Best Friends Are Booking Photo Shoots

“At this stage of life, milestones are happening that commemorate relationships and years of hard work,” said Ariel Harrison, Licensed Clinical Social Worker in West Palm Beach. “There are birthdays, becoming empty nesters and grandparents, promotions at work, and retirements.”

“Most people want to remember who was standing next to them at those special moments in time,” said Harrison. “Although social media has made this trend accessible to everyone, Harrison urges being intentional about dedicating time to a professional photo shoot experience with people you genuinely care about.

Other popular milestones you can celebrate with your Bestie include a girlfriend becoming cancer-free, friendiversaries, girls’ trips kickoffs, and Galentine’s Day.

“Bestie photoshoots are particularly special for women 35-60 and more, because they highlight connection, confidence, and fun at a stage of life where friendships have often been nurtured for decades,” said Nardett Will, lifestyle and portrait photographer in Palm Beach, FL.

“The best photos are the ones that show your authentic connection,” said Felicia Reed, a Round Rock, Texas-based portrait photographer who created her own 40 Over 40 Project, featuring Hall. “When you’re comfortable, confident, and having fun together, the camera captures the love and joy you already share,” she said, offering these tips.

Confidence: Get the best shot

·      Dress with confidence. Clothes that are fitted, with sleeves or ruching at the waist, are incredibly flattering.

·      Flatter your features: For the chin area, try pushing your chin slightly forward and then bringing it back down—it may feel awkward, but it can look beautiful in photos.

·      Highlight your waist: Place your hands just under the bustline and angle them inward to create a natural, hourglass shape.

Fun: Enjoy the experience

Bring your personality into it: Celebrate with props like champagne, balloons, or even inside jokes that only you two share. These candid, joy-filled moments often become the favorite images.

·      Hype each other up: The energy between friends is magic. Cheer each other on, laugh through the process, and let that natural bond shine through—it will radiate in your photos.

·      Trust the process: You don’t need to know how to pose or “look photogenic.” A good photographer will guide you through everything, allowing you to relax, have fun, and enjoy being together.

Pro Tips for DIYers

If working with a photographer isn’t in the budget, try these tips from Michael Malone, founder of Livestock Framing.

·      Use a tripod, a reliable way to get the perfect angle.

·      Shoot in burst mode to capture a series of shots for a better chance of getting great shots in spontaneous poses.

·      Take candid shots by focusing on something in the distance.

·      Interact with your surroundings, props, and your friends to look more natural.

·      Select a great backdrop and let it take center stage in your photos.

“This trend is one I believe will only continue to grow, especially among women who want to celebrate the richness of their connections timelessly, said Will.”

And that’s precisely what Hall had in mind. “These photos will show our children’s children and our great-grandchildren that we celebrate the moments and make memories.”

Want more info and inspo? Check out Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, as well as national studios like JCPenney’s Bestie and Bros https://jcpportraits.com/besties-and bros/, and websites like Peerspace and Giggster, which offer local photo venues for rent. But hurry, Galentine’s Day may be a busy time for your local photographers.