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. If you have any additional questions, feel free to contact me.

Mindset
Have fun! Together, we’re going to make you look great and you’ll have a great time.

Relax. I'm easy to get along with and will help you with posing, so there’s no pressure on you

Arrival
Prepare in advance and be ready at start time.  Running behind or being late means less camera time, and we don’t want that. 

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 I want you to look amazing!

Clothing
You have unlimited wardrobe changes, so bring A LOT of options. 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.

Plan on changing quickly. The faster you change, the more time we have to photograph and the more photo choices you’ll have later.

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.

Avoid stripes and plaid. Solid colors photograph much better than busy patterns.

Bring a variety of colors and mix the level of styles. Some should be dressy, some dressy-casual, and some casual.

If you’re comfortable in dresses, bring them! They photograph really well and offer a nice variety from your other casual clothing choices. We can mix dressy and casual dresses for some great looks.

Shoes
I cannot say it loudly enough. Wear heels! Whether pumps or boots, dressy or casual, plain or sassy, heels really make you stand out and look glamorous. 

Flats can also work well if you mix them with the right outfit.

Please stay away from flip-flops. Yes, they’re comfy and we all love them, but they don’t photograph well.

Hair
Make sure you like the look.  Hair style is ultimately YOUR responsibility. Any hair changes during the session should be quick and simple so you have as much camera time as possible.  If you plan on getting your hair done, do so in advance.

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.

Do not make drastic changes to your hairstyle right before your photo session. This could add unneeded drama to your life.

Makeup
Makeup that is well done is one of the best preparations you can make for your session. It will even out skin tones and help give your photos that extra pop for a model-like look. 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.

Makeup should only be slightly heavier than normal. Mascara should be clean and not clumpy. Avoid makeup with an SPF because it tends to createa shine. Summer shine can be controlled by using translucent powder that knocks out shine without adding additional color.

Jewelry
Keep it simple. Big, shiny jewelry can distract from the important subject, you. If you have different jewelry for different outfits, you might put each set of jewelry in a plastic baggie and hang it on the hanger with that outfit.

All that being said, the 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.

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

• Sports Equipment (football, basketball, soccer ball, 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 or just have your lenses removed for the photo shoot.

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
Makeup helps a lot here, but I do retouch your photos, so please don’t be concerned about minor breakouts. I have you covered! If your acne is more severe, you’re still okay. We all had bad acne is high school and understand! I'm happy to help you out with some extra retouching.

Parents and Family Members
Parents and siblings are welcome and often can be a help.  However, if they distract you, it may be best to meet them when the session is over. With them along, its a great time to get sibling photos as well as family portraits.

Braces
Try not to worry about them. Give a natural smile and enjoy yourself. A good smile with braces is far better than the awkward smile that comes when you try to hide them.  If desired, I can remove braces in Photoshop for an extra charge.

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. Tucking or moving straps will not always work or give the most pleasing look.  Check ahead of time to ensure that undergarments don’t leave unpleasing lines underneath your clothing

Finger and 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.

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 have to reschedule. I will try to contact you first, but please call me at 425-772-2990 if you have any doubts or concerns.