What’s Her Secret? Self-Care.
I see your beauty whether you’ve simply pulled your hair into a messy ponytail or gone for a bouncy blowout. It’s there with or without a red lip. Jeans or sequin dress, you shine. However, there’s a little extra something that my camera and I see when you go beyond just showing up for your shoot. There’s an energy, confidence and presence that you exude when you show up for yourself and make time for self-care and self-love first.
Before the shoot we meet for our consultation to go over how you want to look and feel in your photos. I love having a deep understanding of what it is you want out of them so that we both go into the photoshoot on the same page. Then, once we have nailed down and discussed what the shoot will look like, you get to start prepping. Part of that is taking care of yourself.
This is my secret to loving photos of yourself. The care you give yourself comes through in every photo and not just because a stylist put you together. Your smile and energy will speak for itself, and it’s something you can’t fake. My team works their magic with wardrobe, hair and make up to make you feel pampered and put together, but self love and care are part of what makes you glow.
Your portraits should be a reflection of you, just more polished. So we’re not talking a full makeover here. We’re focusing on doing things that will fill your insides and outside with goodness. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to prepare for your photoshoot (and life overall!):
FACE/SKIN
A trip to the spa is lovely, but not always feasible - especially these days! Set aside a little time just for you and turn your bathroom into a spa. Make your own scrub, pick up a few sheet masks and you’re on your way to glowing. If you would like to experience a great facial locally, I highly recommend Evolve Apothecary. Amy and her staff will take great care of you and offer the most sustainable and beautiful products.
I would avoid using new products too close to the shoot day or any big event - you don’t want to risk rashes or break-outs.
Leave blemishes alone. No picking or popping - it’s easier to photoshop or cover a small spot with makeup over an irritated one.
You would be surprised how tiny little hairs show up in photographs. Take an extra long and luxurious shower or bath the day before or the day of the shoot to cover any shaving needs. If you wax or thread, be sure to do it a few days ahead of time to allow time for redness to subside.
HAIR
How good do you feel after getting your hair done? A million times better, right? Make a hair appointment - touching up your roots and getting a fresh cut (even a trim) makes a big difference.
On the day of the shoot leave the styling to us, but you’ll want to show up with clean, untouched hair. We’ll do the rest!
HANDS
Chipped nails show up in photos. Treat yourself to a manicure, even if you do it yourself. Clean nails, moisturized hands and a light or neutral color (unless you’re going for bold) make all the difference. Be sure to pick the colors after you selected your outfits so they don’t clash.
While you’re at it scrub up those feet and do a pedicure, too. You’ll be ready for strappy sandals or a barefoot casual look.
CLOTHES
Pick outfits that make you feel like a rock star! Think of pants that fit you like a glove, dresses that make you want to twirl and shirts that hang just right.
With a style in mind you’ll consult Keely. This is your chance to really show your personal style and feel pulled together. Keely will meet with you online to help you gather outfits that reflect you.
ALL OF YOU
Plenty of sleep and hydration!
Eat well - Don’t skip meals. Just eat what will make you feel good and avoid any foods that give you stomach aches or that will make you feel sleepy.
Exercise - if exercise is part of your routine be sure to make time for your morning walk, weights or bike ride.
These tips are definitely not all required, or even necessary for everybody. Just choose what fits in with your budget, lifestyle, and current beauty regimen, and go from there. Choose what will make you look great, yes. More importantly, this self care is part of what makes you feel really good which shows in the photos. You’ll show up feeling calm, loved and put together. An energy you will take to take into dancing through the shoot.
Are you ready for a day (or weeks!) all about celebrating you?