Don't You Dare
SPRAY TANS & SELF-TANNER
We know a tan can feel confidence-boosting. However, we strongly recommend avoiding spray tans, tinted lotions, and bronzers before your session. Even when they look even to the naked eye, cameras, especially under low-key lighting and in high-resolution imagery pick up streaks, unevenness, and color shifts that aren’t visible in person. Spray tans also tend to photograph more orange in color images.Because of this, standard retouching does not include spray tan correction.If you choose to tan anyway, we will absolutely still photograph you just keep in mind that unevenness may remain visible in your final images. Natural skin always photographs strongest.
PROPS & PERSONAL ITEM
Sentimental jewelry is always welcome. If you’re drawn to bringing a prop, ask yourself: Will I still connect to this in 10 years? Timeless pieces, a meaningful necklace, a favorite watch, a wedding band, photograph beautifully.
We recommend avoiding:
• Jerseys
• Military apparel
• Weapons
• Sports equipment
• Costume masks
• Anything overly themed
The focus should remain on you not the object, however, we are open to incorporating what you feel lead to.
For Dude-Oir sessions specifically, items like construction hats, suspenders, or tools of your trade can work well, as long as they feel authentic and not costume-like. Simple. Intentional. Personal.
THE NIGHT BEFORE YOUR SESSION
If nerves are present, we understand. But a late night out isn’t the answer. Alcohol dehydrates the skin, affects posture, and shows in your eyes the next day.
Instead, try:
• A bubble bath
• A slow evening at home
• Light stretching or yoga
• Hydration
• Early sleep
Hangovers don’t photograph well, and rested confidence always does.
DON’T FORGET TO STRETCH
Many of the poses may look effortless, but they can feel surprisingly athletic. Take a few minutes the morning of your session to stretch your arms, legs, hips, and especially your back. Clients are often surprised by how sore they feel afterward, holding poses, shifting weight, and engaging muscles adds up quickly. A short mobility flow or light yoga session will help you feel more comfortable, flexible, and confident during your shoot.
AVOID NEW HAIRCUTS OR COLOR RIGHT BEFORE YOUR SESSION
Now isn’t the time to experiment with a completely new look. If you’re planning a haircut or color refresh, schedule it about a week in advance so it has time to settle naturally. We want you looking like your best, most confident self, not adjusting to something unfamiliar.
MINDSET: HOW YOU TALK ABOUT YOURSELF MATTERS
Energy shows up in photographs. If you walk in focused on what you love about yourself, that confidence translates beautifully on camera. We’d much rather hear about what you adore, your legs, your shoulders, your smile, your strength. That said… we also know everyone has something that feels vulnerable. If there’s an area you’re self-conscious about, simply tell us: “I love my ___, but I feel insecure about my ___.” That gives us clarity without anchoring the session in negativity. We will absolutely be mindful of your sensitivities, while also gently challenging ourselves to create an image that helps you see that part of yourself differently. Our goal isn’t to hide you. It’s to help you appreciate you.