How to Prepare for Your Portrait Session, Part 3

Hello! Here we are with the last installment of my Portrait Session Prep for you. This list is about coming to the session in a good mental state and what questions you may want to consider asking me, the photographer--OR the questions I may have for you.

III. Mental Prep:

• Less Stress:
  • Plan your day from the beginning, but have no fear if things get a little out of order. Starting your day with a plan will allow you to be able to focus on having a pleasant outlook and attitude when the time for the session arrives. If you have planned accordingly, there won't be any last minute scrambling to cloud your mind. Trust me, if you are worrying or concerned, it will more than likely effect your mood and outward gestures. (BUT fear not, I will help  distract you if this is the case!)
  • Did the children nap? I highly suggest having the little ones take a quick nap close to the session time so they are not tired and anxious. And hey, if you and your partner need it, nap with them! :)
  • Plan to arrive 10 minutes early. Why? Possible traffic delays, need for backtracking on account of forgetfulness, and just plain peace of mind. Remember, any lateness will be deducted from your session timeframe. There may be a session scheduled after yours and the next client shouldn't have to wait due to any fault not of their own.
    
• Questions For the Photographer:
  • Confirm your session date, time, and location beforehand. I will be following up with you also, but I also know how much peace of mind can benefit you in having a successful session. When in doubt, ask!
    
  • Inquire about alternate plans (if possible) during your session consultation in case of inclement weather or other circumstances that may arise. I always like to have a back-up plan. Again, this keeps everyone from worrying and becoming frazzled in the event of a change in plans.
    
  • Ask for advice about ANYTHING! If you ask and I don't have an answer right away, I will work until I get it for you. Questions on attire, props, posing, edits--anything that may come up.
    
  • Be clear on what your Contract says. If there is a concern, please bring it up before the session. Once the contract is signed, that is what I will be going by. If there are other expectations beyond what is stated there, I will need to know them so we can be on the same page.
    
• Questions From the Photographer:
  • What will the images you are getting be used for? I will ask beforehand as some poses and locations will lend themselves better for your end product.
    
  • Do you have anything specific poses in mind that you have seen or would like to try? I am all for originality, but I do realize that many clients have a vision just as I do. I am happy to work with you and see what we can do to compromise on that.
    
  • Is there anything that makes you uncomfortable? Are there any traits about yourself that you are self-conscious about? It is my job to make you comfortable in your own skin and to highlight the aspects of your character that you love. In knowing these types of things I can assess how and where to pose you. OR surprise you with images that you thought might not be the "best angle" and have them turn in to some of your favorite images!
    
  • Can you provide me with a little survey about yourself? Especially for Senior Portrait Sessions, I like to get to know the client a little bit more in-depth than the average Commercial Portrait Studio. It is my goal to really make your personality shine and to make your images timeless and interactive.
    

Most photographers have to do just as much or more planning than every customer in order to prepare for their individual session. These prep lists only scratch the surface, but will give you a good idea of where to start. Again, never be afraid to ask about anything that is on your mind. Before the session is the best time to get the questions and answers you need so no one is unsure of any detail or confused with any terms.

**Thank you for following my little 3-part mini-series! I really hope this is helpful and you continue to refer to it in the future.**