Welcome.
Portrait photography is a magical way to reflect on yourself, share and process stories, take a moment to see you- and maybe in a different way. I am glad you are here and taking this opportunity. Please review the following and note any suggested reflections to prepare for your photoshoot.
If at any time you have questions, please text Gina @ 801.230.1696
First things first…
How do you want to be photographed?
Scroll through the pictures below (or find your own!) and take a few notes on what you like about the pictures. It can be the light, outfit, pose, expression- or just anything that sticks out to you.
What to Wear
To shop or not to shop? The answer is… it is completely up to you and your purpose. Personally I have found some great (and unique finds) on Ebay, Etsy and Poshmark. Just make sure if you order from here you provide time for shipping.
Need feedback on outfits? Please text Gina Baker @ 801.230.1696
Legacy Sessions
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2 to 3 outfits
Shoes are probably not necessary unless we go outside or do lifestyle pictures.
Jewelry, scarves and other accessories as needed
Undergarments. Note to make sure that you have the correct color to go underneath each outfit, especially if they are sheer.
Any medications or supports you may need for your photoshoot. It is a great idea to have a family member there to support you as well.
If we are doing an interview consider having some scrapbooks and pictures ready
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For every outfit consider what you might feel more confident wearing.
Fit your form. Unfortunately more comfortable loose clothing can look unflattering sometimes in camera.
Flatter your arms. Aim for sleeveless, tank tops or three quarter and long sleeves. Avoid cap sleeves.
Consider variations in outfits. For instance something light and something dark. Something you and something a little daring for you. Something elegant and something casual… and everywhere in between.
Do not bring clothing with small repeating patterns
Consider limiting each outfit to one color palette is a great way to create a long, lean body line in your portraits. When pairing separates, keep light with light, and dark with dark. However, your top doesn’t have to be an exact match to the bottoms, (like dark-wash jeans with a black top).
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Like a certain color? Bring an outfit with that.
Have a family heirloom ring or other jewelry item? Bring that to go with an outfit.
And maybe just keep it simple.. Maybe just wear a wrap or small blanket around your shoulders. Some of the greatest creativity has come from simple moments.
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Do your best to iron all items before arriving.
Remove any lint from outfits
Polish jewelry if needed
Pack your outfits, shoes, underpinning and accessories early
Shop early, especially if you are ordering clothing
Make sure to try everything on before the photoshoot.
Use hangers and bags (to hold accessories/shoes) to organize each outfit onto their own hanger.
Portrait/Glamour Sessions
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5-6 outfits
Shoes to go with each outfit (if you want)
Jewelry, scarves and other accessories as needed
Undergarments. Note to make sure that you have the correct color to go underneath each outfit, especially if they are sheer.
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For every outfit consider what you might feel more confident wearing.
Fit your form. Unfortunately more comfortable loose clothing can look unflattering sometimes in camera.
Flatter your arms. Aim for sleeveless, tank tops or three quarter and long sleeves. Avoid cap sleeves.
Consider variations in outfits. For instance something light and something dark. Something you and something a little daring for you. Something elegant and something casual… and everywhere in between.
Do not bring clothing with small repeating patterns
Consider limiting each outfit to one color palette is a great way to create a long, lean body line in your portraits. When pairing separates, keep light with light, and dark with dark. However, your top doesn’t have to be an exact match to the bottoms, (like dark-wash jeans with a black top).
-
Like a certain color? Bring an outfit with that.
Have a family heirloom ring or other jewelry item? Bring that to go with an outfit.
And maybe just keep it simple. My favorite wardrobe item is a white long sleeve button down.
Speaking of simple maybe just wear a wrap or small blanket around your shoulders. Some of the greatest creativity has come from simple moments.
-
Do your best to iron all items before arriving.
Remove any lint from outfits
Polish jewelry if needed
Pack your outfits, shoes, underpinning and accessories early
Shop early, especially if you are ordering clothing
Make sure to try everything on before the photoshoot.
Use hangers and bags (to hold accessories/shoes) to organize each outfit onto their own hanger.
Branding/Headshot Sessions
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5-6 outfits for branding, 1-2 outfits for headshots
Shoes to go with each outfit (if you want)
Jewelry, scarves and other accessories as needed
Undergarments. Note to make sure that you have the correct color to go underneath each outfit, especially if they are sheer.
-
For every outfit consider what you might feel more confident wearing.
Fit your form. Unfortunately more comfortable loose clothing can look unflattering sometimes in camera.
Flatter your arms. Aim for sleeveless, tank tops or three quarter and long sleeves. Avoid cap sleeves.
Do not bring clothing with small repeating patterns
Consider limiting each outfit to one color palette is a great way to create a long, lean body line in your portraits. When pairing separates, keep light with light, and dark with dark. However, your top doesn’t have to be an exact match to the bottoms, (like dark-wash jeans with a black top).
Consider relating your outfits to your brand. If your brand is highly professional and corporate perhaps go with the classic suite. If you want something more approachable go with a dress shirt and maybe a softer color pallet (brand color dependent).
Consider bringing clothing and props that lend itself to your profession. For instance if you are in the personal training profession you might dress more athletic or we might shoot on location.
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Like a certain color? Bring an outfit with that. Brand dependent of course…
Have something fun that goes with your brand? I once had a real estate agent bring some real estate theme t-shirts for her pictures.
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Do your best to iron all items before arriving.
Remove any lint from outfits
Polish jewelry if needed
Pack your outfits, shoes, underpinning and accessories early
Shop early, especially if you are ordering clothing
Make sure to try everything on before the photoshoot.
Use hangers and bags (to hold accessories/shoes) to organize each outfit onto their own hanger.
Preparation Timeline…
Please note 100% of the activities below are optional. I will try to convey how each item will help your photoshoot in a certain way so you can choose what is most important to you. But please know you are worthy of pictures, and amazing as you are… today.
If you have any questions please text Gina Baker @ 801.230.1696
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. ”
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Make appointments as soon as possible (waxing, spa, salon). Please note not to book waxing too close to the photoshoot as it can cause redness.
Drink more water. Important always, but this will especially help your skin and energy for a photoshoot.
Wash your face morning and night, exfoliate (face and body) every other day, moisturize your full body every day, and wear lip balm constantly.
Set your intention. A photoshoot can offer an opportunity to reflect on who you are, were or even the person you want to be. Consider this while we plan your photoshoot for this to be an impactful and meaningful experience for you.
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Finish shopping- finish shopping, wrap up orders. Make sure everything fits as. much as possible and make sure you have everything you need for each outfit (accessories, underpinnings)
Start stretching- Do this daily if possible and focus on your back, neck and hips.
Avoid prolonged sun exposure- As you know it is not good for your skin anyway, but a tan line or sunburn can ruin a portrait.
Visit the dentist
Get a facial (skip if you have sensitive skin)- It would be best to avoid major exfoliation or unusual treatments.
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Gather and organize outfits
Final wardrobe consultation (optional)
Wax eye brows and upper lip. It is recommended that you stay close to your natural shape and don’t try anything new.
Wax body hair. The areas you wax can depend on what you are wearing and your preferences. Please note that if not waxed, hair will show up on the camera.
Avoid fake tanning
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Refresh Your Hair Color. If you dye your hair, touching up your regrowth three days before your photo shoot is ideal. Keep in mind this is not the time for drastic changes.
Get a Trim. Neat, healthy hair is youthful and vibrant. If it’s been a while since your last haircut, go for a subtle trim.
Deep Condition. Your salon can do a conditioning or gloss treatment, or use your favorite deep conditioner at home.
Get an Eyelash Fill. If you usually have eyelash extensions, have them refreshed a few days before your session. (Do not get lash extensions if they aren’t in your regular routine.)
Buy Groceries. Plan a nurturing dinner for the evening before your shoot, as well as a healthy shoot day breakfast.
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Have a Manicure. Soft, neutral colors are timeless. While you’re at it, toss in the pedicure (go for any color you like on toes).
Clean Your Wedding Ring. For a fast and easy DIY option, try using a toothbrush & toothpaste to clean your bling. But I do recommend you consult with a jeweler if you are not sure.
Shave. Touch up your body hair situation; remember under- arms, and legs; and possibly forearms, bikini, and upper lip.
Tweeze Eyebrows. Double check for any strays.
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Beauty Sleep. Be sure to get all eight hours.
Breakfast. Think protein and complex carbs.
Bare Face. Wash and apply your usual moisturizer.
Moisturized Body. Apply some serious lotion or oil.
Clean, Dry Hair.
Arrive On Time.
We got you… don’t worry!
Our goal is to provide you with the best experience possible. So that means rule #1 is don’t worry. Don’t worry… check out the common worries below. Call a friend for a pep talk if you are nervous- and make sure it is a good friend. ;) And if you are still worried- call us. :)
No worrying required. :) Text Gina Baker @ 801.230.1696
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Stress Acne
Yeah, it happens. Pimples suck. If you think for one second that every person you see pictured here was magically pimple-free on the day of their session, you're taking crazy pills. We retouch blemishes and bruises with ease on every photo you see. No problem. No stress. Let that pimple try it's hardest to ruin your day, but your photos will not be a permanent reminder of it.
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Pose Anxiety
This one's easy. You don't have to know how to pose...not even a little bit. I will walk you through every step of the way. I will get into the poses myself and have you mirror me. If we didn't get ti right on the first try, I'l gently redirect you. It's not YOUR job to take amazing photos, it's mine. And Im' pretty competitive about taking amazing photos
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I'm Not Photogenic
If you're thinking that all of the people featured on the pages of my website and social media are models, you're sorely mistaken. I have NEVER.EVER had a client who didn't love their photos. You don't have to love EVERY SINGLE ONE of them, but you will love most of them. And you will be shocked that you could love photos of yourself this much.
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Body Issues
I think it is probably safe to say that at one point in time we have all looked at some part of our body and did not have the greatest through about it. As a photographer I hear it alot… but as a photographer and a fellow human that has had the same thoughts I want you to know I got you. This is a safe space AND a positive space. One where being human is celebrated and maybe just seeing yourself in a new way is the first step you need accepting you for the gorgeous human that you are.
Maybe avoid these couple of things…
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No spray tans
Also no tinted lotions or bronzers. It can show up uneven on camera and often shows your skin as more orange than it really is.
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Do not party the night before
A late night before a photoshoot will show in your pictures… and it ain’t pretty.
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Do not get a new haircut/style
If you have not tried a new style- now is not the time.
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No smack talking
I will be the first to admit that getting in front of the camera can be a bit tricky mentally. But you are doing it. Congratulate yourself on doing this, give yourself all the love you need and I look forward to filling that cup more on your session day.
Policies
Please note 100% of the activities below are optional. I will try to convey how each item will help your photoshoot in a certain way so you can choose what is most important to you. But please know you are worthy of pictures, and amazing as you are… today.
If you have any questions please text Gina Baker @ 801.230.1696
Reschedule/ Cancellation
Photo sessions and consultations must be rescheduled/cancelled more than 48 hours prior to meeting date or risk losing session fee, payments made.
No Smack
We are a no smack talking studio. It is expected that clients, staff and any visitors maintain a positive environment. We encourage you to bring a supportive friend if you want. But please know if we feel someone is negative impacting the session, we reserve the right to ask them to leave.
Social Media
You are welcome to share your photos on social media! We love it and we hope you don’t mind we do the same. We will discuss this in more detail at your reveal session. Please note that when you alter a photo with a crop or filter we no longer consider this our photo… and hope that you don’t do this as the photo was created with our vision in mind. But if you do change the photo we no longer consider it our photo and ask that you do not tag us.
Chemical Free
I know… you might be feeling nervous and perhaps there is a substance that might calm your nerves. However there are many items in a photo studio that you can hurt yourself with if you are struggling to control your body. If we feel that, due to chemicals we cannot safely conduct your session, this policy has been violated and your session will be cancelled immediately with no refund.
Payments and Product
50% retainer/session fee is due to book the session. If you are reading this, you probably have already paid that. The remainder is due on the same day of the session… but feel free to pay early. Post session no product will be delivered without payment made in full. Thank you for respecting our business practices.
On Time
Please note that your photo session may be limited in the time and pictures shown if you show up late. We will be on time and have put our heart and soul into your session. We appreciate you doing the same.
Images
The way the law is written the photographer owns the photograph. As part of your session you are given a personal (unless branding) use release with your photos. Please do not photograph photos on the screen during the session or reveal.
Homework
Remember that list of things about the pictures you like, or finding pictures of portraits you like? Plan to bring that with you the consultation so we can review and hit the ground running. Also email a picture of a wall in your home that you might like to hang an enlargement. Email to gina@akomastudios.com
Local Guide
If you are coming from out of town below are some of our favorite stops!
If you have any questions please text Gina Baker @ 801.230.1696
Dinner/Lunch:
Slackwater Pizza (801) 386-9777
684 S 500 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Breakfast:
Sunday’s Best (801) 441-3331
10672 State Street, Sandy, UT 84070
Coffee:
Beans & Brews Coffee House (801) 495-7404
10585 South 1300 East, Sandy, UT 84094
Grocery:
Smith’s (801) 572-1396
10305 S 1300 E, Sandy, UT 84094
Akoma Studios
The best part about our studio? The opportunity for creativity and ease. We are the only people that will be in the studio so you don’t have to worry about other people popping in and out. We also love our studio location because not only do we have many toys, I mean photography gear for creativity in the studio but we also are right next to a canyon giving us maximum opportunity for variety and creativity.
Akoma Studios
10469 S Columbine Cir, Sandy, UT 84094
Take the exit off of 10600 S I-15 and drive east
Turn left onto Larkspur Drive
Turn right onto Budlea Drive
Turn left onto Columbine Cir
Akoma Studios is the second house on your right. Park in the east driveway and text Gina @801.230.1696.
The Studio is around back
Invitation
Thank you. We could not do this without you and we hope you will keep in touch.
We love laughing and celebrating with you in the studio AND out. We also organize some fun thank you events for clients that you will not want to miss.
Click here to join our Facebook Group.
See you in the studio.
XOXO Gina
