Being well prepared for you senior photo session can make the difference between average and fabulous photos. Follow these easy tips and you’ll be well on your way to looking your absolute best. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact me.
Mindset
Have fun! We’re going to make you look great and you’ll have a great time.
Relax. I’m a pretty easy person to get along with. Plus, I will help you with posing. You’re welcome to suggest your own poses too. They’re your pictures so I want them to look great and customized for you!
Arrival
Arrive early or on time to your appointment. Showing up late means you lose camera time, and we don’t want that.
If you’re coming from out of town, give yourself plenty of time to find your way around.
Style
You’re unique and beautiful. Be yourself in how you dress. I would just suggest that you don’t go over the top.
Be fashionable. Wear clothing that’s stylish and put a lot of thought into your choices. This is a unique opportunity and we want you to look amazing!
Clothing
I give you unlimited wardrobe changes, so bring A LOT of options. The more outfits we have to choose from, the better. This will give us flexibility in matching your clothing to backgrounds and the surroundings.
Group your outfits together on hangers. Make sure items are ironed and ready to go.
Plan on changing quickly. The faster you change, the more time I have to photograph and the more photo choices you’ll have later.
Make sure you’re comfortable in your clothing and that it flatters you. This will 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 stripes and plaid. Solid colors photograph much better than busy patterns.
Bring a variety of colors and mix the level of styles. Some should be dressy, some dressy-casual, and some casual.
If you’re comfortable in dresses, bring them! They photograph really well and offer a nice variety from your other casual clothing choices. We can mix dressy and casual dresses for some great looks.
Shoes
Wear heels if you have them! 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
Although we try to help with hair, it is hard to know what your hair “is supposed to look like.” Make sure you like the look or let the photographer know your preferences. Better yet, bring your best friend with you for the session and he or she can help. Hair style is ultimately YOUR responsibility. 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.
Do not make drastic changes to your hairstyle right before your photo session. This could add unneeded drama to your life.
If you want your hair and makeup to look fabulous, book a hair and makeup session with my friend, Lisa Hunt, of Allure Salon and Spa in Hastings or your favorite stylist.
Makeup
Makeup that is 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.
Makeup should only be slightly heavier than normal. Mascara should be clean and not clumpy. Avoid makeup with an SPF because it tends to create a shine. Summer shine can be controlled by using translucent powder that knocks out shine without adding additional color.
Jewelry
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.
All that being said, the proper jewelry 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.
Props
They’re great! Bring props that help show who you are. Some popular choices are:
Sports equipment (soccer ball, basketball, softball bat, etc.)
Sports uniforms
Musical instruments
Activity related items (dance, art, school clubs, etc.)
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.
Tanning
Tan lines are a distraction and take away from your photos. We suggest you use a tanning bed and varied swimsuit tops to minimize any existing tan lines. If you choose to tan outside or in a tanning bed, don’t overdo it. We don’t want you looking orange and leathery.
Complexion
Makeup helps a lot here, but I can retouch as needed, so please don’t be concerned about minor breakouts. I have you covered!
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.
Weather
Don’t worry about clouds because they actually even out the light and make for ideal shooting conditions. But falling rain is an issue and we will have to reschedule.
Undergarments
Please make sure the colors of your undergarments 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.