How to Prepare for Your Military Portrait Session
Updated: Sep 16
You can have the uniform ready and still have a few questions: Should you bring another look? What happens if you don't know how to pose? Is there time for a photograph with your family? Those are worth settling before session day, when a small amount of planning can take a lot off your mind.
I'm Austen Hunter of Austen Hunter Photography, a former Air Force officer and the 2024 Navy Civilian Photographer of the Year. Here's how I'd help you prepare for a military portrait session in Pensacola.
Key Takeaways
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Tell Me What You Want to Remember
A retirement portrait, a milestone in flight training and a photograph for a command biography may need different treatment. Tell me why you're booking and where you expect to use the image.
For a personal keepsake, think about the uniform or setting that feels connected to your service. If the photograph must meet an official submission requirement, send the current written specifications in advance. Don't assume that a portrait made for your wall will meet a separate administrative requirement.
My military portrait guide can help you decide on the overall direction before tackling the checklist.
Prepare the Uniform You Plan to Photograph
Try on the complete uniform early enough to address fit or missing components. Check ribbons, devices and name tags against your branch's current guidance. For Navy uniforms, use the official MyNavy HR uniform resources, including current changes, rather than relying on an old photograph.
Clean and press garments according to their care instructions. Check for lint, loose threads and visible marks. Pack the full outfit, including footwear and any cover agreed for the session. Keeping it on a hanger or in a garment bag helps protect that preparation on the journey.
Before You Leave | What to Check |
|---|---|
Uniform | Fit, cleanliness and all agreed components |
Ribbons and devices | Current order, placement and secure attachment |
Footwear | Clean and suitable for the planned photographs |
Small essentials | Lint roller, comb and useful spare fasteners |
Glasses | Clean lenses and the frames you normally wear |
Session information | Meeting point, arrival time and any access instructions |
Official requirements | Current specifications already shared with me |
I can help spot visible adjustments during the session. That complements your preparation; it doesn't replace checking the regulations that apply to you.
Agree on Extra Looks Before Packing Them
Two uniforms can offer useful variety, but they aren't a requirement for a good portrait. Choose the looks that matter to you and confirm that the session allows time for them. A change of clothing can also mean a different lighting setup or composition.
The examples above show how different uniforms can change the feeling of a portrait. If you're also weighing locations, my studio-versus-outdoor guide explains that choice.
Let me know ahead of time if you want family members or meaningful objects included. We can discuss what will photograph well and what fits the session, rather than making those decisions after everyone arrives.
Leave the Posing to the Session
You don't need to rehearse a particular expression or arrive with a list of poses. Bring a few references if they help explain what you like, and tell me if being photographed makes you uncomfortable. I'll guide posture and expression as we work.
Keep grooming familiar. Avoid trying a new haircut, skin treatment or makeup approach just for the photographs if you don't know how it will look or feel. If you're wearing glasses, bring them; we'll work with reflections rather than assume you should look different from everyday life.
“Prepare the details that matter to you, then give yourself room to enjoy being photographed.” — Austen Hunter
Confirm the Practical Details
Before session day, confirm the meeting point, planned looks and when you need the finished images. For a location session, we'll also discuss weather and access. Share any retirement, travel or gift deadline when you first inquire.
Current options are on my military portrait page. The booking conversation is where we'll confirm what your session includes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Have to Bring Two Uniforms?
No. One carefully chosen uniform can be enough. Discuss additional looks beforehand so time and arrangements match your plans.
Can My Family Join?
Tell me who you'd like included when you inquire. We'll confirm the people, photographs and time involved before booking.
What If I Need an Official Photograph?
Send the current requirements from the organization requesting it. I'll review the brief with you before we confirm the session.
What If I Feel Awkward in Front of the Camera?
You don't need prior experience. Tell me what concerns you, and I'll guide you through the session.
