Welcome back to the blog, ya’ll! Today I want to share with you how to prepare for a photo shoot. I’ve had a few of you reach out with this question and I think there’s more to preparing for a shoot than just having your camera!

Have a Checklist

Creating a checklist of what equipment you need to take with you on every shoot seems silly but believe me, it’s so helpful! Sometimes memory cards get left by the computer or batteries are left on the charger. Running down a list to make sure you have all camera gear and permits (if needed) will put your mind at ease!  In addition to your camera equipment don’t forget the extra supplies such as a snack bar or sunscreen, they can be lifesavers!

Find Inspiration

When I’m preparing for a shoot, I do look at the Pinterst boards I have created. Most of my inspiration is fashion; I spend a lot of time looking at fashion magazines and things that inspire me personally. It could be the latest issue of Vogue or even a Whole Foods magazine! I can find inspiration in anything, and usually it’s not wedding based! If I find body language that I love I will either rip it out or take a photo of it on my phone to have it ready. My couples may not be professional models but being inspired by body language in one photo I can bring that little detail into this shoot! Posing my couples is one of my favorite things to do so when we do try and recreate an inspiration photo I have no problem busting out my phone and guiding them through the pose!

Their Time, Not Mine

Since the very very beginning when I started doing this, you know photographing real couples is a very intimate moment for you and your couple. Chances are you may just be meeting for the first time to capture very real moments from them so you know its nerve wrecking for all of you! For me when I show up to a shoot, it doesn’t matter what bad thing may have just happened, I need to show up and be prepared for my couples. I can’t be thinking about something dramatic in my life; it’s important to show up with an open heart because I want my clients to have an open heart for each other! Even if I just had an argument with my hubby, I meditate and pray to put my mind at ease. This is their time, not mine!

Thank you so much for stopping by the blog! I hope these few tips help you prepare for your next photo shoot! Do ya’ll have anything you do to inspire yourself before a shoot?! Share in the comments, I’d love to hear about them!