Prepare and Make the Most of Your Senior Session
An upcoming senior photo session shouldn't cause anxiety or be a headache to plan. Here's a few of my top tips and tricks to help you sort out where to focus your energy.
Location
We'll discuss and select 1-2 locations depending on your session length ahead of time. Feel free to share a photo of a background you love, or tell me about your vision - something downtown, in the fields, up in the mountains, along a river, amongst red rocks, surrounded by gardens, etc. I'll do my best to bring it to life.
Stress-Free Prep Time
Try to schedule your session when you have time beforehand to prepare and prep without feeling rushed. This is not the day to try to make it work with dry shampoo or try an untested spray tan the night before. Think about elements you may want to prep for a few days prior - mani/pedi, a fresh haircut, etc. For the day of your session, stick to tried and true with makeup and hairstyles that feel authentic. Aim for a polished, best version of you.
Outfits
Generally, I like to suggest one more casual outfit and one dressed up option at minimum. The outfits should fit your own personality and your high school photo standards. Beyond that, something that fits your body well is really important. If you have to continually adjust straps or your layers to be just right, or can't sit comfortably in the dress, it's probably not the right option. Remember to take a few moments to prepare with a steamer or lint roller before you head out the door. If your favorite footwear looks great, but hurts your feet, bring something easy to wear between shots. Put some thought into accessories - jewelry you want to wear, a belt you need with your pants, a second pair of socks that work better with your dressy outfit, etc. Feel free to inquire about bringing props or accessories you want to include - college gear, pennant, instrument, sports gear, etc.
Other things to consider:
• Earth colors and neutrals always look great in photos - blue, olive, sage, cream, tan, and rust are some of my favorites.
• Think about contrast in your clothing and your features - a black top with long black hair means your hair will be hard to see
• Avoid big logos, graphics, or very bright colors that can reflect on your skin
During the Session
I'll do everything I can to help you feel confident and comfortable during our photo session. I'll help you with poses, give suggestions, and take your thoughts into consideration. Being in front of the camera usually means a 'fake it till you make it' mindset. It might feel weird at first, but it's my job to help and make it as painless as possible. Just lean in to happy and don't be afraid to laugh.
Be Open
I hope everyone feels absolutely comfortable talking to me during their session. Show me the pimple that's ruining your week and you want to make sure I edit out. Share that you love your glasses, but want to try a mix of photos with and without them. Tell me that you never know what to do with your hands in photos – I'm here to help and make the session as successful as possible.
Elena's Review
These photos turned out absolutely beautifully.
Upcoming graduates - be sure to check out Jennifer.
