18 Feb 12 High School Senior Portraits: Suggestions

With Senior session upon us, I thought I would take the time to let the Seniors in on things they should bring and consider for their portrait session. first I’ll cover the girls as they tend to care a little bit more about how their portraits turn out. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard a boy say I’m only here cause mom made me come. I’ve never once heard that from a senior girl.

Ladies

Clothing – first and foremost, you can never bring too many changes of clothes. You may not get to wear them all, but more options is always better than fewer options. I always tell my clients to bring 1 formal (think prom dress or evening gown), 4-6 casual outfits, and 2-3 going out outfits (this is what you would were to a dance club). Try to avoid patterns, plaids, large print (except school related items), and horizontal stripes (vertical stripes are thinning as long as they are not too obnoxious). Bright solid colors usually photograph very well. Try to bring outfits for the season you are being photographed in. if Spring, bring Spring colored outfits. if Autumn, bring more Autumn toned outfits. make sure to bring shoes to match all outfits. Accessories with scarves, purses, jewelry, hats, sunglassses, etc. make sure your under garments are the same tones as your clothing. Black bra’s will show up through a white top. Same for the bottoms. if you bring a spaghetti strap shirt or strapless top, make sure you have a bra to go with it. if you want to wear something a little sexier, make sure Mom/Dad approves it beforehand. if you bring a short dress or skirt, make sure to bring a pair or spandex or cheer shorts to go under it. Iron the outfits the night before and avoid folding them.

Grooming

Hair – Avoid getting a new haircut the day before. if you want to try a new haircut, do it 1 week beforehand so you can figure out if you like it and how to fix it. Bring any items that will quickly allow you to change your hair style.

Nails- avoid getting your nails done right before the session, typically you should do this the day before. Nails and fingers will show so make sure you think about them while getting ready. Clean properly groomed nails will make a big difference in your portraits. All this applies to toenails as well.

Makeup- Apply a little(don’t overdo it) more makeup than normal.kind of like you were going to a formal event. make sure mascara is clean and free of clumps. Extra mascara will make your eyes stand out more. Don’t worry about the random pimple or small break out as these are easy to fix in post-production. Try to bring some translucent powder.

Avoid Tanningfor at least a week before your session. Burned or peeling skin is not flattering. Avoid having tan lines that will show with your outfits.

Glasses- buy or borrow a pair of non-glare glasses or frames without the glass.

Guys

Clothing - Try to bring at least 1 nice button up shirt, 2-3 collared shirts, 2-3 casual shirts (T-shirt), comfortable fitting pants and shorts. 2 pair of shoes. Iron any outfit that needs ironing. Bring a belt that matches your outfits. Try to avoid patterns, plaids, words, and horizontal strips. Bright solid colors are great. if you want any black and white portraits, make sure to bring a dark colored outfit. Bring hats if you typically wear them.

Grooming – Depending on how fast you get the 5:00 shadow.Shave the night before. if you quickly get stubble shave about 3 hours before the session to avoid red irritated skin.

Make sure to clean and groom your finger nails

Avoid getting a haircut the morning of your session. Haircuts should be gotten the day before your session and new hair styles should be gotten at least 1 week before your session to allow enough time to figure out how to style it.

Avoid Tanning for at least a week before your session. Burned or peeling skin is not flattering.

Glasses – buy or borrow a pair of non-glare glasses or frames without the glass.

Things to keep in mind.light colors, tight fitting, and horizontal lines make you appear heavier than you are. if you don’t like your arms, don’t bring sleeveless/tank top shirts. Darker colors, looser fitting, and vertical lines are slimming in portraits.

Fashions come and go so avoid bringing too many fashion trendy outfits as you probably won’t like them in 1-2 years.

Bring your own props. Class rings, musical equipment, books, flowers, balloons, sports equipment/apparel, iPod, glasses, shoes.items that make you..you.

Bring a friend. Friends bring a level of comfort and relaxation to you and that’s what we’re going for during your session. That person will also know if you are looking and acting like yourself, which is important.

Get all your outfits and accessories picked out and packed the night before to avoid any stress the morning of.