Get Camera Ready! Photo Shoot tips for New Bloggers
Image by Julius July
Spring is almost here! Creating content is soooo much harder in winter, especially trying to shoot street style looks in the cold. Some of you have seen my behind the scenes insta-stories, and seen the kind of freezing, icy, snowy conditions I've shot in! As blogger you are constantly in front of the camera so it's crucial to get the most out of your photo shoot session. Here are a few of my tips for killing it at your shoots. If you are a new blogger or just looking for some tips to slay a shoot with a pro, this list is for you! And for this post I'm using a few of my favorite images, more on my Instagram story!
Image by Milli Stephania
Control Your Image
I'm a blogger, not a model. That distinction means that decisions made on a shoot (location, styling, makeup, how I pose) are pretty much mine. Even when you are working with a brand, they've hired you because they like your organic content and style, so you have creative freedom. So don't feel pressure to do anything, wear anything, or try anything that you have doubts about. You want to make sure you feel 100% confident on camera. Style your hair in a way you know you will like, and don't try any new trends or makeup that you are on the fence about. If you have any kind of doubt or insecurity about your look it will show on camera and you won't be happy with the end results.
Image by Jack Soltysik
Be Prepared
I do a seasonal mood board that helps give me general direction and inspiration for my upcoming shoots, and helps me keep the feed cohesive. It also is a helpful reminder of what content themes I may need to fit in - trends, upcoming holidays, events, etc. Spending a little bit of time to get organized before a shoot will help make sure you get the content you want. And if you are shooting multiple looks in 1 session, make sure you have undergarments that go with each look! You don't want to forget you need a strapless bra or change pants and see a ton of VPL!
Practice Makes Perfect
If you have never had a professional shoot before, you may want to spend some time practicing before you get in front of a pro! I shoot myself using my tripod sometimes, and it would def come in handy to get a feel for your best angles on camera. Even better if you can do a fitting/styleout the day before a shoot and actually practice how you want each shot in each outfit to look.
Image by John Hibionada
Plan in Advance
As a blogger you are always under pressure to keep creating new content, but you have to make sure you are managing your timelines and expectations. Most photographers aren't going to give you photos back the day after your shoot, so save yourself the stress by planning a few days in advance. I try to give them at least a week or 2 to turnaround photos, even more during peak times like engagement/wedding season when photographers tend to get busier.
Image by Eddie Woods
Have fun!
Let's be real, it can be stressful and time consuming, but getting dressed up and having amazing photos taken is a ton of fun! Loosen up, smile and enjoy it!
If you are a camera ready pro feel free to weigh in with your tips as well! And photographers, anything else you'd like to share about prepping for a shoot?
