Portrait Session Guide
A printable reference for portrait sessions: shot lists organized by session type, posing reference diagrams, lighting setups for natural light and for one or two lights, and planning sheets for preparing each client session.
A downloadable PDF reference guide in US Letter and A4. Reference and planning material for use while you work; not a course, lesson, or critique service.
Contents of the guide
The guide is organized into the sections below. Every section is included in both the US Letter and A4 files.
Shot lists by session type
Separate shot lists for headshot, family, and couples sessions, laid out as checklists you can mark off during the session and add to on the day.
Posing reference diagrams
Line-drawn diagrams of standing, seated, and group arrangements, used as a quick visual reference for positioning people in the frame.
Natural-light setups
Top-down diagrams of common natural-light situations, such as window light, open shade, and backlight, showing subject, camera, and light direction.
One- and two-light setups
Diagrams for single-light and two-light portraits that mark light placement, angle, modifier type, and the position of reflectors or backgrounds.
Client session planning sheets
Worksheets for recording session details ahead of time: people in the session, location, timing, wardrobe notes, and must-have shots.
Representative pages
Illustrations of three representative page layouts from this guide. They show the layout and structure of each page type.
Who it's for, and who it isn't
A good fit for
- Photographers who run headshot, family, or couples sessions and want a printed shot list and setup reference on hand
- Anyone who plans sessions on paper and wants consistent worksheets for each client
- Photographers who work with natural light, a single light, or a simple two-light kit
Not the right fit for
- Anyone looking for a course or lessons: this guide is reference pages, not instruction
- Photographers who need editable or fillable templates: the PDFs are flat and meant for printing
- Large studio productions built around complex multi-light rigs
- Anyone hoping for feedback on their photos: the guide contains no critique
Formats and sizes
- File typePDF, delivered by download
- Page sizesUS Letter (8.5 × 11 in) and A4 (210 × 297 mm), both included
- EditingFlat PDFs, not editable or fillable. Print the pages and write on them.
- PrintingUnlimited printing for your own use, at home or at a print shop
- Gear referencesEquipment is described by type, never by brand
- LicensePersonal and commercial use in your own photography work. See the Terms of Service.
This guide is also part of the Complete Reference Library, which includes all five guides.
Portrait Session Guide
$34USD