TIPS FOR A SUCCESSFUL SENIOR SESSION


Whether you're already comfortable in front of the camera or you're more on the camera-shy side, you should look and feel your best during your entire senior photo session. And after photographing so many seniors every year, I've learned a few things along the way. Here are my top four ways to prepare beforehand for a great photoshoot experience. 

1. WEAR CLOTHES YOU'RE COMFORTABLE IN


Throughout your photoshoot, you'll be posing in different ways. You'll most likely be doing everything from standing, sitting, walking, running and jumping. If you're wearing a dress that you're constantly adjusting because it doesn't fit right or shoes that pinch your toes, it'll be difficult for you to relax and really live in the moment. Wear an outfit that you can move comfortably in and that makes you feel good about yourself. I suggest bringing at least 3 different outfits with you. And make each outfit a different "look". Consider something casual, like shorts and a t-shirt, something a step up from that and then something you would wear to a nice restaurant (dress, or slacks and a blazer...). And you can always bring more than one of each type of outfit to see which one will go best with each location.

2. LOOK YOUR BEST, WHATEVER THAT MEANS FOR YOU


Try to look nice for your senior portraits, but make sure you still look like you. Dress up a bit, but don't wear something you don't usually wear. I suggest wearing a dress for one of your outfits, but if you are the type of girl that wears converse, jeans and t-shirts exclusively, forget the dress! You won't be comfortable and it will show. It's great to put on some makeup to help your features pop in front of the camera, but don't pile it on if that's not what you usually do. If you feel your best, you'll look your best. 

3. CHOOSE A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER YOU CAN TRUST


Selfies work fine for your lnstagram or Snapchat, but they just won't cut it when it comes to your graduation announcements. Look for a professional photographer who specializes in senior portraits. (hint...me!) Take a look at their portfolio to make sure you like their work. As long as your photographer knows what they're doing, they'll be able to make sure you look great and feel comfortable. 

4. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION


If you're a little nervous about spending so much time in front of the camera, choose an environment that makes you feel at home. Pick a photoshoot location that's significant to you. It doesn't matter if it's the inside of your barn, the football field where you've spent so many hours during your high school years or a creek that you love to go to. But if nothing comes to mind, we have endless outdoor location ideas and a studio. 


There you have it, my top 4 tips to help you have a great senior session. It all comes down to being YOU. Be your authentic self in all that you do and it will show in your photos, which is the most important part of any photo session.