Congratulations on reaching the end of your high school career! Graduation is a huge moment in any student’s life. Whether you’re preparing to head off to college or start your career, or even if you’re taking a gap year, this moment marks a huge milestone both in your life and the lives of your parents, and it deserves to be celebrated.
Senior portraits are a perfect way to capture your transition into adult life, but getting in front of the camera can be a little nerve-wracking for some. You may not know how to pose or what expression to have on your face. Do you smile? Do you face the camera or look away? What time of year should you have your photos taken?
Well, we’re here to answer all your questions. In fact, that’s why we put together this list of tips for getting the most out of your senior session and getting images you’ll love. And if you still have questions after reading these tips, feel free to ask!
TRUST YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER
This is the number one tip for any type of photo shoot. You hired a professional to ensure you get images you love and will want to share with family and friends, so trust their expertise. Even if you’ve never worked with a pro photographer before, you can rest assured that they will guide you through poses, making sure they get the best possible shots. When you choose a photographer who specializes in senior portraits, you get to work with someone who has years of experience taking just the type of photos you’re looking for and who is sure to provide you with photos you’ll adore!
BE FULLY PRESENT
You probably hear a lot about mindfulness these days, but one of the best ways to truly enjoy your senior session and feel more comfortable is to simply be in the moment. Don’t stress about your hair or makeup or how you’re standing. Just focus on relaxing and being your genuine self. Talk to your photographer, interact with them, and chances are they’ll encourage a smile or laugh out of you. These small, fun moments are so much more authentic than carefully posed and staged portraits and will allow your true personality to show through your photos.
HAVE FUN
Speaking of showing off your personality, don’t be afraid to look silly, act goofy, or make a funny face. Sometimes a ridiculous pose is just the thing you need to loosen up! Dance around, wave your arms, go frolicking through a field—your senior session is all about you, from the things you love to your high school accomplishments. The more you let yourself relax and have fun, the more you show off who you are, which is exactly what everyone wants to see.
PLAN OUT YOUR OUTFITS
When it comes to choosing what to wear for your session, be sure to think ahead. Choose outfits you love and pieces that make you feel good. If you buy anything new, be sure to wear it and try it out before your session. The last thing you want is to be uncomfortable. And don’t forget to take your undergarments into consideration! You don’t want bright underwear showing through your flowing white dress or bra straps peeking out of a cute blouse. Plan your whole outfit down to your accessories to make sure everything goes together.
GET YOUR MAKEUP AND HAIR PROFESSIONALLY DONE
You may be a pro at makeup, but the skills of a licensed makeup artist can ensure that you look perfect in every photo. A professional can also help make sure your makeup doesn’t run or smear during your session. The same goes for a professional hair stylist, who can style your hair in a way that looks amazing on you and holds through all your posing and outfit changes. [If you include makeup and hair with your sessions, be sure to mention it here.]
ONLY BRING PEOPLE WHO MAKE YOU FEEL AT EASE
You don’t want a crowd at your photo session, so be sure to only invite along people who bring out the best in you and let you be your true self. It’s natural to bring a parent along (chances are they’re probably footing the bill for your session), but only include other friends or family members if you feel comfortable around them. If someone is there who makes you feel awkward, your images will come out inauthentic, and we want the real you to shine through!
