Preparation Tips For Your Senior Photo Session

SeniorSession Tips

Mar 7

It’s your senior year! Congrats! Your senior session is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to capture who you are at this pivotal moment in your life. Keep reading for a few tips that will help you prepare for a session that’s uniquely you.

1. Choose Outfits That Reflect Your Style

Textures and simple patterns photograph beautifully. Avoid neon and other super bright colors as they can cause a color cast on your skin when the light hits. Select outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable. And make sure they fit properly— you don’t want to be adjusting yourself the whole time. For the ladies, make sure your undergarments can be covered easily. Consider a mix of casual and dressier options to show different facets of your personality. Remember, your clothes should reflect who you are, so choose items you love and enjoy wearing. Also, don’t hesitate to bring a couple of extra options to your session. Pro tip: If you know of colors that will enhance your eyes, definitely go with those!

2. The details

Accessories and props can add a personal touch to your photos. Think about items that represent your hobbies, interests, or achievements. This could be anything from a musical instrument, or sports equipment, to a piece of jewelry that holds meaning to you.

3. Consider Your Location Wisely

Choose a setting that means something to you or matches your personality. Whether it's a beautiful park, a location with water, or a more urban vibe, the location will 100% set the tone for your photos.

4. Hair and Makeup

Consider hiring a pro for hair and makeup. Not only can this be a fun pampering experience, but professionals know how to make you look your best for the camera. If you prefer to do it yourself, aim for a look that enhances your natural beauty without feeling overdone. This isn’t the time to try something new that you’re not comfortable with yet. Also, avoid shimmery makeup as it can reflect light toward the camera and make your face look a bit…shiny.

5. Communicate your ideas with me

Don’t hesitate to share your ideas, concerns, and expectations with me ahead of time. Let me know your preferred locations, style, and any must-have shots. It’s way more fun to collaborate so we can help bring your vision to life!

6. Practice Poses, But Stay Natural

While having a few poses in mind is helpful, the best photos often come from natural, spontaneous moments. Practice in a mirror to find your best angles, but during the session, try to relax, move, and let your genuine expressions shine. And don’t be surprised if I ask you to “flirt with that tree over there in the distance!”

7. The Golden Hour

For outdoor sessions, schedule our time together to include the golden hour—the first hour after sunrise or the last hour before sunset. This time offers soft, flattering light that can make your photos truly stunning.

8. Rest and hydrate (and don’t forget the details)

Get plenty of rest the night before and stay hydrated. Looking and feeling your best starts with taking care of yourself. Also, pay attention to your hands and nails— they can easily be looked over. Make sure they’re trimmed, moisturized, and any hangnails are cleaned up. It seems like something trivial, but when all of the attention is on you everything tends to stand out.