What Should Be in My Client Prep Guide?

Jul 17

A great photoshoot doesn’t start when the camera clicks—it starts way before, in how you prepare your client. Whether it's a family session, branding shoot, or engagement portraits, a thoughtful prep guide sets the tone, eliminates confusion, and helps you both show up ready.

If you’ve been wondering what to include in yours, here’s what we recommend:

1. What to Expect

Most clients aren’t doing photoshoots regularly. Help them feel at ease by walking through what the session will feel like:

How long it will take
What kinds of shots you typically capture
Whether there will be posing or more candid direction
Your overall style and tone (lighthearted, intimate, clean, bold, etc.)

This calms nerves and gives them confidence that you know what you're doing.

2. What to Wear (and What to Avoid)

One of the biggest stressors for clients is choosing outfits. Give them some basic do’s and don’ts:

Coordinate, don’t match
Avoid logos and loud patterns
Choose comfort and confidence
Layering adds depth
Consider the environment (nature, studio, city) when picking colors

You can even link a Pinterest board or sample lookbook if you want to go the extra mile.

3. Location Details + Parking Info

Clients will love you for this. Be crystal clear on:

Where to park
What to do if they’re running late
How to reach you day-of
Any fees or rules at the location (permits, no pets, limited time)

This section saves you from dozens of last-minute texts.

4. What to Bring

Depending on the type of session, you might suggest:

A water bottle and snacks (especially for kids)
Touch-up makeup
Props that feel authentic (a journal, mug, flowers, etc.)
A change of clothes if there’s time for two looks
Anything specific you’ve discussed beforehand

The goal here is simple: set them up to feel comfortable and confident.

5. setting the tone

This one’s often overlooked. You know your session will feel relaxed and creative—but they don’t. Let them know:

You’ll guide them the whole way
They don’t need to be models
Imperfection is welcome (some of the best shots come from it)
Laughter, pauses, and awkward moments are normal and often beautiful

You’re not just delivering photos—you’re creating an experience. Help them settle into it.

6. Policies in Plain Language

This doesn’t have to be a legal deep dive, but gently remind them of key expectations:

Rescheduling or late policy
When they’ll receive their gallery
How many photos to expect
Image rights (can they share, print, tag you, etc.)

People respect clarity. And clarity protects your energy.

Final Thought: Think Like a Human, Not Just a Photographer

Your prep guide isn’t about being fancy—it’s about removing friction. The more clear and personal it feels, the more trust you build before the shoot even begins. And that trust? It shows up in the photos.

So take a little time to make a guide that feels like you. Your clients—and your future self—will thank you.