📸 How to Prepare for Your Portrait Session: A Simple Checklist

📸 How to Prepare for Your Portrait Session: A Simple Checklist from Houston portrait photographer.

Getting ready for a portrait session might feel a little overwhelming—what do you wear? How should you pose? What if you're not "photogenic"?

Breathe. I got you.

As a professional portrait photographer based in Houston and Cypress, Texas, I’ve guided hundreds of women through their sessions, and I promise—once you prepare with intention, the experience becomes joyful, relaxed, and even fun. This simple checklist will help you feel fully ready and radiant in front of the camera.

✅ 1. Choose Your Outfits Thoughtfully

Bring 2–3 outfit options that reflect your style and purpose. Are we shooting for personal branding? Lifestyle portraits? Just because you deserve beautiful photos?

• Stick with solid colors and neutral tones like ivory, soft beige, sage, blush, or earthy hues—they always photograph beautifully.

• Avoid loud prints, logos, or distracting neon.

• Choose outfits that fit well and flatter your body, but most importantly—make you feel confident and comfortable.

• Add texture with layers, soft knits, silk, linen, or accessories.

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✅ 2. Prep Hair, Skin & Nails

You don’t need to go full glam (unless you want to!), but a little prep can go a long way.

• Hair: Whether you’re going to a stylist or doing it yourself, clean and styled hair is key.

• Skin: Hydrate! Drink water the day before and use a light moisturizer before your session.

• Nails: Clean, polished nails (even neutral or clear) help with those close-up hand poses.

Bonus tip: Skip the self-tanner. It often photographs orange.

✅ 3. Get Plenty of Rest

The night before your session, try to sleep well and give yourself time to relax the next day. Rushing = stress, and stress shows on camera.

If possible, schedule some “you time” before the shoot—whether it’s a quiet coffee, a short walk, or your favorite playlist on repeat. Show up as your best self.

✅ 4. Bring These With You

Here’s a quick list of items to pack before you head to your session:

• Your selected outfits, already steamed or wrinkle-free

• Makeup for touch-ups

• A hairbrush or comb

• Water and light snack (especially for outdoor or extended sessions)

• Favorite jewelry or accessories

• An open heart and a smile 😊

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✅ 5. Trust the Process (and Your Photographer)

Feeling a little nervous? That’s totally normal! You don’t need to know how to pose or model—I’ll guide you every step of the way. My job is to help you look and feel your best, whether it’s a studio portrait or a golden-hour outdoor session.

We’ll chat, laugh, and create something beautiful together. 💫

Final Words

Preparing for your portrait session is part of the experience. It’s not just about the photos—it’s about celebrating YOU.

So take a breath, trust yourself, and know that you’re in great hands. I can’t wait to photograph your magic.

📍Ready to book your portrait session?

Visit www.viajestudios.com or connect with me on Instagram @vsphoto.tx. Let’s create portraits that feel like you.

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