Senior Photo Session Tips
For some people, taking senior pictures is one of the exciting things about being a senior! For others, it’s pretty close to a form of torture. Don’t worry, above all I want you to be yourself and have fun at your senior photo session!! I’m going to make you look fabulous and you’ll have a great time. Relax. I am easy to get along with. Plus, I help you with posing, so there’s no pressure on you.
Being prepared for your senior photo session will help you look your absolute best and create a senior picture session an event to remember! If you have any additional questions, feel free email or call me at 616-364-9753.
Location
There are many different looks to choose from for Senior session. Think about how you would like the end result of your photos to look and feel. You can view samples of senior session on my website to get ideas. Whether you like trees/fields/lake or downtown river/bridges or urban alleys/grunge or water fountains/architecture or athletic field or coffee house we can figure out a location that fits you!
Clothing
You’re unique and beautiful. Follow these basic guidelines but be yourself in how you dress. Be fashionable and stay true to yourself. Wear clothing that’s stylish and put a lot of thought into your choices. This is a unique opportunity and I want you to look amazing!
Be sure to bring several clothing options. The more outfits I have to choose from, the better. This will give us flexibility in matching your clothing to backgrounds and the surroundings. Plan on changing quickly. The faster you change, the more time we have to photograph and the more photo choices you’ll have later.
Make sure you’re comfortable in your clothing and that it flatters your body type, skin tones and eye color. This will help ensure that you like how you look when viewing your photos.
If you’re self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless or cap-sleeve shirts and tank tops, as they tend to make arms look fuller. Avoid wide open necklines and baggy clothing. Make sure clothing fits correctly.
Be sure to bring a variety of clothing including solid colors and clothing that varies in texture, patterns, design and styles. Avoid large patterns, wide stripes and large logos. Lace is an example of a textured clothing that enhances photos. Some should be dressy, some dressy-casual, and some casual.
Don’t be afraid to bring a dress! They photograph really well and offer a nice variety from your other casual clothing choices.
Most of all make sure the outfit says “YOU” ~ try it on and feel good wearing it!
Shoes
Whether pumps or boots, dressy or casual, plain or sassy, heels really make you stand out and look glamorous. Flats can also work well if you mix them with the right outfit.
Hair & Makeup
Fix your hair and makeup the same way you would if you were getting dressed up. It should be the best version of you ~ not too fancy so you don’t recognize yourself in photos.
Make sure you like the look and let me know your preferences. Any hair changes during the session should be quick and simple so you have as much camera time as possible. Bring hair spray, clips, pins, and whatever else is needed to keep your hair out of your eyes if it’s windy. Also bring a brush and mirror for quick hair touch-ups.
Makeup that is conservative and well done is one of the best preparations you can make for your session. It will even out skin tones and help give your photos that extra pop for a model-like look. Even if you don’t normally wear makeup or wear very little, take the time to do it well and your photos will look their best.
Mascara should be clean and not clumpy. Summer shine can be controlled by using translucent powder that knocks out shine without adding additional color. Don’t be concerned about minor breakouts, if makeup can’t hide it I can usually smooth and cover with Photoshop.
Accessories and Props
Jewelry, hats, scarves, props, instruments, sports gear/uniforms, a vintage camera, pets, etc. can make a statement about your personality. The proper accessories can really complement your outfit. It’s nice to have a variety to choose from and it doesn’t hurt to bring numerous options with you. Keep it simple. Big, shiny jewelry can distract from the important subject, you. If you have different jewelry for different outfits, you might put each set of jewelry in a plastic baggie and hang it on the hanger with that outfit. Feel free to bring any props that will help you create the uniqueness of your session!
Glasses
Most lenses have a glare. The safest option is to check with your eye doctor and ask if they’ll loan you a similar pair without lenses.
Undergarments
Please make sure the colors of your undergarment coordinate well with your outfits and don’t show through your clothing. If you need a strapless, please bring one to your session. Tucking or moving straps will not always work or give the most pleasing look. Check ahead of time to ensure that undergarments don’t leave unpleasing lines underneath your clothing.
Finger & Toe Nails
If you paint your nails, make sure they’re done well for your session. Chipped nail paint will show and distract from you. Avoid bright colors that will distract from you and may not work with all your outfits. Instead, opt for basic or natural tones.
Weather
If rain is an issue and we will have to reschedule. I will try to contact you first, but please call me at 616-364-9753 if you have any doubts or concerns.
Arrival and Payment
Arrive early or on time to your appointment. Showing up late means you lose camera time, and we don’t want that. Session fee is due at session.
Friends & Parents
Friends or parents are welcome and often can be a help. However, if they distract you, it may be best to meet them when the session is over. You’re welcome to have a couple of shots with a boyfriend, best friend, sibling, or parent at no extra charge as long as it fits in time frame.
Don’t be afraid to ask
If you see something on Pinterest that you would like to try or if you want to recreate a photo your friend had taken let me know. I love to make the photos reflect your specific interest and personality.
