What to Expect: Session Prep Edition—My Must-Have Items for Your Session!

Kelly Stickelmaier
May 29
2 min read

Your session is booked, your outfits are chosen, and now you're probably thinking, “What else do I need?” I’ve got you covered! Here are my favorite tips and must-have items to ensure you feel totally prepped, comfortable, and ready to shine in front of the camera:

✨ Gatherall Strapless, Backless Bra + Seamless Undies

Foundation matters! Nothing ruins your gorgeous dress more than visible bra straps or panty lines. I swear by the Gatherall strapless, backless bra—comfortable, supportive, and totally invisible. Pair it with nude seamless undies, and you'll be effortlessly polished.

💁‍♀️ CHI Curler for Effortless Curls

Wondering how to style your hair? Opt for loose, effortless curls. Curls add dimension, texture, and movement to your images, creating that dreamy, romantic look. My favorite tool is the CHI curler—quick, easy, and creates soft, flowing curls perfect for capturing movement.

🌿 OGEE Contour Kit—Effortlessly Organic Makeup

Keep makeup fresh, natural, and effortless. My favorite? The OGEE contour kit. It's organic, clean, and blends seamlessly for that glowing, natural look. A little contour adds subtle definition, and you’ll feel polished without feeling overdone.

👁 Natural-Looking False Lashes

False lashes can truly elevate your look, making your eyes pop beautifully in photos. Opt for subtle, natural-looking lashes—not too thick or overly dramatic—and skip heavy, black eyeliner, as it tends to make your eyes look smaller and less open. Soft and subtle wins every time!

✨ Lumify Eye Drops for Bright Eyes

A photographer’s secret weapon: Lumify eye drops. These are incredible for making your eyes clear, bright, and sparkling. Tired eyes? No one will ever know!

👗 Fashion Glue—Better Than Tape!

Forget wardrobe malfunctions! I love fashion glue—it’s more reliable than tape, gentle on your skin, and keeps everything exactly where it should be. This little miracle worker is perfect for securing straps, necklines, or even a loose hem.

🔥 A Steamer—Wrinkle-Free for the Win!

Wrinkles show up clearly on camera, so having a handheld steamer ready is a session game-changer. A quick steam before your session helps everything look polished, fresh, and camera-ready.

Preparation is key to a relaxed, enjoyable photo session. With these essentials, you'll show up feeling confident, beautiful, and ready to make memories. I can't wait to capture all your gorgeous, effortless beauty at your upcoming session!

Questions? Need more prep tips? Just ask—I’m always here to help!