Great portraits are the result of preparation, not chance. A reliable checklist turns anxiety into flow, helping you focus on your subject rather than scrambling for solutions. Use this framework to plan, shoot, and deliver with confidence.
Pre-production starts with purpose. Ask what the images will do: a LinkedIn refresh, an actor’s portfolio, or heirloom family portraits. Purpose defines tone, wardrobe, and location. Align expectations with a short call and a one-page brief that outlines look, timing, deliverables, and usage rights.
Wardrobe and styling anchor the narrative. Suggest a neutral palette with one accent piece, avoiding heavy logos or tight patterns that moiré. Encourage clients to bring two outfits: one timeless, one expressive. For makeup, recommend matte finishes and lip hydration. Hair should match the planned vibe; bring clips or a brush for quick refinements.
Gear needs are simple but deliberate. Two bodies or one plus a backup, charged batteries, cleared cards, and a prime lens you trust. Pack a reflector, clamps, and a compact diffuser. A microfiber cloth, gaffer tape, and a small mirror solve common on-set issues gracefully.
Location scouting saves time. Choose spaces with clean lines, predictable light, and minimal crowds. Identify a shaded option for midday and a backlit spot for golden hour. Note restrooms, parking, and a quiet corner for outfit changes. Share a map pin and a meeting spot to reduce friction.
On set, lead with warmth. Greet, review the plan, and start with easy poses. Demonstrate posture yourself to dissolve stiffness. Cue micro-adjustments: relax the jaw, bring the chin forward and down slightly, drop the shoulder closest to camera, and shift weight to the back foot. Use hands purposefully: hold a jacket, touch a collar, or place them softly in pockets.
Light management is constant. Watch catchlights, avoid raccoon shadows under eyes, and rotate your subject until the key light shapes their face. In flat light, add a reflector at chest height to define eyes and cheeks. In hard light, find open shade or use a diffuser to soften.
Wrap with clarity. Confirm deliverables, timeline, and selection process. Back up cards immediately, cull with a first-pass rating, and deliver a web gallery with clear favorites. Provide guidance on cropping for social and professional platforms. A smooth finish is the best marketing you’ll never pay for.