How I Shoot Solo

How to Shoot Solo

Shooting alone can feel like a chaotic game of tag between you and the camera. Here is my step-by-step workflow for solo portrait photography sessions.

Step 1: Start with the Vision

Don’t touch your camera until you know exactly what you’re shooting.

Pinterest is the starting line: Use it to lock in the vibe, lighting, and posing for your creative photography.

The Dedicated Board: I create a new board for every solo photoshoot project so I don’t get distracted by old ideas.

Step 2: Plan & Prep

The goal is to have the technical side 100% finished before you step into the frame.

The Gear List: Write down every single item you need for your solo studio setup so you aren’t searching for batteries mid-shoot.

The Build: This is where I go: backdrop here, lights there.

Pre-Set Everything: Dial in your solo lighting portrait setup and framing using a stand-in or a chair before you start. These portrait lighting tips will save you hours of frustration.

Step 3: Choose Your Tech Setup

Tethering is the “secret sauce” for self-shooting techniques because it removes the guesswork.

Option 1: The Laptop Setup (My Preference)

The Workflow: Camera → Tether Tools cable → Laptop → Lightroom.

Why it works: You get a massive live preview, instant photo review, and full control over your camera settings from the computer-perfect for any single photographer working alone.

Option 2: The Mobile/iPad Setup

The Workflow: Camera → Tether Tools cable → iPad → Cascable App.

Why it works: If you want to stay light and portable, this gives you a live view and instant review right at your fingertips.

Option 3: The Bluetooth Remote

The Workflow: Use a dedicated remote to focus and trigger the shutter.

Why it works: No more running back and forth to the camera. Use the focus button to lock on, then hit the shutter-essential for solo portrait photography.

Step 4: Edit & Post

Shooting tethered makes the “after” much faster. Because you can see the images as they happen, you can pick your favorites on the go.

Platform: Once the session is done, pull your favorites into Lightroom or Capture One.

Post: Edit for the vibe you locked in during Step 1, then get it on the feed.

The Gear I Use (Affiliate Links)

To make your solo sessions “no drama,” you need reliable gear. Here is exactly what I use:

• The Only Cables I Trust: Tether tools

• My Bluetooth Remote: Camera Remote

• Essential iPad App: Cascable App

• My Go-To Backdrop System:  Backdrop Stand