what happens at a portrait session?

I completely understand that a portrait session can seem an intimidating prospect. So I thought it might be useful to throw open the studio doors and write an article about what it’s like being photographed at a Portrait Experience with me. Although I love being the person taking the photographs, I have been on the “other” side of the camera many times, so I know exactly how it feels… and therefore exactly how to guide and encourage you through it. Read on to find out what happens and what to expect at a shoot. My hope is that learning more about a photography session will put you at ease and make you feel excited enough to book your own session or one for your daughter, niece, goddaughter, granddaughter….!

Firstly, please remember that I am with you all the way and my only goal is that you are happy, love your session experience and have some wonderful memories as well as beautiful photographs! 

So you’ve booked your Portrait Experience, we’ve chatted about how you want to be photographed, you know what you want to wear…. And then the exciting moment arrives. Yes, it IS exciting! I’ll start with confidence by saying I know you are going to love it!! Bear with me...

On arriving at the studio, you will be welcomed with a cup of your favourite tea, coffee or soft drink. We’ll get you settled into the make-up chair for a blissful pampering session that will leave you looking and feeling amazing. We design the looks to meet your style, nothing is done without your input and approval. Gradually, you’ll relax as you chat with myself and your incredible hair and make-up artist for the day. You’re starting to feel better already!

After an hour or so in the skilful hands of the hair and make-up artist, we start with your first look. Suddenly you feel a bit awkward again, not quite sure what to do. I’ll encourage you to take a deep breath, we’ll re-centre ourselves and get to the first few frames. I am here to guide you and encourage you every step of the way, posing and lighting you to show you off at your very best. 

Within minutes, we’re well underway with your first look and it dawns on you that you’ve forgotten to feel self-conscious. Your confidence is growing by the second, especially when I show you some shots on the back of the camera. Do you know how beautiful you are to those that love you?  This is how they see you! A unique and wonderful person! 

A visit back to the make-up chair to create the second look - this all feels really normal now! Drinks are on hand to keep you hydrated and snacks to keep energy levels high. Changing into your next outfit, we’re soon back on set - different lighting and poses to create a completely new feel and reflecting a different side of your personality. Now you’re in your groove and bossing it! You had no idea it could be this much fun!

A couple more changes of outfit and more time in front of the camera, you feel like a goddess! You know what you’re doing, you’re loving it and you wonder why on earth you waited so long to do it! On top of the world and ready for anything.

You leave the photography session feeling excited, refreshed and walking just a little bit taller! And the Portrait Experience isn’t over. A couple of weeks later, you’ll be back in the studio, reliving the experience through your beautiful portraits.

Each session will have it's own unique, beautiful and unscripted moments. I encourage you to embrace it all. With trust and collaboration between us, we'll create portraits that you will love and will cherish for a lifetime.

To book your own Portrait Experience, please don’t hesitate to contact me on 07711 982207 or email me at rtwigger@gmail.com. Contact Page