10 Essential Items to Bring to Your Portrait Session
Preparing for a portrait photoshoot involves more than just choosing the perfect outfit and location; it's about ensuring you have everything you need to feel confident, comfortable, and camera-ready. At Tanner Sebastian Photography, we aim to create a relaxed and enjoyable experience for every client, and having the right essentials on hand can make all the difference. Here are 10 essential items to bring to your next portrait photoshoot:
1. Change of Shoes:
Let’s face it, some locations require a little bit of walking in order to get to the best spots. If your photoshoot involves walking or exploring various locations, bringing a comfortable pair of shoes is essential! Consider packing a pair of comfortable shoes that are easy to take on and off, allowing you to move with ease and confidence throughout the session.
2. Mirror:
Things are always changing, and two of those things that stand out to a photographer are hair and makeup. Having a small handheld mirror on hand allows you to quickly check your appearance and make any necessary adjustments between shots. A mirror is particularly useful for ensuring your hair, makeup, and accessories are in place and looking their best throughout the photoshoot. We want you to be confident in every shot we get!
3. Makeup/Touch-Up Kit:
On a similar note to the last item… Bringing makeup or a touch-up kit allows you to refresh your look as needed throughout the shoot. Include the essentials that you typically use to maintain your desired look throughout the session to help you feel as good as when we first started the shoot!
4. Props:
Incorporating props into your portrait photoshoot can add a personal touch and creativity to your images that make yours stand out compared to the rest out there! Consider bringing props that reflect your interests, hobbies, or the theme of the shoot, such as champagne confetti, balloons, flowers, or sentimental items that hold special meaning to you.
5. Water and Snacks:
Staying hydrated and energized during the photo shoot is important, especially if you're shooting outdoors or doing a longer photo session. Pack a bottle of water and some light snacks to keep you feeling refreshed and focused throughout the shoot. Avoid messy foods to keep you and your clothes as clean as when you first arrived!
6. Hairbrush or Comb:
Having a hairbrush or comb on hand allows you to quickly smooth out any tangles or flyaways, ensuring your hair looks polished and well-groomed in your photos. This along with the mirror as discussed earlier is a perfect combination!
7. Lint Roller:
A lint roller is a handy tool for quickly removing lint, pet hair, or other debris from your clothing, ensuring you look your best in front of the camera.
8. Personal Touches:
Consider bringing a few personal items or accessories that hold special meaning to you, such as jewelry, heirlooms, or items related to your hobbies or achievements. These personal touches can add depth and authenticity to your portraits!
9. Comfort Items:
If you have any comfort items that help you relax and feel at ease, such as a favorite playlist, a cozy blanket, or a sentimental keepsake, consider bringing them to the shoot. Feeling comfortable and relaxed can help you express your authentic self and create more natural and genuine photos. On all of my shoots, I bring a portable speaker and allow you to connect to it so you can listen to your favorite jams! I love all music so don’t be shy!
10. Positive Attitude and Open Mind:
Above all, bring a positive attitude and open mind to your portrait photoshoot. Embrace the experience, trust in the expertise of your photographer, and allow yourself to enjoy the process of capturing beautiful and meaningful images that you'll cherish for years to come.
By bringing these 10 essential items to your portrait session, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of your experience and create stunning images that reflect your unique personality and style. For additional tips on preparing for your photoshoot, be sure to check out our previous blog post on 5 Tips to Help You Prepare for Your Graduation Portrait Session. If you would like to schedule your graduation photoshoot with me, please click on the button below!
