5 Tips to Make Your Senior Photos Go Smoothly

Senior girl poses for her senior photo shoot.

Can you believe this day is already here? You’ve dreamed of scheduling your senior photo shoot, and here it is, coming up soon on the calendar. Senior year is so fun, but goes so fast and there is a lot to do.

Well, how can you make sure your senior photos go smoothly? I know you have a lot to think about, so I have pulled together some tips to make things easier. The most important thing to know is that I’m here for you, and I want this to be a great experience.  Let’s have fun and make beautiful, authentic images before you move on to your next adventures!

Here are 5 simple steps to make your senior photos rock:

1.  Plan Ahead 

Make sure you put your session in your calendar and start thinking about wardrobe, hair appointments, and poses. Choose a location with me that reflects your personality. Don’t be shy to ask questions – it makes the session go much better when you are at ease!

2.  Take Care of Yourself 

Rest well the week of your shoot and make sure you drink plenty of water. Hydrating helps your skin glow and prevents dryness. Apply chapstick each day to prevent cracking lips. Guys, make sure to shave the night before to prevent redness and don’t forget some basic grooming (eyebrows, nose, etc.). Eat a little bit before your session and bring your best energy.  

3.  Plan Your Wardrobe 

I want you to stay true to who you are and for your wardrobe to represent you, but it does ease stress if your outfits are planned out before the day of the session. Make sure things are clean, ironed, fit, and are ready to go beforehand. We will talk during our phone consultation before your shoot, and I can help you narrow down choices.  

A few things to avoid are small stripes and polka dots or busy patterns, which can be distorted in the camera. You also want to avoid logos and emblems that will distract from your face, which is what we want to see! Go with jewel tones, solids, or fall colors, which look great, and bring a favorite accessory like a jean jacket, scarf, letter jacket, or hat. And don’t forget your shoes! We will see those, too!  

4.  Let Me Know 

Make sure you let me know your goals for the session in our phone consultation.  I want to give you the best images possible. Also, let me know if there are specific things you want edited or retouched (a freckle you don’t like, etc.). 

5.  Relax and Smile 

Remember to enjoy the moment and that not all images will be perfect. Sometimes the best moments come when you least expect it, so have fun! I will do my best to give you a great session and beautiful images to treasure.

Jen Ritchie

I'm a nature photographer who loves capturing beautiful landscapes and wildlife from our yearly trips out West and parks here closer to home.

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