How to Prepare for Your Photoshoot: A Simple Guide to Looking & Feeling Your Best

So—you’ve booked your photoshoot (yay!) and now you're wondering, “How do I get ready for this?” Whether it's a family session, prom shoot, or content creation session, a little preparation goes a long way in making sure you feel confident and your photos turn out beautifully.

As an Atlanta-based lifestyle photographer, I’m here to guide you through every step. Here’s everything you need to know to show up feeling relaxed, prepared, and excited for your shoot!

1. Choose Your Outfits in Advance

Wardrobe makes a big impact in photos—here’s what works best:

• Stick to neutrals or soft tones with pops of color. Avoid loud prints, logos, or neon shades.

• Coordinate, don’t match—especially for family sessions. Think complementary colors, textures, and layers.

• Comfort is key—you want to feel confident, not restricted.

• Try on everything a few days before to avoid last-minute stress.

Bonus tip: If you’re shooting outdoors, consider the setting—earth tones work beautifully in natural light.

2. Plan Hair & Makeup

• If you’re doing professional makeup, schedule it with enough time before the session so you’re not rushed.

• Even if you're doing your own makeup, go for natural, slightly enhanced—a little extra definition (especially around the eyes) looks great on camera.

• For guys and kids, keep grooming simple and clean.

3. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

It sounds simple, but rest truly makes a difference in how you look and feel. A well-rested face = bright eyes and genuine smiles. Try to go to bed a bit earlier the night before, especially for morning sessions.

4. Eat Light Before the Shoot

Have a small, balanced meal so you have energy, but avoid heavy or greasy foods that might make you feel sluggish. For kids, pack a small snack and water in case they get antsy or hungry.

5. Bring the Essentials

Here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:

• Extra outfit or accessories (if part of the shoot)

• Touch-up makeup or blotting paper

• Hairbrush or comb

• Water + snack (especially for kids)

• Baby wipes (if you have littles!)

• Flat shoes for walking between spots

6. Prep Your Family (for Family Sessions)

Let the kids know what’s happening so they’re not caught off guard. Make it fun—“We’re going on an adventure with a camera!” For spouses or partners, encourage them by reminding them of the value these photos will hold for years to come.

7. Arrive Early & Relaxed

Plan to arrive about 10 minutes early so you can get settled, fix anything last minute, and walk into the shoot calm and ready. Rushing = stress, and we want all the chill vibes.

8. Trust the Process & Have Fun

I’ll guide you through posing, movement, and all the candid moments in between. You don’t need to be a model—just show up as you, and I’ll take care of the rest. The best photos happen when you're relaxed, laughing, and truly in the moment.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for your photoshoot doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and trust, we’ll create timeless, joy-filled images that reflect your real-life beauty and connection.

Need help picking outfits or planning your session? I’m just an email away!
📩 info@Jramsayphoto.com
📅 Ready to book your next shoot? Book here

Can’t wait to capture you in your essence!

With love,
Jylesa Ramsay
Lifestyle Photographer | Atlanta, GA