Your senior portraits are a big deal, and I want you to have the best session possible! Here are a few suggestions that can help you have finished portraits you are proud of!
Let’s tell your story!
Don’t think you have a story… well, I’m sure you do! Or, just show off your style. Whatever it is.
Casual, formal, sporty, dark and mysterious… let me know if you have any ideas you’d like to try. Don’t be shy! I’m here to create portraits that are a true reflection of you, but I’ll need your help. I love trying crazy and unique things. Bring pages you’ve torn out of magazines. Have a favorite outfit you have specific ideas for? Adore your puppy (or kitty or horse or iguana) so much you must have portraits with him? Are you a music lover? Bring your iPod – maybe a CD collection. Eat, sleep, breath sports? Let’s brainstorm!
Plan your clothing.
A little bit of planning goes a long way. Please bring your outfits on hangers – at least your shirts. Wrinkles do show, so have clothing ironed. Girls, you can keep track of jewelry and accessories for each outfit in plastic bags – stick them on the hanger too.
I also suggest at least one long-sleeved shirt. Solid colors are easy to work with when coordinating backgrounds. And help keep the attention on you! If you’re just not sure about something, bring extras along. We can always pick and choose at your session.
Hair & Make-up
I like to keep everyone looking fairly natural – or as natural as you look everyday. Girls, makeup can go just a little heavier than you normally wear. Our dressing room does have outlets for hair irons, and touch-ups may be necessary. Just remember, time spent in the dressing room takes away from your time in front of the camera.
Remember to check fingernails! Natural colored nails photograph best. If you do wear polish, make sure it’s not chipped or peeling. And don’t forget your toenails if planning to go barefoot or in flip-flops or sandals!
Guys, it’s a good idea for you to trim and clean your fingernails too.
Be relaxed!
Seriously! When you’re nervous or stressed it can show in your portraits. Try to have your things gathered ahead of time so you’re not rushing to your session. As far as nerves, well, I’ll do my best to help your relax.
If it makes things worse to have mom or dad watching, we can have them stay out of the camera room. If you prefer to have them there, that’s fine too. It’s not a good idea to bring too many people to your session. It can be a distraction and can slow us down. Parents are always welcome, but if you have friends or siblings that aren’t being photographed with you, it’s probably best not to have them come along. Let’s surprise them at your image presentation/ordering session!