The right reparation is half the battle when it comes to a successful photo shoot, and getting it right can make all the difference. Taking the time to plan ahead not only boosts your confidence but also sets the stage for a smoother experience on the day of the shoot. This means considering everything from your wardrobe choices, make up & co, right mind set, to the specific poses you want to try out. When you arrive well-prepared, you can focus on expressing yourself, rather than worrying about last-minute details.

I have put together a few tips and tricks to help you prepare for the shoot.

Women (but also men) share a common sentiment during our first consultations: the belief that they are simply not photogenic. The presence of a camera, especially in the hands of a professional, can trigger nerves and anxiety, making it difficult to relax. Instead of feeling at ease, we often become hyper-aware of our appearance, setting impossibly high standards for ourselves in the process.

This self-doubt can overshadow the joy of having a photo shoot, as we check every detail in photos, focusing on perceived flaws that we fear will be highlighted.

The truth is, the biggest barrier to looking photogenic is the fear of making mistakes or not looking like a super model. Accepting our selves—whether that means being older, heavier, pale, small, young, being simply human—requires a certain bravery. It’s about accepting our insecurities and not allowing them to dictate how we present ourselves.

Ultimately, being photogenic means accepting self-doubt and limiting beliefs and not letting them hold you back. It may seem counterintuitive, but letting go of the desire to look great allows our photogenic qualities to unfold and the photos to look stunning.

It’s important to discuss your wishes and expectations with me ahead of time. Clear communication will make it much easier to bring your vision to life. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or provide feedback; I appreciate your input and take the time to understand your needs.

One of the simplest yet effective tips is to practice your poses in front of a mirror. Give it a shot, and you’ll quickly get a feeling what works best for you. If you need visual ideas of posing positions, consider browsing online platforms like Pinterest or Instagram for posing inspiration.

Adopt dynamic and lively poses, but move slowly. Change your modeling pose about every 3 to 5 seconds by subtly moving your hands, adjusting your posture, and altering your facial expression.

To keep your body looking its best, it’s essential to maintain tension at all times, even when seated or lying down.

Avoid common mistakes like slumping shoulders, a rounded back, pursed lips, a tucked chin, and palms facing the camera.

When standing, pull your shoulders back, lift your chest, and engage your core. This posture naturally arches your back and aligns your head and neck, giving you a more confident appearance.

I jokingly call it “the turtle neck”. Just imagine a turtle stretching its head forward. 🙂 During a photo shoot, you’ll have the opportunity to do the same! Why? As strange as it sounds and as awkward as it feels, it usually looks fantastic in photos. Simply put, it prevents/reduces a double chin.

TIP: When you stretch your chin forward, make sure not to point your chin upwards, but to keep it straight.