Before stepping in front of the camera, taking a little time to prepare can make all the difference. From choosing the right outfit to feeling confident and comfortable, pre-shoot preparation ensures you look and feel your best.
Mastering Your Perfect Photoshoot: Your Ultimate Guide
The Ultimate Guide to Perfecting Your Photoshoot
In today’s digital age, your photo is often the first impression you make. It’s your chance to capture attention and showcase your personality. At Maclynn, we understand the importance of presenting your best self, and we’re here to guide you through creating a captivating and authentic picture. This guide will walk you through essential tips and tricks to ensure you feel confident and prepared for your upcoming photoshoot. Whether you’re new to the camera or a seasoned pro, our goal is to help you shine. Let’s get started on making your photo truly exceptional.
Discuss with Your Matchmaker Before the Photoshoot
Discuss your personal style and how you want to present yourself in the photos. Whether you prefer a polished, professional look or something more laid-back and casual, your matchmaker can offer suggestions to ensure your photos reflect your personality authentically.
Talk about potential locations or settings for the shoot. Would you prefer outdoor shots, indoor settings, or a mix of both? Your matchmaker can help you choose a setting that aligns with your style and interests.
Go over outfit options and what works best for your complexion, body type, and the style you’re aiming for. Your matchmaker can provide valuable feedback on colours, accessories, and overall appearance to make sure you feel confident in front of the camera.
If you’d like the matchmaker to attend or you would like to bring a friend to the photoshoot for extra support, mention this to your matchmaker. Company can help you feel more relaxed, which often leads to more genuine and engaging photos.
Clothing and Accessories: Dos and Don'ts
Do Choose Outfits that Reflect Your Personality: Choose clothing that makes you feel both comfortable and confident, reflecting your true self, whether it’s something casual or more formal.
Don’t Wear Uncomfortable or Inauthentic Outfits: Steer clear of clothing that makes you feel uncomfortable or self-conscious. Choose outfits that truly reflect who you are.
Do Wear Well-Fitted and Flattering Clothes: Choose well-fitted clothing that highlights your best features. Make sure your outfit feels just right, avoiding anything that’s too tight or too loose.
Don’t Select Poorly-Fitting Clothes: Avoid overly tight or baggy clothing that may be unflattering. Choose outfits that allow for easy movement and avoid anything that bunches up or sags.
Do Consider Colour Choices: Choose solid, timeless colours that enhance your natural complexion. If you’re unsure, try using a colour app like Stylix to find the perfect shades for your skin. Adding a pop of colour can also elevate your look.
Don’t Choose Distracting Patterns: Avoid busy patterns, bold prints, or large logos that can distract from your face. Keep the focus on you by skipping clothing with text or graphics that might pull attention away.
Do Accessorise Thoughtfully: Select accessories that add a touch of interest without overwhelming your outfit. Keep them simple and elegant to keep the focus on your face and expression.
Don’t Overdo Accessories: Avoid overly flashy accessories that may clutter your look. It’s best to skip hats and sunglasses, as they can hide your features.
Dressing for body types: Women
Hourglass Shape (Balanced Bust and Hips, Defined Waist)
Best Styles: Fitted dresses, wrap dresses, belted tops, high-waisted jeans, peplum tops.
Avoid: Baggy or shapeless clothing that hides your natural curves.
Necklines: V-neck, sweetheart, scoop neck.
Colours & Patterns: Solid colours and subtle prints to accentuate curves.
Pear Shape (Wider Hips, Narrower Shoulders, Defined Waist)
Best Styles: A-line dresses, structured tops, off-shoulder tops, bootcut jeans.
Avoid: Skinny jeans that emphasize hip width, heavily printed bottoms
Necklines: Boat neck, off-shoulder, cowl neck.
Colours & Patterns: Darker bottoms, bright or patterned tops to balance proportions.
Apple Shape (Fuller Midsection, Slimmer Legs & Arms)
Best Styles: Empire waist dresses, flowy blouses, high-rise skirts, monochrome outfits.
Avoid: Tight waistbands, boxy cuts, clingy fabrics around the midsection.
Necklines: Deep V-neck, scoop neck, asymmetrical.
Colours & Patterns: Vertical stripes, darker tones around the waist area.
Rectangle Shape (Straight Silhouette, Less Defined Waist)
Best Styles: Layered outfits, belted coats, ruffled tops, flared skirts.
Avoid: Overly loose or straight-cut outfits that lack shape.
Necklines: High neck, sweetheart, off-shoulder.
Colours & Patterns: Bold prints, colour-blocking, belted pieces for definition.
Dressing for body types: Men
Athletic Build (Broad Shoulders, Narrow Waist)
Best Styles: Fitted shirts, structured blazers, tapered trousers, crewneck sweaters.
Avoid: Baggy shirts or super skinny pants that distort proportions.
Colours & Patterns: Solid colours, subtle patterns, avoid overly tight prints.
Slim Build (Lean Frame, Less Muscle Definition)
Best Styles: Layering, double-breasted blazers, slim-fit trousers, textured fabrics.
Avoid: Oversized or extremely tight clothing that emphasises a narrow frame.
Colours & Patterns: Bold colours, horizontal stripes, structured fits for added volume.
Broad/Bigger Build (Fuller Chest, Midsection, and Legs)
Best Styles: Dark-coloured shirts, vertical stripes, V-neck sweaters, structured blazers
Avoid: Horizontal stripes, clingy fabrics, baggy clothing.
Colours & Patterns: Dark hues, vertical details to elongate the frame.
Shorter Frame (Below Average Height, Proportional or Stockier Build)
Best Styles: Well-fitted clothing, monochrome outfits, structured jackets, ankle-length pants.
Avoid: Oversized clothing, long coats that overwhelm the frame.
Colours & Patterns: Vertical lines, darker colours, minimal contrast between top and bottom.
Make-Up Tips
For your profile photos, a natural make-up look is often the best choice. Wearing a bit of make-up can enhance your features and ensure you look your best on camera. The camera can sometimes make you appear more flushed or washed out, so a light application of foundation or BB cream can even out your skin tone. A touch of concealer under the eyes can brighten your look, while a bit of blush adds a healthy glow. Keep eye make-up simple with neutral shades and a coat of mascara to define your lashes. Lastly, choose a lip colour that enhances your natural lip tone. Remember, the goal is to enhance your features subtly, so you still look like yourself, just a bit more polished.
Grooming Tips for Men
For men, well-groomed facial hair can significantly enhance your appearance in photos. Whether you prefer a clean shave or a beard, ensure your facial hair is neatly trimmed and styled. A well-groomed beard should have defined lines and an even length, while a clean shave should be smooth and free from irritation. Pay attention to your hair as well, keeping it styled in a way that suits you best. Grooming isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling confident and presenting your best self.
Working with the Photographer: Step-by-Step Guide
Communication
Before the shoot, discuss your goals, ideas, and preferences with the photographer. Share thoughts on locations, outfits, or poses, but also be open to their professional advice. Trust their expertise in lighting and composition to enhance your photos.
Trust and Collaboration
Take a few minutes to connect with the photographer before starting. Building rapport will help you relax. Feel free to bring a friend along to make the experience more fun and lighthearted. They can help you feel more at ease, and the added support might even bring out more genuine moments. Be open to trying different poses and settings, as some of the best shots come from spontaneous interactions.
Prioritise These Key Photos
Headshot
A clear, well-lit headshot that captures your face and expression.
Full Length
A full-body shot that provides a complete view of the your posture and presence.
A candid photo
A candid (or plandid) photo that captures you in a moment of genuine joy, and relaxation.
Hand Postures
Relaxed hand poses play a crucial role in creating a natural and engaging photo. Keeping your fingers gently curved and your palms facing your body or the camera can make your hands look more natural and relaxed. Placing your hands partially or fully in your pockets adds a casual and relaxed vibe, while resting them on your hips can create a confident and assertive look. Lightly touching your face, hair, or another part of your body adds spontaneity and movement to your photos. Using props like a book or coffee cup gives your hands something to do and adds personality to your photo. Interacting with your environment, like touching a wall or railing, can also create a more dynamic and natural look.
During the Photoshoot: Step-by-Step Guide
Relaxation Techniques
Stay relaxed with deep breathing. Shift your weight or move slightly to avoid stiffness. If you feel overwhelmed, take a quick break to reset and regain focus.
Enjoying the Process
Embrace the fun of the photoshoot. Bringing a friend can make the experience more enjoyable, and the best photos will be the ones where you feel authentic and comfortable. Engage with the process, smile, and laugh naturally. Let your true personality shine, and have fun with it—the more genuine you are, the better your photos will be!
Now that you have all these tips for mastering your photoshoot, it’s time to put them into action! Enjoy the experience, and look forward to meeting people who are excited to get to know the real you.
