A DIY guide to prepare yourself before you're seen in the world...

Why is this a big deal?

90% of the information processed by our brain is visual and consumers buy things from people they know, like, and trust. I recognize that it's a vulnerable thing to put your face out there, but TRUST. You have complete control in how you're seen in the world. It all starts with your why.

You are the face of your business and you'll want to put your best foot forward.

What are you using your images for?

Besides the obvious social media profile pic, think about what's on your horizon that you may want to consider when planning for your session.

About to be promoted or start a new career? Dress for the job you want.
Up for an award? You'll want to appear humble and kind.
Have a new offering to your clients? We can brainstorm together how best to tell that with imagery.

And you may think you need 'just one photo' but FACT: you are a multi-faceted person and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to a headshot. Imagine how nice it will be to have a folder on your desktop full of amazing images that you love to post to your various platforms...

WHAT to WEAR

The more effort you put into what you wear, the more successful your session will be. Period.

Headshot sessions get 2-3 looks

Personal Branding clients get 5-7

Regardless of what type of session you booked, though, plan to bring at least 10 different looks. And it will totally feel like you're moving in but it's better to have too much than not enough. We'll go over what you bring to wear at the beginning and narrow it down based on what you're using your images for and what colors look best on you (I have a ton of experience and trust me when I know what I'm talking about in this area.)

Let's chat specifics

Do you own your own business? You should dress like a CEO. Think structure and clean lines. You can never go wrong with a classic blazer.

Are you a worm farmer? Then wear your best work jeans and a clean shirt.

What is on brand for you? What are your branding colors?

Bottomline: Dress like you, but the most polished version.

Fit

Crucial. Your clothes should fit you to perfection. Brush the dust off the blazer in the back of your closet and make sure it still fits. Choose pieces that flatter your body type - and FACT: if you're carrying a few extra lbs, more fitted clothing is actually preferred. I got you, Boo, with posing and lighting to slim. No one looks good in a garbage sack.

Underwear

Be sure to bring the appropriate undergarments (I'm talking to you, lady, with the black bra under the white tank) And slim-wear is a pain in the ass but really creates clean lines and holds in any flabby bits.

Jewelry & Accessories

Unless bold, flashy jewels and kerchiefs are your thing and you're known for it, it's best to keep these items understated and simple.

Rule of thumb for jewelry:

cool skin tones = silver

warm skin tones = gold

Resources

Don't feel like you need to rush out and purchase a whole new wardrobe unless this photoshoot is just the kick in the pants you need to up your style game. Browse the inter webs and see what looks you're drawn to first. Then start piecing together a collection. What you wear on top is more important than your lower half.

shop your own closet
borrow from friends
shop in-store (carve out time and take a friend ... or text me! I'm always willing to consult)
shop online (just be sure to allow plenty of time for it to ship and try on, etc...)

Hair

Make sure to schedule your trim/color a week or two before so you look fresh. It's a mother to fix hair in Photoshop so it's important to get it right.

Ladies: if you want the easy button, have my girl, Mallorie, do your hair & makeup for you. She's bomb.

Eyes

The human eye sees white first. So technically you want the whitest thing in the image to be your sclera (the white part of your eyeball).

So glossy, rested eyes look sparkly and friendly.

I can't recommend these eyedrops enough!

Make Up

If you plan to do your own make up, here's some do's and don'ts for you!

full coverage foundation
fill in your brows! They 100% frame your face
a heavier eye than your day-to-day
consider false lashes - they make a huge difference

DON'T (pretty please)

apply contouring or bronzer (on camera it can make your face look dirty)
apply any products that shimmer

Skin

Drink lots of water! Hydrated skin photographs best. Chapped lips are the worst.
Be sun smart: sunburns and tanlines are cause to reschedule
Spray tans: I say just skip it if you're not accustomed to them

Nails

Who doesn't love a fresh mani-pedi? Schedule it!

Neutral, natural nails are timeless and photograph best.

Teeth

White teeth are good and make you appear youthful. I recommend a regimen of Crest White Strips about a month before.

Rest

No late-night ragers the week-of. Your body indicates stress first in your face so get your beauty sleep.

WHAT to BRING

Your freshly landscaped body
your clothing options with appropriate underwear, jewelry, and accessories

(shoes aren't that important unless they are your thang)

make up for touch-ups
your wallet

What I service you with

drinks! I have a stocked fridge with whatever you like ... from coffee to mimosas.
a steamer! I actually find great satisfaction and joy from steaming things
basic things like hairspray, a comb, a mirror...

what to expect...

I. Game Plan.

At the start of our shoot, we'll go over specifics of what you'll be using your images for and sort through your clothing. We'll get our game plan and get to shooting.

II. Mid-session image review.

I'm capturing YOU and it's a big deal. You know how you want to present yourself to the world, so we'll review your images together as we shoot and make any adjustments as needed with posture, hair, etc...