As a high school senior, you’ve accomplished a lot, and that deserves to be celebrated! A senior portrait session is a great way to do that, and to capture the best of who you are. That’s why it is essential to adequately prepare for your session. Whether you take your photos in a studio or outdoors, there are certain tips and tricks that will help ensure that you look your best and get the most out of your senior photo experience. Though there any many things that could be done to prepare, here are a few tips to help you get starting in preparing for your session.
Inspiration: Surf the internet and find examples of senior photos that you really like; especially if you have a theme in mind. I don't know about other photographers in Sierra Vista, but you can share what you find online with me by sending a screenshot. Getting inspiration from the work of others is a great way to make the best of a senior photo session.
Outfits: A good outfit can really make a portrait. When selecting an outfit, try to pick items that are comfortable, you love, and that help you radiate confidence. If you feel great then it will show in your pictures. For instance, if you love sports, consider wearing a jersey or uniform from one of your teams. Do skip t-shirts with writing or clothing fine, elaborate patterns as they can be distracting. Also, remember accessories like jewelry or scarves! Accessories can add depth and dimension to any outfit.
Multiple Outfits: I encourage you to bring multiple outfits with you to your shoot. After all, different looks create more options when it comes time to choose which images will go into prints or albums later on. If the studio you choose has changing rooms available (which mine does!), I recommend bringing at least two choices—one casual look and one formal look—to get a variety of shots that reflect different sides of yourself. Don’t forget items such as a cap and gowns oh and hang everything on hangers and change at the studio. This will keep you looking wrinkle free in your pictures!
Comfortable Shoes: Even if you plan on not having them show in the photos, it’s important that you wear comfortable shoes so that you can move around without feeling uncomfortable or awkward. If you’d like to wear something with high heels or platforms then bring them and put them on at the session. You'll be more comfortable in them during the shoot and it will show!
Natural Makeup, or None: My goal is always to capture portraits that are timeless and classic-looking. One way to ensure this is by wearing minimal makeup, or none at all. Natural beauty looks great in any era—even 10 years down the road! Plus, too much makeup can leave you looking washed out in photographs because heavy makeup doesn’t always translate well on camera. So unless you’re going for a specific look, try sticking with lighter shades that will enhance your natural features without obscuring them completely. If you’ve got something theatrical in mind, like a gothic or steampunk inspired shoot then let’s talk make-up first to make sure we crush the session!
Props: Don’t forget props! Props are great ways to show off hobbies or interests during your session—like musical instruments if you play one or sports equipment if athletics is important to you . Bring whatever items make sense for what defines who YOU are as an individual! And don't be afraid to get creative with them; props give us lots of opportunities for fun poses and shots. It’s better to bring it to the session and not use it than want it and not have it!
Before coming into the studio or heading out for an outdoor shoot it's always a good idea to get your hair and makeup ready beforehand and you can do touch ups at the studio, or as necessary. You can do this yourself at home or even hire a professional makeup artist depending on how much time and money you want to spend on getting ready.
Be Patient & Have Fun With It!: Patience is essential during these types of shoots; sometimes things just don't go as planned but that doesn't mean it won't turn out right eventually—just try again until everything looks perfect! Most importantly have fun; after all it's supposed to be an enjoyable experience so let loose once in awhile too ;)
Preparing for a senior portrait session should be fun! Taking these tips into consideration before heading into the studio or outdoor location can help make sure everything goes smoothly on photoshoot day so we can focus on creating beautiful images that truly capture who YOU are as an individual. The button below will take you to a more extensive checklist, if you'd like. Good luck - I'm looking forward to meeting you soon!