When it comes to capturing moments that last a lifetime, a professional portrait session is a perfect way to showcase your unique personality and style! Whether you're looking for a family portrait, engagement photos, or just a fresh headshot, working with an experienced Tampa portrait photographer can make all the difference. Here are our top 5 tips to ensure your portrait session is the best it can be.

1. Choose the Right Location

The location of your portrait session sets the tone for your photos. Do you love the beach, or are you more of a downtown cityscape kind of family or couple? The Tampa Bay area offers a such variety of beautiful locations, from the scenic waterfront at Cypress Point Park to the charming streets of Ybor City, to the amazing old Florida tree canopy at Philippe Park. One of the first things we talk about when planning your session is your vision and style so we can recommend and plan on the best location to compliment that. The right location not only adds to the aesthetic of your photos but also helps you feel comfortable and relaxed during the session.

2. Plan Your Outfits Carefully

I know this one can be stressful! and we love offering guidance and tips on what to wear because what you wear plays a significant role in how your portraits turn out. Your outfit should reflect your personal style while also considering the location and theme of the shoot. Solid colors, classic patterns, and coordinating (but not matching) outfits work well for family portraits. For professional headshots, opt for clean, professional attire that aligns with your industry. Ultimately you want to wear something that makes you feel confident and amazing because it will definitely show in your portraits.

3. Get Comfortable with Your Photographer

The more comfortable you are with your photographer, the better your photos will be! Before your session, it’s so important to have a a pre-session consultation or a simple chat, building a rapport can help ease any nerves and allow you to feel more relaxed in front of the camera. We will guide you through the process, offer lots of direction and posing tips, and create a fun, stress-free environment so that after you are done you are like, wow that was actually fun!

4. Timing is Everything

The time of day can significantly impact the quality of your photos. Over here on the West Coast of Florida we live and die by the sunset time. About an hour before sunset is known as the "golden hour," provides the softest and most flattering light. If your session is outdoors, especially on the beach or waterfront, this is the ideal time for your session because you get that beatiful golden horizon and then a few minutes after sunset those amazing colors in the sky. Some other locations lend themselves more to a brighter higher sun because there is a lot of shade like Philippe Park, or even Ybor City.

5. Embrace the Experience

Portrait sessions are more than just a photoshoot; they’re an opportunity to capture moments and memories that you’ll cherish forever at that specific time in you and your family’s life. It’s so easy to worry about every little detail especially when you have young kids (or a husband lol) who may or may not be totally down with it. Sometimes it does not turn out perfect, or the weather doesn’t cooperate or that outfit you had been waiting on doesn’t arrive, but when it’s all said and done it WILL turn out perfectly, for that time, exactly how it is supposed to because we’ll be their guiding you through the process. Focus on enjoying the experience, being present in the moment, and letting your personality shine through. The more you relax and have fun, the better your portraits will be.

By choosing the right location, planning your outfits, building a rapport, timing your session perfectly, and embracing the experience, you'll be well on your way to having those stunning portraits that you'll treasure for years to come. If you’re searching for a Tampa portrait photographer, Carrie Wildes Photography is here to help you every step of the way. We specialize in creating personalized portrait sessions that reflect your unique story, ensuring you walk away with both images and professionally designed artwork that you will love!

Incorporating these tips will not only enhance your portrait experience but also ensure that your photos are exactly what you envisioned. Ready to book your session? Contact us today and let's capture those perfect moments together!