Tips for a Senior Portrait Session

Senior year of high school is a milestone you will want to remember. Senior portraits are about celebrating this accomplishment through high school and all the work that went into getting that diploma. My hope is you look back on these photos and they truly capture this stage of life. As parents and seniors start to plan for the session together, here are my tips for a Senior portrait session.

Tips for Parents of the Senior:

1. Think about where you want the photos. Do you have a specific wall or frame in mind? Do you plan to use them in an announcement? Or send to grandparents and friends?
2. There are two options for timing of the session. You can plan to have your child’s Senior portrait session done in the Fall or Spring. If you want them way in advance or want to include them in your Christmas card then choose Fall. Consider things like when your child less busy with extracurricular activities. Or do they (or you) have a seasonal preference – Fall leaves or Spring flowers?
3. Phone consultation before you book. With all my clients I have a quick phone call prior to booking. I answer any questions you have, talk about styling, locations I think might work for your child, and dates that work with your schedule. I prefer your Senior to be on the call so I can get their input too.
4. Think about who will be joining the session. The goal for the session is to have your child be relaxed and have fun. Along with a parent, sometimes bringing a friend or sibling does the trick. I’ve also had grandma join! Whoever you think will help your child smile and be at ease is the perfect choice.

Tips for the Senior:

1. Choosing outfits. I advise to choose clothes that are comfortable, a proper fit, and that you feel good in. Solid colors and two layers (such as a shirt and a light jacket or sweater) add depth and a little visual interest. Also consider accessories such as shoes, jewelry, scarves, class rings, hats, etc. Accessories can be a great way to add a little color or pop. But most of all, look like YOU.
2. 24 hours before your session. Little things like laying your outfits out and getting accessories together will help you feel ready for the session. Use lotion on your face, neck, and arms so your skin looks healthy and glowing. Guys, shave the night before your session to reduce redness.
3. At the session. I want you to have fun and celebrate this milestone! Be yourself and I will find your best angle and poses. I will help you “pose” and find relaxing, natural-looking places for your hands. Chances are you won’t even know I’m taking pictures once we get started!
4. Breakouts! Nails! Oh my! A little photoshop can help with last-minute breakouts. Your hands will be in the close ups. Tidy up your nails and/or have fresh nail polish.
5. Extra tips. Bring water and a snack if you tend to get hangry. Adding a backup outfit to your bag is a good idea. I’ve had to use a backup outfit once when a zipper got stuck and wouldn’t open!

Whenever you decide to book, I hope these tips for your Senior portrait session are helpful. Your gallery of photos will highlight the personality of your Senior and celebrate them during this life stage. I can’t wait to meet you soon!