Essential Tips for Women for a Successful Myrtle Beach Photo Session

As March draws to a close, it's a time to not only welcome the arrival of spring but also to reflect on the significance of International Women's Day, celebrated earlier this month. This is the perfect time to schedule a photo session, whether it is a solo shoot celebrating a birthday, a business portrait, or a fun session with friends, here are some tips to help you get ready for a memorable experience:

Choose the Right Location: As an on-location photographer, I bring my camera and expertise to your chosen setting. Select a location that reflects your personality. Whether it's the beach, a beautiful park, a vibrant city street, or your place of business, the location can set the tone for the session. This link features 10 of my favorite scenic locations and outlines what you can expect when shooting at each one.

Plan Your Outfits: I recommend that you begin planning what you'll wear one week before picture day. You may bring more than one outfit and change clothes throughout your session. Doing this adds variety to your collection of portraits. Try on everything ahead of time to ensure your clothes are in good condition and fit well.

Think about what will make you feel the most comfortable and confident. Styling your clothing a certain way can make you appear slimmer in portraits. Your clothes should reflect your genuine personality and be appropriate for the season. That said, baggy clothes, graphic T-shirts, busy prints, and neon colors do not translate well in keepsake portraits. Your attire does not need to be tight. It should skim the surface of your body. Wearing a monochromatic color scheme or the same color from head to toe is another way to look slender. Wearing a V-neck shirt will elongate your body. Add a long necklace to enhance the look. Top this look off with a blazer to make your waist appear smaller. I love the way wrap dresses look in portraits, and they usually have a V-neck. Wrap dresses also have a cinched waist, which accentuates the hourglass body shape. Speaking of body shape, the shapewear on the market today is much more comfortable than it used to be. Shop around for a good piece of shapewear to smooth and slim your torso. Consider clothes that compliment your skin tone and the color of your hair and eyes. Bring a variety of fabrics and textures, or layer up with a jacket or flannel. Don't forget to accessorize and bring shoes to match each outfit. Lastly, arrive wearing one of the pre-planned outfits, and be sure your other clothes are on hangers and wrinkle-free upon arrival.

Hair and Makeup: Don't try a drastic new haircut or hair color in the days leading to your session. (It's better to be safe than sorry.) If you're styling your hair and makeup yourself, practice a few times before the big day. I suggest natural-looking makeup to slightly enhance your facial features. Remember to allow yourself plenty of time to get ready so you're not stressed-out and bring the following items along to stay well-groomed and touch-up your makeup during your session:

• Small Mirror
• Hairbrush or Comb
• Hair Spray
• Eye Liner
• Lip Stick or Lip Gloss
• Chapstick

Nails, Eyebrows, and Teeth: A manicure is not necessary, but nails should be clean and free from chipped nail polish, and hands should be moisturized. Be aware of your eyebrows and groom them as needed. If necessary, begin a tooth whitening regimen a few weeks before your session.

Tan Lines and Sun Burned Skin: Try not to spend excessive amounts of time under the sun the week of your session. Tan lines, sunburns, and peeling skin will show up in your portraits and they can be difficult to remove in the editing room.

Shaving: For leg and under arm hair, I suggest shaving the night before to prevent red bumps or razor burn from appearing in your portraits.

Plan Your Props: Props can add a personal touch to the photoshoot. A favorite book, a musical instrument, birthday ballons, a personized sign or a meaningful piece of jewelry, props can help tell a story and add depth to the images.

Relax and Have Fun: Now that you're equipped with the dos and don'ts, it's time to unwind and enjoy the experience! My aim is to showcase you as the star of your portraits, capturing you in the most flattering light. If there's anything else you think I should cover, feel free to share your tips in the comments below.

Let’s celebrate the women in our lives with beautiful portraits that capture their strength, beauty, and unique spirit.