You’ve scheduled the shoot.
That’s step one.
Now comes the part most people don’t think about enough — preparation.
Not just showing up with clean clothes and a smile. That’s only a piece of it. A portrait session, especially with a Professional Portrait Photographer, isn’t just about clicking a button. It’s about bringing out something real — something worth keeping.
Think of it like this: The camera only captures what you bring to the frame.
So here’s how to show up ready, grounded, and confident.
1. Get Clear on Your Reason
Before anything else, stop and ask — why are you doing this?
Is this for work?
Are you updating your LinkedIn headshot or your company profile?
Or is it more personal? Maybe you’re celebrating a new phase in life — a birthday, a change, or just yourself.
Whatever the reason, it matters.
It shapes the mood. The lighting. The setting. Even the way you’ll stand.
Without that clarity, the shoot feels random. But once you know the “why,” everything else falls into place.
2. Choose a Photographer You Actually Connect With
Sounds obvious, right? But it’s easy to forget.
There are a lot of people out there with a camera and a website. But a real portrait photographer — someone with a trained eye and the ability to bring out emotion — they’re rare.
Look through their work. Not just one photo — the whole portfolio.
Does it feel consistent?
Do people in their photos look comfortable, confident… real?
That’s the mark of a pro.
You’ll also want to ask yourself:
- Is the editing style clean, not overdone?
- Do the tones feel natural?
- Can you see yourself in those kinds of photos?
If you’re looking for one of the top rated photographers offering photography services in Boston, take a look at Felix Gaertner. His portraits don’t just look good — they feel intentional.
3. Your Location Sets the Tone
Where you shoot matters more than you think.
The setting creates context. It says something — even before you do.
Want something modern and sharp? A studio backdrop keeps it simple.
Looking for a more relaxed, natural vibe? Try an outdoor space — a garden, a park, maybe even a hidden corner of the city.
Felix, as a professional photographer Boston clients trust, often recommends settings based on your goals. He’ll ask about your style, your profession, and how you want to be seen.
Still unsure? That’s okay. Ask questions. The right photographer won’t just point a lens — they’ll guide you through all of it.
4. Plan Your Outfit Early
Clothes carry energy. That sounds abstract, but it’s true.
What you wear changes how you feel — and that feeling shows up in the photo.
Start by picking clothes that fit well and feel like you.
Avoid anything overly trendy, flashy, or uncomfortable.
Some easy rules to follow:
- Stick with solid colors — neutrals always work
- Skip logos, loud patterns, or busy textures
- Iron everything
- Try it all on beforehand — no surprises on shoot day
- Bring 2–3 options if you can
You don’t need a stylist. You just need to feel like your best self.
That confidence? The camera picks it up.
5. Grooming Makes a Difference — More Than You Expect
No, you don’t need a whole spa day.
But the little things? They show up.
A bit of grooming and self-care can take your photos from good to “wow.”
A few days before the session:
- Drink more water
- Get solid sleep
- Avoid too much sugar or salty snacks
- Moisturize
- Keep your hair clean and styled
For men: a clean shave or a neatly trimmed beard goes a long way.
For women: don’t overdo makeup unless it’s a stylized shoot. Keep it fresh. Focus on the skin, brows, and eyes. Want help? Ask if your photographer has a recommended hair and makeup artist. Most high-end shooters like Felix do.
6. Practice Sounds Weird — But Try It
Stand in front of a mirror. Try different angles.
Smile softly. Then with teeth. Then without. Which looks most like you?
Move your shoulders. Adjust your posture. Look up, down, to the side.
Why? Because people often freeze when the camera’s on them. Practicing gives your body a memory to fall back on.
You won’t look fake. You’ll just look… prepared.
7. Communicate Before the Shoot
A lot of people assume the photographer will “figure it out.”
But here’s the thing — it’s a collaboration.
If there’s something you don’t like about yourself in photos, say it.
If there’s a vibe you want — warm, professional, serious, relaxed — share that.
Have reference photos? Show them.
Want a specific angle or backdrop? Mention it.
The more you communicate, the better your photographer can plan.
You’re not being picky — you’re being proactive.
8. Pack Smart — You’ll Thank Yourself Later
Grab a tote or small bag and bring:
- A brush or comb
- Lip balm or matte powder
- Extra shirt or top
- Water
- Snacks if you’re shooting for more than an hour
- A phone charger (never hurts)
- Safety pins or a lint roller if you’re extra prepared
Little things like this help you stay relaxed and photo-ready.
Especially if you’re shooting outdoors or changing outfits.
9. Show Up Early
Arriving last-minute can throw you off.
Give yourself a 15-minute cushion. You’ll feel calmer. You can stretch, breathe, fix your hair. Maybe chat with the photographer and ease into things.
If you show up rushed? That energy lingers. You’ll see it in your eyes.
This session is about you. Take the time to settle into that.
10. Let Go of Trying to Be Perfect
Perfection isn’t interesting. Authenticity is.
Don’t worry about striking the exact right pose or holding your smile too long.
Instead, move naturally. Breathe. Laugh, even if it feels awkward at first. Look off-camera. Tilt your head. Let yourself settle in.
A talented photo editing expert will handle the flyaways and lighting tweaks later.
Your job is to show up — human and real.
The best portraits? They’re never stiff.
11. Trust the Editing — It’s Half the Art
Once the shoot is over, the work’s not done. Not for the photographer.
Editing is where everything gets polished. Not overly smoothed or fake — just brought to life.
What to expect:
- Adjusted lighting and contrast
- Skin smoothing that still looks natural
- Removal of small blemishes or distractions
- Enhancing your natural features
A full service photographer like Felix will talk you through the editing style. Want a specific look? Ask. Prefer minimal retouching? Let him know.
This is part of the collaboration. Your vision, refined by their skill.
12. Use the Final Photos
This sounds obvious, but many people forget.
You just invested in professional portraits. Don’t let them sit in a folder.
Use them.
Update your:
- LinkedIn photo
- Business site
- Personal blog
- Speaking portfolio
- Social profiles
- Zoom headshot
- Or frame one for your home
Whatever your goal was — let the photos fulfill it.
They’re meant to be seen.
Final Thoughts
A portrait session isn’t just a booking.
It’s a process. A collaboration. An opportunity to pause and look at yourself with intention.
Working with a professional portrait photographer like Felix Gaertner? That gives you the technical brilliance. But your preparation — your care and clarity — that’s what brings the soul.
So show up. Not perfectly styled or hyper-posed. Just ready.
Because the best portraits don’t just show what you look like.
They show who you are — in this moment, now.
And that’s always worth capturing.
Need a photographer who brings that vision to life?
Explore the work and process at Felix Gaertner Photography — Boston’s trusted name for portrait sessions that feel anything but ordinary.