I know that having photographs taken can be daunting. It can be a strange mix of excitement and apprehension.

Don't worry, that's totally normal and it's why I am focused on ensuring you get a great photography experience as well as beautiful photographs you'll be proud of.

Here are my simple top tips for looking great in photos

1) Let's talk about you!

At your pre-session consultation we'll talk about what makes you, you.

Your style, your interests and the things that you love.

Your session is personalised to you so the more you can tell me about what you want to show, the better your images will be.

Having things that matter to you at your session can help you feel relaxed and give you something to do with your hands.

Musical instruments, favourite books, flowers or even your dog are a great way to express who you are, and they can help you feel more more comfortable.

2) Bring your style

People often ask me what they should wear at their session and while there are a few things to remember but the most important thing is that it should be your style.

Even if you decide to go for a fabulous new dress or something from my costume wardrobe, it should make you feel like yourself (just on a really great day!) not like someone else.

3) Moisturise

Any and all skin that might be on display - it makes a huge difference!

Focus on your face, neck, hands, knees and elbows and apply your moisturiser a few hours before the session because you don't want to look greasy.

4) Colours

I generally advise avoiding very bright colours especially bright pink, orange and yellow in clothing that's close to your face.

They tend to reflect onto the skin and it's not the most flattering.

Strong but more muted colours tend to keep the focus on your face rather than your clothes and you can always throw in pops of brighter colour with jewellery or accessories.

Of course if your personal style revolves around brights - go with it, we will figure it out!

5) Textures & Patterns

I love lush textures in portraits; linen, chiffon, lace, velvet, silk and other soft fabrics are so flattering and give a beautiful high end look.

I normally advise avoiding checks and stripes as they tend to become dominant in the image as do some very bold patterns.

If you're unsure just send me a photo before your session.

6) Fit

Very tight clothing might be uncomfortable in seated poses and so it's worth avoiding anything that's uncomfortable or unflattering when sitting down.

Better to err on the side of things a little loose that we can pin to shape, than things a little tight which may bulge.

7) Makeup & Hair

You might decide to opt for professional makeup and hair for your session but if you do opt to do it yourself avoid trying the style for the first time on the day of your shoot!

Stick to looks you're comfortable creating and wearing and if necessary practice beforehand.

Avoid excessive highlighter or shiny bases as the studio lights tend to accentuate them making the skin look greasy.

If you're having a professional artist for your shoot do bring some reference pictures of the kinds of styles you'd like so that you can get a look you love.

8) Variety is the spice of life!

I always suggest bringing a few different outfits and accessories to your session.

Something casual, something dressy and something 'out there'!

Whether it's your best lingerie, your yoga kit or your favourite halloween costume, bring it because you may find that after a while you feel super confident and relaxed with the camera and you'll want to try something truly unique and you'll regret not having that outfit.

Bring shoes too - the ones you never get to wear because they look great but are really uncomfortable!

Conclusion

Everyone can look great in photos and the combination of being prepared with all the tips above, and a great photographer will give you the very best portrait experience.

Remember that it’s your photographer’s job to make you look as awesome as possible, so talk to them, ask questions and then relax and enjoy yourself.