First things first: Set expectations!
Seeing that most men aren’t as excited as the females about taking photos, explain why these photos are important to you and prepare him for what is going to happen.
If you take a few minutes to educate him on why you chose me and my photography style, the location, etc. he’ll surely understand and love to support you!
Many guys have previously experienced “bad” photo shoots because they are actually self-conscious in front of the camera. If he understands your and my expectations from the session, he’ll be carrying a huge smile during the whole shoot and we’ll create fun memories together!
“Each time we face our fear, we gain strength, courage, and confidence in the doing.” – Theodore Roosevelt
GIVE HIM FASHION TIPS!
What’s His Style?
The most masculine looks for men are things that put the camera focus right on his face. I recommend leaving the shorts and baggy pants at home for your man. A shirt and tie with slacks often compliments the female wearing a dress, too.
Look up more ideas on coordinating outfits on my Pinterest board!
| YES | NO |
| Long pants | Shorts |
| Button Up | T-Shirt |
| Solid / Simple Patterns*Nothing too distracting or vibrant (i.e.: subtle polka dots, stripes, or plaid are OK) | Logos |
| Colors: Gray, navy and blues, or browns, off-whites, and whites | Bad Colors: Vibrant colors |
| Belts, watches, suspenders, bow-ties, and ties | Hats, wallets/phones in pockets, odd bracelets |
BEFORE THE SESSION
Coordinating
You two will look most unified when the color palette and outfits coordinate. As discussed earlier, avoid matching exactly and piece together similar styles instead in your chosen color scheme.
Keep shoes and socks within the color palette or completely neutral. Avoid bright white socks and shoes on the guy to not distract from your faces in the photo. Keep in mind that each personality should radiate and for each individual to feel confident in what they’re wearing.
Pro tip: In addition to your people, you can bring props such as a blanket to sit on or wrap yourselves in (very popular in the fall & winter times), flowers, your ring (duh!), or any small and meaningful item. Please notify me beforehand if you are bringing a prop!
Prep With Your Photographer
I will be sure to ask you about your ideal poses (especially so you know you’ll get that perfect shot for your photos on your wall or social media), give you ideas for locations, and so on.
I love to shoot at the “golden hour,” which starts two hours before sunset or two hours before sunrise. Knowing which time of day you’ll be available and where you’d like to shoot will help us secure the location and dates.
Please give me all of your hopes and dreams for your ideal photoshoot so we can plan it to the ‘T’! We can ask each other questions and ensure we are on the same page. I am eager to make sure you feel ecstatic with the end result and we can do that by being thorough on all the details.
Remember, some days are good and some days, no matter what you do, don’t go as expected! Sometimes a mixture of those brings out my favorite, most candid and natural photos! So, take a breath and relax because you’ve done the work to prepare yourselves.
I’ve dealt with happy to flustered couples so regardless of your mood at the beginning of the shoot we’ll be laughing by the end – no doubt! My goal is to keep this stress-free and create fun memories we can cherish!
More questions? Let’s chat!
