How to prepare for your studio session with Irena
I feel a mission to help women regain their confidence and feel empowered through my work.
Clothing
Keep it simple colour wise: Stick to black and white (or beige) as it help the light and contrast do their magic. Combination of both works too.
Avoid patterns or graphics: These will draw attention away from you.
Choose elegant and timeless clothing: Remember - less is more! Bring more options (you will have time to change if you want). Think: dresses, classic blazer, elegant wide pants, off shoulder tops, turtle neck…
For maternity: Go for bodycon dress if possible as it emphasises the bump beautifully. Just like in the picture bellow.
Please make sure all outfits you plan to wear are clean, wrinkle-free, and ready to be photographed. I do have a steamer available in the studio if needed, but keep in mind that steaming clothes on arrival will take time away from your session. A little preparation beforehand helps us make the most of your shoot.
Your portrait session will be held in my cosy photography studio based in Pinehill, North Shore Auckland. As it is a creative process and I work with each client individually to achieve desired outcome, duration of each session can vary anywhere from 2 to 3 hours (unless you have booked a different Studio photoshoot).
To help keep the focus on your expression and presence, here’s a useful guide:
2. Hair and Makeup
Professional Hair & Makeup: I work with an amazing hair and makeup artist who will help us elevate your overall look. If you wish to book her, please let me know. Additional fee applies.
DIY Hair &Makeup: Make sure your hair is freshly washed and styled to your preference. Since the eyes often is a focal point in these portraits, a mascara is a must and lash extensions recommended. I would recommend neutral shine free lipstick, since eyes are the main focus in image story telling. If you are planning on removing facial hair that is bothering you (eyebrows, lip), please do the removal minimum 2 days in advance to avoid puffiness and irritation. Make sure to have hydrated skin and lips, dryness will show in photos. Bring makeup for retouching. Especially brush and mineral powder to remove shine if skin gets too oily.
Manicure: Hands often feature in the frame, so please come with clean, well-kept nails. Neutral polish or bare is ideal.
Pedicure: These sessions are best done barefoot (as shoes can easily damage the paper backdrop I have installed), so please keep your toes tidy.
3. Jewellery
No jewellery is preferred to keep the image distraction-free and solely focus on all your amazing features and body poses.
However, if there’s a piece with personal meaning (hello engagement and wedding rings :), you’re welcome to wear it.
4. Support During Your Session
This session is all about you. My aim is for you to feel comfortable, confident, and free to be yourself in front of the camera.
If you choose to bring someone along for support, such as your partner, sister, or friend, I kindly ask that they remain quietly supportive throughout the session and allow the creative process to unfold naturally. Their presence should help you feel at ease, not distracted or self-conscious.
If at any point I feel their involvement is affecting your experience or the flow of the shoot, I may gently ask them to wait outside until the session is complete — or perhaps enjoy a coffee break nearby while we finish up.
Before the Session
Rest Well: Aim for a good night's sleep to feel refreshed and present.
Mindful Eating: Have a light, nourishing meal before the session to maintain energy without discomfort.
Avoid New Skincare Products: Stick to your usual routine to prevent unexpected reactions.
Avoid alcohol for a few days before the session and prioritise good sleep - this helps reduce puffiness and tiredness in the face.
After the Session
Image selection process
The same day I will email you the unedited images from your session so you can pick your top images for future edits and polish. If you wish to purchase more images than your package includes, this is the time we discuss it. You can also upgrade to colour option.Image editing
I will do skin retouching to gently remove blemishes, dark circles, or other skin imperfections. My goal is to honour your natural beauty in a refined and elevated way!Final Delivery
You’ll get your hand-edited portraits delivered digitally with an option to print directly from your private online gallery. Delivery time frame is 1-3 weeks depending on how busy I am (or any Public holidays in between).If there is particular portrait you wish to receive sooner, please let me know and I will do my best to accommodate you.