To get the portraits you have always wanted: Part 2

What to do two weeks prior to your session.

Two weeks before an appointment you should get your hair cut. Never get it done the day before the portrait session. Why? If you get a bad hair cut two weeks before your portrait session you can at least grow some of it out and have it re-trimmed to salvage your look. You don’t want to look at the portraits and be reminded of the bad haircut you got. If you’re bringing the family pet then get them groomed as well. This is not a bad time to look over your wardrobe to see if what you have planned to wear is in good shape, washed or just to see if you have the right clothing. There is nothing worse than to look for your outfit the night before and find that it is too small, ratty or you really did not have it to begin with. Shopping for it may not be an alternative open to you because of time or availability of the outfit at the stores. Let family member that maybe joining you in on the plans for the portrait session.

What to do a week prior to your appointment.

If you have family members that are joining you in your portrait session then this is the best time to call them up and confirm the appointment time and place. You might think your nagging them but think of all the time you remember at the last minute of something planned for the next day. When you do talk to them see if they have everything ready for the portrait day and they need help, offer your services. Again all the effort prior to the portrait session will pay off in your in the final photographs. For your family this is a good time to get the final details checked off the list. Go over the clothing, hair, pets, and whatever your bringing to the portrait session.

What to do the day before the portrait session.

The day before the session make sure all the clothes are clean and pressed. Any family members meeting at the studio you are set with everything they need. If you’re bringing the family pet give them a bath the night before so they are clean and dry for the pictures. That night you should talk about the portraits that are going to be taken over the family’s favorite dinner. By doing this you are helping set the stage for a stress free next day. Going to bed early is the final thing for the day. Get your rest so that all of you do not look like you have not had a good night sleep in years. Digital enhancements are great to take dark circles out of eyes but it can be expensive.

The Morning of the portrait session has arrived.

The day has arrived, finally. First and foremost keep the mood light hearted at all cost. Do not get upset at the small details because that anger will snowball to a yelling match that will carry over to the portrait session. Get everyone up a little early if your appointment is in the morning. With everyone trying to get ready for the portrait session, starting early will help avoid some arguments over bathroom space. For breakfast you may just have something quick and have brunch after the appointment. Again if your bringing a dog or cat makes sure they do their business before arriving at the studio. Before you leave make sure you have all your outfits with you, call any family members that are meeting you and tell them you are on the way. And lastly, hop in the car, put on some groovy tunes on and head to the studio or location of the session with plenty of time to spare.
Wow it does sound like a lot of work and it is, but if you want outstanding portraits you should go to any measure necessary to achieve this. Your portrait photographer is responsible for the things they can control in the studio or location. Such as lighting, poses, exposures and final product. You are responsible for all the rest. Once you get the chance to look over your proofs you will then see that it was all worth wile.

So here is a quick recap.

Research for the photographer that best fits you. By doing this it will increase the likelihood of achieving the look of the portrait you want.
Interview photographers. You might love their work but you may not get along or see eye to eye on your portraits
Set a consultation appointment. Once you have a photographer, don’t keep them in the dark about what you want in your portraits.
Two weeks before the appointment let everyone know the plans for the portrait session, get haircuts, groom the pets, and get your outfits.
A week before the appointment, get tie up any loose ends and finalize your plans with everyone.
The day and night before will be spent washing pressing clothes, bathing and grooming pets, checking in with family members, and relax.
The day of get ready and have fun with your portrait session.