Having a photo shoot can be an incredibly fun experience. A portrait session isn’t complete without some laughter, silly banter, creative moments and for you to just be yourself, express who you are, and be the center of attention for a few hours.
I also know that seniors have some anxiety about a photoshoot and can be worried about how to prepare and what to wear when it comes to looking good in your photos.
Below are some tips that could assist you in looking your best on the day of your session and in ensuring that the day is as stress-free as possible.
Hair Do’s and Don’ts
Don’t make any drastic changes to your hair right before your senior session. Now is not the time to try out a funky hair color or completely shave your head. You may want to get your hair trimmed about a week before your session. This will give it time to grow just a bit and look more natural. For longer hair, make sure it will stay back out of your eyes during the sessions. Take care of your facial hair as well. If you have facial hair that your mom really doesn’t like, consider doing her a favor and shave it just for your senior photos. Trust me, it will grow back!
What if I have a breakout right before my session?
Don’t worry about breakouts. Wash and moisturize your face before your session and let me worry about the breakout in post processing. Definitely resist the urge to pick at your face. This will just irritate your skin and make it worse.
Avoid chapped lips! Use chapstick for a few days leading up to your session. Drinking plenty of water will help with this as well.
What do I wear?
Here are some general tips and things to consider:
Solid Colors: Solid colors in neutrals like blues, greens, and grays will always photograph well. They will work with most backgrounds.
Watch those wrinkles. Make sure clothing is wrinkle free. Iron them if needed. Bring wardrobe changes on a hanger, not shoved in a gym bag, Wrinkles don’t photograph well and are not easily fixed in post editing.
A Few Things to Stay Away From: no tank tops, no overly branded clothing with big graphics on them, and avoid bright neon colors. HS letter jacket is the exception. If you have a letter jacket, it would be great to grab a few shots with you in it.
Jassnight Photography suggests dividing your portrait package into two sessions: one at the studio and another on location at a preferred spot like your school grounds, a sports field, or your hometown. This approach provides additional chances to experiment with different wardrobe styles and photographic effects.
Here are some wardrobe ideas:
The Casual Look
jeans with a button up shirt (buttoned up and left untucked or unbuttoned with a t-shirt underneath)
khaki shorts with a polo
jeans and a sweater
Wear what makes YOU feel good about yourself
The Formal Look or Business Casual
a sweater with dress pants and dress shoes
khakis with a button up shirt tucked in with dress shoes
Wear a tie, or go big with a full-on a suit
Uniform and Gear
You can do this a couple of ways:
full on sports gear with uniform and equipment
jersey top with jeans, or
regular/casual clothes with just a piece of the sporting equipment
Cap and Gown
If you have your regalia, you may want a few shots with it. Or, at least the mortar board, honor cords or hoods.
Having two sessions also allows for a variety of wardrobe changes and photo styles. I suggest taking formal/business casual and sport photos in the studio, and then opting for a casual look during the outdoor location shoot. You can also consider incorporating your regalia or bringing back your sport uniform and gear for some outdoor shots as well.
Bottom Line:
Remember, your portrait session is YOUR day. Relax and have fun! If you have questions or want to explore other ideas, please don’t hesitate to let me know. I want you to be happy with the end results.
Meanwhile, make sure to look after yourself. Ensure you get enough rest, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive stress. Treating yourself with kindness in the coming weeks will reflect in your final photographs.
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