So You Booked A Shoot....What's Next?

So you finally booked a photoshoot. Hurray! Congratulations! Whether you are doing a dance shoot or simply getting some new headshots, photoshoots can be intimidating. There is always a *tiny* fear that maybe these images won’t turn out the way you or your agent would like. Additionally, everyone seems to have advice on the topic: “Just be yourself,” “Definitely, get your makeup done professionally,” “Don’t get your makeup done professionally, that’s not how you look all of the time!” It’s honestly, overwhelming. So,  whether this shoot is  with me or another photographer, I want to offer you a list of things to consider when preparing for your upcoming shoot so you’re sure to be thrilled when you see your shots!

1. Don’t think about “posing”

The best images look as though they’ve caught the subject in an honest moment. Whether that is a “power stance”, a dance move, or a smile, the best photos have an air of movement about them. Movement is what gives an image energy; it’s what draws people in. So, for dance shoots, I always tell my clients “It’s my job to catch you, not your job to hold anything for me”. I also recommend that they come with an 8 count phrase that they can move through just to get them over the “What do I do?”  hump! It’s super helpful and makes people feel more confident right off the bat! If you’re doing headshots and feeling nervous, try telling a story about yourself. This will help you loosen up and will help the photographer get to know you and your facial expressions a little bit better!

2. Consider your surroundings

Where are you? Not just the actual location (maybe, Central Park or the Highline) but the specific location within that place. Is there an architectural structure behind you that is emphasizing the mood? Or maybe you should be framing yourself in relation to that architectural structure. Your photographer can help you with this, but it really helps us out if you are at least aware of your surroundings. This also applies to what type of movement  or pose you are choosing; are you juxtaposing your surroundings, or allowing the style to be influenced and supported by them? Both of these choices are correct, but you should be aware of the choice you’re making.

3. Just GO FOR IT!

The best thing about photography is that it captures a fleeting moment. Did you catch that? It captures a MOMENT. It does not capture what happens before or after the image. I had a dancer stressed at a photoshoot because she wanted a photo like another client of mine and was disappointed by the height she was getting - the look of shock and relief when I told her the other dancer had jumped off of a bench and was therefore starting the leap from two feet off the ground was priceless. The point is, if you want to capture your tilt, but you’re afraid you’re going to fall out of it, DO IT. No one will ever see that you fell because that isn’t the moment your photographer is capturing.

4. Don’t forget about your facial expressions!

This one seems like a no brainer, but honestly, there is so much going on at a photoshoot mentally and physically that it often gets forgotten. Now, here’s the thing, if you get the PERFECT shot and your face is *fine* - the shot is not ruined. I will say this again. Just because you perceive your face to be “imperfect” the shot is not ruined. However, if you have a specific mood you are trying to eminate (happy for theatre, or moody for a fosse vibe, or confident, etc) You definitely want to remember to be intentional with your sweet money maker!

5. Have fun!!

Listen, I know photoshoots are expensive. But if you aren’t having a good time, it is 100% going to show. Part of doing a photoshoot is practicing your acting skills in the sense that even if you are nervous, you need to channel that energy into some kind of focus so that you have images you feel proud of. You should look at an image and remember how empowered that shoot made you feel, not how uncomfortable you were. So, if you’re in a situation where you’re feeling uncomfortable, ask the photographer to put on some music, or even better play a song that always puts you in a good head space. You can also plan to start the shoot in something that makes you feel fabulous and confident! (I have an entire blog post coming about “what to wear” for a successful shoot) Either or both of these things are sure to help you get in the groove!