It's your senior year, and more than likely, you're planning on hiring a photographer to capture images that represent your final year of high school. It's a big deal, and as such planning for senior photos can also be a source of anxiety for both teens and parents. But they don't have to be! With a little bit of preparation and some direction from an experienced photographer (me), your senior photo shoot can be a fun and memorable experience.
Gather Photo Ideas from Social Media or Digital Search
You can find inspiration everywhere! Social media, web search, your friends - take some time to find what you like style wise. I love it when my clients send me their ideas! It gives me a direct link to the creative side of their brain and helps me understand the style of what they want captured. So gather your ideas and send them my way. The easiest way is to build a Pinterest board that you can share, or could be as simple as texting or emailing example photos you've found.
What Should I Wear to a Senior Portrait Session?
It's the question that echoes across generations - the answer is fairly simple. Wear clothing to the photo session that fits appropriately, that you feel awesome in, makes you feel comfortable, and allows you to move. Consider the location where you'll be photographed at and plan accordingly.
Always: Prepare more than one outfit. Two or three is best. Select outfits that fit your personality, and wear colors that work with your skin tone. Consider wearing neutral colors and build off of that. Dress with your whole body in mind. Think about hats, shoes, and undergarments. They should ALL complement your outfit.
Please don't: Wear neon unless we've discussed it. Don't wear athletic apparel with large logos - except for band t-shirts (cause band shirts are cool). Avoid patterns with small stripes or checks as they won't photograph well.
What Should I Bring to My Senior Photo Session?
It's always a good idea to bring things like: Comb or brush, makeup for retouches, wrinkle remover spray, accessories (hats, jewelry, etc.), props (football, volleyballs, pom poms, etc), extra bobby pins and scrunchies.
Makeup Tips
Whether you use the services of a makeup professional, or do it yourself, there are some important tips for being photo ready.
- Use natural light to apply your makeup.
- Apply a primer before your foundation.
- Wear a foundation with fuller coverage.
- Apply a bit more makeup than your everyday look but keep it natural. Don't cake it on.
- Stay away from bright lip colors that don't go well with your skin tone.
- Pick matte makeup and avoid ANY makeup with a shimmer. It will bounce light back to the camera and is usually not flattering.
Tan or not to Tan?
No to tanning. Suntanning can cause tan lines and using sprays or lotions might cause an uneven or blotchy look. Neither of which looks great for senior photos. Additionally, cameras see colors differently than the human eye, and what might look good to you might not look very good through the viewfinder. Your natural skin tone is best. If you insist on a bit of color consider using a small amount of bronzer.
Contact Me
I am a professional portrait photographer based in the Pacific Northwest. For session inquiries, please contact me at: [email protected]