Tips for Photo Sessions

Being well prepared for you senior photo session can make the difference between average and fabulous photos. Follow these easy tips and you’ll be well on your way to looking your absolute best. 

Have fun!  We’re going to make you look great and you’ll have a great time.   This is your time to shine.  We help you with posing, so there’s no pressure on you.

Arrival

Arrive early or on time to your appointment.  You don't want to add any stress because you are late for you shoot. 

Style

You’re unique and beautiful. Follow our guidelines but be yourself in how you dress. Be fashionable. Wear clothing that’s stylish and put a lot of thought into your choices. This is a unique opportunity and we want you to look amazing!

Clothing

The more outfits we have to choose from, the better. This will give us flexibility in matching your clothing to backgrounds and the surroundings. Group your outfits together on hangers. Make sure items are ironed and ready to go. Bring a variety of colors and mix the level of styles. Some should be dressy, some dressy-casual, and some casual.  

Make sure you’re comfortable in your clothing and that it flatters you.  This will ensure that you like how you look when viewing your photos.  If you’re self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless or cap-sleeve shirts and tank tops, as they tend to make arms look fuller.   Try to avoid stripes and plaid. they tend to distract from your natural beauty and don't play well with background.  Sold color work best. Neutral colors also work will together.  Make sure you coordinate your shoes to match your outfits.

Undergarments

Please make sure the colors of your undergarment coordinate well with your outfits and don’t show through your clothing. If you need a strapless, please bring one to your session.   Check ahead of time to ensure that undergarments don’t leave unpleasing lines underneath your clothing.

Finger & Toe Nails

If you paint your nails, make sure they’re done well for your session. Chipped nail paint will show and distract from you. Avoid bright colors that will distract from you and may not work with all your outfits. Instead, opt for basic or natural tones

Hair

Do not make drastic changes to your hairstyle right before your photo session. This could add unneeded drama to your life.  Hair style is ultimately YOUR responsibility.   Bring hair spray, clips, pins, and whatever else is needed to keep your hair out of your eyes if it’s windy. Also bring a brush and mirror for quick hair touch-ups.  You can bring your best friend with you to the session to help fix your hair or any wardrobe issues.

Makeup

Makeup that is well done is one of the best preparations you can make for your session. Even if you don’t normally wear makeup or wear very little, take the time to do it well and your photos will look their best. Mascara should be clean and not clumpy.  Avoid makeup with an SPF because it tends to create a shine. 

Jewelry

Proper jewelry can really complement your outfit. It’s nice to have a variety to choose from and it doesn’t hurt to bring numerous options with you.  If you have different jewelry for different outfits.  Make sure you know a head of time what jewelry goes with each outfit.

Props

They’re great! Bring props that help show who you are. Some popular choices are:

  • Sports equipment (soccer ball, basketball, softball bat, etc.)
  • Sports uniforms
  • Musical instruments
  • Activity related items (dance, art, school clubs, etc.)

Glasses

Most lenses have a glare. The safest option is to check with your eye doctor and ask if they’ll loan you a similar pair without lenses.

Tanning

Tan lines are a distraction and take away from your photos. We suggest you use a tanning bed and varied swimsuit tops to minimize any existing tan lines. If you choose to tan outside or in a tanning bed, don’t overdo it. We don’t want you looking orange and leathery.

Complexion

Don't worry about minor breakout.  We can retouch your photo's which take care most cases.  If your acne is more severe, you’re still okay.  We’re happy to help you out with some extra retouching.  Another option for girls is to shoot the pictures with soft focus.   

Weather

Don’t worry about clouds because they actually even out the light and make for ideal shooting conditions. But falling rain is an issue and we will have to reschedule. We will try to contact you first, but if you have any concerns please call me at 515-554-9335.