Client
Prep
Style Guide
Your session is designed to feel effortless. This guide helps you arrive polished, comfortable and confident, so I can focus on capturing the very best of you, whether we are creating a portrait, a family heirloom, a headshot or a brand story.
Choose Your Path
One guide,
made for you
Everyone starts with the same simple basics. Then jump to the notes written for your session.
For Her
Silhouettes, necklines, jewelry, hair and makeup.
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For Him
Tailoring, shirts, layers, shoes and grooming.
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Branding & Headshots
Looks, colors, props and where your images will live.
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Maternity
Timing, fit, comfort and who to bring along.
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For Everyone
The Week(s)
Before
Wardrobe & Jewelry
- Select your outfits well in advance, so there is time for alterations or alternatives.
- Try everything on. Check the fit, your comfort, and how each piece moves when you sit and stand.
- Choose solid colors and classic fabrics. Avoid logos, busy patterns and oversized or trendy pieces that can date your images.
- Steam or iron every piece.
Self-Care
- Hydrate, eat well, and aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
- Keep up your usual exercise routine. It supports energy and a healthy complexion.
Appointments
- Confirm hair, makeup, nails, barber and tailoring appointments early, and schedule them well ahead of your session.
If you are doing your own hair, makeup or grooming, do a trial run at home and keep it simple and clean.
Wardrobe
Tailored to
your session
For Her
- Bring a few options in different necklines and silhouettes, along with the shoes for each.
- Keep jewelry simple. Add one statement piece if it suits you.
- Choose fabrics that move and photograph well, such as silk, crepe and fine knits.
- Have alterations done early, so everything fits perfectly.
For Him
- Have your suit, jacket or shirt tailored. A clean fit at the shoulders and sleeves makes the biggest difference.
- Bring a mix: a suit or blazer, a crisp white or blue shirt, and one relaxed look such as a knit or open collar.
- Match your belt to your shoes, and bring a watch or accessory that feels like you.
- Bring an undershirt and a lint roller for a clean finish.
Branding & Headshots
- Plan three or four looks that range from formal to relaxed.
- Choose colors that complement your brand, your logo and your website.
- Tell me where your images will live (website, LinkedIn, press, social media), so I can plan framing and crops.
- Bring anything that tells your story, such as tools, product or a signature piece.
Maternity
- The best portraits happen between 28 and 36 weeks.
- Choose pieces that stretch and flatter your bump: fitted knits, flowing gowns, and a simple robe or sheer wrap. Bring a few options.
- Bring seamless nude or black undergarments, so nothing shows through lighter fabrics.
- Pack supportive shoes, a snack and water. Tell me what helps you rest between looks.
- Partners and family are welcome. Coordinate outfits if you would like them included.
Hair & Grooming
Do's
& Don'ts
For Everyone
- Avoid drastic changes to your cut or color close to the session.
- If you are not having an on-site stylist, bring brushes, combs and your usual products.
- Living in Southwest Florida, an anti-humidity spray is a great idea. Try new products before your session.
- Need a root touch-up, color refresh or haircut? Book it early and allow enough time.
For Him
- Get a haircut five to seven days before, so it settles naturally.
- Shave or trim your beard the morning of, or the night before if your skin is sensitive, and moisturize afterward.
- Tidy your brows, ears and neckline, and keep nails clean.
- Bring a comb or brush, plus blotting papers or powder to control shine.
Skin Care
Skin
Care
- Tanning: avoid excessive sun or tanning sessions before the shoot. Tan lines can distract and may not match your desired skin tone.
- Spray tans: they can look patchy or uneven in photos. Skip them, or book a professional application close to the shoot.
- New makeup artist: do a trial run beforehand so you are happy with the result.
- New products: avoid a new skincare routine unless it is absolutely necessary.
- Facials and procedures: schedule them at least a week ahead, so any swelling, redness or irritation has healed.
- Shaving: shave the night before if you are prone to razor burn, and use a good moisturizer and lip balm.
The Night Before
The Night
Before
- Pack a bag with your outfits, grooming items and any accessories you need.
- Make sure each outfit is clean, pressed and covered.
- Leave the packed bag by your front door.
- If possible, avoid salty foods and alcohol.
- Relax and enjoy the night. A good night's sleep helps you feel refreshed and ready.
Your Checklist
Things you may or may not need
- ☐ Outfits for every look, steamed
- ☐ Shoes, belt and socks
- ☐ Jewelry, watch, tie or cufflinks
- ☐ Hair brush or comb, hair products
- ☐ Makeup and touch-ups
- ☐ Skin care, lip balm, blotting papers
- ☐ Razor and grooming kit
- ☐ Lint roller and an undershirt
- ☐ Deodorant
- ☐ Water bottle and a snack
- ☐ Glasses and a cleaning cloth
- ☐ Props or items for your brand images
- ☐ Rings and meaningful pieces
- ☐ Comfortable shoes for between looks
Relax
& Enjoy
The
Experience
You are all set. We have carefully planned the shot list and poses, with a variety of angles and expressions that will showcase your unique personality, whether we are creating a portrait, a headshot or a campaign.
Your wardrobe has been thoughtfully selected, and you have packed everything you need for a comfortable and successful day.
Now it is time to relax and enjoy. Trust that you are in capable hands. Do not worry about being photogenic. My focus is on finding the right angles, light and poses to flatter you.
Together, we will create a collection of images that capture your vision and tell your story, a visual representation of your confidence, your style and your journey.
A|C
Amelia Conte Photography