Preparation is important. The best shoots are ones where you are rested and fresh. Haircuts should be a couple of weeks old so that you are used to styling a new look. For women, fingernails should be painted in a neutral color that doesn’t detract from clothing or posing.
A relaxed environment is essential to a good photo session. Some people like to bring a family member or trusted friend along for support. Bring anything that makes you feel comfortable and at ease. Some photographers will encourage you to bring your favorite music to a shoot.
Multiple clothing changes show your versatility. Consider simple clothing for close up head shots. Solid colors or even bare shoulders are fantastic options. For full-length shots, try to vary your look. Consider evening wear, business attire, casual outfits and swimsuits if you are comfortable. Try to bring some clothes that are classic and simple in addition to outfits that reflect current fashion trends. Simple jewelry is preferred. Here are some photo types that we can do:
Beauty: Close ups of full face, head and shoulders. These photos should be done with fresh, well applied make-up and some retouching. This is what you typically see in magazines, especially hair mags. When in this kind of photo shoot bring along a loaded makeup bag.
Swimsuit: We can shoot swimsuit photos, weather permitting, at the beach, poolside or at your choice of Southern California locations.
Fashion: Fashion photography is used by designers in advertising. For this type of photo, think of current fashion trends or looks that capture a particular theme, such as my "Rocker Boys" look. Clean, solid colors are best. Avoid loud prints or patterns.
Editorial: In editorial photos, we are more edgy and creative. This is where imagination really comes into play, so choose clothing and accessories that show your versatility and personal style. This type of photography also uses one aspect, such as hands or feet or a book to help tell a story.
Lots of these types of settings overlap and you often feel more comfortable the longer you shoot. When you see a photo of someone or something that catches your eye, take it to your shoot and see if the photographer can replicate the idea or setting.
Love is in everyone from my silly husband and I eating ridiculously sized sundaes at Ghiradelli's to this sweet man who is probably older than my parents and still showed the whole city that he had a special sweetheart on this day. Enjoy creating your own ideas of this man and where he was going, what he'd been doing and what his Valentine would say to him. 
Ridiculous Sundae at Ghiradelli's Square
