Hair, Skincare, and Nails! | How to Prepare Yourself for Your Portrait Photoshoot
The Beauty Prep Checklist
Preparing for a photoshoot can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be! Follow this guide to prep yourself ahead of the shoot. We break it down into easy steps so you can plan accordingly. You’ll be feeling prepared, confident, and glowing from the inside out!
Prepare yourself for a successful photoshoot…let’s go!
SKINCARE
Please arrive with a completely bare and clean face. No makeup and light weight moisturizer only (nothing too heavy or oily). If you have any skin sensitivities or allergies, it is your responsibility to notify us ahead of time and mention this to the makeup artist. We are happy to use products specifically for skin sensitivities.
Do not pluck eyebrows the morning of the shoot, as this will show swelling and redness. Any waxing, plucking, or bleaching should be done no less than 1 week before the shoot day.
No sun tanning, fake tanners, or tanning beds. Fake tans translate orange on camera and tend to look dull. Your natural healthy glow is always best!
Use the entire week before the shoot to moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! There is no replacement for truly dewey supple skin!
HAIR
Arrive with dry 1-2 day unwashed hair that is free from products and any styling. This helps your hair to hold the styling longer. Leave the rest to us, we got it from here!
Natural textured and curly hair: please bring along any of your favorite go-to hair products and tools that you use for styling. If your hair requires more advance styling, please notify us ahead of the shoot, we are happy to accommodate.
NAILS
For portraits, it is recommended that nails should be clean, trimmed, and manicured with natural rounded edges. Longer nails can be distracting. As a rule of thumb (pun intended!), the nail shouldn't extend much longer than your nail bed.
If using polish, a fresh and even coat of clear polish or a nude colors like taupe, beige, and subtle pinks are best. Nude tones are universally flattering and work with any outfit. Your nails should look natural and not distract. Click to view our nail inspiration board.
Avoid trendy nail art, patterns, gemstones, etc. A single solid color is best for a more classic look.
There’s always an exception to the rule! If you are being photographed for a Personal Branding shoot and want to highlight your brand color, using that color as your nail polish is a great way to incorporate it into your look.
The Prep Timeline
3-4 weeks
Schedule all of your salon appointments: hair, nails, facial, etc.
Shop for your wardrobe and double check shipping arrival times if ordering online.
If you do microblading, get this done now so it has enough time to heal.
3-2 weeks
This is a great time for a fresh haircut, color, or root touch-up.
Start getting your outfits organized. Try them on as a complete outfit and make sure you have the proper undergarments and shoes for each look.
Get a mani pedi or freshen your nails up at home.
Whiten your teeth.
1 week
Drink lots of water and get those extra ZZZs!
Avoid alcohol and salty foods
Moisturize your face and body
Take care of hair removal. Waxing or plucking on the face should be done no less than 3 days prior.
Warn friends and co-workers that you’ll be unavailable during the shoot day. This is your day to relax & have fun!
