How to Prepare for a Studio Portrait Session – A Complete Guide for Clients

A professional portrait session in a studio is a great opportunity to take control of your personal or professional image – whether it’s for LinkedIn, your company website, a publication, or your CV. Whether you’re booking a business headshot, a personal branding shoot, or a classic corporate portrait, a little preparation will go a long way toward achieving the best results.

As a photographer specializing in studio portrait photography in Gdynia, Gdańsk, Sopot, Warsaw and other cities in Poland, I’ve prepared this step-by-step guide to help you feel confident and look your best during your session.

1–2 Weeks Before the Session – Small Steps, Big Impact

• Book a visit to the hairdresser if you’d like to freshen up your haircut – clean, well-groomed hair always looks great on camera.

• Go through your wardrobe and select outfits that fit well and make you feel confident and professional.

• If you’re considering hiring a makeup artist or stylist, feel free to ask – I work with trusted professionals who can help.

A Week Before – Plan Your Image

• Think about how you’d like to be perceived: formal and polished, or relaxed and approachable?

• Consider how your portrait will be used: for your website, LinkedIn, speaker bio, company materials?

• Prepare two outfits: one classic and one more casual (e.g., smart casual), so we can shoot different looks.

Details and accesorries matter too!

The Day Before the Shoot

• Get a good night’s sleep – well-rested skin and eyes make a big difference.

• Stay hydrated and consider doing a gentle skincare routine (e.g., moisturizer, face mask).

• Iron your clothes – wrinkles are more visible on high-quality studio portraits than you might think.

• Make sure your outfit isn’t see-through and that undergarments don’t show.

Simplicity in styling brings attention to the subject’s face and character.

What to Wear for a Professional Portrait Session

Your outfit will help set the tone of the photo and shape first impressions. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Neutral tones like navy, grey, beige, white, and black work well with studio lighting and don’t distract from your face.

• Avoid loud patterns or shiny fabrics – they can create reflections or distortions under studio lights.

• Make sure your clothes fit properly – skip oversized blazers or overly tight shirts.

• A blazer and shirt (or a blouse with a clean neckline) is a timeless, flattering choice for most professional portraits.

• If you wear glasses, clean the lenses – smudges and dust are often visible in high-resolution photos.

• Bring a second outfit, especially if you want a mix of business and personal branding looks.

Elegant studio portrait of a man wearing dark clothing – focus on facial expression and personality.

The Morning of the Session

• Get ready as if you’re heading to an important meeting – clean shoes, well-groomed hair, and minimal accessories.

• If you wear makeup: choose a natural, matte look – studio lighting will do the rest.

• Pack a small kit: a comb, blotting papers or powder, and lip balm or gloss.

Make sure you love the way you look!

Right Before the Shoot

• Take a few deep breaths – you don’t need to know how to pose.

• I’ll guide you through the entire process and help you look natural and confident.

• You’ll be able to review the photos during the session and pick the ones that reflect you best.

Don’t be afraid to show personality and emotions on your business portrait!

What to Expect During Your Portrait Session

During your studio photo session, the focus is on comfort and collaboration:

• I’ll direct lighting, posing, and positioning to flatter your features and match your goals.

• We’ll take a variety of shots – from formal headshots to relaxed portraits that show your personality.

• There’s time for outfit changes, background options, and reviewing images as we go.

You don’t need modeling experience – just show up, be yourself, and I’ll take care of the rest.

An open expression – ideal for building trust and personal connection.

Summary – Key Tips for a Great Portrait

✔ Plan your outfit and grooming in advance
✔ Dress to feel confident, comfortable, and professional
✔ Get some rest and drink water before the session
✔ Relax in front of the camera – your expression is everything
✔ Let the photographer guide you – we’ll create your best look together

Need a Professional Business Portrait in Studio?

I offer studio portrait photography in Gdynia, Gdańsk, Sopot, Warsaw, and throughout Poland. Whether you need a business headshot, corporate portrait, or personal branding shoot, I’ll provide a stress-free experience and high-quality images.

• Shoots take place in my studio or a professional rented space

• I provide lighting, background, and guidance throughout the session

• Final photos are delivered in an online gallery, optimized for LinkedIn, print, and web

• Styling and makeup services are available on request

Book your session today – and elevate your professional image.

Planning a Business Photoshoot for Your Team?

As a photographer specializing in on-site business sessions, I provide end-to-end service — from coordinating shoot logistics and setting up lighting to creating a relaxed atmosphere and delivering high-quality photos fast.

• Available in Trójmiasto (Gdynia, Gdańsk, Sopot), Warsaw, and across Poland

• Suitable for teams of all sizes – from a few employees to large corporate groups

• Online galleries, LinkedIn-optimized formats, and print-ready files provided

• Optional services: makeup artist, wardrobe assistance, team communication support

View my corporate portrait offer

Let’s make your team look confident and professional — and enjoy the process, too!