How to Prepare for a Portrait Session in Bend, Oregon: Wardrobe, Location & Timing Tips
Booking a portrait session is exciting, whether it’s for senior photos, professional headshots, family portraits, or branding images. But many clients feel nervous about how to prepare. What should you wear? Where should you go? How do you make sure the photos capture your personality?
In Bend, Oregon, preparing for a portrait session means taking the unique light, climate, and scenery into account. The right planning ensures your session feels relaxed, fun, and results in images you’ll be proud to share for years to come.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know to prepare: wardrobe, location, timing, posing, and communication with your photographer.
Why Preparation Matters
The difference between an “okay” portrait and a stunning one often comes down to preparation.
Confidence: When you’re ready, you feel more comfortable in front of the camera.
Time Efficiency: Sessions run smoothly when outfits, props, and locations are decided ahead of time.
Better Photos: From flattering wardrobe choices to the best lighting conditions, preparation helps every detail shine.
Choosing the Time of Day
Lighting sets the mood of your portraits. In Bend, where the sun is bright and shadows sharp, timing is everything.
Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise and before sunset gives warm, soft light that flatters skin tones and adds drama.
Morning Sessions: Great for east-facing locations or if you want crisp, fresh light with fewer crowds.
Evening Sessions: Perfect for west-facing views, family sessions after work, and moody backdrops.
Avoid Harsh Midday Light: Unless in shade or indoors, midday light in Bend can create squinting and unflattering shadows.
Selecting the Right Location
Your backdrop says a lot about the mood of your portraits.
Outdoor Options: Shevlin Park, Drake Park, Cascade Lakes, and Smith Rock each offer unique scenery.
Urban Settings: Downtown Bend murals, historic brick walls, and alleyways add texture and modern flair.
Indoor/Studio: Controlled lighting and neutral backdrops keep focus on you, not the environment.
Consider Seasons: Winter snow adds magic, fall colors add warmth, and summer evenings highlight greenery.
Pro Tip: Always have a backup plan for weather, especially in Central Oregon’s unpredictable climate.
Wardrobe & Styling Tips
Wardrobe choices make a huge impact on how natural and flattering portraits look.
Choose Colors Wisely: Neutral tones (cream, gray, navy, earth tones) photograph well and don’t distract.
Coordinate, Don’t Match: For families or couples, aim for complementary colors instead of identical outfits.
Avoid Distracting Patterns: Loud stripes, logos, or neon colors pull focus away from faces.
Think About Layers: Jackets, scarves, and accessories add depth and flexibility.
Shoes Matter: Footwear should match the setting (heels for urban, boots for outdoors).
Bring 2–3 outfit options if your session allows. It provides variety and gives your photographer more creative options.
Props & Personal Touches
Props can add personality and context to portraits.
Seniors: Sports gear, musical instruments, or hobbies.
Families: Blankets for picnics, favorite toys for kids.
Professionals: Laptops, books, or work tools for branding headshots.
Couples: Pets, bikes, or items that represent your lifestyle together.
Hair, Makeup, and Grooming
Hair: Keep it natural, but consider styling a little more polished than everyday.
Makeup: Aim for natural tones, avoid heavy glitter or overly shiny products.
Men: Groom facial hair neatly. Bring combs or product for touch-ups.
Kids: Bring wipes, hairbrushes, and snacks for quick fixes.
Some clients hire a professional hair/makeup artist in Bend before their shoot. Ask your photographer for referrals.
What to Bring to Your Session
Backup outfits.
Touch-up kit (lip balm, powder, comb).
Comfortable shoes (especially for outdoor shoots).
Water and snacks, especially for kids.
Weather prep: jackets, umbrellas, blankets.
Communication With Your Photographer
Don’t be shy about sharing your ideas.
Share Inspiration: Pinterest boards or sample photos help convey your style.
Express Preferences: Casual vs formal, posed vs candid.
Discuss Comfort Zones: If you dislike certain angles or want specific features highlighted.
Ask About Posing Guidance: A good photographer (like Alex) will coach you through natural, flattering poses.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Waiting Until the Last Minute: Rushed prep = stress.
Ignoring the Background: The location matters as much as the outfit.
Over-Accessorizing: Too many layers or props distract.
Not Considering Weather: Central Oregon can switch from sun to rain quickly.
Relax & Enjoy the Process
The best portraits happen when you feel comfortable and authentic.
Trust your photographer to direct poses.
Laugh, move, and be yourself, candid moments often create the most memorable photos.
Remember, this is about capturing your personality, not perfection.
Quick Checklist for Portrait Session Prep
Choose wardrobe in advance.
Plan location (with backup).
Decide on props/personal touches.
Pack essentials (snacks, water, touch-ups).
Communicate preferences with your photographer.
Relax and have fun!
Conclusion
Preparing for your portrait session ensures the experience is smooth and enjoyable, and the photos are ones you’ll treasure for years. With Bend’s beautiful landscapes and Alex Herring’s professional guidance, the process can be relaxed, creative, and uniquely yours.
Ready to book your portrait session? Contact Alex Herring Photography today to schedule your portraits in Bend, Oregon.