What Should I Bring to My Portrait Session?

Do you not know what to bring to your portrait session? I know – you’re already worried about looking your best and trying not to look too stiff when you pose. Do you really need to worry about more stuff?

Beyond your amazing outfits and the poses we will discuss before your photoshoot, there are a few extra helpful things you can bring. If it’ll make you more comfortable and confident, why not? In today’s blog, I am sharing with you the ultimate list of things you should bring to your portrait session!

Items To Keep You Looking Good

1. Mirror

Although I will be your mirror during the shoot and notice every little detail, it’s nice having a pocket-sized mirror or your phone handy so that you can check your hair and make-up periodically during your session. It can also be creatively included in the session to add a new perspective (As we did in the 3rd photo below - product & lifestyle photoshoot)

2. Makeup

I always advise my clients to use a little bit more makeup than usual so the camera can pick it up. Make sure to bring the essentials to the shoot for touch-ups, especially if it’s hot out, we’re having a long session with multiple outfits, or we break for food/coffee.

3. Comb/Brush

The hair plays a big role in the overall results of the portraits, and we know that sometimes it has a mind of its own and behaves a certain way. A brush or comb can definitely be a lifesaver in terms of managing stray hairs and maintaining your look.

4. Towel / Tissues

Super helpful if it’s crazy hot out or we’re doing a session around water. I will notice everything, and suggest when you need to dab (not rub!) your face to keep you looking fresh.

5. Hair Ties

Hair ties can transform your look in seconds, so if you want a quick and easy way to change the mood by modifying long hair, consider bringing some hair ties. I suggest you bring a scrunchie, they look cuter in photos!

6. Clothespins

Sometimes a pose is perfect, but a shirt or sweater needs to be tightened to show your beautiful figure. These quick clips pinch clothing and make the fit way more flattering.

Items to Keep You Happy

7. Snacks

They can do wonders to your energy and mood. Choose snacks that don’t bloat you and stay away from the ones that drip or are particularly messy. You don’t want to risk messing up your makeup or clothes, but you do want to feel good! 

8. Water

Bringing a water bottle is crucial for any portrait session. Staying hydrated and keeping yourself refreshed helps maintain your energy. You can also consider bringing a thermos with tea, coffee, matcha or anything else that will keep you warm and comfortable.

9. Comfy Shoes

I know we’re used to sacrificing comfort for looks, but keep in mind that we might have to change locations and it’s worth having an extra pair of comfortable shoes. The momentary pause to change into and out of comfortable shoes between locations will be well worth how much better you’ll feel at the end of your session. 

10. Spare Bag (for electronics, accessories, wallet, etc.)

When shooting, I always ask my clients to remove any phones, wallets, keys, watches, hair ties, etc. from their pockets and wrists if those items are not fitting the overall look. Keep them safe in a small bag to know where everything is and keep it all clean during your portrait session.

Props

Whether we’re talking about portraits, couple or family photoshoots, one of the most common questions I get is: “Should we bring any props?”

They are definitely a great way to add personality to your session and make your photos more unique! love using props to add a personalized touch to a client’s images in the least cliche way possible, and these are a few of my favorite simple, non-cheesy props, and how I love to incorporate them into my client’s images.

11. Instruments

If playing an instrument is a big part of your life, definitely bring it. It will be a fun addition to your photos and help you remember the importance of that part in your life.

12. Sports Equipment

Have a sport that you’ve played since middle school, or that you want to pursue professionally? Or maybe just a sport that you absolutely love? You don’t necessarily have to pull out your entire uniform to add a touch of “sports” to your photos - consider incorporating one or two items from that sport into your session! 

13. Hobbies

This might be one of my favorite categories, because the possibilities really are endless, and it’s these props that really make your session your own!

Love hiking? Bring your favorite backpack with you to your session! Love reading? Bring the one book that changed your life. Or if you want to go big, have your photos taken with the airplane you’re learning to fly on! There are soooo many possibilities when it comes to incorporating your hobbies - and it’s easy to either go with more “obvious” props (like a camera, if you love photography!) or with more subtle ones (like a mug, if you love coffee/tea!)

I hope you found this list helpful! Not every item will always be suitable for you or necessary to bring to your portrait session. Still, now you’ve got a starting point! Bring things that make sense for your session & check if your photographer will already be bringing stuff - I usually do!