What Happens at a Photoshoot With Me

Portrait photoshoots are not like the movies, fast paced and stressful with domineering photographers. Instead, they can be relaxed and fun, like having coffee with a friend.

When I was younger, I took acting courses and did some extra work for film and television. I was exploring my options and I was really curious about the industry. My cousin was very involved and she introduced me to her friend who did headshots for actors. Even though I didn’t need a professional headshot for extra work, I wanted to experience what it was like to be photographed by a professional. I hung out at his studio like a groupie until I could afford a headshot of my own.

I did my own make up – luckily I had taken a modeling course when I was in my teens so I had some idea of that but my wardrobe choices were ridiculous. Yes, I brought a ruffle blouse but he saved that choice by lending me his very cool leather jacket.

I felt very nervous at first, especially as I kept making what I felt were big mistakes. However, the photographer was incredibly supportive and made me feel very relaxed and comfortable by simply talking to me.

We ended up having an animated discussion about politics as my very new bachelor diploma was in Political Science. We achieved some amazing images that day that totally reflected my personality, though the outtakes included many funny shots of me with my mouth open and my hands moving as I made some very important point.

As a result of that shoot, I believe the process of a photo shoot should be always be relaxed and supportive. It starts with our preliminary discussion about what you want to accomplish in your shoot, and it just follows from there. You can let me know what things help you relax. I almost always have music playing, and the playlist is yours to choose.

During the process, I will suggest you move and stand in different ways. Some of them might feel awkward at first, but I always shoot to my computer so I can show you why some poses work better than others. This isn’t about right and wrong poses; together, we will find what works best for you.