Taylor Johnson Photography

Preparing for a headshot or personal branding photo session is so much more than just picking an outfit and showing up on the day. It’s about curating a polished, confident version of yourself—one that will shine in front of the camera. That’s where a well-planned timeline comes in.

This is what my clients receive during our in-person consultation but I’m giving it to you right here! Whether you’re scheduling a facial or chemical peel, testing out a new lash lift, or planning your perfect manicure, having everything mapped out a few weeks in advance ensures you look and feel your absolute best on your photo session day. Below is a 3–4 week timeline packed with expert tips and recommended time frames to keep you on track, stress-free, and photo-ready!

4 Weeks Prior

1. Book All Your Services
   • Hair Appointment: Schedule your cut/color now so you have time to adjust if it’s not exactly how you want it and make sure you choose someone you know does a good job! Your hair stylist can help guide you if you do want a different look.
   • Skincare & Cosmetic Treatments: talk to your esthetician about the order of your skincare routine.
     • Facials or Chemical Peels: Book these at least 2–3 weeks before your session to allow any redness or peeling to subside.
     • Dermaplaning: Also best done around 2 weeks prior, giving your skin time to heal and glow naturally.
     • Botox/Fillers: If you’re doing injectables, schedule them now so any swelling or bruising can diminish.
2. Teeth Whitening
   • At-Home or Professional: If you’re whitening your teeth, start around 3 weeks out if you’re using an at-home kit, so you can adjust for sensitivity or do multiple treatments.
   • Professional Services: Book your professional whitening around 2 weeks before the shoot if possible, allowing time for any post-treatment sensitivity to subside.
3. Experiment With Tanning
   • Self-Tanner Practice: If you’re new, test it now to avoid last-minute streaks or orange tones.
   • Spray Tan Trials: Try a test spray tan well in advance to see how your skin reacts to color and ensure you like the shade.
4. Focus on Skincare & Health
   • Hydrate & Rest: Start prioritizing sleep and drinking plenty of water.
   • Healthy Diet: Aim for nutrient-dense meals to keep your skin clear and radiant.
5. Choose Your Location
   • Start Early: Whether you’re considering a cozy café, your home office, or a sleek downtown spot, begin researching and securing the location now. Think about any permits or permissions you might need, and make sure the setting aligns with the outfits and brand aesthetic you’re planning.
   • Coordinate Scheduling: Check availability of the location (or multiple locations) for your desired shoot date. This allows you to finalize details well ahead of time and avoid last-minute surprises.
6. Start Outfit Planning: I help you with this aspect during our in-person consultation so you’re not left wondering which outfits you should try. Choose your locations first before doing this!
   • Wardrobe Audit: Figure out which outfits fit well and which colors complement your brand or skin tone. Also consider the location you’re going to be shooting at.
   • Shop If Needed: Order or buy new pieces with enough time for returns or exchanges. Check out some local boutiques like Two Doors Down, Sparkling Sisters, or Chelsea’s.
7. Set up mood board and inspiration
   • To get the most from your session, start working on a mood board with your photographer (not all do this so find one who will invest their time in working on one with you)
   • Use Pinterest to help you build ideas. Create color pallets, outfit inspiration, location choices, and poses to nail your day down. Work on this throughout the time leading up to your session.

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2 Weeks Before Your Photo Session

1. Finalize Outfits
   • Dress Rehearsal: Try on your chosen outfits—sit, stand, and move around to make sure they’re comfortable and fit right.
   • Coordinate Pieces: Make sure you have layers, variety of colors, and proper undergarments.
2. Confirm Your Appointments
   • Nails, Brows & Hair Styling: Book your appointments for the ideal window (1 week or a few days before).
   • Makeup Artist & Hairstylist (If Using): Finalize the day-of schedule. (If you’re booked with me, I got you covered on this!)
3. Brow Tinting & Lash Lift (Optional)
   • Schedule Appropriately: For most people, getting these done about 5–7 days before the shoot ensures they look fresh without potential redness or irritation.
   • Patch Test: If it’s your first time tinting or lifting, do a patch test or trial run well before the session.
4. Continue Gentle Skincare
   • No New Products: Avoid introducing any harsh treatments or unfamiliar products that might cause breakouts.
   • Mild Exfoliation: Keep up a gentle exfoliation routine (unless post-chemical peel).

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1 Week Before Your Photo Session

1. Brow Tint/Lash Lift Touch-Up
   • If Needed: For best results, get it done 5–7 days out so it looks perfect on photo day.
2. Teeth Whitening Wrap-Up
   • Last Session: Complete any final touch-ups or at-home whitening treatments.
   • Sensitivity Check: Use a sensitive toothpaste if needed.
3. Hair & Facial Hair Refinements
   • Trim: If you need a slight trim or shape-up, do it now.
   • Groom Facial Hair: Shape your beard, mustache, or stubble a few days out to reduce razor burn or redness.
4. Waxing & Brow Shaping
   • 3–5 Days Prior: Ideal timing to minimize redness or bumps.
5. Wardrobe Iron & Steam
   • Prep Clothes: Iron or steam your outfits and hang them up to avoid wrinkles.

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2–3 Days Before Your Session

1. Nail Appointment
   • Manicure: Opt for neutral, French tips, or buff for a timeless look.
   • Pedicure (If Needed): Even if it’s just for personal confidence, pampered toes can complete your sense of readiness.
2. Final Skincare Steps
   • Light Moisturizing: Keep skin hydrated but skip any harsh exfoliants.
   • Avoid Late Nights: Prioritize good sleep to reduce under-eye circles.
3. Emergency Kit Assembly
   • Safety Pins & Fashion Tape: In case of last-minute outfit fixes.
   • Makeup Touch-Ups: Blotting papers, concealer, and translucent powder.
   • Hair Essentials: Hairspray or styling gel if needed.
4. Begin gathering photo session props
   • Start doing this in the couple of days leading up to your session so you aren’t scrambling around last minute for them.

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1 Day Before Your Photo Session

1. Gather Everything
   • Outfits & Accessories: Make sure everything is set out or packed in garment bags to prevent wrinkling.
   • No Last-Minute Surprises: Double-check you have strapless bras, shapewear, and anything else you need.
2. Avoid Harsh Treatments
   • Skip Strong Peels or Masks: You don’t want to risk redness or irritation.
3. Watch Your Diet
   • Limit Salt & Alcohol: To reduce bloating and puffiness.
   • Hydration: Keep drinking water!
4. Relax & Sleep
   • Aim for 7–8 Hours: A fresh face and rested eyes show on camera.

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Day of your Photo Session

1. Morning Routine
   • Gentle Cleanse: Follow with a simple moisturizer—nothing too heavy under makeup.
   • No Excess Oil: Keep products minimal to avoid shine.
2. Arrive Prepared
   • Emergency Kit: Bring your safety pins, makeup touch-ups, and anything else you might need.
   • Positive Attitude: A little confidence goes a long way in photos.
3. Rock Your Session!
   • Relax: Trust your preparation and enjoy the process.
   • Express Yourself: Let your personality shine through in front of the camera.

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Ready for your photo session?

By following this 3–4 week timeline you can be sure your skin, smile, and overall look are camera-ready. Proper planning helps you avoid last-minute stress and feel confident and relaxed on the day of your photo session. Now go forth and glow in your photos!

Does this all seem overwhelming? Reach out to me to talk about a session. I can take a lot of this off your plate and have you stress free the day of your session!