6 TIPS FOR YOUR AUTHOR PHOTO SHOOT

I took the plunge and paid for a professional photo shoot so here are 6 tips from my experience.

1/ Use professionals

We all have someone that can snap a great shot on their iPhone but it’s not quite the same as having the expertise in makeup, styling and lighting. The equipment photographers use is diverse and advanced, in addition, there is the lengthy and skilful art of photo editing after the fact. 

2/ Send pics of what you like

Before my shoot, I sent photos of the kinds of shots I like. Most of them were candid, natural, unposed. Not always easy to capture but that style is definitely my preference. 

3/ Wear clothes that give you shape

I took a few outfits to try. Two of these were loose billowing dresses that I love. Unfortunately they didn’t translate well in the photos. They looked like big shapeless sacks. The photos of me with a shirt collar or a more fitted outfit gave more shape. Block colours are usually great too but something with your style and personality that makes you feel confident is probably my best advice.

4/ Don’t be scared to speak up

I wasn’t a fan of how they did my hair at first. It didn’t feel very “me”. When I looked at the initial shots on the laptop, I realised it was my hairstyle that made me look so different. After a few more awkward poses and shots that didn’t resonate, I mentioned maybe it was the hairstyle. They adjusted and I relaxed, then we got closer to photos that were more representative of me. 

5/ Take a friend

Oh I wish I’d done this! Not only to keep me company and to give me honest feedback on outfits, but TO MAKE ME LAUGH. Unless you are a model (or a product of the Instagram age) standing in front of a camera for hours – posing, conjuring smiles and serious expressions – is so far from our natural habitats. If I’d had someone there to chat to, and laugh with, perhaps getting those authentic smiles and expressions would have been easier for me and for the poor photographer! 

6/ Be kind to yourself 

When the proofs came back, I’ll admit I felt pretty deflated. I was expecting some kind of magical transformation where I appeared as my best self. Instead I simply looked different. I sent the photos to a few family and friends who picked their favourites and reassured me I didn’t look like Bert Newton in drag. Also, photoshop does wonders for blemishes and flyaway hairs!

Just like in writing, we need to learn to silence the inner critic and be more accepting of ourselves and our work (and how we photograph).

I’m happy with the end results and glad I had the experience. I hope this was helpful for those of you considering taking the plunge.

(For Melbourne-based people – I booked through Dana Leviston who did my hair and makeup, and she organised for the effervescent Phoebe Powell to take the photos.)

Shortlist of six photos above. Do you have one that jumps out at you?