SENIOR PREP GUIDE
Whether you wear your emotions on your face or not, I’m sure that more than 75% of you is a nervous wreck. On the outside, I’m sure you’re hoping that your super cool outfit and smooth smile are hiding the fact that inside, you're thinking...
I DON'T KNOW WHAT I'M DOING!! WHAT IF I'M AWKWARD!! WILL HE TELL ME
WHAT TO DO?
Well don’t worry, I got you. I will guide you on where to look, how to pose, what expression to make, and where to put your hands. If I see any loose hairs, wardrobe malfunction, or anyting else I will get my assistant (or your parent) to fix it all for you. I want everyone I do a photo session with to have fun, and you can only do that if you don’t have to worry or think, so...
LET'S HAVE SOME FUN!"
Here are some general planning tips to start thinking about as you begin preparing for your senior session.
OUTFITS
Now that you’ve booked your photo session it’s time to start planning outfits. There are three basic looks that you want to bring to a Senior photo session and they are…
The Parent Pleaser- Now it needs no explanation because it’s the one outfit that is going to make mom and dad happy. This is also the picture that they will be showing off for years to come. So for this one think classic look or Sunday’s Best. This one is going to be the nice blouse/button up shirt, great pair of jeans or slacks, nice pair of shoes, and a few classic accessories.
Seniors Choice- Again this one needs no explanation, it’s your personality. This is the outfit that is going to make you happy. This is also the one that you are going to be sharing with friends and on social media. For this outfit just think what makes you look amazing. Is it a amazing dress and heels, a nice pair of jeans and a vintage shirt, or a pair of Wranglers with a cowboy hat and boots.
Activities- From chess club to sports, this is the outfit that is going to tell your high school story. Bring your team jersey, dance costume, musical instrument, letterman jacket, or etc. to document your extra curricular activities and achievements.
Now when planning your outfits there are Do’s and Don’ts…
Do’s
Functional clothing: if you want to get the most out of your poses, you need to be able to sit, squat, stand, etc.
Outfits that make sense
Complimentary layers
Clothing that fits well and accentuates your best assets
Clean shoes that go with each outfit
Appropriate undergarments- if you wear a strapless top or dress, be sure to bring a strapless bra option
Dont’s
Wrinkled clothing (remember to iron your clothing)
Dirty or worn out shoes
To tight of clothing, or to loose of clothing (try everything on beforehand)
Undergarments that show through your blouse (if your top is light colored don’t wear a dark bra)
Outfits with patterns or logos
Hair and Make-Up
This is another HUGE part of a senior session that can completely alter the overall outcome of your images! I highly recommend a professional hair and makeup to all of my clients for so many reasons. I promise I’m not just saying it to get you to spend more money! It really does make HUGE difference.
When you are investing in a professional photographer, you want to make sure that the images look their absolute best. Professional hair + makeup artists are trained to do hair + makeup so that they photograph well. While doing your own makeup or having your best friend do it, it may look AMAZING in person but it will look completely different on-camera, and these professionals are trained to know the difference! They will conceal spots you don’t like, contour your face so it looks the best in every light, use colors that compliment your skin to make it look flawless, make your eyes POP with false lashes + shadows, manicure your eyebrows to perfection and more! Some may think that there isn’t a difference…but I PROMISE you, the difference is HUGE!
Preparing for a senior portrait session is stressful in and of itself. Trying to do your hair + makeup by yourself can make things ever harder. Professional camera equipment is designed to pick up every little detail in an image (even details that the eye can’t see) so hiring a professional makeup artist is the best way to go.