Portrait session Prep Guide

Edinburgh lifestyle Photographer


your photographer

So you booked your session. What happens now?

Via e-mail, we will discuss location selection, wardrobe selection, and answer any questions you have. I will also email you on Monday before your session with a remainder.

I am so happy that you decided to book a photoshoot with me. I cannot wait to meet you in person. Custom photography is unique because it not only captures what you look like at a certain point in time, it captures who you are. I aim to capture honest photos of you. The goal is not to get stiff and posed shot with you always looking at the camera, but to capture the true essence of you. I take a documentary approach to photography and use my understanding of my equipment and natural light to create images that will become works of art that you can hang in your home and pass down for generations. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your session with me.

Portrait Photography Tips

– Try to arrive at the session in good time so you can relax, adjust your hair, and take some time to chat with the photographer ( with me ).

– Bring two or three outfits so that the photographer can create a range of different shots and consequently you’ll benefit from having a set of portrait photos you can use for different uses over a period of time.

– You should certainly try to have a night in before the shoot so you look your best.

– Above all, relax and enjoy the session. I will make you feel at ease and also enjoy your shoot.

Location

Together, we will decide on the best location for your photos. We can shoot in your home as long as your home has adequate natural light. Many clients prefer their home because of the intimate and personal feel it provides. I have many locations that I love to shoot at regularly but I am always open to new locations as well. You should choose a location that fits your style and personality. I can help you along with this decision.

Time


If we are shooting in your home, I prefer late morning, because that is when homes are usually lit up the best. If we are shooting outdoors we will shoot either in the morning or in the evening. The light is typically too harsh midday.


Length Of Session


Most portrait sessions take anywhere from 20 minutes to 90 minutes, but typically it takes people at least 15 minutes before they can even really 'warm up' in front of the camera.


What To Wear

The wardrobe should be comfortable and reflect who you are.

Come dressed in your favourite outfit, ready for a good time! If your session is taking place outdoors & the forecast calls for less than ideal weather, (especially in terms of temperature), be sure to dress in LAYERS. Trust me, if you feel cold, you will inevitably 'look cold' in your photographs.

Keep your outfit simple.

Solid colours are best. Try to avoid large, bold patterns.

If your chosen portrait package is on-location and allows for outfit changes, feel free to have your outfit change(s), hair combs, accessories, makeup, props, etc. ready to go inside of something that’s easy to carry around, like a small backpack. These kinds of items might be useful to you for those mid-shoot 'touch-ups' and will add creativity and variety to your session.

Shoes & accessories


Don’t forget about the shoes! Unless we’re at your house or the beach, then please do forget the shoes. If we are on-location just remember shoes are part of the outfit (especially if they’re adorable kid boots!)


Accessories are fun! Think big hats, cool jewellery, and scarves with a pop of colour are fun to photograph. If you feel more “dressed up” in heels, I highly recommend wearing wedges. You will be moving and walking a lot.


Props

 I do not use props during my sessions, however, if you have something in mind please let me know.

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AFTER THE SESSION

Your online gallery is ready!


I aim to deliver your online gallery within 2 weeks after the photoshoot. You’ll receive a link to a beautiful online gallery where you can view and download and order your product.


HOW TO CHOOSE FROM ALL THE IMAGES ?

You don't have to choose! My pricing has been created in a way that you get the very best savings when you purchase all of your images.  Personally, I can never choose a few images from a gallery of my own children so I don't want you to have to choose either! I also offer a lot of images within your gallery so that when purchasing all images you get a lot of value from your investment.


Your gallery will be available for viewing and ordering for 2 weeks. You may share your gallery link with family and friends. Please be prepared to back up your files. Your images can take up to 4 GB of space on your computer.

If you do not have enough space on your device you can buy an USB with your images for additional £50.



No RAW files available for sale.


Photos that languish on a hard drive break my heart – I love to see how you can use the images we create together to really make your house a home. 

Depending on your location, you’ll also be able to order high quality prints and photo album directly through your online gallery .

Your photo shoot is just the start, next you get to choose how you want to share and enjoy your beautiful pictures.

Products which you can order after receiving you gallery

Prints


Bring your photos to life on the finest-quality paper designed to be enjoyed for a lifetime. Printed on professional-grade archival paper for increased colour gamut, excellent skin tones, sharpness and brilliant image quality.


Photo TRIPLEX


A tri-fold centerpiece with the look, feel, and quality of our Photo Albums.


The perfect complement to any home. Perched upon a bookshelf, fireplace mantel, dresser, or desk the Triplex makes the ideal add-on to an album or other large print product purchase as a gift for a friend or relative.

It also makes for the best photography display for wedding, newborn, and pet photography.


Click on the photo and see short video about Photo Triplex


I CANNOT WAIT TO MEET YOU!

Feel free to email dorota@markowskaphoto.com with any questions you might have.

Thank you, and I look forward to capturing your portraits!

Dorota xxx