TIPS FOR OUR PHOTO SHOOT
In order for the upcoming photo session to be as successful as possible and the result to meet your wishes, I will share some of my own recommendations that you should think about before coming to take photos.
- Tell me about your thoughts
Think about which pictures you want to see later in a photo album or picture frame at home, because even where we take pictures depends on it. Do you want to pose in the picture and smile at the camera, or do you want to be in the picture talking, playing, walking with your family instead? Most of the time, I combine the session so that the gallery contains both set pictures and captured moments. Your request will help me understand which ones you would expect more from this session.
Think about whether you have a clear vision of the planned photos, or will the entire playing field be left to the photographer? As a photographer, of course, I always guide through the eye of the camera so that the picture will be the best, and I offer different ideas on where and what kind of pictures to take. Be sure to discuss your thoughts with me before the session (and also during the session).
- Know what to expect from my photo editing
I process all images one by one by hand and do not use filters or anything else in my workpresets. I like to take time and tinker to reach a result with each picture that I am just so satisfied with that I really like this picture. This is creative photography, where it often takes 50 minutes to create a work of art from one image. The result is always worth it.
Check out my works to see what my handwriting is like and what result to expect.
- Be sure to think about your clothing options
As a creative photographer, the choice of clothing is very important to me in our session, because everything else depends on it. The clothes themselves are already half the picture, so think carefully about how you want to see yourself or your family in the picture. When photographing in nature, base yourself on nature's own colors. In autumn, prefer autumn colors in your clothes, and in winter rather lighter/softer colors. In both seasons, prefer knitwear and avoid bright colors that are not found in nature. Winter and autumn pictures are made especially nice by beanies, scarves and beanies. Timeless white is always beautiful in summer, but black is recommended to be avoided when photographing in nature.
If you come to take pictures with your family, make sure that the clothes of the family members in the picture are rather and compatible with each other - for example, choose one commonly worn color around which to design the entire group's outfit. I definitely recommend avoiding large patterns, strong contrasts and shirts with letters or pictures on them if possible. Be sure to check out the recommendations for choosing clothes on the website and don't be afraid to ask me for advice - I'm always happy to help.
I have written more recommendations for the choice of clothing in a separate topic - Clothing.
- Would you like to use props?
If you have a certain vision of a picture and you need some props for that, think about whether and what you could take with you to the session. Often, pictures that need props are those that tell a story - for example a childs heirloom. Share this vision with me and maybe I can help with props. :)
- Don't forget the hair and make-up
This applies primarily to studio photos and we will certainly discuss this in more detail during the consultation before the session.
Hannele can help you with beautiful photo makeup and hair. You can learn more about her works on Instagram @mua_hannele or FB Hannele Õiglane Makeup&Foto. Discounted prices apply when booking her for my session!
- Come to the session rested and in a good mood
A picture says more than 1000 words, and I always guide the client to feel as comfortable as possible in the picture. Why? Because if you are stressed, tired or feel uncomfortable in the pose, it will also be reflected in the picture. When guiding, I do my best to make the picture through the eye of the camera as successful as possible, but if you yourself have rested, eaten and feel good, it is definitely easier to achieve the best result.
- Take the things you need with you
If you want to comb your hair, change some clothes or even have a drink in the meantime, think about it in advance and take the necessary things with you. If you come to take pictures with children, it is good to take a favorite toy with you just for comfort or to grab childs attention (but leave it hidden at first if possible), a small snack or even a pack of wet wipes for unexpected situations. Everything that helps you feel better also contributes to a successful session.
- Talk with children before coming to the session
Taking pictures is often a new and unfamiliar thing for children, especially if they have never been in front of a photographer's camera before. At home, calmly talk to your child about what it entails before coming to take pictures. For example, look through the album together with the pictures taken by the photographer in the past. All this helps to reduce the child's fear and anxiety about what lies ahead, and the child knows how to prepare himself more for what is going to happen. Talk to the child about his thoughts and wishes - maybe he has his own preference, what he would like to wear or what hairstyle he would like to be photographed with? Any stuffed animal or toy to bring? Or, instead, some great photography pose to try? Also discuss your wishes with the child, so that the child knows what you expect from him during the session.
In the case of smaller children, make sure that everything is good for the child to come for the photo shoot - full, sleepy and in the best possible mood. :) Bring the necessary tools for unexpected situations - for example, a pack of wet wipes, a pacifier, changing diapers and clothes. Sometimes a small sweet or pre-recorded favorite music and cartoons on the phone can help when you're in a bad mood.
- Create a backup plan if needed
This is necessary when shooting outdoors. We have the weather as it is, and you can't always be 100% sure, even when planning ahead. Have you thought about what will happen if it suddenly rains or there is a strong wind during our photo shoot? If you feel that the weather can affect your mood during the session, it is good to think about a backup plan. Do you have some nice colorful umbrellas at home that you can take with you for any occasion? Or nice tassel hats to put on your head in windy weather so that your hair doesn't fly around? :) We can certainly take pictures without them, but if you know yourself and know that such a thing can spoil your mood when taking pictures, then think about this place for yourself and we will do our best together so that everyone can be satisfied with the result.
See you at the session
Katrin