5 Things to Do to Prepare for Senior Portraits

Posted on October 8, 2014

Preparing for Senior Portraits:

There are lots of lists and tips out there but here are a few things I recommend, as you get ready to have your senior portraits taken.

Find a Photographer. First things first, you need to find the right photographer for YOU! I definitely know my style isn’t for everyone, so it is important you check around and see what you like best. Ask to see the images of an entire senior session (not just the one photo that is on display). It’s also important that you are comfortable with your photographer, someone who puts you at ease. I remember when I was having my senior portraits taken (a couple years ago…?!) how at ease they put me…and even to this day I keep in touch with them and love them to pieces!

Decide What to Wear and What to Bring. “What should I wear?” is the main question I get. I recommend around 3 outfits. Layering is a perfect idea…that way we can get a few different looks with just one outfit. I also suggest that you pick one solid outfit (nothing too busy). It tends to be a bit more timeless (think about the 80s, any regrets there?!). 😉 Above all though, we want these images to represent you…so what do you like on yourself? When in doubt ask a friend or text me a picture! In addition to your outfits, I always encourage my seniors to bring props! Whether it is your tennis racket, flute, dog, or best friend, it’s a great way to express you!

Hair and Make-up. For girls: I think getting your hair and make-up done professionally is a great idea. It alleviates the stress from you having to have THE perfect hair day. And even if you don’t wear make-up, I recommend a little – any good make-up artist will know what photographs best. For guys and girls: don’t get a haircut too close to your session and don’t start tanning a couple days before your session! I think we can all guess why this would be a bad idea. 😉

Pick a Location. Definitely discuss this with your photographer. I’m constantly looking for new locations so that I can recommend a scene that would fit my client’s vision. Be mindful of what time of day your chosen location’s lighting will be best. When I lived in Florida, the beach was a popular choice…but the beach lighting is only best around sunrise and sunset! You don’t want to be squinting in all your photos.

End Result. Think about what you want to get out of these photos. Get your parents involved in all this! What do they want and what is the budget? In this digital era we now live in, it is so easy to ask for all the images on CD and then you go home with the CD…and then what?

Voilà….

Ok, that photo is just a joke, not a recommendation! 😉

So I challenge you to think of what you want as an end result…an album, gallery wrap for the wall, wallets to hand out to friends, framed prints for your grandparents, announcements, etc. One of my absolute favorite products we offer seniors is our Senior Memory Book. It is a great way to show off ALL your senior portraits to your friends and family, AND have them write you a message or answer a fun question.