How to Prepare For A Photoshoot: What Do You Need?
A photo shoot can be a way to accentuate your strengths and talents, have fun and practice being in front of a camera, and display a visual representation of your love for dance. When preparing for an upcoming photo shoot, it is easy to get overwhelmed and not know where to begin or what to bring.
Every photo shoot is different, so what you will need to bring will vary. Here are some essential items you will want to bring along:
Hair Accessories
It is important to bring different hair accessories and essentials with you to make adjustments or touch-ups throughout the shoot as needed. Below are some hair necessities that you will want to make sure to bring with you:
- Bobby Pins and Hair Pins
Every dancer can agree that you can never have too many bobby pins, because - for some reason - they always seem to come up missing! The Suffolk 1557 Bobby Pins & Hair Pins Set includes 100 open hair pins and 100 closed bobby pins, which gives you a nice variety. A great way to keep track of your bobby pins is to keep a “HairPin Pal” in your bag to catch any loose pins! Hairpins are very beneficial to have plenty of when on sight for your shoot, in case there are any hair malfunctions, or if you simply want to change up your look.
Carrying extra hair nets is a great way to throw up a quick messy bun or simply have some backup hair net if one gets a hole or rips.
Having a brush on you at all times is crucial, especially in outdoor climates. The goal is to have your hair not be a distraction to you during the shoot, as well as in the photos themselves.
It never fails that your trustee ponytail holder will decide to break on you when you need it most, so that’s why it is necessary to always have extra. This will give you options to switch your natural down hairstyle to half-up, half-down; to a high ponytail; to space buns, the opportunities are endless!
- Hairspray
No one wants their curls to fall or any fly-away hairs visible in their photos, so for that reason, you are going to want hairspray. Even if you sprayed your hair right before you left your house,
Clothing
Besides the outfit you arrive at, you will want to bring different leotards and sets to have a variety of clothing choices. Depending on your photo shoot location, it is important to wear something that either makes you pop and stand out, something that compliments the scenery, or something that allows you to be one within your location. What is most important is that you wear something that you feel comfortable, confident, and beautiful in!
Here are some ideas of different looks and references for the perfect photoshoot wardrobe:
- Trendy Leotards:
If you are looking for an “in” or trendy look, this Oh La La Dancewear The Chloe Leotard is a perfect example. This leotard is bright and is even a limited edition item, so not everyone will have it.
- Monochromatic (Unique Materials):
For a striking look, finding a unique pattern or material is a great way to achieve that. This Conservatory Garden Cap Sleeve Leotard, featuring an S-curve split design and a three-tonal color scheme, is a lovely illustration of that.
- Bright Colored Sets:
Vibrant colors are always a great way to stand out from your surroundings! This two piece from Oh La La Dancewear - the perfect ten top and the perfect ten shorts - and it's a great depiction of fun, brightly colored option.
- Elegant Leotards:
Elegance never goes out of style and what better way to display that than a sleek fitting, classic colored leotard? Featuring a plunging neckline and mesh details, this Nikolay Carlotta Long Sleeve Leotard is a stellar example.
Note: Don’t forget to bring some tights to throw on!
Shoes
Bring all pointe shoes—preferably dead ones, so you don’t destroy a brand new pair—socks, jazz shoes, tennis shoes, or you can simply go barefoot. It’s always better to have more than you need to adapt to any restrictions or obstacles that your location presents you.
Pointe shoes are a great way to elongate your legs and show off your feet in photos! You can leave them in their natural form or pancake them— make them your skin tone. You can also make them color coordinate to your outfits by using “Pointe Shoe Paint,” head over to our blog to see how to use it!
For any studio or indoor location, socks can be a great shoe accessory. With a variety of color options, you can match these socks to your skin tone or stick with classic black - you can’t go wrong!
If you feel more comfortable or prefer the look of wearing an actual dance shoe for your photos, jazz shoes can be a great option! Jazz shoes give a sleek, clean look and give your feet a nice shape.
If you want to add an edgy or street look to your photos, sneakers can be a great addition to your wardrobe. Sneakers give your feet extra protection, as well as a distinguished style or vibe.
We can’t wait to see how you style your next photo shoot!