serene - setting a mental intention will help guide your energy and attitude throughout the shoot. Create a Mood Board or Pinterest Board that Includes inspiration for poses, lighting, makeup, and outfits. Sharing it with the team before the shoot ensures everyone is on the same page.

2. Take Care of Grooming Beforehand
Make sure to take care of any necessary grooming before the shoot, such as shaving or waxing. Nail care, including your feet - this often overlooked but can make a huge difference in the final photos. Well groomed nails and feet ensure a polished look. Additionally, moisturise and exfoliate both your body and face to keep your skin fresh and hydrated - this helps makeup apply more smoothly. Be mindful of fake tan buildup around areas like the neckline, elbows, wrists, knuckles, knees, and heels, as this can be noticeable in photos.

3. Bring Multiple Outfit Options
Pack a few outfits that suit the theme or mood of the shoot. Ensure they are wrinkle free and that you feel confident and comfortable in them. If you don’t feel confident and comfortable in your chosen outfits I can guarantee this will be evident in your photos. Have a variety of underwear options this allows for flexibility with outfits and poses during the shoot.

4. Practice Relaxing in Front of the Camera Feel free to practice some poses and expressions before the shoot. It can be helpful to know what works for you in front of the lens. If you’re unsure, trust the photographer to guide you, but a little practice goes a long way.

5. Bring Personal Touches (If Needed)
If your shoot includes specific personal items - like jewellery, props, or accessories - be sure to bring them along. These details can help add uniqueness to your photos.

6. Pack a “Comfort Kit”
Include items like hand lotion, hair ties, tissues, mints, lip balm, deodorant, and a small mirror. Having these small but important items within reach will keep you feeling comfortable and refreshed, which can make a huge difference in your shoot.

7. Wear Loose Clothing Before the Shoot
If you're going to be changing into your shoot wardrobe, avoid tight clothing or anything with deep elastic bands (like socks or waistbands) that could leave marks on your skin. Opt for something loose to preserve your skin’s natural look.

8. Arrive on Time
Punctuality is essential to avoid delays and ensure the shoot stays on schedule. Arriving on time gives you ample opportunity to get settled, have makeup and hair done (if that’s included in your shoot), and go over any last minute details.

9. Be Prepared for Hair & Makeup
Keep Your Skin Clean and Free from Makeup Before the Shoot If you’re having professional makeup applied, arrive with a clean face (especially if you’ve had previous makeup on). If you already have makeup on, ask whether you should remove it, so the makeup artist can start fresh. By now you should have shared any reference images, ideas or mood boards with your creative team. This helps the artist know exactly what you’re aiming for and allows your team to plan and prepare for your looks.

10. Stay Hydrated and Eat Lightly Drink plenty of water before and during the shoot to keep your skin looking its best. Avoid heavy meals that could make you feel sluggish - opt for light snacks like fruit or nuts to maintain your energy levels.

11. Communicate with the Team Don’t hesitate to communicate with the photographer, makeup artist, and stylist about your preferences and comfort levels. If there’s something you’re unsure about, ask questions so that everyone is aligned on expectations. Being in front of the camera can be scary but you don’t have to go through it along. We know all too well what it can be like and we have a few tricks up our sleeves to over come this. We can help with style category’s to keep it on brand and posing options so to get the best out of your shoot, absolutely keep the communication opened before and during your shoot.

12. Embrace the Imperfections
Give yourself permission to let go of perfection. Sometimes, the most magical shots come from unexpected moments - like a messy hair flip, a laugh, or an unposed expression. Let go of the pressure and embrace the "imperfectly perfect."

13. Take Breaks and Stay Energised
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, but taking brief breaks between shots can help you stay fresh and relaxed. Use this time to hydrate, chat with the team, or check the photos for adjustments to your look.

14. Keep a "Shoot Journal" If you’ve had multiple photoshoots or plan to continue doing them in the future, consider keeping a journal where you note things that worked well, your favorite looks, and things you’d like to improve for the next time. This will help you fine - tune your approach for even better results.

15. Relax and Enjoy the Process
Lastly, try to relax and have fun! Photoshoots can be a lot of fun and an opportunity to express yourself creatively. Trust the professionals around you to guide you, and enjoy the experience!