Hey guys! So, you’re about to hit one of the biggest milestones of your life—your senior year! But before you dive into the chaos of final exams, graduation prep, Friday night lights and figuring out what comes next, there’s one thing you definitely want to plan for: your senior portraits. And no, I’m not talking about those awkward, “Why am I holding this fake diploma?” kind of photos. I’m talking about shots that truly represent who you are, minus the cringe-worthy poses and cheesy backdrops.
Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Portraits for mom? Isn’t that just for the yearbook? Can’t I just snap a pic on my phone and call it a day? These are ALWAYS awkward.” Well, sure, you could just take a couple photos and call it a day, or do it just for mom… But I want you to look back at these photos and actually be proud, rather than uncomfortable and stiff, let me teach you how! We’re about to dive into the quick guide on getting senior portraits that are cool, authentic, and totally you. I’m going to teach you exactly how to get the most from your senior portraits and make sue they don’t suck!
Choose the right photographer for you!
First thing and possibly most importantly, find a photographer who gets you. Look for someone whose style you like and who makes you feel comfortable. A good photographer will make the experience enjoyable and help you look your best! But in order to get comfortable with them, you’ll want to choose someone who you completely trust! Look at their website and social media, as well as scroll their blogs, and take a peak at their testimonials, so you have a good idea of what to expect when working with them.
Once you have booked your photographer, keep lines of communication open and feel free to share your ideas and hopes foe your session, so your photographer can cater your experience toward your unique preferences!
Plan ahead of time
A little planning goes a long way, and this is truly key to getting the most of your experience. All of my sneior clients receive a senior style guide that will walk them through the first hello to their graduation announcements so they know exactly what to expect! Planning out outfits early helps to alleviate any stress of what you’ll wear, and will have a good idea of what locations may match this. Working with your photographer to find the overall vibe of your session will help to ensure that the location and outfits align with your vision.
Dress the Part
When you’re choosing your outfits, make sure to utilize the style guide to find outfits that represent your style well, and make you feel comfortable and confident! The trick to finding outfits is to go a little over the top – because, it’s your senior photos, come on!!! But also to make sure it feels like you!
Bring a Friend – or don’t…
Sometimes having a buddy with you can make the session less intimidating. They can help with outfit changes, offer moral support, and even provide some laughs. Some people get confidence being around their friend, significant other, or someone else who they are close to, but some don’t feel confident around a crowd, so if this is you, that’s OKAY!! Leave the crowd at home if you are going to feel self conscious with someone watching you get photos taken. It’s totally okay, either way!
You can also bring a pet with you, which is a fan favorite thing around here for KP seniors. I love when my seniors bring their dogs for their session, because they are SOO cute and add such a fun touch to your session!
Have Fun with It
The best photos come when you’re having a good time, and when you can let your guard down a bit. Don’t stress about what to do with your hands, or how to stand. I’m going to walk you through every step and you’ll be a posing pro in no time!! Just allow me to take the lead here, and then lean into the moment and being yourself!
Utilize Props to Show Who You Are
Props can add a personal touch to your portraits, and there is no rush thing as a silly prop. If it matters to you, we should definitely add it to your session!! This can also be a good thing to help you feel more comfortable in the session, by having something to do with your hands and adding a lot of variety to your posing options! Ideas for props are things like, your car, an instrument, a sports jersey or equipment, a book, and so many more. The possibilities are truly endless! Your photographer will make sure that the prop compliments you and highlights you, without taking away from your session!
Pay Attention to Details
Little things can make a big difference. Make sure your hair is styled how you like it, your clothes are laid out in advance so they are clean and wrinkle free, and that you’ve taken care of any grooming needs. Small details, like clean shoes or a neat collar, can help you look polished and ready to go!
Relax and Be Yourself
I can’t stress this enough—just relax and be yourself. The more you can let go of any self-consciousness and just be you, the better your photos will turn out. Authentic expressions and relaxed poses will always look better than anything forced. If you’re having a good time, it’ll show in your photos.
Wrapping It Up
Senior portraits don’t have to be a stressful or awkward experience, and if they are, I recommend diving into these reasons why! Being thoughtful going into it, your session can be FUN and a memorable part of your senior year. Let’s capture images that feel like you and freeze time during this exciting time in your life! My senior sessions run year round, and session packages vary! I highly recommend that my guy seniors choose my Package Two, becuase it is the perfect time frame for guys to get plenty of variety in their gallery, without pushing them to do photos for hours and hours. 😉
Cheers to a senior portrait experience that doesn’t SUCK and an even better senior year!
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