How I Prepared for My Photo Shoot
photo credit: Melissa Bordeau Photography
Last month, I finally checked off something on my to-do list (if you know me, you know I love a good list). I had some professional brand images taken. It’s been on my to-do list and I kept putting it off for reasons that weren’t very good. But within a couple of weeks, I had people asking me for things like a flyer for my personal styling services and a bio with photos for a local feature. My iPhone photos were decent enough, but “decent enough” isn’t how I like to run my business. So I made it a priority to get the photos done, once and for all.
Now, being in front of the camera is not my favorite thing. And I’m certain I’m not alone there; I know so many women who feel awkward getting their photo taken. When I first started putting myself out there on Instagram, it was a huge step out of my comfort zone. Sure, I’ve gotten more used to it over time, but it’s still not something I love doing. I can be hard on myself just like anyone else, and yes, that negative self-talk can sneak in.
But I am my business and in addition to having a name, my business has a face.
I found a photographer whose work I really liked and booked a session before I could change my mind. Then I thought about how I wanted to feel going into it. I knew I needed to give this 110%—not just for the photos, but for the experience itself. So, I focused on one key thing:
Just. Be. Myself.
I wanted to show up looking like myself—like I look most days of the week—to truly, genuinely represent me. A couple of days before the shoot, I pulled out a bunch of outfits from my closet and played around with different combinations. I tried them all on and took photos to see how they’d look on camera (which is something I highly recommend doing in general—it can be a game-changer).
I knew I had to wear a blazer—it’s a go-to piece I turn to often—and frequently recommend to clients. I went with my bold, oversized vermilion-colored blazer because it makes me feel powerful, put-together and confident. It’s important for me to feel comfortable and approachable, too, so I paired it with my favorite black kick-out crop jeans, an elevated white tee and vermilion wedge sandals.
For two other looks, I turned to two silk blouses I love. I styled one with wide-leg jeans for a classic vibe and the other with a black midi skirt for an elevated look.
None of the outfits were complicated. They were pieces I wear all the time and feel great in. There was no fussing with fit or worrying about how they’d sit during the shoot. They felt natural, comfortable, and—most importantly—they felt like me.
photo credit: Melissa Bordeau Photography
Another thing that helped? Choosing a comfortable setting.
My photographer had countless location suggestions—including some chic rental properties around Austin. But in keeping with my goal of being myself, it felt natural to do the shoot in my home—my office. It’s where I work most of the time, so it felt like the right place to represent me and my business. Plus, being at home meant I didn’t have to deal with the hassle of changing outfits in a new place or worrying about the Texas heat. I cranked the AC, got everything laid out, and stayed cool and comfortable throughout the shoot.
What negative self-talk?
Shockingly, this was the easiest part of all. I didn’t feel triggered about my body or appearance and I didn’t have to silence my inner critic. I’ve been working on this for some time and it’s gotten easier for me—most of the time. I’m in a good place—most of the time.
Setting myself up to be comfortable—being myself, carefully planning my outfits and shooting in my home—made the whole experience enjoyable. And honestly? I’m proud of the result.
photo credit: Melissa Bordeau Photography
