The Ultimate Guide to Studio Photography from a Durham NC Photographer
- Geni Bean
- Apr 7
- 4 min read
Shooting inside a photo studio can feel a little intimidating. All that wide open space with the focus solely on you? It can feel like you’re burning under a spotlight! But here’s the thing—once you step into the studio with the right mindset and preparation, that wide-open space becomes a blank canvas for creativity.
As a North Carolina portrait and headshot photographer with over 15 years of experience, I’ve spent nearly two decades helping clients go from nervous to naturally glowing in front of the camera. If you’re prepping for a session at a photography studio, here’s everything you need to know to walk in feeling confident and walk out with stunning images!
1. Plan Your Outfits with Intention
Your outfit choices can make or break your studio session! Unlike outdoor shoots where nature plays a big role in the backdrop, a photo studio offers clean, controlled environments—meaning your outfit becomes a primary focus. Here’s how to choose wisely:
Stick to solid colors or minimal patterns to keep the focus on your face.
Keep the backdrop in mind when choosing complimentary colors or patterns. In my Durham NC photo studio, the sky is the limit. From deep red to vibrant neon shades, we can customize the photo backdrop to coordinate perfectly with your fit!
Layer and accessorize! A great blazer, statement earrings, or bold lipstick can add depth and variety to your shots.
Think about movement—flowy dresses, structured outerwear, or textured fabrics photograph beautifully!
2. Know What Vibe You Want
Walking into a photography studio without a plan can leave you feeling overwhelmed. Before your session, ask yourself:
Do you want your images to feel bold and editorial, or soft and natural?
Are you going for a high-fashion look, a fun and playful energy, or a classic headshot style?
What mood inspires you? Look at Pinterest, magazine spreads, our photography portfolio, or even music videos for inspiration!
If you’re a high school senior, do you want props, a fun theme, or a minimalist aesthetic?
Once you have a vision, your photographer (that’s me!) can help you bring it to life.
3. Get to Know the Photography Studio
Knowing the key features of where you’ll be shooting is crucial. Here’s a quick overview of everything included in my Durham, NC photography studio:
900 sq ft of space
Endless backdrop options to choose from (at least 20!)
Props like stools and chairs to make your posing more versatile
Dedicated hair and makeup room to get you glam before your session
Dressing room for multiple outfit changes during your session
Lounge area with coffee and beverage station
The Pink Owl Photography studio is located at 6011 Fayetteville Road Suite 101 Durham NC. It’s right around the corner from Southpoint Mall in Durham!
4. Trust the Lighting—It’s Your Best Friend
One of the biggest advantages of shooting in a photography studio is that the lighting is controlled and flattering. But here’s the catch: studio lighting is totally different from outdoor light. Trust your photographer when they guide you into specific angles or poses—it’s all about finding the light that makes you glow.
If you’re worried about how the lighting will look, practice in front of a mirror with different angles. Pay attention to what happens when you tilt your chin slightly up or down and how shadows fall across your face. Your photographer will be watching for these details, but a little practice beforehand can help you feel more at ease!
5. Posing: The Secret to Looking Effortlessly Confident
Unless you’re a pro model (and hey, even if you are!), posing can feel awkward at first. But don’t stress—I’ve got your back. Here are some quick posing hacks:
Move between shots—shifting your weight from foot to foot, playing with your hair, or adjusting your jacket can make images feel natural.
Use your hands! Hold a jacket, swish your skirt, tuck your hair behind your ear, or rest your chin on your hands to avoid feeling stiff.
Let your confidence shine—Laugh, breathe, and have fun because the best photos always come from genuine moments!
6. Communicate with Your Photographer
Your photographer isn’t just clicking a button—we’re here to hype you up and guide you through the process! If you have any concerns or ideas, let’s talk about them. Want to see how a shot looks? Ask to peek at the camera. Not feeling 100% in your outfit choice? We can fix that! The more comfortable you are, the more your confidence will shine through in every shot.
My superpower is making you look like the best version of yourself no matter what. And the honest truth? I will never deliver a bad photo of you! If anything, your biggest struggle will be deciding which photos to post because each one is better than the last!
7. Bring the Energy!
A studio session is your time to shine. Whether you’re a high school senior celebrating graduation, a business professional updating your headshot, or a woman with a story to tell and a legacy to leave, your photos should reflect you. Walk in with energy, confidence, and the mindset that you’re about to capture something amazing.
At Pink Owl Photography, we specialize in creating an uplifting, empowering environment where you can feel like the best version of yourself. If you’re looking for experienced photographers in Durham NC who know how to make studio sessions fun and stress-free, you’re in the right place. Let’s make magic happen—book your studio session today!
Looking for more tips? Keep exploring the blog for expert advice on rocking your next photoshoot!
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