The Not To DO List

There are so many lists on the internet about what to do in preparation for a photo session. There are not many that give you the do not do. Over the years we have compiled our own list of the DO NOT DO items.  These tips should make the photo session you schedule with us, or any photographer, a huge success.

1. Eat. Many of our clients spend a lot of time planning and thinking about what they will be wearing for their session. This can involve buying an entirely new outfit. We do not know about you but sometimes when we eat, our lunch finds its way onto our shirts or jackets. One misstep with a piece of spaghetti can ruin a well-coordinated look. We say, eat, brush your teeth and then throw on the new shirt.
2. New Hairstyle or Haircut. This is a tough one to avoid for some of us. When we got married, I spent 18 months deciding on my hair for the wedding. The right color, growing it out, and 4 weeks before the wedding I almost fell in to the “let’s try something new” trap. My stylist pulled me back in. For a family session, we recommend getting haircuts 4 weeks before to get used the new style. This goes for the kids too.
3. New Make-up or Skin Care. The same rule for haircuts, applies to skin care and makeup. Trying that new shade of foundation the day of your photo session may not be the best idea. Using your tried and true methods and shades will reduce the chances you will not like the way you look in your photos.
4. Stay Up Late the Night Before. If I stay up late and do not get enough sleep, it shows up on my face. I often look tired and feel tired. Getting enough rest will make the photo session an enjoyable experience. You will look and feel amazing.
5. Waxing. Several years ago, a good friend of mine got her lip waxed just days before a big event. She was going to be on stage in front of about 2,000 people, talking to them individually, and being photographed. She had never done it before. The results… were not good. She had a reaction and her lip was red and bumpy. Make-up helped but it did not completely hid it. She regretted it the moment it happened. If you have never waxed before, try it well before your session, at least two weeks in case something goes wrong.
6. Pop Pesky Pimples. Yeah, we are going there. We all have had that pimple that we just want to take care of and it kills us not to pop it. Try not to do it. Especially on the day of the photo session. Makeup can cover a pimple much better than it can a scab. We can also remove a pesky pimple with some photo editing but anything else is hard to accomplish. Resist the urge.
7. Get Too Much Sun. Sunburns are no fun. We should all avoid too much sun every day but especially in the days leading up to a photo session. Make sure to use your sunscreen and wear a hat if you know you will out in the sun in the week leading up to your session. In addition, tan lines do show up in photos. Clothing can cover tan lines.
8. Stress About What To Do. A good photographer will put you at ease. It is ok to not know what to do. Most people are not professional models. A photographer will give direction on posing, which includes the best posing for you and your family.  Sometimes you will feel like a dork but trust your photographer. We want you to look great too.