Picture Perfect: Preparing For Your First Photoshoot
One of the most exciting parts of joining an agency is your child’s first photoshoot experience. Many agencies will conduct their shoots or refer you to a photographer or studio specialising in children’s photography. Here we answer some of the most commonly asked questions to ensure your child’s first photoshoot goes off without a hitch.
What Should My Child Wear?
Your agency or the studio will usually provide you with information about what to wear, or the studio may provide clothing for you. If they do not, the best advice we have is to avoid white or very light colours (e.g. pastels), as they will blend into a white background. Bold, bright colours are always a safe option and steering clear of busy patterns and logos is a must. Smart, casual clothes will look professional. As your child will be moving around, comfortable flat shoes are essential.
What Do I Need to Bring?
Your agency might provide you with a guide or list of things you need to bring, but we would always suggest a change of clothes, a hairbrush, baby wipes, snacks, and water. Of course, you want to arrive as prepared as possible.
They’ve Never Done a Shoot Before; How Do They Pose?
Most children will attend their first photoshoots with little to no experience, so posing in front of the camera may not come naturally to them. Photographers will direct children and help them pose, but it’s a good idea to try some poses beforehand. Our best tips are to create a shape with your body and movement by tilting your head and creating space between the limbs, bending your joints (but don’t hyperextend them!) and ensuring that hands look natural.
What About Hair and Makeup?
For most first photoshoots, hair and makeup are not required. Generally, these shoots aim for your agent to get head and body shots of your child, so they want them to look natural! Therefore, fresh faces and clean hair are preferred. After all, clients want to see kids who look like kids!
General Studio Etiquette
Treat this photo shoot as you would a paid job. Be on time but not too early, let the studio know if you are running late, and come prepared. Depending on the studio and your agency, they may need you to arrive with your child dressed and ready to go, or you might need to come earlier than your shoot time to get prepared. Make sure you’ve gone through all the details and information given to you on the day and ensure that your child is prepared and understands what’s about to happen.
Most importantly, remember to have fun and enjoy the experience. Natural smiles always look best on camera.
