How to Prepare your Skin and Hair for your Photo Shoot

Alliston and area Portrait and Branding Photographer, Bobbi-Jo Stuart

 

SKIN, HAIR, NAILS

SKINCARE

  • Please arrive with a completely bare and clean face. No makeup or products. If you have any skin sensitivities or allergies, it is your responsibility to notify us ahead of time and mention this to the makeup artist. We are happy to use products specifically for skin sensitivities.

  • Do not pluck eyebrows the morning of the shoot, as this will show swelling and redness. Any waxing, plucking, or bleaching should be done no less than 1 week before the shoot day.

  • No sun tanning, fake tanners, or tanning beds. Fake tans translate orange on camera and tend to look dull. Your natural healthy glow is always best!

  • But, if you do choose to self-tan, please do so at least a week before your session!

  • If tanning outdoors, try to remove straps to avoid tanlines that may show up in your images, especially if you are doing a boudoir session!

  • Use the entire week before the shoot to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! There is no replacement for truly dewy supple skin!

  • Do not try out any new products the week before the shoot in case of a reaction

  • Stay hydrated - drink lots of water the week before the shoot so your skin is glowing and hydrated!


HAIR

  • Arrive with dry 1-2 day unwashed hair that is free from products and any styling. This helps your hair to hold the styling longer. Leave the rest to us, we got it from here!

  • If your hair requires more advance styling, please notify us ahead of the shoot, we are happy to accommodate.




NAILS

  • For portraits, it is recommended that nails should be clean, trimmed, and manicured with natural rounded edges. Longer nails can be distracting. As a rule of thumb, the nail shouldn't extend much longer than your nail bed.

  • If using polish, a fresh and even coat of clear polish or a nude colors like taupe, beige, and subtle pinks are best. Nude tones are universally flattering and work with any outfit. Your nails should look natural and not distract.

  • Avoid trendy nail art, patterns, gemstones, etc. A single solid color is best for a more classic look. Remember that bright colors you love now may not look so great when you view your portraits in ten years. Keep it timeless! (Unless you LOVE it!)

  • There’s always an exception to the rule! If you are being photographed for a Personal Branding shoot and want to highlight your brand color, using that color as your nail polish is a great way to incorporate it into your look.

THE PREP TIMELINE

3-4 WEEKS

  • Schedule all of your salon appointments: hair, nails, facial, etc.

  • Shop for your wardrobe and double check shipping arrival times if ordering online. I suggest thrift or consignment stores for more affordable options and you can often find some gems!

  • If you do microblading, get this done now so it has enough time to heal.



3-2 WEEKS

  • This is a great time for a fresh haircut, color, or root touch-up.

  • Start getting your outfits organized. Try them on as a complete outfit and make sure you have the proper undergarments and shoes for each look.

  • Get a mani pedi or freshen your nails up at home.

  • Whiten your teeth if this is something you normally do.

1 WEEK

  • Drink lots of water and get those extra ZZZs!

  • Avoid alcohol and salty foods

  • Moisturize your face and body

  • Take care of hair removal. Waxing or plucking on the face should be done no less than 3 days prior.

  • Warn friends and co-workers that you’ll be unavailable during the shoot day. This is your day to relax and have fun!




THE DAY-OF CHECKLIST




  • Arrive with a completely bare face, no makeup or extra products.

  • 1 day unwashed dry hair

  • Wear a comfy loose fitting outfit with a lower neckline that is easy to remove without ruining your hair.

  • Feel free to bring a robe or comfy clothing for the hair and makeup chair

  • Bring 5-6 fitted outfits, shoes, and accessories…the more the merrier!

  • Pretty nails (neutral colors are best)

  • Clean and polished rings and jewelry

  • Touched up brows (wax pluck no less than 3 days before)




You are well on your way to an incredible photoshoot!




If you think I forgot anything, drop a comment below!

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Why you should book yourself a solo photo shoot - for no reason!

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How to Prepare your Wardrobe for a Personal Branding Session