5 Tips to Look Amazing in Photos
Photo session preparation is work - coordinating clothing and schedules alone is enough to create overwhelm. A big part of my job is to take this pressure off my clients and make it easy (or easier!) Sometimes, in the quest to get everyone else ready, moms forget about themselves. So today’s post is just for you.
Read on for five tips to ensure you look your absolute best during your next family photo session.
1) Make That Make-Up Work. The trick with make-up for photos is to wear enough to highlight your features but not so much that it is overwhelming. Steer clear of bright lip shades and heavy eye shadows, opting for a natural lip shade or light gloss. A foundation dusted with a bronzer ensures even skin tones and reduces any shine the camera will emphasize. Bringing definition to your eyes with mascara and a liner with a neutral shadow looks great. I also love this eye-brightening pencil. It’s easy to use, bringing light and lift to your face.
2) What To Wear. I get this question a lot. So much so that I’m planning a separate post to discuss it in detail. For now, my main advice is to wear something that you feel beautiful in.
when you are confident and relaxed, authentic, beautiful photos come naturally.
3) Lower Your Chin. The positioning of your chin can make a big difference in how your photos look. Generally, lowering your chin just slightly creates a more flattering photo. Most photographers will happily cue you to do this, but it doesn’t hurt to keep it in mind. You might also try a few iPhone shots before, tilting your chin slightly up or down and see what you like best.
4) Ask to See the Screen. Before I did all our family photos, we had one session with a photographer friend, and I wore a scarf that (to me) looked like it was doubling as a neck brace. And it drives me crazy EVERY time I look at the photos, even though I’m sure no one else even notices it. That’s why I stand by my next tip, however controversial it is with other photographers. I generally find it very helpful to show my client the back of my camera several times throughout the shoot, especially after the first few shots. Our job is to make sure YOU love your photos, and sometimes there may be things you know or dislike that we don’t see. Asking to look at a couple of early images can help you be sure your hair looks how you’d like it to or adjust any clothing that isn’t sitting as it should. And it reduces the chance of any disappointments later (like an entire session with a neck-brace scarf!).
5) Talk to Your Photographer. We all have hang-ups, and I guarantee if you share them with your photographer, they will have tricks and strategies to play down the stuff that bugs you. And it will help you relax and enjoy the time if you know someone else has you covered.
As a photographer, I welcome honest input about anything you want to capture AND anything you are concerned about.
That’s it! I applaud your decision to capture memories with your kids, and I hope these tips help you feel more confident and comfortable at your next family or portrait photography session.
Are you looking to schedule family photos or grab a space in this year's mini-sessions? Contact me, and I'll be in touch!