Preparing for a photo session can be nerve-wracking, especially if you're not sure what to expect. As photographers, we know that the key to success is in the preparation. That's why we take the time to get to know our clients, establish a relationship, and remind ourselves of the importance of this moment.

We are going to share my process for setting ourselves up for success BEFORE a session. Whether you're a client or a fellow photographer, hopefully, you can use some of these tips to make your next photo shoot experience as stress-free and enjoyable as possible!

We make an effort to get to know my clients before the session. This means finding out their names, what they like, and what they're hoping to get out of the shoot, all of which can be found in their pre-session questionnaire.

We always remind my clients that I'm a professional and that my role is to guide and help them during the shoot. This reassures clients who may be feeling nervous or unsure and helps to establish a professional relationship. We want our clients to feel confident during the session and know that they're in good hands.

We remind myself of the importance of the session and the trust that our clients have placed in us. This motivates, inspires, and pumps us up to go all out and make some brilliant photos! We think it's important to recognize that photo sessions are a vulnerable and emotional space for many people, and it's an honor to be welcomed into that space.

We always make sure to communicate clearly and upfront with our clients. We believe in setting expectations, so our clients know precisely what to expect from the session, how it will be structured, and what they need to prepare for. This helps to ensure that the session runs smoothly and that there are no surprises for either party. Most answers can be found in our prep guides but if something is missing we are always an email away.

We believe that fostering a comfortable and supportive environment is crucial to the success of any session. So before your next shoot, take a deep breath, remember why you're there, and go out there and kick ass!