Every portrait or headshot tells a story. Whether it’s a professional headshot for your business or a personal portrait celebrating a milestone, it’s natural to want to feel empowered, confident, and like your authentic self.
Let’s be real: most people aren’t huge fans of having their photo taken. I can relate—I’ve had my own headshots done by seven different photographers over the last decade, and I felt nervous every… single… time. But here’s the secret: after those first nervy 10–15 minutes, once you find your groove and settle down, the session actually becomes a fun, rewarding experience!
Having spent a lot of time both in front of the camera and behind it, here are five simple tips to make your next portrait session enjoyable and relaxed.
1. Communicate Your Vision and Goals
Before your session, take a few moments to think about the message you want your photo to convey. Are you aiming for a professional yet approachable look? Or do you prefer a personal, candid feel that reflects your personality? Clear goals give your photographer the insight they need to make sure your photos turn out exactly as you envision.
We always offer a call before the session to discuss ideas and go over clothing, location, and design. Conversations like these can spark new ideas and give us a better picture so we can tailor the session just for you.
Tip: Don’t hesitate to share any examples or inspiration with your photographer—colours, lighting, moods, or people you admire. The more we know about what inspires you, the better we can align with your vision.
2. Choose the Right Outfit(s)
Your clothing choice is a big part of your portrait’s visual impact. Clothing can convey colour, texture, and character, all of which play into the story you’re telling. We recommend choosing clothing that reflects your style, complements your skin tone, and aligns with the purpose of your portrait. For professional headshots, solid colours usually work best. For lifestyle shoots, feel free to pick an outfit that feels more personal and expressive.
Tip: Avoid busy patterns or overly bright colours, as they can pull focus away from you. Opt instead for classic, well-fitted clothes in colours that make you feel good. If you’re unsure, bring a few options along and we can help you choose.
3. Look After Yourself
How you feel physically can affect how you feel in front of the camera. A little self-care goes a long way in helping you look your best. We recommend a good night’s sleep, plenty of water in the days before, and scheduling any haircuts at least a week in advance. Professional portraits are always edited before they’re finalised, to reduce blemishes or dark circles, but feeling good in yourself will give you a natural energy and alertness that shines through.
Tip: For makeup, a natural look works best for headshots, as it enhances your features without overpowering them. If you’re working with a makeup artist, share your vision with them so they can help you achieve the look that matches your goals.
Bonus Tip: Half of a professional photographer’s job is to control lighting and operate the camera. The other half is making you feel comfortable and confident. Trust the process and know that we’re on your side: doing all we can to capture you at your best.
4. Relaxation During The Session
“Now, pose for the camera!” is something you’ll never hear from us. When someone ever asks me to pose, I instantly feel awkward and tense. At EWS, our goal is to support and empower you to just be yourself. From music and snacks to a welcoming environment, we take great pride in creating a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. You’ve spent a lot of time finding a photographer, now, on the day of the session, trust the process, enjoy the collaboration.
Tip: Ok so you probably can’t stand completely still throughout the entire session! So we’ll guide you with subtle suggestions throughout the time we have. Tilt your head right a bit, look slightly to the left, say “beans and belly rubs”. Small adjustments and ideas that help create genuine moments of expression. All you need to do is breathe, relax, and let the process unfold.
5. Embrace the Moment
Finally, remember that portrait and headshot sessions are meant to be positive, uplifting experiences. We pride ourselves on creating a supportive atmosphere that allows clients to feel comfortable and express themselves. Trust that we’ll be there to guide you through each step, from setting up the lighting to getting you to your natural authentic self.
Tip: Try to approach your session with a relaxed mindset and embrace the experience as a chance to celebrate yourself. If you can focus on being present, the final images will naturally reflect your authenticity, making for truly impactful images.
Why Choose EWS for Your Portrait and Headshot Needs?
Our focus is on quality, creativity, and visual storytelling. With over 20 years in branding, marketing, and photography, we approach every session with a client-centred focus, because we believe the best portraits are those that capture the real you.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for a portrait or headshot session is about more than looking good. It’s about feeling confident, authentic, and comfortable. Our mission is to make you feel like the best version of yourself in front of the camera. Whether for a professional profile, personal branding, or just a new chapter in life, we’re honoured to be part of your journey.
Ready to capture the moment? Reach out, and let’s bring your vision to life with a portrait session designed just for you. With our expertise, friendly guidance, and commitment to quality, we’ll make sure your session captures you at your very best.
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