When planning a new portrait, only think in terms of positive outcomes, not negative. Photographer and subject must both have a positive frame of mind going into and during the process. Getting a good looking professional photo should not be thought of as a 50/50 proposition. With the right outlook, preparation, and the right practitioner, you can be assured of getting good results. Do your research. Look at photographers’ work. Check them out and see how they handle people. Why would you want a poor photo of yourself? Then smile!