How to Energetically Prep for Your Photoshoot

buzzy. anxious. excited. eager. frazzled. amped. nervous.

You might feel one or ALL of these emotions as your photoshoot approaches, and it's all natural and normal.

Because going through the photoshoot experience requires some extra energy. It might require moving through stories that don't serve you, shedding limiting beliefs, getting intimate with your discomfort, confronting social and cultural conditioning, and finding the courage to take up space.

At the very least, it asks most people to step out of their comfort zone.

There's a lot of importance placed on how to physically prep for a photoshoot (find the location, select your wardrobe and props, book a hair/make-up appointment, etc), but the more I do this work, the more I recognise that the energetics are just as, if not MORE important.

How you feel is going to reflect in how you show up.

Here are a few tips to help you energetically prepare for your photoshoot.

One Week Before

Clear your schedule for the day of the shoot. If you can, remove as many other obligations as possible so you can channel your energy toward the photoshoot, and also have time to decompress afterward.
Confirm your outfits, props, and shot list, and set them aside. It'll be one less thing on the to-do list and will free up mental space.

A few days before

Start grounding your energy

Engage in slow practices that feel nourishing
- Ex: yin yoga, abhyanga massage, body scan, etc

Open your throat chakra

Voice any concerns or worries to your photographer. Release the energetic charge by bringing to light what you're anxious about and ask for more support if you need it.

the day / night before

Move excess energy or tension in the body through movement (dance, swim, yoga, run, etc)

Spend quiet time in nature. Feel your feet on the Earth and the air around you. Listen to the sounds.
Eat grounding + nourishing meals
Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol
Unwind and get to bed early for a restful sleep
Double-check that you have all your outfits, and props packed and ready to go.

the day of

Meditate (whatever that looks like for you)

Whether that's a beach walk or sitting still on your mat, take a few minutes to connect to your breath, and calm your nervous system.

Arrive Early
- give yourself plenty of time to get to the location so you're not stressing moments before you're on camera.
Relax and unwind post-shoot
- Journal to help process the experience and any emotions that came up.
- Draw a bath.
- Get a massage.
- #treatyourself