What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of senior pictures? I asked a group of my friends this and almost everyone said “awkward”, “uncomfortable”, or “awful”. All of my friends are in their 30’s and we grew up getting our senior pictures taken at one studio near us where they had fake backgrounds and a list of about 5 poses so EVERY PICTURE LOOKED THE SAME. I am so happy to say that when I asked my prior clients, they were all happy to say “fun”, “creative”, AND “something they wish they could do again”. Senior pictures have evolved into something truly fun. We can find unique locations, play good music, and I make it a point to show you the images IN REAL TIME so we find the poses or angles that YOU love.
THE OUTFIT.
· The most important thing about your outfit is that you feel comfortable and confident.
· You can absolutely bring multiple outfits but I do recommend layers so you can easily change up an outfit without having to fully change. For example, having multiple jackets, cardigans, hats, or shoes can completely change the look of the shoot from casual to formal or vice versa.
· Ensure your colors or textures compliment your location. For example, if we are having your session at a park in the fall where the leaves are yellow/orange/red – you want to make sure you don’t blend into the background. Choose a color that pops in front of the bright colors. I personally love more neutral colors – creams, greys, navy, brown, darker green.
HELPFUL TIPS.
· Get that manicure, girl! And for my guys, cut those nails! Nails DO show up in a picture and they can make or break it.
· Groom your eyebrows. With senior pictures, we will do a lot more up-close and personal headshots so I recommend grooming/waxing your eyebrows as you normally would.
· For my senior boys, I recommend getting your hair cut about 1-2 weeks prior so it has more natural look for the session. And for my senior girls, if you are trying to change up your color or cut drastically, do it about a month before so you have time to fix it before the session. (Might seem silly but I’ve had girls have to reschedule because they wanted to bleach their own hair and all of a sudden she’s completely orange – I have also, personally, done this to myself so I feel ya!)
· This may also seem like a silly one, but brush your teeth right before coming to your session.
· Ensure your clothing is ironed/pressed and free of wrinkles. Some of my seniors found it easier to arrive in a regular t-shirt THEN change into their nice shirt.
· If we are going to a location where we need to walk to each spot, I recommend bringing a pair of comfy shoes. You can change into your heels or dress shoes once we find the right spot. Your piggies will thank me!
· Try on your FULL OUTFITS before the session. Make sure you are comfortable, confident, and able to sit, stand, or walk easily.
· For the days leading up to the session, this is NOT the time to experiment with spray tans, new skincare routines, or risking not wearing sunscreen. Get your beauty sleep the night before.
· And lastly, I highly recommend getting your hair and/or make-up professionally done. It’s not only fun, but these are your senior pictures. They will likely be hanging on your parent’s wall FOREVER. If hair or make-up aren’t in your budget, try out the look before the session so you know exactly what you want so you are prepared for your picture day!
WHAT TO BRING.
(none of these are required, just suggestions)
· Personal items for touch-ups: Lipstick, foundation, hairspray, etc.
· Light towel or oil wipes. (Helps if we are doing a lot of walking and it’s hot out)
· Water
· Comfy walking shoes for in-between locations
· A lightweight tote bag (I’ll ask at the beginning of the session to empty your pockets and remove all hair ties from your wrists so it helps to keep everything together)
· A playlist you love that will pump you up!
· A friend that you TRUST! This is HUGE. Bring your bestie that knows if your hair is out of place or smiling weird. Get someone that makes you laugh. If you are confident, your pictures will come out SO MUCH BETTER.
· Any significant props that mean something to you.
o Sporting gear or jerseys, flowers (or flower crowns – LOVE), musical instruments, vehicles, bikes, skateboards, cameras, balloons, food, pets (especially dogs, I love me some dogs), picture of you on your first day of school, the year you are graduating, or even your cap & gown if you have it already!
And lastly, don’t stress about your session at all! We are going to have fun taking these and you’ll be able to see them in real time to know which you like best! This is to celebrate your senior year! So grab your favorite coffee (or soda) on your way and be ready to have some fun! I will walk you through all of the posing so you won’t have those “What do I do with my hands?!” feelings.