Behind the Glam: What Really Happens During a Luxury Portrait Session

You’ve seen the final portraits – the confident pose, the soft light, the spark in the eyes. But what happens before that moment? What happens between walking through the studio doors and seeing yourself on screen looking like that?

If you’re curious (or nervous) about what to expect during a luxury portrait session, you’re not alone. Many of the women who come to me haven’t been photographed in years, and some never have. They arrive unsure, sometimes even apologetic, saying things like, “I don’t know how to pose,” or “I’ve never liked photos of myself.”

Here’s the truth: You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t need to change a thing. And you’re not expected to “perform” for the camera. It’s just a matter of showing up. I’ll take care of all else.

Let me take you behind the scenes.

Step One: We Talk

We start with connection before we take a single picture.

The makeup chair is just the beginning of your session. We discuss your identity, the significance of this session, and your desired feelings upon viewing your photos. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, stepping into a new chapter, or simply ready to be seen again, this time is for you.

We’ll cover wardrobe styling, makeup preferences, and what kinds of portraits move you. This discussion sets the framework for the experience as a whole, not just the shoot.

Step Two: The Glam

When you arrive at the studio, you’re welcomed into a space designed for comfort and ease. Soft music, warm lighting, a quiet atmosphere – everything is intentional.

Our professional hair and makeup artist will be there to pamper you, using products that enhance your natural features while making you feel like you just stepped out of a magazine shoot. But don’t worry, you’ll still look like you. Just the elevated, glowy version.

During this time, most clients begin to relax. We laugh. We chat. We set the tone. The nerves start to fade. And by the time we start photographing, you’ve already started stepping into something new.

Step Three: The Session

This is where the magic begins, but not the kind you need to create on your own.

I’ll guide you through everything. Every pose, every movement, every expression. I’ll tell you where to place your hands, how to soften your eyes, when to breathe, and when to laugh. You don’t have to think – you just have to trust.

We’ll explore a few different looks, lighting setups, and angles. Some moments will feel powerful. Others will feel quiet and reflective. Each part of the process is designed to bring out something honest.

No stiff smiles. No forced poses. Just space to show up and to see yourself clearly, maybe for the first time in a while.

Step Four: The Reveal

A few days after your session, you’ll come back for your image reveal. This is always my favorite part.

We sit down together and go through the portraits, slowly and intentionally. I’ll guide you through selecting your favorites, whether you want wall art, a folio box, or an album. But more than anything, this is a chance to see yourself the way others see you: radiant, real, and fully present.

It’s not unusual for this moment to feel emotional. That’s okay. Sometimes, for the first time in a long time, you’ll feel seen.

More Than Just Photos

This isn’t about a makeover or playing dress-up. It’s about making space for yourself. It’s about saying, “I matter. Right now, as I am.”

A luxury portrait session is a reclaiming of your story, your beauty, and your place in the frame. And when you hold those final images in your hands, you’ll know: this was never about becoming someone else. It was about returning to the woman you’ve always been.

 Inquire Now. Let’s create something that changes the way you see yourself in all the best ways.