Preparation Tips for Senior Guys Photo Sessions

Mindset

• Photographing males is much different than photographing females and we understand that. You won’t feel uncomfortable or have to do any awkward girly posing.

Arrival

• Arrive early or on time to your appointment so you don’t create any undue stress.

Style

• As a general rule, guys are more complacent when it comes to photos. Even if it’s just for your mom, please come prepared.  We (and mom) want you to look your best.
• Dress in a style that expresses who you are, but dress nicely.  If your style is a bit sloppy or you’re rather apathetic, have your mom, girlfriend, or other girls that are just friends help you. We’ll make it work.

Clothing

• We give you unlimited wardrobe changes, so bring a lot of options. The more clothes we have to choose from, the better. This will give us flexibility in matching your clothing to backgrounds and surroundings.
• Group your clothing together on hangers. Make sure items are free of wrinkles and ready to go. (Please don’t come with everything stuffed in a gym bag.)
• Make sure you’re comfortable in your clothing and that it flatters you. This will ensure that you like how you look when viewing your photos.
• Avoid stripes and plaid. Solid colors work much better than patterns.
• Bring a variety of colors and a mix of styles. Some should be dressy, some dressy-casual and some casual.
• Bring black and/or dark gray t-shirts to wear under other shirts. White undershirts stick out and photograph poorly.
• Avoid t-shirts with large graphics or logos. They will distract from you.

Shoes

• We know you won’t be excited about shoes as the girls, but bring a variety of casual and dressier shoes. Avoid gym shoes or flip-flops as these will appear too casual when viewing your photos.
• Bare feet work well to.
• Shaving This one is totally on you but the cleaner the better. Retouching stubble costs extra and won’t look as good as a clean shave.
• Hair If you have longer hair, make sure it will stay out of your eyes during your session. Have it trimmed if necessary.
• Don’t make any drastic changes like shaving your head or dying your hair around your session date. Otherwise you’ll look back at your photos and wonder “What was I thinking?”
• Props They’re great! Bring props that help show who you are. Some popular choices are:

                Sports uniforms
                Musical instruments
                Activity related items - dance, art, school clubs, etc.
                Sports equipment - football, basketball, baseball bat, etc.

Complexion

• Makeup helps a lot here, but we will retouch your images so please don’t concern yourself about minor breakouts. You’re covered. If your acne is more severe, you’re still okay. We’ll going to help you out with some extra retouching.

Friends & Parents

• Friends or parents are welcome and often can be a help. However, if they distract you, it may be best to meet them when the session is over. You’re welcome to have a couple of shots with a girlfriend, best friend, sibling, or parent at no extra charge.

Weather

• Overcast and clouds are great because they actually even out the light and make for ideal shooting conditions. Now falling rain is an issue and we will have to reschedule. I will try to contact you first, but please call if you have any doubts or concerns.

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