The magic of a photograph lies in its ability to take us back emotionally to points in time that have slipped away–usually quietly. The value of a photograph only increases as years pass, but too often we put off having these precious images made.

While some people welcome being photographed, just as many dread or avoid it–usually out of fear that they won’t like their own likeness. Fortunately, every person has the ability to make it an experience that culminates in images you will cherish and then pass on to others who love them just as much–if not more.

Instead of simply showing up on “picture day,” take the time to think–no, dream–about what you want out of your photos. Today, we start with a few ideas to get your mind working on the ultimate goals of your shoot.

Tip #1: Know your why.

Why is it that you want or need to have your photo made it the first place? The reason for scheduling a photo shoot should direct not only the timing, but also the location, styling, and products purchased. If you are marking a time in your life, as with a high school senior portrait session, you will want to consider the elements of your personality that make you who you are at this time. If you are designing your business brand, you will need to articulate your business’ mission and how you want your brand to be perceived. And if you are looking for a family shoot, each member of the family should have their “say” while preserving the feel of the family unit at the same time.

Tip #2: Have a conversation with your photographer about what you plan to do with your images.

Would you like to have an album? Are you using your photographs on your website or as a profile pic for your business? Will you be gifting prints to family members? What about displaying your art on a wall? The answers to all of these questions play a role in determining orientation, cropping, and number of images shot–just to name a few variables.

Tip #3: Plan for your shoot with your photographer.

Making stunning photographs is so much more than showing up in your Sunday finest and having someone click a button when you say cheese. Your photographs should illustrate who you are. Identify your unique features and brainstorm with your photographer how to best showcase them. Consider how wardrobe, hair, makeup, accessories, location, and props contribute to your looks. Set aside the time to do it right rather than feeling unprepared and rushed on the day of your shoot. Even if you feel your picture is only being made to satisfy an obligation, slowing down will make the process much more enjoyable–and productive.

Tip #4: Make your location mean something–or make your portraits only about you.

At times, the location of your photo shoot serves as a prop, and sometimes it is a blank canvas that perfectly showcases you. Both scenarios are completely legit. The most important thing is that when all is said and done your photographs tell your story.

Tip #5: Identify what you like in photographs.

Better yet, find the things in this world that fill you with passion. It may be colors, music, textures, books, quotes. Or it may be paintings, other photographs, people, architecture, or fashion. All of your likes and dislikes say something about you and your own story. What inspires you? Write those items down and then find visual representations of them.

My clients often use Pinterest for this, but I also tear pages out of magazines, save photos from Instagram, and record quotes from books that I love. Once you collect representations of the things you like all in one place, patterns tend to develop that highlight YOU and how your photo shoot should go.

Do you think you’re ready for your photo shoot? Hang on a quick minute. This is a good starting place, but there’s even more to dream about–and it gets even better! At this point, I encourage you to go through these tips and record your thoughts on paper. Then stay tuned for the next post with even more tips to make your best photo shoot ever–more ideas on how to elevate your next session.

Let me know what’s on your mind! Drop a question or comment if you want to share, or even if you’re struggling with any of this. I’d love to hear from you!