PHYSIQUE PREP & PACKING GUIDE

PHYSIQUE is a little different from anything else I offer.

This session is focused on the body, how it moves, how it holds strength, and what you’ve built over time. You don’t need to come in knowing how to pose or perform. I’ll guide you through everything.

This guide will help you feel prepared, comfortable, and ready to step into the experience.

Before Your Session

Most clients coming in for PHYSIQUE are already paying attention to how they’re taking care of their body. You don’t need to do anything extreme, but a few small, intentional choices can make a noticeable difference in how your body feels and photographs.

Training

You’re welcome to train as you normally would leading up to your session.

Many clients choose to work out the morning of their shoot, which is completely fine. A light or moderate session can help you feel more connected to your body and bring a bit of natural fullness to the muscles.

Avoid pushing to exhaustion or trying anything new. You want to come in feeling strong and present, not depleted.

Pre-shoot “pump” (at the studio)

There will be light equipment available in the studio, including:

  • 15 lb dumbbells
  • 15 lb kettlebell
  • resistance bands

We don’t have time for full workouts, but a few quick sets, pushups, or light reps are absolutely welcome and often help you feel more ready.

Hydration

Hydration makes a real difference.

In the 7–10 days leading up to your session, prioritize consistent water intake. Well-hydrated muscles tend to look fuller and more defined, and your skin will photograph more cleanly.

Nutrition (simple, not extreme)

You do not need to follow a strict or aggressive plan.

That said, there are some natural realities in how the body photographs. In the week leading up to your session, it can help to:

  • keep sodium intake more moderate
  • avoid large swings in sugar or highly processed foods
  • stick with foods that make you feel good and stable

This is not about restriction. It’s about avoiding anything that leaves you feeling bloated, inflamed, or off.

Consistency matters more than intensity

The goal isn’t to “hack” your body in a few days.

It’s simply to stay consistent with what already makes you feel your best. Your body will photograph most naturally when you feel steady, fueled, and comfortable.

Sleep + recovery

Good sleep in the days leading up to your session will show.

Your body, your skin, and your overall energy all benefit from being well-rested. This is one of the simplest ways to feel more like yourself in front of the camera.

Skin

Arrive with clean, moisturized skin.

Avoid anything new or aggressive in the days leading up to your session. If you normally shave or groom, do so as you usually would.

Avoid tight clothing, waistbands, or anything that may leave marks on your skin right before your session. These can take time to fade and may show in images.

Hair + makeup

Keep it simple and natural.

Hair should feel like you. Makeup, if worn, should enhance rather than transform. This session is not about a heavy or polished look.

WHAT TO BRING

Clothing (3–4 options)

We’ll choose from what you bring together. However you will be uploading your options in your PHYSIQUE Questionnaire for pre-approval.

Great options include:

  • well-fitting athletic sets
  • sports bras, tanks, or fitted tops
  • shorts, leggings, sweats or joggers
  • simple, clean basics in black, white, or neutral tones

Avoid:

  • patterns
  • logos
  • anything overly trendy or distracting

Fit matters more than anything. Pieces should feel comfortable and supportive, not tight in a way that restricts movement.

And ultimately – we are showing your BODY so we want to choose items that are thoughtfully considered to showcase that, not cover it.

Items to Consider

  • A favorite athletic piece that feels like “you”
  • A simple layer (button-down, hoodie, or jacket)
  • Denim / jeans
  • Barefoot is great, clean sneakers are also an option. Don’t forget socks.
  • Fitted shorts (shorts are ideal over pants if you want to showcase quads or legs)
  • Clean, simple underwear (black or neutral)
  • Tank or fitted tee

DURING YOUR SESSION

Movement + posing

This session involves light physical engagement.

You may be:

  • flexing
  • holding positions briefly
  • using bands or light weights

Nothing is extreme, and everything is guided.

Your pace

You are always in control of your body.

If something doesn’t feel right, we adjust. If you need a break, we take one. This is collaborative and responsive to you.

You don’t need to perform

Most people walk in a little nervous.

That’s completely normal. You don’t need to know how to move or what to do. I’ll guide you step by step.

AFTER YOUR SESSION

We’ll schedule your reveal zoom appointment, where you’ll see your images and choose what you love.

This is where most people have that moment of seeing themselves differently.

FINAL NOTE

This session is about recognizing something that’s already there.

The work you’ve put in. The changes you’ve lived through. The strength you carry.

You don’t need to become anything else for this.