Photographer how-to

How to Shoot a Portrait Session

Comfortable subjects make great portraits.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Comfortable subjects make great portraits. In short: plan; arrive; warm, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Plan location and outfits with the client.

  2. Arrive early to check light.

  3. Warm up with easy poses.

  4. Direct with clear, kind instructions.

  5. Vary angles and framing.

  6. Review and back up images.

Safety reminders for photographers

  • Protect equipment and yourself on location
  • Follow drone rules
  • Get model releases
  • Lift equipment safely

Aperture · Shutter speed · ISO · Exposure triangle · Depth of field · Golden hour: see the full photographer glossary.

More photographer how-to guides

Learn this in Photographer trainingTake the practice test
Enroll in trainingTake fit quiz