So, you've booked yourself a pole photoshoot. Exciting! Now comes the big question — what on earth are you going to wear?
Whether it's your very first pole photoshoot or you're practically a professional at posing in front of the camera, a little preparation can make a massive difference to your final photos.
I'm Rachel, founder and designer at RARR Designs, and after twenty-seven years designing pole and dance wear — and seeing some incredible photoshoots — I've picked up a few tips along the way. So grab a cuppa, and let's talk about how to get the most out of your next pole photoshoot.
1. Go big with your hair and makeup
If there's ever a time to go a little overboard with your makeup, it's for a photoshoot.
The camera and lighting can sometimes wash out your features, so don't be afraid to go a little heavier than you normally would. Think dramatic lashes, defined eyes, gorgeous lips and plenty of highlight.
And if you're planning a sparkly, glittery photoshoot, then my advice is simple: more glitter.
Seriously, glitter is your best friend when it comes to catching the light. Add some sparkle to your cheekbones, your eyes, your hair or even your body. If you're going for a particular theme, have some fun with it — you want your photos to pop.
One tip: arrive with your hair and makeup ready to go, unless you've specifically booked someone to do it for you. You don't want to waste precious camera time getting yourself organised.
2. Choosing the perfect polewear for your photoshoot
Now this is obviously one of my favourite topics.
Your pole photoshoot is the perfect opportunity to wear something that makes you feel absolutely amazing. Whether you're going for sexy, elegant, fierce, feminine or something completely outrageous — your outfit should reflect you.
A few of my go-to RARR Designs collections depending on the mood:
- Felix — strappy, mesh, sensual. Perfect for a sultry editorial shoot.
- Sparkles & Glitteratti — the shiny stuff. Made for sequins, light-catching fabric and anything that reads stage-ready in photos.
- Luxe — minimal, strappy, cleaner lines. For when you want the body and movement to be the star, not the costume.
- Curvy / Plus Size range (XXL–5XL) — designed for curves, not just upsized. Cut so pieces sit flattering under studio lighting, not fighting your body.
Here's something important to remember though: what looks amazing standing in front of the mirror doesn't always work when you're upside down on a pole. Make sure your outfit fits properly, stays in place and allows you to move comfortably — you don't want to spend half your photoshoot adjusting your bottoms.
And if you're planning some tricky pole moves, make sure you've got enough skin contact for grip. The pole doesn't care how pretty your fabric is.
My biggest tip? Bring at least TWO outfits.
You might start with something elegant and change into something bold and dramatic. Having a couple of options gives you more variety in your final photos. And honestly, who doesn't love an excuse for another outfit?
3. Bring your Pleasers
If you've got a gorgeous pair of Pleasers sitting at home, this is their moment to shine.
High heels can look absolutely incredible in pole photos. They help create beautiful lines, make your legs look longer and add that extra bit of attitude to your poses. Whether you're wearing classic black heels, sparkly platforms or something bright and colourful — pack them.
Of course, you don't have to wear heels. Barefoot pole photos can be just as beautiful, especially if you're going for something soft, artistic or athletic. But I always say — bring your heels anyway. You never know when you'll want that extra bit of fabulousness.
If you're new to dancing in heels, here's our guide to what to wear to a heels class — same outfit rules apply when you're wearing them for photos.
4. Plan your pole poses before you arrive
This is a BIG one.
Don't turn up to your photoshoot and suddenly realise you've forgotten every pole move you've ever learnt. It happens more often than you think. Camera's on you, lights are warm, suddenly your brain goes completely blank.
Before your photoshoot:
- Spend some time thinking about the poses and moves you'd love to capture
- Save some inspiration photos on your phone
- Practise your favourite shapes and work out which side looks best
- Make a short list — three to five "must-have" shots and three to five "nice-to-haves"
You don't need to be doing the most advanced tricks in the world either. Sometimes the simplest poses create the most beautiful photographs — a gorgeous leg extension, a beautiful back arch, or even a confident pose standing beside the pole can look absolutely stunning.
Remember, a photoshoot isn't about showing off your hardest trick. It's about capturing beautiful shapes, confidence and personality.
And please — stick to moves you can perform safely and comfortably. Photoshoot day is not the day to attempt something you've never tried before.
5. Bring a friend — trust me on this one
One of my favourite pieces of advice is to bring a friend along.
Why? Because having someone there to help you makes such a difference. Your photographer is often busy behind the camera — checking lighting, angles, getting that perfect shot. They can't always see that your hair is stuck to your lip gloss, your outfit has twisted, or your foot needs to point just a little bit more.
That's where your friend comes in. They can:
- Fix your hair between poses
- Spot wardrobe twists before the camera does
- Remind you of your pose list
- Give you that little confidence boost when nerves kick in
Plus it's always more fun having someone there cheering you on. Just double-check your photographer is happy for you to bring someone along first.
6. Think about lighting and colours
Here's something people don't always consider — the colour of your outfit can make a huge difference depending on the lighting and background of your photoshoot.
A few quick rules:
- Dark background → bright or sparkly outfits pop beautifully
- Soft, dreamy aesthetic → lighter colours and softer fabrics
- Dramatic coloured lighting → think about how your outfit colour reads under that specific wash (red light + red outfit = outfit disappears)
Some fabrics absolutely come alive when the light hits them. Sequins, metallics, glitter and shiny materials can look incredible under studio lighting. If you're unsure, have a chat with your photographer beforehand — or better still, bring a couple of different coloured options.
7. To tan or not to tan
This one is completely personal.
If you love a bit of colour, a light tan can look gorgeous in photographs, particularly under studio lighting. It can give your skin a lovely glow and sometimes enhance muscle definition. But you certainly don't need a tan to look amazing — whatever your natural skin tone, the right lighting can make you look beautiful.
A few honest notes though:
- If you do tan, make sure it's fully developed and set before your shoot. Fresh tan transfers to light fabrics (goodbye, white bodysuit).
- Avoid oily tanning products or body moisturisers right before your shoot, especially if you're planning pole tricks. Slippery skin and inverting on a pole are a bad combination.
- Barrier cream the inside of your outfit with a light dusting of baby powder if you're worried about transfer — safer than nothing.
8. Don't forget the little extras
Sometimes it's the little things that make all the difference. Here's my quick photoshoot packing checklist:
- ✅ At least two gorgeous polewear outfits
- ✅ Your favourite Pleasers or heels
- ✅ Knee pads if you're planning any floorwork shots (slim, dance-friendly — more here)
- ✅ Makeup for touch-ups
- ✅ Hairbrush, hairspray and hair accessories
- ✅ Glitter, sparkle and any fun extras
- ✅ Inspiration photos and your pose list
- ✅ A towel and your usual pole grip products
- ✅ Water and a little snack
- ✅ A friend to help you look your best
- ✅ Most importantly — your confidence
Before you jump in front of the camera: check your nails, remove any hair ties from your wrists, and make sure everything is looking just how you want it. Those little details absolutely show up on camera.
9. Have fun and be yourself
This is probably the most important tip of all.
A pole photoshoot should be something you enjoy, not something you stress about. You don't need the perfect body, the perfect flexibility, or the most advanced pole tricks. You just need to show up, feel fabulous, and enjoy the experience.
Some of the best photos happen when you're laughing, relaxing and just being yourself. Don't put too much pressure on getting every pose absolutely perfect — sometimes those unexpected moments turn out to be your favourite photos.
And confidence always looks amazing on camera.
10. Want something special to wear? Come and see us at RARR Designs
If you're planning a pole photoshoot and want something a little different, we'd love to help you create the perfect look.
At RARR Designs in Melbourne, we design polewear made to make you feel confident, comfortable and absolutely fabulous. Whether you've got a particular colour in mind, want something sparkly, or have a completely wild idea you'd love to bring to life — that's what we're here for.
Come into our Hallam space, chat about your ideas and explore what we can create together. We also have our very own seven-pole practice room, which is perfect if you want to work on your poses before the big day. (The pole room is available for practice sessions rather than classes, so you can come in and work on those beautiful shapes you've been dreaming of capturing.)
❓ Pole Photoshoot FAQs
What should I wear to a pole photoshoot?
Something that fits perfectly, lets you move freely, and makes you feel incredible. Bring at least two outfits for variety — one elegant, one dramatic. Prioritise skin contact for grip if you're doing pole tricks, and avoid fabric that bunches when you invert.
How many outfits should I bring to a pole photoshoot?
At least two, ideally three or four. More outfits = more variety in your final photos. Think different colours, different coverage levels, and one "statement" look you wouldn't normally wear.
Should I wear heels for a pole photoshoot?
If you've got Pleasers or platforms you can walk and pose in, bring them — heels elongate the legs and add drama to pole poses. Barefoot photos work beautifully too, especially for softer or athletic aesthetics. Bring both options if you can.
What pole moves should I do for a photoshoot?
Stick to moves you can perform safely and confidently. Beautiful shapes with clean lines (leg extensions, back arches, inverted poses you've nailed) often photograph better than advanced tricks. Prepare a shortlist of 5–8 poses in advance.
Should I tan before a pole photoshoot?
Completely personal. If you do tan, let it fully develop so it doesn't transfer to your outfit. Avoid oily tanning products or moisturisers on the day — they'll make you slide on the pole.
Can I bring a friend to my pole photoshoot?
Usually yes, with your photographer's permission. A friend can fix hair, spot outfit twists, remind you of your pose list, and give you a confidence boost. Highly recommended.
What should I avoid wearing to a pole photoshoot?
Anything that rides up, pinches, or restricts movement. Loose flowy fabric that catches on the pole. Jewellery that gets tangled in hair or fabric. Delicate crystals or lace that might fall off during tricks. Fresh fake tan or body oil (grip killer).
Do I need knee pads for a pole photoshoot?
If you're planning any floorwork, kneeling poses, or drops — yes. Slim, dance-specific knee pads will protect your knees without ruining the line of the outfit. More on choosing pole-friendly knee pads here.
Ready to shine?
At the end of the day, a great pole photoshoot is about celebrating you. Your strength, your confidence, your creativity, and everything that makes you unique.
So pack those gorgeous outfits, grab your heels, throw on some glitter and get ready to shine.
And if you need something fabulous to wear — you know where to find us. 💖
Shop the pole wear collection · Shop grips · Shop knee pads
Love, Rachel xx
RARR Designs, Melbourne
Creating beautiful polewear for beautiful, strong and confident people.
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