You made it! You prepared for your session by reading our prep guides, you tried on your clothing in advance, got a haircut and made it to the studio on time. The photo session is over, and now you have to pick your favorite images from your photo shoot.

It can be intimidating to sort through several photos and figuring out which shots represent you best. I've compiled a few tips that will help your pick your favorite images for retouching.

1. Straight out of the camera

Remember that these images are "straight out of camera" or SOOC as photographers like to say. They are proofs and not the finished product. We often see images in magazines that are heavily Photoshopped or photos on Instagram that have filters over them. Don't be too hard on yourself! The images you pick will be retouched before being delivered to you. We'll take care of any blemishes, fly away hair and soften a little around your eyes.

2. Remember your key words

In my blog with tips for preparing for your session, I recommend thinking of three key words you’d like to project in your photos. Are you hoping your potential employers or clients view you as confident, positive and bold? Or, approachable, trustworthy and patient? Communicating the way you’d like to appear in your photos will help with posing, style and expression. These key words can also help you select your images, so keep them in mind while choosing your photos.

3. "Phone" a friend

If you get are having a challenging time picking between two images, you can send these two shots to a friend through text or email to ask which shot looks more authentic to you. If your photographer is helping you select favorite images in the studio, they will make suggestions to help steer you toward your best shots.

For a list of the BEST ways to prepare for your headshot session, click here.