Top 8 Ways You Can Prepare for Your Photography or Videography Shoot
When getting ready for your shoot, the nerves, anticipation, and excitement can be rather overwhelming. While much of the responsibility lies with your photographer regarding the technical elements of the shoot to make you look your best, there are plenty of things you can do to make the shoot even more of a success. Here is a list of things you can do to prepare for your photography or videography shoot that well help keep you focused, alleviate stress, and most importantly, have fun!
1. Pick clothes out early
To prepare for your photography or videography shoot, work with your photographer to discuss options for the best types of clothing to wear on camera. Depending on style of shoot or the location, colors, textures, and overall clothing design can have a dramatic impact on the final result. Once you have everything picked out, make sure it’s all ready to go well in advance–ironed, dry-cleaned, tailored–so there is no last minute stress about what to wear. And bring options! More is more in this case. Not sure…bring it anyhow. It’s better to have more options ready to go that you can run by your photographer or videographer.i
2. Plan your hair style and makeup
Another great way you can prepare for your photography or videography shoot is to consider hair and makeup ahead of time, not leaving it to the last minute! Practice difference looks on yourself ahead of time to see what looks good and what does, and what you do and don’t like. For women, I highly suggest wearing makeup as it will help smooth out the complexion and reduce shine. Even better, hire a professional makeup artist that is practiced in on-camera makeup technique. There are tricks and specific techniques that they will use to make you look your best on camera. Try reaching out to your photographer for a makeup artist suggestion. But if you don’t use a professional, it is wise practice doing your own makeup ahead of time. Check out these expert tips about camera ready make up.
3. Practice makes perfect...to an extent
Just like practicing your hair and makeup, it’s a good idea to practice poses or looks you’re going for, facial expressions that suit you, and any lines/scripts you need to be familiar with or memorize. Save time during the shoot by being prepared and one step ahead and you will ultimately getting better results. Need to say a line or two on camera? Memorize the line(s) and/or read them over and over to familiarize yourself so you don’t go blank when the lights come on and the camera starts rolling. This will put you more at ease, and make the shoot more efficient at the same time. This way more time can be focused on the artistic side as opposed to technical elements and logistics. That being said, here is where less is often more. Don’t over rehearse something, as it an often come off stale on camera. You still want to be in the moment, authentic, and natural as possible. So find a happy balance.
4. Make a list
It’s easy to get caught up in the moment when preparing for a photography or videography shoot, so it’s a good idea to make a list of things you want to ensure you get out of your shoot. Things like specific looks your going for, aspects or yourself/insecurities you want to “diminish” on camera, things you want to highlight on camera, and any questions you may have for your photographer/videographer to put you more at easy and understand the process the best you can.
5. Have a contingency plan
Have a plan in place with your photographer/videographer should there be any sudden changes or an emergency. If you’re scheduled to shoot outdoors and there’s supposed to be a thunder storm, can you move the shoot inside or into the photography studio? Or have you picked a “rain” date already to account for this. If you’re running late or can’t find the spot where you’re supposed to meet, how will you get in contact with them?
6. Hydrate and rest
Drink plenty or water and get a good night’s sleep before your shoot. Staying hydrated is great for the skin, hair, and your body as a whole, and rest will make sure you’re alert, have energy for the shoot, and make sure those dark circles and such are kept at bay.
7. Leave early, arrive early
Ever heard the saying that arriving early is arriving on time? Same goes for the shoot. Leave early so you’re not rushing and feeling anxious before the shoot–it will inevitably show up on camera. Give yourself plenty of time so you’re as relaxed, prepared, and present as possible. Arrive at the location early so you can find parking, have time for a drink or a snack, check out the surroundings and elements you might want to make sure are captured (or eliminated) from during the shoot. You want to feel as comfortable as possible in your surroundings so you are at ease for your shoot. If you’re in the Chittenden County area, take a look at my post regarding my favorite locations for photography.
8. Understand the process following the shoot
Understanding the process following the shoot can also help put you at ease, while helping to manage everyone’s expectations. What sort of retouching will happen and how long will it take? When can you expect to get the first proofs or first cut? How will you receive your proofs and how does the communication work regarding edits. When and how will the final product be given to you? Do you have all future rights with the material? All of these are important things to be aware with as part of the post-production process.
