EriePics™ an Erie Photography™ Studio – Professional Photographers

9 Tips for Your Photoshoot

Do you need the best photoshoot tips? When you plan a photoshoot, you want only the best. You deserve to have high expectations for both yourself and the photographer taking your pictures. Knowing how to pose and move in front of the camera is no simple task, however.

Professional models make it look easy, but there’s a lot more to it than people think. Feeling comfortable in front of the camera is something that takes photoshoot tips and time adjusting to as well. If you’re new to modeling, photoshoots, or being in front of the camera in general, then you’ll want to do some preparation for your planned shoot.

Many photographers will be willing to give advice to those in need. Most of them actually enjoy helping their clients because remember, it’s their work and they want the photos to look amazing too. Don’t hesitate to ask your photographer for help during the photoshoot, but it’s also a good idea to come prepared by boning up on photoshoot tips.

In the guide below, you’ll find several pieces of advice including photoshoot pose tips, photoshoot outfit tips, and much more. Continue reading below to get started!

1. The When and Where

This is the most important photoshoot tip. When’s the best time to do your photoshoot? Where should the photos be taken at? There’s no one simple answer to these questions. The best time to shoot your photos will depend on the mood you want to create and the theme of your photoshoot.

Do you want to catch the sun right as it’s rising? Would you rather shoot during midday when the sun’s at its highest, or are evening photos more what you’re looking for?

To discover the best answers to these questions, feel free to discuss them with your photographer. Let your photographer know what you’re looking for and let them explain the best time of day for your photo needs.

Where you’ll take your photos will also depend on the theme of your shoot, what you want to capture, and what your own preferences are. For example, you can shoot in a studio, in nature, at a venue, or in another favorite spot. Again, communicate ideas with the photographer and the two of you can brainstorm.

2. Dressing the Part

Next photoshoot tip is clear. How will you know what to wear for your photoshoot? Gathering some inspiration from online content is a great place to start. You can use social media platforms to search for photos similar to the ones you want to have done.

Although you want to stay creative, original, and true to yourself, it’s not a bad idea to be inspired by other photos. Keep in mind you want to wear something you’re comfortable in as well. If you’re uncomfortable, it’ll show in your photos.

If you don’t normally wear a type of outfit and won’t feel comfortable in it, then choose something different for your first couple of photoshoots. You also want to wear something that matches your theme. Think about the when and where of the shoot and what you’re trying to capture.

Then, find an outfit that goes well with all those factors. Be sure to pack more than one outfit and several accessories also. You can always switch things up if needed.

Your photographer will also be able to provide you with advice and outfit ideas. They know what looks good for the type of photoshoot you’re doing.

3. Feeling Comfortable

Wearing the right clothes will help you feel more comfortable, but getting used to the camera may take some time. If you don’t have experience posing for a camera, then you may feel awkward at first. This is no big deal, however.

It’s normal! If needed, consider scheduling extra time to become comfortable with the photographer and in front of the camera. You may even want to ask the photographer about meeting with them before the shoot. The more acquainted you are with both the photographer and the camera, the more comfortable you’ll be.

The more photoshoots you have with the same photographer, the more your confidence and comfort levels will rise. Just keep in mind these things sometimes take time.

4. Practicing Your Poses

When you’re not sure how to pose, where to look, what to do with your hands, and so on, you begin to feel awkward and uncomfortable. This is one of those things that takes time. To help you feel more confident and more at ease when posing, be sure to practice beforehand. This photoshoot tip will help loosen you up in front of the camera.

Practice your poses in the mirror. Which poses do you feel the best doing? Look up inspiration online and on social media if you’re not sure where to start.

Practice these favorite poses a few times each day for a week or so before your photoshoot. When it’s time for the real thing, you’ll know exactly how to position yourself.

5. Communicating With the Photographer

Communicating with the photographer is an essential photoshoot tip. You should always feel comfortable speaking up and letting the photographer know what’s on your mind. You should also be open to hearing the photographer out.

Even professional models listen to photographer advice when shooting, so don’t feel discouraged if the photographer gives you some pointers during the shoot. They’ll help guide you during the entire process.

Above all, go with the flow. This means just go with it, don’t overthink it too much. Move using natural movements and what feels right to you.

You should also tell the photographer what you don’t like. Is there something you don’t want to show in your photos? This is normal and photographers understand so be sure to let yours know.

6. Moving Around

Staying in one position the entire time won’t give you a good variety of photos. They’ll all come out looking the same. Instead, move around during the shoot. 

Make small, natural movements each time you hear the shutter sound. This way, you’ll have a variety of poses to look at, which means more options! Don’t forget to stay natural, though.

If you force a pose, then it’ll show on your face. Try to act as if you’re having a regular day out and about. Remaining relaxed in your photos will bring out the professional model in you!

7. The Props

Here’s a photoshoot tip I know from experience most people don’t think about. If you haven’t already thought about bringing some props with you, then do so now. Props are a great way to help you feel more comfortable. They also give your hands something to do when you’re not sure where to put them.

The props you bring will depend on the type of photoshoot you’re doing. You can ask the photographer about bringing some props and what they recommend. Your photographer might even have a few props of their own to bring!

8. Bringing the Essentials

Here’s another great photoshoot tip that gets overlooked. Pack a bag full of the essentials and bring it with you. What are the essentials? The answer to this question depends on a few factors.

For example, is the photoshoot for your children? Will the photoshoot be several hours long? Is the photoshoot outdoors?

Think about all the details of the shoot and then pack accordingly to keep children and yourself happy. A few healthy snacks, water, toys, and electronics are a good start. Playing your favorite music during the shoot can help you stay relaxed.

Bug spray and sunscreen are great to have if the shoot is outdoors.

9. Setting up the Details

One of the most important things to do is set up all the details with the photographer. The details of the shoot will have an effect on just about everything from what you’re wearing to when the shoot will be. Once you go over all of the details about the shoot with your photographer, you can then plan for the shoot. 

When setting up the details, do be sure to ask the photographer about any questions you may have regarding the information given above. You can ask for outfit ideas, location advice, and more. Professional photographers will have all the answers you’re looking for. 

Will These Photoshoot Tips Help you?

There’s only one way to find out if these photoshoot tips will help you: try them all. Don’t be afraid to try all of these different tips. One might be more beneficial to you than the others, so it’s worth trying all of them. 

If you’re ever in doubt about something, then never hesitate to contact your photographer and speak with them about your concerns. Once you’ve discussed everything with your photographer, you should be ready to book your shoot!

Be sure to check out the different packages available, including wedding photography, family photography, and portrait photography!

Book Erie Photography, Photographer Services for Your Wedding or Next Event.

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Suite 1400, Erie, PA 16501
814.246.2148 | info@general-mead.flywheelstaging.com | www.general-mead.flywheelstaging.com

Begin Planning Your Photo Shoot

All read up on photoshoot tips? Now that you know how to get ready for your photo session reach out. A friendly team member is waiting to help you get your shoot booked. And of course, we’re here to talk to you about how you can ready to take the most amazing pictures ever. 

Erie Photographers’ Blog

Family Photographers Blog

Family Photography

Maternity Pictures

Newborn Photos

Holiday Photo Shoots

Planning & Advice

Family Photos

Fine Art Photographers

How to Incorporate Your Dog Into Family Photos

If you plan on bringing a pet to your photo session, we here at Erie Photography are more than happy to have you do that. We love furry friends and are always pleased to add them to our sessions! Here are some things you should remember to bring to ensure everything goes smoothly:

1. A leash. The Pet leash will help you keep your pet near to you and where you want him or her for photos. (They aren’t just for dogs, you know.) Be sure to bring a thinner leash, as they are easier to hide or edit out if necessary.
2. A friend. Having someone come with you specifically to take care of your pet is ideal. This will help so that your pet is not running around the place or alone in the car, should you wish to take some photos without Fido. 
3. Treats. Treats are great bribery for your animal. It will help keep your pet still and focused on the camera.
4. A favorite toy. The noisier, the better. The Toy is also a great tool to help keep your pet’s attention on me. We can also use it for a fun game and get some fun interaction shots.

A Perfect Bond 

The special bond between humans and dogs goes back tens of thousands of years and with good reason. There’s nothing quite like the relationship we have with our canine companions.
For those of us that have dogs, they truly are our “furkids.” When I photograph these furry subjects, I approach it as if they were any other family member, trying to learn as much about their personality as I can and then, hopefully, capture that.

5 Tips for Family Dog Pictures

Here are five tips to keep in mind when your sessions include photographing the family dog:

I often have clients ask if they can bring their dog to their session. I’m always all for it! Does it add extra chaos? Sure, sometimes. But I also find that having their dogs along relaxes people and makes for more natural expressions and poses. Also, clients treasure the images that include their beloved pets.

Consider the dog’s personality.

Timid? Energetic? Nervous? Playful? Excitable? I try to find out as much as I can about each dog and give the dog plenty of time to settle down and adjust to me and my big loud camera. I always click the shutter several times to gauge their reaction, and depending on the dog, and I’ll either back up with a long lens or get in close with a wide-angle lens if they are comfortable with it. The distortion from wide-angle lenses can be perfect for exaggerating expressions on dogs who don’t mind you getting up close and personal!

Wait for it

This probably goes without saying that a lot of patience is required when photographing pets. Think of them as toddlers with fur. I give a bit of direction and then sit patiently for my moment. I also try to make sure the owners aren’t calling the dog’s name or using commands so that I can get the dog’s attention when I need to.

Use locations that have context

I often shoot clients in and around their homes, and I love to do this with dogs, too. It adds meaning to the images and makes them more personal.

Try different levels

Mix it up and capture dogs from different angles:

From above:

shooting from above is great for eye contact and capturing our pets as we most often see them when we look down.

Get on their level:

I do this all the time with little kids; it’s also great for dogs. This makes for an effective connection.

Shoot from the hip, or knee, or ankle: often, when I’m out shooting on the street or even shooting dogs for clients, I shoot from the hip (or knee/ankle if they are a smaller dog!). You get far fewer keepers this way, but it gives a great “dog’s eye view” of the world and is also effective when incorporating motion.

The eyes have it

Who can resist gazing into those eyes? It can be an intensely focused gaze, sweet soulful puppy dog eyes, or anything in between. The eyes help draw the viewer in. A well-timed squeak, cluck, or name call can get the eye contact you want. This particular dog was obsessed with tennis balls, so I held one right on top of my lens.

Over time, I enjoyed shooting dogs and wanted to do more with it, so I started reaching out to local animal shelters to offer free photography services to get better quality images for their online animal profiles. Working with shelter animals has been incredibly rewarding, as a high percentage of dogs I have photographed have found homes quickly after their new images are posted online. Using the techniques above really helps potential owners connect with shelter dogs and want to come to meet them.

Book Erie Photography, Photographer Services for Your Wedding or Next Event.

Erie Photography™

Erie Wedding & Event Services
Wedding Disc Jockey | Erie Photography | Wedding Photo Booth | Wedding Videography
1001 State Street, Suite 1400, Erie, PA 16501
814.246.2148 | info@general-mead.flywheelstaging.com | www.general-mead.flywheelstaging.com

Begin Planning Your Photo Shoot

Your content goes here. Edit or remove this text inline or in the module Content settings. You can also style every aspect of this content in the module Design settings and even apply custom CSS to this text in the module Advanced settings.