It's that exciting time again - senior photos! This landmark moment marks the transition from high school to the next chapter of your life. The results are a cherished keepsake for family and a fantastic way to show off your personality and style to friends and colleagues in the future. But how do you guarantee your senior pictures will be flawless and reflect the real you? Don't fret! Here are five expert tips for flawless senior photos. I highly recommend these tips for a senior photo shoot that stands out from the crowd.
Let's talk hair. Have your hair cut at least a week before your shoot to ensure it settles in. Young ladies, try out the hairstyle you want to wear BEFORE your shoot. You want to be confident in the way it looks and feels. Your hair and makeup are key players in the quest for the perfect senior photo. It all begins with selecting a hairstyle that not only complements your features but also encapsulates your unique personality. Not exactly a whizz with the curling iron or straightener? Fear not! It could be worth investing in a professional hairstylist for the day to ensure a sleek and stylish finish.
When it comes to makeup, aim for a natural and fresh look that enhances your beautiful features, rather than overshadowing them. Whether you're a makeup guru who can effortlessly create a flawless complexion, or someone who prefers the bare-faced beauty look, remember - a little bit of makeup goes a long way on film. If you have any acne at all, tinted moisturizer is your best friend. Use it! You won't believe how much better your skin will appear in the photos with it. Believe me. Steer clear of overdoing it with glitter or bold colors which can detract from your natural beauty and cause your photos to look dated over time.
Moving on to outfits. Unleashing your fashion flair during your senior shoot can really make your photos pop! It's all about selecting an outfit that not only boosts your comfort levels but truly embodies your personal style. The trick here is to steer clear of overly fashionable items that may turn your photos into a time capsule of fleeting trends within a few years.
My best advice to young women:
Strive for timeless elegance with classic pieces that never go out of style.
SKIP the skimpy, short, mini dress. It won't appear timeless. Trust me!
If you're a dress girl, think cozy bodice with a flowy bottom.
Another option is your favorite jeans with a classy top and your favorite earrings.
Have clean and trimmed nails. Chipped polish is a no-go.
My best advice to young men:
SKIP the wrinkled shirts and dirty but comfortable sneakers.
Grab a fresh shirt or iron your favorite one.
Wash your sneakers or grab a fresh pair.
Clothes don't have to be expensive to be clean and ironed.
Have clean and trimmed nails.
Remember, these photos are a representation of you, and your attire is an extension of your personality. So, don't shy away from showcasing your unique style, whether it's casual chic, sporty, boho, or high-fashion glamour. Choose pieces that speak to you and can effortlessly translate your personality into your senior photos.
Let's talk location. Opt for clothes that will complement the background, not clash with it. If you're taking your photos in a park, consider an outfit that works well with the greenery. Similarly, for an urban shoot, an edgier look might fit the setting perfectly. With the right balance of personal style, comfort, and timeless appeal, your attire can significantly contribute to creating senior photos that you'll be proud to show off for years to come.
Lastly, striking the right pose can feel like a daunting task, but it's a critical element to creating dynamic and striking senior photos. Please trust me when I am guiding you into poses and asking you to say funny things that will elicit your genuine, beautiful smile. Please know that this is not my first time creating senior photos and I have a plan for your shoot. Trust that your gallery will come out not only well rounded, but gorgeous! I'm always working to make you the star of the show!
Also note that the goal is not to mimic the poses you've seen in fashion magazines or on social media, but to uncover what feels most natural and authentic to you. Keep in mind, the best poses are those that reflect your true self and exude confidence. Remember that I am here to guide you, offer suggestions and adjustments to help you look your absolute best.
And, hey, before you go, please check out my friends gorgeous work. Ruth is a Virginia photographer and she has written a very informative blog post on Tips for embracing Winter light photography.
I'm a natural light photographer and I love working with high school seniors + families. I photograph families + seniors all San Diego and the outlying areas. I would love to work with you, document who you are today, and create memories that will last a lifetime! Book today so that you have memories for a lifetime!