HOW to PREPARE


for your custom portrait experience


Why is this a big deal?


We are creating a time capsule for you and it's important to look and feel your best. Your portraits will outlive you and me and think of what you want your future generations to know about you.

Where will your portraits live?


The wall?

An album?


We're shooting something completely custom just for you so consider where your portraits will live. For example, if the vibe of your home is modern boho, think natural and neutral textures when it comes to clothing and style.


THE No. 1 most important thing


WHAT to WEAR


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


Regardless of what type of session you booked, plan to bring several different looks based off our style consult. 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 everyone (I have a ton of experience and trust me when I know what I'm talking about in this area.)

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 from the dressing room)
  • shop online (just be sure to allow plenty of time for it to ship and try on, etc...)

THE 2nd most important thing


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.

If you opted in for professional hair & makeup the day of your shoot, come with a clean face and unwashed DRY hair. If you must wash the day-off, just make sure it's super dry.


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!


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 your clothing and get a plan.

II. Hair & Make Up.

60-90 minutes per person with my girl, Mallorie. We ensure you're done up just the way you like (whether that's super natural or ultra glam).

III. Image selection.

After our session when you're changing back into your comfies, I'll upload your images and you'll select your images same-day. (see pricing below as a refresher so there are no surprises)

Questions?

I look forward to seeing you soon!

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@stacy_ideus