10 Tips for a Successful Senior Portrait Session

Senior year is such a crazy time!  I can still remember the excitement of moving on and becoming an adult mixed with the sadness of never eating in the school cafeteria ever again.  So many emotions!  When I was a senior we were required to go to a portrait studio where a man would outfit us with an evening gown dickey for formal portraits and then we were allowed to sit on a fake log in our favorite casual clothing.  The results were spectacular and I have the pleasure of viewing my senior portrait on my parents’ wall every time I go home for Thanksgiving.  Senior portraits are the gift that keep on giving.

Kids these days (I’m 40 now, so I say stuff like that) are much luckier than I was when it comes to senior portrait options.  I love working with seniors!  They are always so excited, nervous, and hopeful.  My faith in humanity’s future is always restored after a senior portrait session.  After working with many seniors over the years I have come up with a few tips that I think will really help those preparing for their own senior portraits.  Future you will thank me.

 

1. Book your session at least one month before graduation so you have enough time to order your graduation announcements.

2. I recommend bringing two outfits (one dressy and one casual) as well as a cap and gown, if possible.  For wardrobe inspiration, check out my Pinterest Board for Senior Portraits.  Can’t decide?  Bring options and I’ll let you know what looks best on camera.

 

3. Iron all your portrait clothing, especially your cap and gown.

4. Avoid words or logos on clothing unless they’re school related (like a team jersey or a college t-shirt).  Absolutely NO TRANSITION LENSES and avoid skinny stripes (they photograph weird).

5. Ladies: Consider having a professional (or a skilled friend) do your hair and makeup.  Make sure eyebrows and nails are clean and neat. Jackets, hats, and jewelry add interest to the overall look of your photos.

6. Guys: Suits are extremely versatile!  You can get several looks with just one suit.  Make sure your eyebrows are neat and cleaned up.

7. I don’t usually use props, but I make an exception for seniors.  If you would like to bring an instrument, a car, sports equipment, a pet, etc. that’s fine!  Please just let me know ahead of time so I can prepare.

8. I do my best to get shots that young people want (more editorial, model shots) as well as what Mom and Grandma want (looking at the camera and smiling).  Be open to both.

9. Bring a parent or friend to be your sherpa and carry all of your belongings.  If Mom comes along, I will definitely ask her to get in a picture.  Be prepared, Mom. 😊

10. Don’t panic about acne!  I’ve been doing this for a long time and I know my way around Photoshop.  I got you.