Rebecca-Linh Rodgers Headshot + Portrait Session Guide

Follow these suggestions for stress-free photo shoot preparation.

HEADSHOT SESSIONS

Please feel free to bring a variety of outfits; mainly different tops. (Bringing around 3-5 options will give us flexibility.)

Think about textures and various styles of tops like blouses, sweaters, and fitted jackets.

Keep in mind the neckline of your tops as most of your images will be shoulders and up.

Avoid sheer materials, logos, and small busy designs, or patterns in general. Plain colors work best.

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR WARDROBE

Before your photo shoot, fully plan and organize your wardrobe and accessories. I want you to enjoy this process and not feel stressed about it. Your future self will thank you for planning ahead!

Do Laundry. Remove lint and iron if needed. If your garments need a professional clean, do this ahead of time so you're not pressed for time.
Try It All On. Items should be fitted and comfortable for you to wear. (We can always clip clothing for a better fit on camera.) The general rule is: If you don’t love it— don’t bring it!

Get Organized. Group the coordinating pieces of each ensemble together.

Hang It Up. Please bring your items on hangers so they are easy to view upon your arrival.

KEEP IN MIND

Fit Your Form. Fitted clothing which shows your shape works best for photographs. This applies to any body type. Outfits should hug your curves, especially along your top half. (Loose, flowing skirts, or wide leg pants are fabulous as long as your bodice or top is snug.) Skip the kimono sleeves and dolman style tops, and always choose tailored over loose or boxy.

Flatter Your Arms. Love your arms? Show them off with a strapless dress or sleeveless top. Hate your arms? Pass on anything with cap sleeves, which emphasize the widest part of the arm. Either way, bring (at least) one outfit with long sleeves.

Bring Necessary Undergarments. Consider the underwear you’ll need for each outfit. Pair black undergarments with dark clothing, and stick with nude undergarments under light clothes. Shapewear is awesome for those who want a little extra support under their clothing.

Accessories. Choose timeless over trendy. Keep jewelry to a minimum or leave it at home. Don’t worry about your shoes!

SOME BEAUTY TIPS

Refresh Your Hair Cut + Color. Get a Trim. If you dye your hair, touching up your regrowth a week before your photo shoot is ideal. Keep in mind this is not the time for drastic changes.

Avoid the Sun & Fake Tanning. If you usually spray tan or use fake tanning lotion, take a hiatus now until after your shoot

Drink More Water. We all know water is important, yet we still forget to drink enough. Start now.

Refresh Your Skincare Regimen. Wash your face morning and night, exfoliate (face and body) every few days as well as hydrate lips with your favorite lip balm

Take Care of Your Skin. Don’t pick! (Blemishes are very easy to retouch out!)

THE DAY BEFORE

Shave & Tweeze. Touch up your body hair situation; tweeze eyebrows and double check for any unwanted stray hairs on your face and upper lip.

Lay off any alcohol. Refrain from alcohol for 24-48 hours to prevent skin puffiness.

Go to bed! Please give yourself as much sleep as possible the night before.

PHOTO SHOOT DAY

Make sure you EAT before your session!. You'll be surprised how much energy you will use during your session. (Think healthy fats, protein, and complex carbs.) Please do not show up to your session hungry.

Please do not use any products that contain SPF.

Arrive On Time. Plan to get to the studio at your scheduled time.
You've received detailed directions to the studio. Read them so you know where to go!

Come in with your hair styled the way you would usually style it.

Some find it helpful to get a professional blow out and styling even if they are not having hair and makeup services at the studio.

Here are some helpful tips if you are applying your own makeup:

Skip any products that contain SPF. The ingredients reflect off camera lighting creating unflattering results.
Please do not apply powder. Powder tends dry out the skin and doesn’t photograph well.
Stick with liquid foundation. Blended VERY WELL as it transitions from your jawline down your neck.
Avoid all shimmery and glittery products. This goes for eyeshadows, highlighter, bronzer and blushes. Start with a neutral/natural look, you can always build your makeup during your session or add a darker lipstick.
Bring your makeup to the session. There will be a place for you to do touchups as needed.