Top 10 Things to Remember for a Drag Promo Photoshoot

A drag promo photoshoot is your moment to shine, showcase your persona, and capture the essence of your artistry. Whether you're updating your promo materials or debuting a new look, here are 10 things to remember to make your shoot flawless.

1. Lay Out Your Looks Before Arriving

Make sure you have everything you need to look your best by prepping your outfits in advance. Depending on the session you’ve booked, we can work with 1-3 looks, so plan accordingly! Double-check your wigs, accessories, shoes, and any finishing touches before heading to the studio. Remember nails if you want them! We do have false lashes in varying style and lengths in case you forgot them for an additional fee.

2. Pay Attention to Hair & Wigs

A well-styled wig can make or break a shot. Secure it properly, smooth out flyaways. We do have a variety of brushes on hand as well, just in case.

3. Makeup for the Camera

Go bolder than usual! Cameras can wash out details, so sharpen those contours, amp up the highlight, and set everything with powder to avoid shine.

4. Nail Your Signature Pose

Not sure what to do with your hands? Struggling to find variety? No worries—at Studio 5, we’ll coach you on posing so you don’t have to stress. Whether you're a natural in front of the camera or more of a performer than a poser, we’ve got you!

5. Play with Accessories

Gloves, fans, sunglasses, jewelry—small details elevate the look and add character to your shots.

6. Bring Props That Define Your Persona

A microphone, crown, cocktail glass, or even a dramatic feather boa can reinforce your branding and performance style.

7. Choose the Right Backdrop

Think about your aesthetic: clean and minimal for timeless promo shots, bold and colorful for high-energy visuals, or moody and dramatic for a cinematic feel.

8. Movement Adds Drama

Don’t just pose—twirl, flip your hair, throw a glove, or let fabric flow to create natural movement and energy in your images.

9. Hydrate & Prep

Long shoots require hydration and energy! Drink water, eat something beforehand, and pack a small touch-up kit (lipstick, powder, lash glue).

10. We’ve Got Your Back!

Forgot something? We (should) have you covered! At Studio 5, we keep essentials on hand—hairspray, super glue, brushes, a mirror, paper towels, and bobby pins—so you can focus on serving looks. We also have two full-length mirrors, a dressing room, and a clothing rack to help you stay organized and picture-perfect throughout your session.

Spring Photo Tips for Entertainers & Artists: How to Get the Perfect Shot This Season

Spring is the season of renewal, creativity, and vibrant energy—making it the perfect time for new headshots, branding images, and artistic portraits. Whether you’re a musician, actor, drag performer, dancer, or creative professional, your photos should reflect your unique personality and style. At Studio 5 Baltimore, we know how to craft images that make a statement. Here are some top tips for making the most of your spring portrait session.

1. Choose a Location That Tells Your Story

For performers and artists, location is everything. Your backdrop should complement your vibe and brand. Here are some ideas:

🎭 Bold & Theatrical – Graffiti Alley or a dramatic stage setting for a high-energy, colorful shoot.
🎶 Moody & Artistic – An old Baltimore warehouse, historic alley, or textured brick walls.
🌸 Soft & Ethereal – A studio session with natural light or an outdoor garden with dreamy florals.

Bonus Tip: Springtime lighting is incredible for artistic portraits—especially during golden hour, when the sun creates a soft, cinematic glow.

2. Wardrobe: Think Layers, Texture & Drama

Your outfit should enhance, not distract from, your presence in front of the camera. Spring is the perfect time to experiment with layers, rich textures, and movement in your wardrobe.

✔ Statement Pieces: Flowy fabrics, vintage-inspired coats, or structured blazers for a bold look.
✔ Textures Matter: Leather, sequins, lace, or satin add dimension to your photos.
✔ Colors That Pop: Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby) or pastel hues for a fresh spring aesthetic.

🎭 For Drag Performers & Burlesque Artists: Go all out with glam details—think bold makeup, dramatic accessories, and editorial lighting.

🎸 For Musicians & Actors: Choose outfits that complement your on-stage persona—casual and cool, avant-garde, or classic and timeless.

3. Props & Motion Make an Impact

Spring shoots are an opportunity to incorporate movement—whether it's a dancer mid-leap, a musician with their instrument, or a performer showcasing their signature pose.

🎤 For Performers: Bring a signature prop (microphone, paintbrush, hat, or theatrical mask) to personalize your session.
💃 For Dancers: Flowing fabrics or silk scarves add energy and motion to your shots.
🎸 For Musicians: Consider playing during your shoot—real moments translate into striking images.

4. Play with Lighting for a Dramatic Effect

Natural light is stunning in spring, but studio lighting allows for full creative control.

📸 Soft Natural Light: Perfect for intimate, emotive portraits with an ethereal feel.
💡 Dramatic Studio Light: High-contrast shadows and bold colors for an editorial, cinematic edge.

At Studio 5, we can create moody, high-fashion lighting setups or soft, romantic portraits—whichever best suits your artistic vision.

5. Express Yourself!

Your energy, presence, and expression make the shot. Don’t be afraid to:
🎭 Be Playful – Exaggerated expressions, bold body language, and dramatic poses make for dynamic images.
🎶 Get Lost in the Moment – Move, perform, or interact with the camera as if it’s your audience.
🌟 Tell a Story – Your photos should reflect who you are as an artist—so embrace your unique essence.