How to Prepare for Your Self-Portrait Session | Art Portrait Room Toronto

Written By Lora

Stepping in front of the camera for a self-portrait session is a creative experience like no other.
At Art Portrait Room, you’re both the muse and the artist — and this guide will help you prepare for a relaxed, inspiring, and truly personal shoot.

Whether it’s your first time or you’ve already explored self-portrait photography before, these simple tips will help you feel confident and ready to create.

How to prepare for your self-portrait session at Art Portrait Room – Toronto self-portrait studio photography guide.



1. What to Wear

Choose outfits that express who you are — simple, timeless, or bold.

What to wear for your self-portrait session with a black backdrop – outfit ideas and styling tips from Art Portrait Room Toronto.

  • White backdrop: dark clothing looks bold, graphic, and timeless.

  • Black backdrop: light tones such as beige, ivory, or grey create a classic and striking look.

  • Bright colours: rich hues like red, green, and magenta add contrast and depth to your portraits.

  • Beige backdrop: works beautifully with muted and neutral tones — think cream, tan, taupe, olive, or soft rose for an elegant, natural aesthetic.

  • Berry backdrop: pairs best with cool, modern shades like denim, silver, and white, which create a chic and contemporary feel.

What to wear for your self-portrait session with a white backdrop – outfit ideas and styling tips from Art Portrait Room Toronto.
What to wear for your self-portrait session with a red backdrop – outfit ideas and styling tips from Art Portrait Room Toronto.

2. Props

We have a wide variety of chairs you can use — each adds its own mood and character.
You’ll also find a few small props, like faux flowers, glasses, or masks.
Keep it simple — too many props can distract from what truly matters: you and your expression.

We have a wide variety of chairs you can use — each adds its own mood and character.

3. Mood Board & Pose Ideas

If you’d like to experiment, collect a few images that inspire you — from Pinterest, magazines, or favourite photographers.
You’ll also find an iPad at the studio with pose ideas, but the most memorable moments happen when you let go and move naturally.

4. Music

Create your own soundtrack — something that makes you move freely and something that slows your heartbeat.
Music helps you drop into the moment and express yourself authentically.

One Last Thing — You Are Enough

You don’t need to be a model, a photographer, or have any experience.
Just come as you are.
The camera is ready when you are.

👉 Book your self-portrait session → LINK

Lora