LET’S TALK SENIOR PORTRAITS! This post is going to guide you through a few key essentials for a smooth, fun and unforgettable senior portrait experience! From choosing the right time of year to book, to getting camera-ready with the right hair and makeup, and even dodging the most common mistakes seniors make before stepping in front of the lens – we’re covering all of it!
WHEN TO SCHEDULE YOUR SESSION
SEASONAL VIBES
Each season of the year has it’s own vibe! Which one do you enjoy most? What seasonal clothing makes you feel most confident?! These are important things to consider when deciding when to schedule your senior portrait session, becuase this is the first building block to acheiving the portraits of your dreams! Take a look below at some of the descriptors for each season to see which one you may best prefer!
SPRING: soft, fresh colors, blooming flowers, lush greens, light pinks, greens, blues, purples
SUMMER: bright, golden/glowy tones, longer days, warm weather, hot pinks, deep blues, whites
FALL: warm, rich hues, cozy layers, neutral outfits, boots/scarves and orange toned foliage
WINTER: crisp, chilly days, gray tones, snowy backdrop if you’re lucky!
PLANNING AROUND SCHEDULES / RESONSIBILITIES
It’s your senior year, we know you are BUSY! Take the time to do a little pre-planning to make certain that you aren’t scrambling at the last minute to book your portraits. When deciding on when to schedule your senior portrait session, keep these things in mind: sports schedules, yearbook deadlines, family vacations, extracurriculars and internships/work commitments.
** PRO TIP **
Reach out to your photographer 2-3 months in advance to secure your ideal season and session date!
HAIR + MAKEUP
HIRING A PROFESSIONAL
Professional hair and makeup artists know how to achieve the look you desire, while also making sure that it holds up for the duration of your portrait session! In addition, they also do a great job at making sure you look your best both in person and on camera, which can be difficult to do if you don’t know what you’re doing. Professionals are skilled in how to eliminate shine, enhance natural features, and balance skin tones! I highly recommend investing in this service for portraits that you will look back on for years to come!
KEEP IT YOU
Go for an elevated version of your everyday look! Now is not the time to try something dramatic if it isn’t the norm for you! Your goal should be to feel confident and most like yourself, not like you’re in costume!
FOR THE GUYS
Guys can benefit from a little prep too! Consider trimming facial hair for a clean appearance, hydrating your skin and styling your hair. I would advise against trying a new haircut for the first time right before your portraits!
** PRO TIP **
Bring a few things to make sure you are ready for any touchups or quick fixes needed! You just never know what may happen and it’s best to be prepared! This list might include: lipgloss or lipstick, blotting sheets or translucent powder, hair ties, bobby pins or hair brush and a handheld mirror.
MISTAKES TO AVOID
NOT PREPPING OUTFITS IN ADVANCE
Trying on outfits the morning of your session is a recipe for stress! We don’t want that! 4 weeks before your session, start brainstorming what you want to wear and determine if you need to shop for anything specific to complete an outfit. Lay each outfit out a few days ahead of your session, iron or steam what is wrinkled and try everything on to make sure you feel confident in it. If you are pulling and tugging at your outfit when trying it on, it may not be the best option to bring!
SKIPPING THE DETAILS
Taking a few minutes to check on a few small things can make a HUGE impact to your portraits! Here are a few things you may want to check on or consider..
DIRTY NAILS: If you don’t plan on getting your nails done, at least make sure they are clean and trimmed.
WRINKLED CLOTHES: Iron or steam anything that’s wrinkled! This is so easy to do yet often overlooked!
VISIBLE UNDERGARMENTS: Be sure that you are wearing the appropriate undergarments for each outfit. You don’t want bra straps to be visible or colorful undies showing through a white dress!
SHOES + ACCESSORIES: If wearing multiple outfits, plan your shoes and accessories accordingly! Be sure to pack a change of shoes or different jewelry if needed for each outfit.
NOT RELAXING OR HAVING FUN
The BIGGEST mistake you can make is to overthink your session! You’ve hired a photographer that you trust and whose work you love.. so just be yourself, enjoy your session and have FUN! Your photographer will take care of the rest and ensure that you get back the senior portrait gallery of your dreams!
Interested in working with Faith Photography for your SENIOR PORTRAITS? Join our VIP Email List or reach out to me today and let’s chat!
Images by Faith Photography
