5 Questions to Ask Your Photographer Before Your Shoot

At LivePixels Photography, we believe that the key to a successful photoshoot is communication.

Communication between the subject and photographer is essential to the overall atmosphere of your session. This includes knowing what to expect prior to the session and asking for clarification when needed. Our goal is to ensure that you feel comfortable, confident and supported throughout your session. The better you feel, the better the results!

Whether you are attending your first photoshoot or still in the planning stages, there are a number of questions that you may want to ask your photographer prior to the shoot.

1. What Should I Wear?

Not quite sure what to wear during your photoshoot? Your photographer is happy to help you in this area!

The first factor to consider is the kind of photoshoot you are having. For example, what you wear to an engagement session could look very different from what you would wear to a maternity or family photoshoot.

The second factor is location and time of year. While indoor photoshoots may be a little more straightforward when it comes to attire, what you wear to an outdoor photoshoot is dependent on the weather and climate. 

The third and final factor is your personal preference. It’s imperative that you feel comfortable and confident throughout your photoshoot. What one person deems as the perfect outfit, may not be quite right for you.

To determine what you should wear or for some tips to help you get started, ask your photographer what they would suggest! They may even be able to provide you with a style guide, colour palette example or examples from a previous photoshoot.

With LivePixels Photography, you will have full access to a complete studio wardrobe! With many options to choose from, finding the perfect outfit for your photoshoot is an easy and enjoyable process.

2. Should I Get My Hair and Makeup Done?

Whether or not you should have your hair and makeup done is completely up to you. If you prefer to feel relaxed on the day of your session and have the means, a little pampering can go a long way. Especially if beauty is not your area of expertise.

While on the subject of pampering and self-care, you may also want to consider a manicure, pedicure, wax, or hair trim. The right amount of self-care can leave you feeling confident, comfortable and ready for your photo session!

Did you know that professional hair styling and make-up is included with every session with LivePixels Photography? All you have to do is arrive with clean skin and freshly washed hair, we will take care of the rest!

3. Should I Bring Props?

While most photographers will provide their own props, it’s always a good idea to check with them first. You may want to bring personal items of your own to the session in combination with the props that they supply. This could include baby shoes, an ultrasound photo or a sentimental item, such as a family heirloom.

4. How Long Will the Session Be?

The duration of your photoshoot may vary, based on the kind of session. While professional headshots or engagement sessions can most often be completed in an hour or less, a large family photoshoot or newborn session can take much longer.

Be sure to verify timelines and durations with your photographer beforehand, to ensure that you have more than enough time set aside for the session.

At LivePixels Photography, all of our sessions are planned like a fashion photoshoot. We never book more than one session or client a day, so you can feel confident knowing that there is more than enough time to capture the results you deserve.

5. When Do You Require Payment?

While most photographers will let you know what the payment schedule looks like and if a deposit is required, it’s always a good idea to double check and confirm with them to ensure you’re both on the same page.

Often a deposit will be required at booking to secure the date and time, and then the remaining balance once the photos have been delivered. This can vary from one photographer to another, which is why asking and verifying is so important.

During this conversation, you may also want to inquire about the kinds of payment that they accept. This can range from cash or cheque, to email money transfers, credit cards and more.